Trail |
Distance |
Description |
Directions |
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0.8
miles
easy |
This 40 foot falls
is at the beginning of a series of drops, plunges and cascades
totaling over 100 feet though this narrow gorge lined with
Hemlocks on the Sacandaga River. Many potholes can be seen
along the edge of the gorge when the water level is low.
Please be careful around the falls area, as the banks are
steep and slippery.
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GPS
43.46722, -74.24689 Take
Route 30 North from the town of Wells. Approximately 3 miles
up Route 30 there is a right hand turn that leads to a
parking
area. |
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0.1 miles
Elevation Gain (feet): 0
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Austin falls is a long, sliding
waterfall, surrounded by beautiful rock formations, and does
not require a long hike to reach. The river is calm above
the falls, but as the sides of the stream narrow and the
elevation drops 40 feet in a couple of hundred yards over
a rocky base, the water accelerates rapidly and create a
spectacular water show. A large rock near the base of the
falls hurls the water several feet into the air like a natural
fountain. |
GPS Coordinates: ( 43.49996,
-74.27858 )
Location: 7.0 miles N. of Wells: Drive
north from Wells on Route 30 to the intersection of Rte
30 & 8. Continue
another 6.5 miles and make a right onto Old Route 30, an
unimproved road, and drive for exactly 2.7 miles and pull
off to the side of the road to park. The road is paved, but
very bumpy, so use caution and drive slow! The falls are
off to the right, can be heard from the road, and are reached
with an easy 50 ft. walk down to the falls. The surrounding
banks of the stream are very slippery, so use caution when
walking alongside the falls.
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Big
Alderbed Lake |
6.2
miles
moderate
do to distance |
Big
Alderbed Lake was once a small lake that increased in size
during the 1900's. The dam was built to accommodate the booming
logging industry. Currently most of the dam has not eroded
and flooded away. The trail is mostly flat but does contain
a few obstacles.
|
GPS
(43.32528
-74.70611 ) |
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Approx. 12 miles. |
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From Rt.30 northbound
turn on to Algonquin Drive just after entering the town of
Wells. Follow this road for approx. 1.5 miles until you come
to a large intersection. Turn left on to West River Road.
Follow West River Road to Whitehouse parking lot.
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Bray House Falls
(a.k.a. The Potholers)
|
0.2 miles
Elevation Gain (feet): 0
Arietta
|
This
especially interesting section of East Canada Creek has
a series of waterfalls, chutes and potholes that drop
over 15 feet. The bubbling waters and pebbles have worn
deep depressions in the rock stream bed. The area is
a beautiful spot for a picnic and is easily accessed
via a short walk upstream. |
GPS
Coordinates: ( 43.2747754, -74.6642548 )
10.5 miles SW of Piseco
Lake: From Speculator head west on Rte 8 and drive 12.2
miles to route 10, and make a left heading south. Drive
another 1.2 miles and make the first right onto Powley
Road (dirt road), which may or may not have a sign. Continue
on Powley Road for 10.4 miles, and look for Brayhouse
Brook, just before passing into Fulton County. Stay on
the N. bank of the stream and head east, going downstream,
until you get to where the Brayhouse Brook enters the
East Canada Creek. Head left, and travel upstream for
0.1 mile to the falls.
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1.4
miles
easy |
Broomstick
Lake is a little lake that contains colorful rose quartz.
Most of the shore line is swampy, but it is an attractive
picnic destination. Broomstick Lake was also used in
the 1936 filming of the original "The Last of the Mohicans". |
GPS
(43.20837 and W -74.54239) From
the Caroga Lake Post Office across the road from Sherman's
Park. Head northwest 5.0 miles
on RT-10/RT-29A toward E Shore Road West Caroga, at the
RT-10/RT-29A divide at the Pine Lake Lodge continue to
follow RT-10 to the right. Parking and the trail head is
about 1 mile up on the left.
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0.3 miles
Elevation Gain (feet): 0
Long Lake
|
The
falls are a series of short and wide cascades on the Raquette
River totaling more than 40 feet. An interesting elevation
phenomenon occurs making the river appear to be elevated
above the surrounding bedrock.
Very short walk, very scenic, care should be take during
wet weather because of wet rocks. Buttermilk Falls is a treat
to visit any time of the year and almost every visitor to
the area should make the Falls one of their destinations.
The entrance to the falls is on the right side of the North
Point Road, 2.1 miles from the intersection with Rte. 28N/30.
A sign by a small parking area marks the entrance. This spot,
with tables and fireplaces is an excellent choice of a site
for a picnic. A short walk to the falls is fine for all ages.
There is a 2.5 mile canoe carry around the falls. Bring your
camera as this is an excellent photo opportunity.
|
GPS
Coordinates: ( 43.9141626, -74.483022 )
5 miles SW of Long Lake: From Long Lake,
take NYS route 28/30 south for 3 miles to North Point Road,
or North 7.7
miles from the hamlet of Blue Mountain Lake. There will be
a sign here that says "Buttermilk Falls." Turn
SW onto North Point Road, and follow it for 2.1 miles. Look
for sign on the right for the falls, where there will be
a parking area and a short path leading to the falls.
