I've found one of the most pleasant road bike rides in the land right in the Schroon Lake Region.

Locals will know that the Ensign Pond Road (County Route 4) is a wonderful, 13 mile long route from North Hudson to Moriah Center. However you get there, whether you start in Schroon Lake, North Hudson or in Moriah, this is a great place to explore on two wheels.

The road is scarcely traveled by cars, with few residences, so it's a quiet country ramble. I recently rode the length of it from Moriah to North Hudson as part of a longer loop, but it would be a great out-and-back for a future ride, too.

There are several notable features on this one little road.

First, the road does travel from North Hudson to the town of Moriah, and there is a stone marking the boundary that has "North Hudson Port Henry N.Y." and an image of the two shaking hands etched in it. It is difficult to discern all of the letters and numbers, aside from "9 M." which I assume is the mileage left to the Moriah end of the road. (I haven't researched this marker, but would love any insight if anyone can provide information about it!)

The road also provides access to a trailhead to the Hammond Pond Wilderness, with trails to Trout Pond, Round Pond, and East Mill Flow. Another trailhead links to a loop to Moose Mountain Pond and Bass Lake.
 

 

Closer to the North Hudson end, there is protected wetland that is bisected by the road. A great stop to view wildlife, for sure.

And even closer to the western end is an historic landmark: the North Hudson Pine Ridge Cemetery. We stopped to view the old stones in this very neat and cared-for plot - an Eagle Scout restoration project, according to the sign. In this cemetery you'll find a number of War of 1812 soldiers buried - each currently marked with an 1812 star and flag.

In all one of the most lovely roads for cycling in the region - so agreeable that you'll feel like shaking hands when you ride it, too.

 

-Kim Rielly is the director of communications for the Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism.