For more than a century, paddlers traveling between Utowana and Raquette lakes have used a trail known as the Marion River Carry — a canoe and kayak portage around rapids in the Marion River to Utowana Lake.
The Marion River Carry is one of the Adirondack's most well-traveled water recreation routes and serves as an important link in one of the Adirondack Park’s most popular canoe routes.
Saving the day
One day, it was announced that the owner of the carry had plans to build several homes along Utowana Lake, a move that would limit access to the carry. As word spread, nearby residents and outdoor enthusiasts objected strongly.
“When OSI got involved, it was like a gift from heaven. They really changed peoples’ lives.” - Carolyn Gerdin, Raquette Lake resident
Then in 2013, OSI stepped up and bought the land — obtaining 280 acres of forest, 3 acres of the Marion River, and 14.5 acres of the Utowana Lake frontage, including an often-used offshoot of the historic Northern Forest Canoe Trail.
Since we acquired Marion Carry, it has been identified as an appropriate replacement property associated with the Township 40 settlement and is expected to be added to the Adirondack Park.
Peace of mind, at last
Since 1899, when William West Durant built a railroad along the carry that transported tourist between steamboats, the Marion River Carry has served as a place of connection for Adirondack residents and visitors.
And to this day, the canoe carry still serves as an important link in the Adirondack Park, including one of the most popular annual events, the 90-mile Adirondack Canoe Classic.