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Cascade Falls
|
4 miles
Elevation Gain (feet): 0
Inlet
|
Cascade
Falls is a relatively "thin" falls, 12 to 15
inches in width, that drop over 40 feet into a beautiful
shade pool. |
GPS
Coordinates: ( 43.7783138, -74.8256812 )
Three miles NE of downtown Inlet:
Drive N out of Inlet on Rte 28 towards Old Forge for approximately
2.1 miles to Big Moose Road on the right, just past the
Eagle Bay sign. Make a R onto Big Moose Road and drive
1.4 miles to the trail head. Park off to the right side
of the road. Follow the trailhead NE along a flat and easy
tote road for a bit over 2 miles, and look for the falls
past the end of the lake on the left.
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Cathead
Mountain |
3.2
miles RT, difficult |
SORRY
THIS TRAIL NOW CLOSED BECAUSE OF A LAND DISPUTE.
This trail is short and easy to follow but the climb is steep. The open
summit has views in three directions and a fire tower. |
Take Route 30 North
from Northville, after approximately 3.1 miles turn left
on to Benson Road. Follow for 2.7 miles until you reach North
Road on your right. Turn on to North Road and follow for
1.2 Miles to the parking Lot. |
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Chase
Lake |
5
miles
easy |
This
is a popular lake with a lean-to.
Now Foot travel only. |
GPS
(43.75833 : Longitude: -75.30472)
Elevation: 1243 ft Drive
north from the Benson Road that connects Caroga Lake with
NY 30
on Pinnacle
Road, which is 6.6 miles east of NY 10. It is pleasant
to walk along the road that is bordered by marshes. The
end of the driveable part of the road is a parking area for
the
Chase Lake Trail and the continuation of the road into
Forest Preserve lands. Walk the old road uphill as far
as
you want,
enjoying the forests and marshes. |
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Chimney
Mountain
|
2.8
miles
moderate
parking fee |
This
is a very interesting hike to an unusual geological chimney
formation and broad views over the wilderness area. Use
caution around the maze of caves and crevices near the summit.
Expert
spelunkers will find this area a delight to explore. |
GPS
- 43.68769 -74.23078 From
Speculator Chamber office, follow Rt. 30 north 23.7 miles
to Big Brook Rd.
in Indian Lake. Make a sharp right. Go 8.9 miles to Chimney
Mountain Wilderness Lodge on Kings Flow. There is a specified
parking area with small fee. Hikers are reminded that
a private
landowner is permitting access across his property. Bring
water. Follow the unmarked trails in the rift to find
the caves. Most can be entered without equipment but stay
out
of the deep ones. Long pants and flashlight prove helpful.
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Christine Falls
|
0.2 miles
Elevation Gain (feet): 0
Speculator
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Christine
Falls is easily assessable from Rte 30 just E of Speculator.
The falls are located slightly downstream from the power
generation dam on the Sacandaga River. There are 2 small
waterfalls, dropping approximately 20 feet to a wonderful
local swimming hole. |
GPS
Coordinates: ( 43.5128021, -74.3085344 )
Three miles E of Speculator: From the
intersection of Rte 30 & Rte 8 in Speculator, drive
south on Rte 30 for 3.1 miles, passing Old Rte 30 on your
left. Continue on another
0.3 miles around a short bend in the road and look for the
parking area for the falls on the left side of the road.
Park and walk down the slope to the waterfalls.
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Clockmill
Pond |
3
miles
easy |
Clockmill Pond provides
a pleasant canoeing, fishing, picnicking or camping destination.
The
short 1.7-mile path on the old logging road is among my favorite
fall walks. Late September or early October finds
the swamp maples around the pond aflame with dark reds. |
GPS
(43.35082, -74.61269) The
trail starts in Clockmill Corners, a remote bend in the Powley-Piseco
Road,
a narrow dirt road for more than half its distance. The
road intersects NY 10 in the north, 0.3 mile south of the
bridge
over Piseco Lake; the trailhead is 4 miles south. The
southern end of the road is 8.6 miles west of NY 10 in the
hamlet
of Stratford on NY 29A; the trailhead is 15 miles north. |
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0.4 miles
Elevation Gain (feet): 0
Raquette Lake
|
This
falls, located on a tributary into Death Stream, cascades
almost 70 feet over a broad faced cliff. Although the best
viewing is during high water, this easily assessable falls
takes only 5+ minutes to walk to. You will start hearing
the falls shortly after leaving Rte 28. |
GPS
Coordinates: ( 43.8136148, -74.5953824 )
3.2 miles E. of Village of Raquette Lake: This trail starts
on the south side of Route 28, near the southern shore of
Raquette Lake. Look for a yellow gate 10 miles west of the
village of Blue Mountain Lake or 3.6 miles east of Sagamore
Road (in Raquette Lake), that marks the start of the short
path. Parking is sparse here, but you can park nearby at
the Golden Beach State campground on Raquette Lake that will
require a day use fee. From the barrier, walk on a perfectly
flat trail to a grass clearing, walking through it to the
trail continuing on the other side. The trail is a straight
shot to the falls through a wet area that you might want
to avoid, and is just 0.2 miles from the road.
