LAKE 1, CONESUS

8.2 miles | Rainy, peaceful, and slow

Today was rainy, but every now and then the sun peeked through the clouds just enough to warm things up. I honestly didn’t mind the rain at all — the sound of it on the water was peaceful, and the air felt still and clean. The lake was nearly empty, which made everything feel especially quiet and tranquil. We basically had it to ourselves.

We started our paddle at the northern tip of Conesus Lake, launching from Vitale Park. Manny and I planned ahead with two sets of kayak racks — one on each vehicle. We dropped one car off at the southern point of the lake, then drove the other (loaded with our kayaks) back up north to begin the trip. This setup let us paddle with the wind at our backs, since it was coming in from the north-northwest. Going against it would’ve added a lot more effort and time — and this journey might be physically challenging, but I still want it to be enjoyable.

This isn’t a race. I’m taking my time. I stop for footage. I stop when I spot wildlife. I stop just to float and breathe.

Today, I kayaked the full length of Conesus Lake. My first lake out of the 11 finger lakes. It was calm, quiet, and exactly the kind of start I needed.