A seldom-visited trail, you'll experience older trail infrastructure along your way to Center Pond. Take care to avoid unmarked side trails that may lead to nearby private property.

Key takeaways

• Distance: 5.8 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 950 feet
• Hike includes trail junctions

Hiking to Center Pond

The trail starts paralleling Hewitt Pond, eventually gets close to the shore of Barnes Pond at around 1.5 miles in. At times, the trail can be hard to follow. The spur trail to Center Pond leaves the Hewitt Pond Trail around 2.9 miles south of the trailhead, and extends 0.2 miles to the shore of Center Pond, where there are good views from the shore, which has lots of dead, standing trees.. There is a sign with a yellow arrow for Center Pond. Staying straight would lead you to the Stony Pond trail. About 2 miles in you'll reach the top of a small pass between two low peaks. The trail descends 100 feet to the pond in the last 0.1 mile.

Center Pond in the winter

This hike makes for an excellent snowshoe, but do not expect it to be broken out. As such, be prepared for all winter conditions. The parking area is typically accessible in the winter because it leads to a community on Hewitt Pond.

Find more trails in the Adirondack Hub

Does Center Pond sound amazing, but a little more than you want to tackle right now? With the Adirondack Hub being at the center of so many trails, we’re sure to find the best hike for you!

How to get there

Take Exit 29 off of Interstate 87 and follow Boreas Road west toward Newcomb. Continue to Route 28N, take a left and head toward Minerva. Continue for just under 10.5 miles to the Hewitt Pond trailhead on the left.

This short hike ends at a particularly scenic pond. On the northeastern side of the pond is a long finger created by a beaver dam and on the north end of the pond is an attractive wetland where birding could be quite good. There is the option to explore the second pond on an unmarked trail.

Key takeaways

• Distance: 2.2 miles round trip for both ponds, 0.8 miles for Rankin
• Elevation gain: 280 feet round trip for both ponds
• Hike includes unmarked trail

Hiking to Rankin and Little Rankin Ponds

From the parking area cross the road carefully and quickly, as the trailhead is located on a corner where traffic tends to move quickly. Once at the trailhead, you will sign into the trail register and follow the trail behind the register, not the old road to the right. The trail is marked with blue disks. Along the 0.4 mile trail (one way) there is a sweep around a small knob on your right known as Crusher Hill, while not changing much in elevation. There is a slight descent at the end to reach the eastern shore of Rankin Pond.

If you wish to continue to Little Rankin Pond be aware that there is no marked trail or designated route to reach the small back-county body of water. Map and compass and GPS knowledge is highly recommended. Not recommended for inexperienced hikers or children. To continue on to Little Rankin Pond, locate a herd path to your right from the end of Rankin Pond Trail. This anglers herd path is very faint and blowdown does cover it in spots. This herd path will bring you to another small spot with a great view of the pond. The herd path from here starts to become much less apparent and eventually disappears, but keep the pond to your left and continue down the finger to a beaver dam crossing.

Once you cross the beaver dam you will need to make your way through a somewhat open forest and head northwest, keeping the slopes of Rankin Pond Mountain to your right. Remain in the valley. Little Rankin Pond is a quaint little pond with a faint trail, but gives a nice, backcountry, secluded feel.

Rankin and Little Rankin Ponds in the winter

From the parking area which should be plowed out regularly, you will need to cross the road to access the trail. This trail is a good, mellow introduction to snowshoeing to the first pond. Only experienced hikers should attempt to reach the farther pond. Be prepared for all winter conditions.

Birding

Most of these species are found during the migration and breeding season. This is considered a lowland boreal forest, with species like Black-backed Woodpecker, Olive-sided Flycatcher, Boreal Chickadee, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Cape May Warbler, Bay-breasted Warbler, and Pine Siskin.

Paddling

At the trailhead there is room for one car to unload a car-top boat, but park across the road (north via a slight curve) at the designated parking area. The trail is narrow, but overall fairly easy with a brief, somewhat steep, drop near the end. This trail is not the best option for a cart; it is recommended that you use a boat that you can carry.

Once on the pond you will have a wonderful secluded paddle, and most likely to yourself. The shoreline length is approximately one mile and the water is well-sheltered/mostly calm.