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Dry
and Dexter Lakes |
5.8
miles
easy
to moderate |
This
is an attractive walk on and old road through open forests.
The terrain is relatively flat, but does contain some moderate
ups and downs. Dry and Dexter Lakes are small and relatively
isolated. |
The
route from the east, via Good Luck Lake, begins from
a large parking turnout
on NY Route 10, just north of the “second bridge” in
Arietta. In this case, follow the main snowmobile trail
to a four-way junction at 0.5-mile and bear left. At
1.5 miles,
bear right for Spectacle Lake, which is 2.8 miles from
the highway. From this same trailhead, it is also possible
to
approach Spectacle by way of Dexter Lake, for a total
distance of 4.1 miles. |
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Dug Mountain Brook Falls
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0
miles
Elevation Gain (feet): 0
difficult
Speculator
|
This
falls is located on the south end of Indian Lake, best
reached by canoe from the Indian Lake Islands DEC boat
launch. There is a small falls where the brook enters the
lake, and a larger 40 foot falls further upstream to the
east. |
GPS
Coordinates: ( 43.596144688286, -74.3912542462 )
From Speculator, drive N. on Rte 30 for
12 miles to the DEC Indian Lake Islands boat launch on
the R. Paddle 2 miles
across the lake and veer around “Long Island†to
the R, heading SW into the narrow part of the lake. Follow
for 5.5 miles to the end of the lake, and take out where
the Dug Mountain Brook enters the lake. Where the stream
enters the lake, there is a picnic area & table on the
shore, and you’ll see a small 4 ft. waterfall.
Follow the N. side of the stream for .4 miles to get to the
base of the larger falls. Alternative route: You may access
the falls via a shorter, 2.5 mile paddle along the Jessup
river, 6.0 miles NE of Speculator. This river is very narrow,
and in low water can be difficult to navigate. From the 4
corners in Speculator, drive 6.4 miles N on Rte 30, and look
for the Jessup River, crossing under Rte 30 over a bridge.
Park on the side of the road, and paddle downstream on the
eastern side of Rte 30 towards Indian Lake. Look for Dug
Mountain Brook entering Indian Lake on your right.
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East Jimmy Creek Falls
|
0.2
miles
Elevation Gain (feet): 0
Wells
|
Jimmy
Creek contains 2 lovely, small waterfalls and both are
a short walk in from Rte. 8. This falls is very picturesque
for its small size, and less than 200 yards from the road.
You'll find a series of small drops and flows upstream
from the main falls that are also worth looking for. The
first waterfall is near the beginning of the hike. The
second is just upstream and towers 10 feet over the surrounding
area, plunging into a small swimming hole at its base. |
GPS
Coordinates: ( 43.4534, -74.2335936 )
4.5 miles NE of Wells: From Wells go north
on Rte 30 for 3.5 miles until you come to the intersection
of Rt. 30 & 8.
Turn right onto Rt. 8 and proceed 1.2 miles. You will reach
a point where parking areas are visible on both sides of the
road, with the stream crossing under Rte 8 through a culvert
. Park on the right and take the path along the south side
of the stream. The hike up to the 2nd falls is just a few hundred
yards upstream. |
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Falls on Outlet from Buckhorn Lake
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2.6
miles
Elevation Gain (feet): 200
Arietta
Easy/Moderate.
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This
small cascading waterfall is formed from a small stream
that begins at the outlet of Buckhorn Lake. The hike in
to the falls follows along the famous Northville-Lake Placid
trail, and is approximately 1.3 miles (one-way) with a
slight elevation gain as you travel towards the falls.
Buckhorn Lake, also known as "Fiddler's Pond",
is a birders paradise and is home to nesting Loons and
Great Blue Herons. |
GPS
Coordinates: ( 43.4288857, -74.4960501 )
8.4 miles west of Speculator: Take Route
8 from Speculator 9 miles West. Watch for the DEC trailhead
signs marking the
Northville-Lake Placid trail on the left past the Town of
Arietta Highway Department, across from Casey’s
Corner in Piseco. Follow the blue blazed trail markers on
the trail for 1.3 miles. When you get to a wooden foot bridge,
look right and you will see the top of the cascade about
25 feet downstream. Paths on both sides lead to the bottom
of the falls. If you follow the creek upstream (a bushwhack)
from the wooden foot bridge for 0.2 mile, you will be able
to get a wonderful scenic view of Buckhorn Lake.
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Glasgow
Mills and Hillabrandt Lake and Vlei |
6.6
miles, RT |
A
shallow lovely lake dammed by beaver. This hike also takes
you past the old mill historic site. |
From
Glasgow Rd, W of Rt.10 between Rockford & Caroga
Lake. Gently uphill never too far from scenic Glasgow
Creek for
1.3 miles to
Glasgow Mills, the site of an old sawmill in the late
1800s. In fact, this snowmobile trail was once a road
dating back
to 1799!
HIDDEN VLY. E of East Stoner Lake (1.2 miles from Rt.10).
