Directions to launch area: Take the New York State Thruway (I90) to Rt. 12 N, then to Rt. 28 N. After passing through Inlet you will see signs for Sixth, Seventh, and then Eighth Lakes. Soon after the Eighth Lake sign you will see a broad grassy area on the left where you can park.

Although Route 28 passes only only a few hundred feet from Eighth Lake, it is much quieter than other lakes so close to the highway because motorboats can only access it via the launch site at the Eight Lake State Campsite.

This trip is perfect for introducing a beginner to Adirondack canoeing/camping. The island is almost straight out from the shore; after a few minutes of paddling you will reach an inviting sandy slope, the perfect place to beach. There are two paths from this spot, one of which leads to the left and skirts the more isolated campsite on the east side. The other branches out and leads to several camping spots on the western side of the island. The choicest of these sports a lean-to nestled in an isolated high spot which commands a wonderful view of the lake and the eastern shore. I plan to paddle out there some Friday night for a quick getaway. As we looped around the rocks on the west edge of the island we passed close by a group of resting ducks looking quite at home.