Fishing

There is a deep area good for brook trout, and only accessible by boat. As a result, there's not much angler competition. There is a limited amount of shoreline fishing but it’s decent in a few spots. At the end of the trail which is 0.4 miles from the parking area and slightly further along the shore on the east side via a short herd path. At the deepest it is around 20 feet, but the best fishing is had from the deeper portion and the finger on the NE side, which is accessed best by boat.

Fish species: brook trout, bullhead

Find more trails in the Adirondack Hub

Do the Rankin Ponds sound amazing, but a little more than you want to tackle right now? With the Adirondack Hub being at the center of so many trails, we’re sure to find the best hike for you!

How to get there

From exit 28 in Schroon Lake, follow I-87 north for one exit to the North Hudson Exit 29. From here follow Boreas Road west toward Newcomb. Continue to Route 28N and take a left and head toward Minerva. Continue for just under 10 miles to the trailhead on the right, parking is on the left just prior to the trailhead.

Looking for a backcountry pond that doesn't require a lot of work to get to? If so, Cheney Pond is perfect for you! It's all peaceful wild forest and beautiful scenery. Visitors in any season can enjoy a variety of activities, including: hiking, fishing, paddling, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and camping.

Key takeaways

• Distance: 1 mile round trip
• Elevation gain: 150 feet 
• Hike includes trail junctions

Hiking to Cheney Pond

Follow the old access road turned into an easy trail to a camping, picnic, and launch area at the pond. The hike is quite easy and all downhill to the pond. You will pass by an intersection with the trail to Lester Dam at 0.4 miles. Turn left here and the pond is 500 feet away. There is a designated primitive tent site at the initial spot you meet up with at the pond, as well as a lean-to that is paddle access across the pond.

Cheney pond in the winter

Since it is not that long of a trail, this makes for a great snowshoe for beginners or even an excellent place to stretch your legs before a more rigorous adventure. It is also a great cross-country ski, but might be a bit too fast for beginners. Snowshoeing or cross-country skiing over a frozen body of water is a winter past time; it can access you to areas not seen by most in the summer. With that being said, it can be a dangerous activity to cross frozen waterbodies and should be done with care and respect for your environment. Know the ice conditions and be prepared for anything, including heavy winds, snow drifts, whiteouts, slushy conditions, and thin ice. 

Find more trails in the Adirondack Hub

Looking for another hike? With the Adirondack Hub being at the center of so many trails, we’re sure to find another adventurous hike for you!

Fishing

Trout can be easily fished from shore and the bullheads tend to bite all day. There is a shallow bay on the north side of the pond, which is a nice location for panfish and floating a bobber for brookies. Fish species include: brook trout, bullhead, panfish, brown trout, and smallmouth bass. There are plenty of grassy areas where bass are said to hide.

Paddling

This lovely little pond is part of the Lester Flow. This is a hand launch only. Canoes and kayaks will likely need to be wheeled or carried the half mile to the pond.

The lean-to is a great choice for those looking to try winter camping, but only when ice is thick enough.

How to get there

To get here, follow Blue Ridge Road (County Road 84) toward Newcomb from Exit 29 off I-87. It is 13.4 mile to the trailhead parking area on the left. The "trail" to Cheney Pond follows an old access road, and while travel is permitted, it is not recommended. At first, the access road appears to be a fine gravel road, but soon deteriorates with washouts, ruts, and extremely muddy sections. No worries though; it's only about a half mile walk to the pond with minimal elevation change.

Hiking to the fire tower on Vanderwhacker Mountain rewards with views to the north of the High Peaks, the Boreas River Valley, and the smaller peaks in all other directions.

Key takeaways

• Distance: (from the trailhead) 2.7 miles, one way
• Elevation gain: 1,700 feet
• Mountain Elevation: 3,325 feet
• Hike includes trail junctions

Hiking Vanderwhacker Mountain

From the trailhead (where there are a few tent sites nearby), you will hike on a moderate trail with slight elevation change. The trail can be wet at times, with some small creek crossings. About half way to the top, a snowmobile trail will come in on the left. At around 1.5 miles from the trailhead, you will come to the old observer's cabins. From here the trail gets quite steep with much of the elevation remaining. It will level out again to a more moderate hike as it approaches the fire tower.