In the Shaker Mtn WF. 0-10"Old logging road has
a rope tied across it at start - no trail markers but
easy
to follow the 2 miles to Hidden Vly. You
could continue on to explore Whitman Flow. Ref: Discover the Southern
Adirondacks. 2.5 hours. |
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5
miles
Elevation Gain (feet): 0
Wells
|
This
is a 2.5 hike (one way) over uneven terrain to the West
Branch Gorge, and should only be taken mid-summer when
the water levels are low. These Falls on the West Branch
cascade through a narrow gorge of the West Branch of the
Sacandaga River that are over 400 feet tall in spots. From
the trailhead, hike approximately .6 miles, where the path
takes a left. Follow the path and cross Hamilton Lake Stream
at 1.2 miles, which will be difficult in high water. Continue
and cross Cold Brook at 1.8/1.9 miles, where you can see
Cold Brook Falls upstream. Follow the river on the north
bank until you see the first waterfalls (10-12 ft.) on
the West Branch at approximately 2.5 miles. The second
smaller falls (8 ft) is located several hundred yards up
the river from the first, but cannot be seen due to the
rough topography of the walls. |
GPS
Coordinates: ( 43.3723213, -74.4315859 )
Just south of Wells, turn off
Rte 30 and drive on Algonquin Road past the dam for 0.7
mile to West River Road. Continue for approximately 8.3
miles on West River Road to a large clearing, where the
road ends. The trail starts in the woods, and parallels
the river along most of the way.
Two eddies, 5 waterfalls, 200 foot gorge and a ravine
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Goldmine
Stream Falls |
2.4
miles, RT, moderate |
This
is a small series of waterfalls with rock outcroppings.
At the falls the red and gold bedrock is what named the
goldmine stream. Map & Compass trail. |
The trailhead is on
the left side 12.2 miles from Route 29A on the Powley-Piseco
Road |
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5.8
miles RT, easy |
First,
there is a level walk on a marked trail to a secluded sandy
beach on Good Luck Lake, and then you can backtrack to an
unmarked trail that leads up a short steep climb to an open
ledge with fantastic views. |
GPS
(43.25578, -74.53837) The
Trailhead is on Route 10, 2.8miles north of the turn off
from Route 29A.
The parkig area is just past the second bridge over the
West Branch of the Sacandaga River. The Trail begins across
from
the parking area. |
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Griffin Falls |
0.4
miles
Elevation Gain (feet): 0
Wells
|
The
falls area consists of several drops, large blocks, many
potholes, and an 8 foot cascading waterfalls on the East
Branch of the Sacandaga River. A small swimming hole sits
at the base of the falls. |
GPS
Coordinates: ( 43.4704125, -74.2247728 )
6.0 miles NE of Wells: From
Wells, proceed N. on Rt. 30 for 3.5 miles. Turn right onto
Rt. 8 and drive northeast for roughly 2.5 miles. Turn left
onto a seasonal road (opposite a pull-off on the R. side
of the road) and drive 0.2 miles, crossing the East Branch
of the Sacandaga River. Park just past the bridge in the
clearing. Follow the path paralleling the west side of
the river, going downstream to reach the falls.
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Groff Creek Falls
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3.5
miles
Elevation Gain (feet): 0
Hope
difficult
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There
are a series of 3 waterfalls along the Groff Creek, all
of which take some extra effort to get into position to
see the falls. The first 2 are more difficult to get to
than the 3rd. |
GPS
Coordinates: ( 43.3123337, -74.255928 )
5.5 miles South of Wells: Take Rt. 30 for 3.2 miles N. of
Northville, and make a left onto County Rt. 6 (Benson Road)
towards Benson. Make an immediate right onto River Road,
and drive north for 4.6 miles until the drivable road stops.
From here, it is a 1.8 mile hike to the top of the series
of 3 waterfalls. The first waterfall, 30 ft in height, can
be heard at approximately 1.6 miles from the trailhead. Scramble
down to the stream to view the falls. Follow the stream further
upstream to reach the other 2 waterfalls, both require a
hike downhill to see them.
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4
miles
round trip
Moderate |
Some
of the most spectacular views in the southern Adirondacks
are obtained by hiking
to the bare summit of Hadley Mt. Although the fire tower
still graces the summit, it is no longer staffed. However,
one need not climb the the tower to be rewarded." |
GPS
(43.37392, -73.95015) The
trailhead has good parking for more than dozen cars. It is
reached by finding
your way to Lake Luzerne (NY route 9N), then crossing
the Hudson to the village of Hadley. Turn north onto Saratoga
route 1 for about 3 miles to Hadley Hill road (0.1 miles
after you cross the railroad that you have been paralleling,
there are signs), turn left and go uphill for 4.6 miles
to Tower road (small sign on the left). Tower road is an
excellent
dirt/gravel road that is often plowed and sanded in the
winter. It leads to the obvious trailhead parking lot. |
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Hope Falls |
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GPS: (43.2891,
-74.2203) Rt 30 North to the
village of Northville
Cross Bridge to Main St
Left on to North Main
North Main bends to left onto Reed St. Stay on Reed Street approx 2 miles
turn right at sign for Hope Falls
follow signs to the end until the road becomes dirt. Approx 3-4 miles
Parking available there at trailhead.
