The 1000 Islands-Seaway Region IS the Great Outdoors. Visitors from urban areas have traveled here for more than 100 years to recreate among this great stretch of wilderness, woods and water. Whether its trophy fishing, whitewater rafting, leisurely paddling, waterfall hikes or diving, the Seaway Region has it all and more.
Fishing
Few areas offer the quality and diversity of fishing found in the Seaway Region. From trolling on Lake Ontario for trophy trout, salmon and walleyes to fly fishing for wild brook trout in a freestone stream tucked away in the wilderness of the Tug Hill Plateau, Oswego County offers angling opportunities.
Legendary for its ever-elusive muskie and trophy pike and walleye, the 1000 Islands Region of the St. Lawrence River offers fishing among stunning islands, shoals and protected bays for some of the most picturesque places you’ll ever drop a line.
St. Lawrence County, host of fishing events such as the Bass Master Elite Series and Junior International Carp Tournament, offers it all. Take your pick from huge monsters like muskie or carp to trophy smallmouth or largemouth bass or fly-fishing for a beautiful rainbow trout.
Boating
Few regions offer better boating than the waters along Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River. For those who prefer a day on the water to one on land, you may have found paradise! Whether trailering your boat or traveling on it, there are limitless opportunities to enjoy the Seaway Region from the water.
Paddling & Rafting
Not interested in motorized water transportation? No problem! The Seaway Region offers a variety of kayak, paddleboard and canoe rentals – or you can bring your own.
Enjoy quiet paddling along Deer Creek and spectacular views of Lake Ontario and Deer Creek Marsh at Deer Creek Marsh Wildlife Management Area in the Town of Richland. A barrier dune and cobble beach protect the secluded marsh area from the lake’s forceful winds and waves.
If you are looking for something more exciting to get your adrenaline pumping, try whitewater rafting down the mighty Black River or the legendary Salmon River with one of our local rafting companies. For more family friendly paths, St. Lawrence County offers a variety of different river courses that the whole family can enjoy.
Diving
The St. Lawrence River offers a variety of diving sites from quite challenging to suitable for the novice; many outfitters are available to guide or offer refills. Many shipwrecks can be visited in one day trips. Because of the increase in Zebra mussels and DEC water cleanup the river’s clarity is tremendous – sometimes 60 feet or better!
Hiking
Prefer to stay above water or even on land, the Seaway Region has hiking and walking trails for just about any skill levels. This isn’t ice-climbing hiking; this is about leisurely strolls past waterfalls, along scenic shorelines and unblemished nature.
For magnificent a view, take the accessible short trail overlooking the 110-foot Salmon River Falls. A more challenging trail descends to the bottom of the gorge.
Along the St. Lawrence River, the Thousand Islands Land Trust has preserved and developed hundreds of acres for low-impact hiking to give visitors an up-close look at the animals and plants that call this stretch of waterway home. A few miles inland, the Indian River Lakes chain is accessible thanks to trails maintained by the Indian River Lakes Conservancy.
Winter Recreation
Avoid cabin fever with numerous winter activities along the Seaway Region. The area’s winter climate and abundant snowfall allow for premiere snowshoeing, skiing, ice fishing and snowmobiling. St. Lawrence County has several miles of cross county skiing trails and over 700 miles of snowmobile trails across the county that are carefully maintain to ensure a great experience!