You’ve tried canoeing and kayaking on Lake Champlain, but have you SUP’ed? A fast growing new water sport has made it’s way to the North Country – and more specifically, to Essex!  Now, you can rent a stand up paddle board from Split Rock Outfitters and Guides in Essex, and explore the lake! That’s right, it’s time to SUP Lake Champlain.

Stand Up Paddle Boarding

Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) originated when surfers began using paddles to reach surfing spots further from the coast. Today SUP is a fast emerging sport in surfs, lakes, and rivers all around the globe. SUP is easy to learn and promotes balance and strength. It offers a way to experience the waterways like no other small paddle craft. SUP’ing is easy to learn. The boards are light, making them easy to carry and transport.

Split Rock Outfitters and Guides

Split Rock Outfitters and Guides, LLC., located in Essex and operating out of Essex Ice Cream and Café, is renting high quality boards to beginner and advanced paddlers. The beachfront location makes for easy launches on Lake Champlain, which offers a wide variety of paddling destinations. Because of the close proximity to the Boquet River and Long Pond, Split Rock Outfitters can offer a more protected paddle experience for families or for the novice paddler. Straps and padding are free with rentals for folks who would like to venture to a waterway of their choice. It’s the perfect way to SUP Lake Champlain.

SUP Lake Champlain in Essex, NY

Kevin Shaw, owner of Split Rock Outfitters and Guides, has over 20 year experience in the outdoor education and recreation Industry. You can find him at his location at the Essex Ice Cream Café and at Beggs Park on Essex day (August 4th). Stop and in try a SUP.

While you there, sign up for one of their beginner rock climbing classes. An open enrollment introduction to rock climbing will be offered on August 5th and 6th.

Contact Kevin at kcshaw@westelcom.com, at 518-569-3588, or on Facebook.  The Split Rock Outfitters and Guides website is on its way!