Nice level walk great for small children and novice hikers. |
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Irving
Pond and Bellows Lake to Peters Corners |
19
miles RT if Holmes Lake is explored |
This
complex series of trails. Each lake has its own charm. Hikers
should allow time to explore the ruins of the old mill by Holmes
Lake. |
A
short road, but a beautiful walk is north of the Nick
Stoner Golf Course in
Caroga. The road parallels the outlet of Irving Pond—beautiful
views when the water is high in spring. By late April
there are wildflowers too. If it is dry enough you can
continue
on along the shores of the now dry bed of Irving Pond
(the dam that made the pond bigger has been removed). |
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2
miles
easy |
This
is a pleasant walk along the outlet stream of a natural deep-water
lake. Boulders line the shore and provide nice picnic spots. |
GPS (43.30058, -74.56526) The path begins from
a parking turnout on the west side of Route 10, 0.3-mile
north of Avery's Hotel and directly opposite the small man-made
lake on the Avery property. The way to Jockeybush is the
northernmost of the two entrances. The parking turnout is
9 miles north of Pine Lake. |
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1.4
miles RT, moderate |
This
hike follows an old jeep road to the summit where views
can be attained from the restored fire tower. A fire observer’s
cabin is also located on the summit. |
GPS
(43.17883, -74.50514) There
are two trail heads that access Kane Mountain and the tower.
The main
trail runs from Green Lake Rd. The .5 mile hike climbs
600 ft.
to the top of the mountain at 2200 ft. above sea level.
The trail is moderate in difficulty, and can be a bit muddy
if
the weathers been wet. The second trail runs from Schoolhouse
Road. Although this is a shorter ascent to the top, it
is quite a bit steeper and includes some rocky areas. |
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Kunjamuk Cave |
a 1 mile walk to a large cave |
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43.518307,-74.323111
Approximately
3 miles from Speculator south on Rt. 30 to Old Rt. 30
to cross iron
bridge on left. Trail is 100 feet on left. Do not go
straight as this is an old, overgrown road. Follow unmarked
footpath
approximately 1 mile to cave on right. Day use permits
for International Paper Company land may be purchased
at Tanners
Outdoor Sports.
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Limekiln Falls
|
4
miles RT
Elevation Gain (feet): 0
Inlet
|
On
this walk you'll find a series of easy dropping falls flowing
along the trail which is surrounded by a dark Cedar & Hemlock
forest. The falls are 15 feet wide, and travel for almost
a 1/2 mile. |
GPS
Coordinates: ( 43.7220437, -74.792192 )
Two miles S of downtown Inlet: Head south on 28 from Inlet
for .8 miles, and make a R (at the golf course) heading south
onto Limekiln Road. Drive for another 1.8 miles to the Limekiln
Lake DEC Campground entrance. The trail starts at campsite
#87. Travel across the large open field, to find a register
box at the old fish barrier dam, where the self guided nature
trail starts. Travel to the R for 1.0 mile around the old beaver
vly, until the trail bears R after a series of bridges. Follow
the outlet for Limekiln Lake for about 0.75 mile as the trail
crosses the brook several times and you will come to the start
of the falls, which continues for another 1/2 mile. There is
a day use fee to enter the campground. |
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Little
Cathead (bushwhack) |
2.4
miles RT, moderate |
Little
Cathead is unlike most in the southern area in that it contains
a wooded summit. It however does still contain plentiful look-outs.
This small mountain does not contain a marked trail. Exploring
hikers should travel with compass and map. |
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Murphy Middle and Bennett
Lakes |
8.3 miles, moderately easy, two cars
needed |
This
route follows an old road and trail once used by early
settlers who farmed
and mined in this area. You'll pass a series of very
attractive lakes, an old ferrous oxide pigment mine — the
red paint was processed in nearby Northville and used
on many area buildings and the stone walls, foundations
and
apple trees of the former homesteads. |
GPS
(43.30154, -74.19963) From
Route 30 North turn Right on to creek road, approximately
6.5 miles from
Northville. Follow Creek road for 2.5 miles and the trailhead
will be on the left. |
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1.8
miles
easy |
An
old road leads to this popular lake that has beautiful blue-green
water and a picturesque shoreline. Walk the fishermen's paths
for access
to less populated and used shorelines. Due to the bad basics of some
hikers, campers, and snowmobiles this small wonder is fading fast. |
GPS
(43.19087, -74.52590) From
the Caroga Lake Post Office across the road from Sherman's
Park. Head northwest 5.0 miles
on RT-10/RT-29A toward E Shore Road West Caroga, at the
RT-10/RT-29A divide at the Pine Lake Lodge continue to
follow RT-29A to the left. Parking and the trail head is
a few hundred feet on the right.
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Northville-Lake
Placid Trail
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The beginning
of the 133 mile Northville-Placid Trail follows the highway
from Northville to Benson Center and impatient hikers may
want to drive to Benson Center. However, the scenery along
the Stony Creek Valley is well worth the walk. No high mountains are
encountered in this section, but the forests are as wild
as any found on the trail.
