Black River

Olympic Byway, State Rt. 3A, in Jefferson County

Historic Black River near Watertown.

Thje residents of the village of Black River welcome visitors with lots of opportunities to enjoy the river's beauty. Scenic vistas, picnic areas, fishing areas, and portages are located throughout the village, where you can linger along its banks or experience the thrill of the swift moving water in a canoe or kayak.

Overlook Park, in the heart of the village and overlooking the Black River and Poors Island, is a great spot to sit and enjoy its magnificent beauty, and if you're inquisitive, to explore Poors Island and mill site ruins from a closer vantage point.

A bridge links the mainland to Poors Island recreational area with a car-top boat launch site, a canoe/kayak portage, a walking trail, and shoreline fishing and picnic areas.

If you're a history or genealogy buff, visit the Black River Cemetery, located within the boundaries of the village along the riverside of Route 3. Here you can wander among headstones that date back as far as the early 1800’s, with graves of several of the early village founders. Recall veterans of the War of 1812, and the great losses of northern soldiers from small communities like Black River in the Civil War, from the 10th NYS Heavy Artillery, and the Battle of Fredericksburg, remembered as one of the most one-sided battles of the American Civil War, with the Union Army suffering terrible casualties.

As you stroll up and down village streets, you'll enjoy in the architectural styles and design reflected in early period structures. Located within the village five traditional churches significantly contributed to the historic and cultural roots of the community, while influencing patterns of development through social interaction. The architectural design and structural materials reflect rural values, and show the early affluence of the community.


The 170-mile Olympic Scenic Byway starts near Lake Champlain at the village of Keeseville in the east, and near Lake Ontario at Sackets Harbor in the west. Between those two great water bodies, the route travels into the Adirondack Mountains and through the heart of the Adirondack Park.

As you travel along the byway, you'll see ever-changing vistas of rolling farmland, hills and mountains, and pristine waterways. Whether you're an armchair sports fan, or have dreams of Olympic-style challenges, you'll find opportunities in every season.

In Lake Placid, Saranac Lake Tupper Lake, and Watertown, you'll find a variety of restaurants and accommodations that include national chains, rustic lodges, and luxury resorts. In the hamlets and villages along the byway between these larger communities, learn about the determination of early settlers to succeed in this often-challenging environment. Get to know Adirondack artisans who proudly offer quality goods inspired by the historic traditions and great natural beauty of this region.

Take time to enjoy local events and meet the women and men who live, work, and take great pride in calling the distinctive Olympic Scenic Byway communities home.

• Jefferson County, 1000 Islands Area Information