
One of best things about Renssellaer Lake is its central location, sitting off busy Fuller Road, near the Washington Avenue extension. I can reach the lake in less than 10 minutes so it makes for a great afternoon activity. The main portion of the lake is near the parking area and there are two remote strips than can be reached by traveling a narrow channel under the Northway (I-87). I enjoy passing under these major intersections and relish the feeling of watching the hurried traffic speed by while I'm chillin' on on the lake.
On most visits you will see an abundance of turtles sunning on logs... I like to sun myself as well. It is also nice to visit the lake during different seasons. For instance, during the fall to see the changing colors and fallen leaves that cover the surface of the lake.
On this visit, I traveled down both strips of the back section of the lake. As may be expected, these strips get less traffic and thus your chances of seeing less typical wildlife is greater. (Your chances are also improved if you visit the lake when it is less busy such as during a weekday). On this trip, I was rewarded with sighting an extremely large turtle resting on a large fallen log.