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Panther
Mountain
Echo Cliff
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1.5
miles RT, easy |
The
trail to this popular destination is well worn and occasionally
steep. An open grassy area and ledges provide spectacular views
across Piseco Lake to Spy Lake and the Silver Lake Wilderness. |
GPS
(44.23083, -74.33608) From
Speculator Chamber office, take Rt. 8 west to 8.8 miles to
Old Piseco Rd.,
take a right. Follow road around lake (approx. 5 miles)
Trailhead is on right 1/2 mile beyond Little Sand State Campsite. |
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1.2 miles RT
easy |
A
short trail leads to an old cemetery containing the grave
of Colonel Peck, Hamilton County's only Revolutionary War
officer. The trail is about 0.6 mile each way to the cemetery,
where there are several other old headstones. |
GPS
Coordinates: ( 43.47608, -74.35693)
Located 2.3 miles southeast of the Village
of Speculator. From Speculator, drive south for 0.8 miles
on route 30 and
make a right onto Downey Road, Follow Downey past Camp of
the Woods, turn right onto South Shore Road. Follow South
Shore Road till you come to the trailhead (unmarked) on the
left side of the road 1.9 miles from Route 30 & Downey
road intersection.
From Wells make a left onto Downy Road, and a left onto
South Shore Road before you reach Camp of the Woods, just
past the little fishing bridge (2.6 miles from the intersection
of 30 and Downey Road. On the left.
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3.2 miles, moderately difficult
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After
some steep climbing, you will reach the abandoned fire tower
and views from the summit to the east and south. The access
road to the trailhead is rough and may only be passable by
four-wheel drive vehicles.
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GPS
(43.58673, -74.48509) The
trailhead begins 1.9 miles South on Route 30 below
Galusha’s
Cabins on Lewey lake. Take the Perkins Clearing dirt
road on right.
Go 3.3 miles to fork and bear right to Sled Harbor
parking area. Hike the road from there .75 mile to
trail on left
to Mountain and Firetower on top. (Other direction
on road continues to West Canada and Cedar Lakes area
on Northville-Lake
Placid Trail)
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Potholers
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0.5
miles
Elevation Gain (feet): 0
Arietta
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This
especially interesting section of East Canada Creek has
a series of waterfalls, chutes and potholes. The area
is a beautiful spot for a picnic and is easily accessed
via a short walk upstream.
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GPS
Coordinates: ( 43.27496, -74.66432 )
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2 miles. moderate |
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GPS
- 43.67583 -74.19472
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The
Sacandaga Pathway |
1.5
miles RT, easy |
GPS
(43.49609, -74.35968)
The
Pathway meets moderate handicapped access codes, and is
about a mile and a half long. There is a picnic area with
grills
and a view of the river. (Carry in- Carry out Policy) Rest
areas are provided at the Fire Hall, Pavilion, and at the
Lane Emporium at the intersection of Routes 8 and 30. A
meditation walk is provided for a quiet place to enjoy the
serenity
of
the woods.
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Sand
Lake |
1
mile, RT, easy |
Sand
Lake is a deep and remote lake. It is a easy trip and does
provide view across the end of the lake.
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7.8
miles RT, difficult |
This
is the tallest mountain in the southern Adirondacks and the
trail to its top, especially the final climb, is very steep
and demanding. You'll enjoy outstanding views of Indian Lake,
the distant High Peaks and unbroken wilderness from the rocky
summit ledges, which are dangerous and should be approached
with caution. The fire tower on the summit was recently restored
for safe public use. |
GPS
(43.70126, -74.33480) The
trailhead is on Route 30, 6.5 miles south of the village
of Indian lake, parking is on
opposite side of the road. |
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Spectacle Lake |
2 1/2 miles |
The Trail is the right
fork off the Good Luck Trail (above). It is approximately
2 1/2 miles up.Good for fishing and camping, the name Spectacle
comes from the shape of the lake looking similar to glasses.
The lake can be seen from the cliffs near Good Luck Lake. |
From the Caroga Lake
Post Office across the road from Sherman's Park. Head northwest 6.0 miles
on RT-10/RT-29A toward E Shore Road West Caroga, at the
RT-10/RT-29A divide at the Pine Lake Lodge continue to
follow RT-10 to the right. Parking and the trail head is
about 7 miles up on the left.
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West Stony Creek Falls |
3
miles RT
Elevation Gain (feet): 0
Benson
Moderate
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This
fairly level walk takes you along an old dirt road for
1.5 miles (one way) to a small 4 ft cascade on a medium
size stream along the Northville-Placid Trail at it's southern
end. It is located downstream from a rustic log footbridge
that crosses West Stony Creek. Although small in size,
the waterfalls and surrounding area is very picturesque
and worth the trip. |
GPS
Coordinates: ( 43.2551443, -74.3469554 )
10.2 miles SW of Wells or 9.5
miles NW of Northville: From Northville, take Rte 30 N
for 3.2 miles to County Rt. 6 (Benson Road) or from Wells
take Rte 30 S for 12.4 miles. Turn W onto Benson Road and
pass Lapland Lake Ski Center at 5.2 miles. Continue on
and at 5.8 miles the road forks after an iron bridge; stay
to the right following the signs for the NLP Trail and
continue NW for 0.6 mile. Turn left onto a dirt road (Godfrey
Road) and continue for another 0.5 mile. The parking area
is on the right. Walk on road for 1.2 miles to the northwest.
