Viral TikTok Trend Prompts Safety Crackdown on Lake George

Lake George TikTok Challenge

A TikTok challenge that encouraged kayakers to paddle up to and actually touch a Lake George steamboat prompted local officials to take action this past summer, funding additional marine patrols to keep the lake safe during peak season.

The challenge, which circulated widely on social media, involved kayakers attempting to reach and physically touch the Minnie-Ha-Ha, Mohican, or Lac du Saint Sacrement while they were out on cruise routes, according to sources. 

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During a village board meeting this past summer, Lake George Mayor Ray Perry did not mince words, calling the TikTok trend both “dangerous” and “idiotic.” He noted that encouraging inexperienced paddlers to approach large, less maneuverable vessels puts not only themselves at risk, but also the crews and passengers aboard the steamboats.

Created Unnecessary Danger

According to Lake George Park Commission, Executive Director David Wick, the trend created dangerous situations for inexperienced paddlers and for the large vessels themselves, which have limited mobility.

In response, the Town and Village of Lake George each contributed $5,000 to support increased LGPC patrol coverage from July 3 through August 31, primarily Thursday through Sunday. Wick said the goal was to focus enforcement and safety efforts in the lake’s busy southwest corner, where many of these incidents were taking place.

Officers Routinely Assist Swimmers in Danger

Officials say the investment paid off.

Throughout July, especially during holiday weekends, sources say that patrol officers intervened in several situations that could have resulted in tragedy. On July 4, officers rescued a young child and his father after their kayak overturned in rough water. Two days later, officers assisted five swimmers who had drifted far from their rental boat, which had not been anchored.

Wick noted that the increased patrols helped prevent multiple serious incidents during one of the most congested times of year on Lake George. Discussions are underway to continue and possibly expand the program for the 2026 summer season.