As the dirt road ends, you will be at the North Branch
of West Stony Creek. Follow a blue-blazed tote road northwest
for 0.3 mile, you will soon come to the falls, which are
just downstream from a large log footbridge that crosses
over the creek.
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Whiskey Brook Falls
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0.2
miles
Elevation Gain (feet): 0
Speculator
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This
very small and easily assessable gem sits right along the
eastern (right) side of the road. The falls is 5-6 feet
tall and is surrounded by large boulders. |
GPS
Coordinates: ( 43.52668, -74.38611 )
2.0 miles N of Speculator: From the intersection of Route 8
and Route 30 in Speculator drive 2.2 miles N. on Route 30 and
look off to the right for the stream which flows under Rte
30 through a large culvert. Pull off to the right, park, and
follow the southern bank of the creek upstream for 50 feet
where you will see the falls. |
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Wilcox Lake |
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Wilcox Lake
from Willis Lake:
" A second approach to Wilcox Lake, in addition to the one from East Stony
Creek Rd., can be made from the SE via the Willis Lake trail. This trail
traverses rugged terrain in sections, traveling through some of the wildest areas
of
the Wilcox Lake Wild Forest."
-Southern Region : Wilcox Lake Wild Forest
and Baldwin Springs Section, ADK Guide, pg. 93, By: Linda
Laing.
Wilcox Lake via East Stony Creek Trail:
" Wilcox Lake is one of the most attractive bodies of water in the southern
Adirondacks and is also one of the most popular. Somewhat overused but much
appreciated, this small lake is a worthwhile destination for the day hiker."
-Southern Region : Wilcox Lake Wild Forest and Baldwin
Springs Section, ADK Guide, pg. 89, By: Linda Laing.
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From
Route 30 approximately 4 miles south of the entrance to
the town of Wells. Turn
right on to Pumpkin Hollow road. The Trailhead is 1.6
miles up this road on the left. |
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1.5
mile loop
Easy |
This
interesting nature trail system explores a wetland habitat.
There
is a viewing platform, ten interpretive stops and three boardwalks
that traverse
the marsh and open water.
The
trail guide and map is available at the trailhead.
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GPS (43.08119, -74.44179) The
Willie Wildlife Marsh is located on Willie Road about
10 minutes from Gloversville
off Route 29A.
Turn
left when you see Jim’s Auto
business.
Drive
almost to the end of Willie Road where you will see
a parking lot.
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Woods
Lake |
0.3
miles, easy |
Woods
Lake is a very pretty small lake that is close to the road.
Therefore, it is more popular among campers and fishermen. |
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Founded
more than a quarter of a century ago by owner-operator
and former U.S. Olympic cross country skier Olavi Hirvonen,
this unique Finnish-flavored resort is situated on
hundreds of carefully managed acres. Its mountain setting,
combined with cozy, comfortable surroundings and the
warm hospitality of the Hirvonen family, create an
idyllic setting for recreation and relaxation every
season of the year.
Recipient of the
Private Sector Tourism Partnership Award
- Adirondack Regional Tourism Council
-
Pristine
70-acre lake, sandy beach
-
Swim, fish,
canoe (no motors)
-
50km of
private trails for hiking, mountain biking, x-c skiing & snowshoeing
-
Authentic
Finnish wood burning sauna
-
Immaculate
tupas (housekeeping cottages)
each with fully equipped kitchen, living-dining area, 1-4 bedrooms,
bath with shower, screened porch, electric heat and woodstove (wood
and linens provided)
|
 Gives
detailed descriptions for all hikeable trails in the
southern section of the Park bounded roughly by NY 8
to the north and Lake George to the east. Includes the
Silver Lake Wilderness. Edited by Linda Laing with Jack
Freeman and Neal Burdick. 2nd ed. 251 pages, 4 7/8" x
6 3/8". Softcover (includes folding map).
Buy
from Adirondack Books
 A
book designed expressly for young people to learn the
ways of hiking, how to hike and enjoy the out-of-doors,
and how to discover the wonders of the Adirondack Park.
This book puts young people in charge of learning about
the woods, how to protect themselves and be safe in
the woods, and how to protect the woods. It also encourages
hikers to begin to read maps and to use a compass.
Buy
from Adirondack Books
 This
new winter guide describes 50 classic cross country
ski and snowshoe tips throughout the Adirondack Park.
Difficulity ratings, page maps, distances, and driving
directions are included.
Hiking Links
Buy
from Adirondack Books
Paddle'n'Pole
Local
Hikes
Trails.com
Indian
Lake Trails
Adirondack
Adventures
Adirondack
Hikes
An Upstate NY Hiker's Diary
Cathead
Mountain
Hiking Safety
Safety is important whether you
are day hiking or winter backpacking. Proper planning,
preparation, proper clothing and taking appropriate
gear along are essential to a safe and enjoyable excursion.
Before
You Leave plan ahead. Learn about the area ahead of
time. Study the latest guidebooks and maps that give
information on highways, trails, streams and other
physical features. Plan your trip carefully according
to routes and the time you have available. Check weather
reports before you set out.
Prepare yourself physically. If your planned recreation calls for considerable
physical exertion, get in shape beforehand. Do not attempt a trip that is beyond
your physical capabilities.
Leave word of your destination and schedule. In order to locate you in an emergency
or send assistance should you need it, leave word at home or with a friend
as to where you are going and when you intend to return.
Know the rules and guidelines for appropriate behavior for the area you are
visiting.
On The Trail
Dress appropriately for the season and where
appropriate hiking shoes or boots. Layered clothing
is best to meet changing weather conditions. If cool
or wet conditions can be expected it is recommended
that you avoid cotton clothing, which insulates poorly
when wet and dries very slowly.
Carry a compass and a topographic map of the area and know how to use both.
Take along appropriate equipment and supplies. A day pack containing rain gear,
extra warm clothing, high energy food, water, first aid kit, pocket knife,
whistle and matches in a waterproof container are recommended. Sunglasses and
insect repellent are also handy.
Do not drink water from ponds or streams unless you have treated it first by
boiling, filtering or using purification tablets.
You should sign in at any Department of Environmental Conservation trail register
you may pass. This will assist us in finding you should we need to search for
you.
If You Get Lost
or Someone is Injured
If you become lost, keep calm, stay dry, keep warm and stay put.
If it appears that you will need to spend the night in the woods, build a campfire
to provide heat, light and comfort. A campfire will be invaluable in locating
you if you have been reported missing. Aircraft may be used in searching when
weather permits and smoky campfires may be spotted from the air
If the weather is particularly cold or bad and you must spend the night in
the woods, also build a small shelter using dead branches, hemlock boughs and
leaves. The shelter will serve as a "cocoon" and should be just big
enough for you to lie in comfortably. Set up camp before darkness falls.
If you feel you can try and find your way out of the woods, remember that following
streams downhill will nearly always lead you back to signs of habitation.
Any person knowing you are overdue should contact the New York State Forest
Ranger in the area of your trip.
In case of accident, at least one person should remain with the injured person.
Know and use basic first aid techniques. Others in the group should carefully
note the location and contact the local New York State Forest Ranger.
DEC
Rules
The
rules associated with using Department of Environmental
Conservation managed public lands in New York State
for recreational purposes
are relatively simple and straightforward.
Hiking
and backcountry camping are allowed on Forest Preserve
lands in the Adirondack and Catskill Parks as well
as State Forest areas. Generally, camping is prohibited
on Unique Areas, Wildlife Management Areas and other
categories of state land. Hiking is generally permitted
anywhere but special requirements apply to mountain
biking and horseback riding.
Some
specific units in the forest preserve may have regulations
that are different than the rules and guidelines
listed below!
For
information about the 52 Department of Environmental
Conservation campgrounds in the Adirondack and Catskill
Parks, visit DEC Campground Information. The rules
and guidelines for the use of New York State's public
lands are generally as follows:
Except
where marked by a "Camp Here" disk camping
is prohibited within 150 feet of roads, trails, lakes,
ponds, streams or other bodies of water.
Groups of ten or more persons or stays of more
than three days in one place require a permit from the New York State
Forest Ranger responsible for the area.
Lean-tos are available in many
areas on a first come first served basis. Lean-tos cannot
be used exclusively and must be shared with other campers.
Use pit privies provided
near popular camping areas and trailheads. If none
are available, dispose of human waste by digging
a hole 6"-8" deep at least 150 feet from
water or campsites. Cover with leaves and soil.
Do not use soap to wash
yourself, clothing or dishes within 150 ft of water.
Drinking and cooking
water should be boiled for 5 minutes, treated with
purifying tablets or filtered through filtration
device to prevent instances of giardia infection.
Fires should be built
in existing fire pits or fireplaces if provided.
Use only dead and down wood for fires. Cutting
standing trees is prohibited. Extinguish all fires
with water and stir ashes until they are cold to
the touch. Do not build fires in areas marked by
a "No Fires" disk. Camp stoves are safer,
more efficient and cleaner.
Carry out what you carry
in. Practice "leave no trace" camping
and hiking.
Keep your pet under control.
Restrain it on a leash when others approach. Collect
and bury droppings away from water, trails and
camp sites. Keep your pet away from drinking water
sources.
Observe and enjoy wildlife
and plants but leave them undisturbed.
Removing plants, rocks, fossils
or artifacts from state land without a permit is illegal.
The storage of personal property on state land is prohibited.
Carry an approved flotation
device for each person aboard all watercraft.
Except in an emergency or between December
15 and April 30, camping is prohibited above an elevation of 4000 feet
in the Adirondacks.
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