Vanderwhacker Mountain in the winter

Winter means the summit is thick with tall firs and birches, covered with snow, but there are fine views from the cab of the fire tower. Take care on the steps, as they are exposed and can be slippery. Please remove spikes or snowshoes before climbing the tower in the winter as traction devices can damage the steps. Due to steepness of the final push, skiing is not recommended. In the winter, it is recommended to park at the beginning of the road, and not at the official trailhead, This will add 2 miles and 200 feet of elevation gain round trip. Being prepared is necessary for any winter hike.

Find more trails in the Adirondack Hub

Does Vanderwhacker sound amazing, but a little more than you want to tackle right now? With the Adirondack Hub being at the center of so many trails, we’re sure to find the best hike for you!

How to get there

From exit 28 in Schroon Lake, follow I-87 north for one exit to the North Hudson exit, #29. From here follow Boreas Road west toward Newcomb. Continue all the way to Newcomb and Route 28N. Take a left onto 28N and continue for just under 6 miles to the access road for Vanderwhacker Mountain on the right, just before the crossing of the Boreas River. Follow this road for 2.6 miles to the trailhead. The access road is dirt and very rough. OK for low clearance vehicles but take it very slow.

Hiking New York's 26th tallest mountain

Allen Mountain is a long, steep, and serious hike that requires significant preparation. A successful hike of Allen involves research, physical fitness, the right gear, and knowledge of Leave No Trace principles. 

Key takeaways

• Elevation: 4,340 feet
• Elevation gain: 3,700 feet
• Distance: 18 miles, roundtrip
• Hike includes water crossings, unmarked trail, steep rock slab, bridge, and trail junctions

Hiking Allen Mountain

From the trailhead you will descend a bit to a bridge crossing of the Hudson River. After a short walk through an attractive forest you will come to Lake Jimmy and a sharp left turn for a new bypass that avoids the not-so-good floating bridge. Much of the hike will bring you along a state trail that follows not only foot trails but old woods roads and even a gravel road or two. The bridge over the Opalescent River was destroyed in a storm in October 2019. At this time, there is no plan to replace it.

At 5 miles go right on an obvious, but unmarked, trail. As you approach the top and start following Allen Brook the terrain gets much steeper. Along Allen Brook there is a slide that can be climbed, but care is needed as it is very slippery – a rough herd path on the side will avoid the exposed rock. The summit is treed but off to the side there is an opening or two to take in excellent views of the area.

Allen Mountain in the winter

Allen is a challenging mountain that should only be attempted by experienced hikers, especially in winter, so make sure you are prepared. Snowshoes are necessary, and snow spikes or crampons are needed to climb the steep upper sections of the peak. Plan on temperatures in the higher elevations being at least 20 degrees colder than at the trailhead, not including the windchill. Bring several extra non-cotton layers, a headlamp with spare batteries, extra food, a windbreaker, goggles, a face mask, and supplies for spending the night in case of an emergency. Crossing the Opalescent River can be extremely dangerous in the winter. Do your research, and do not attempt to cross during the beginning or end of winter, or after warm weather. Always use caution at water crossings. Turning around is always an option. 

Find more trails in the Adirondack Hub

Does Allen Mountain sound amazing, but a little more than you want to tackle right now? With the Adirondack Hub being at the center of so many trails, we’re sure to find the best hike for you!

How to get there

Use the North Hudson exit on the I-87 (exit 29) and follow the Blue Ridge Road (CR 84) toward Newcomb. Continue for roughly 18 miles to the Tahawus Road (CR25) on the right. Follow this road for 6.3 miles and then left at a junction for another 3 miles to a trailhead on the right.

Take a pleasant hike through Hammond Pond Wild Forest to reach Trout Pond. If you choose, continue on to Round Pond.

How to get there

Trout Pond Trailhead: On Ensign Pond Road (County Rt. 4) between North Hudson and Moriah. Marked by a large DEC sign, it is 6.2 miles east of Rt. 9 N of North Hudson on the left side of the road. One can also continue 1.3 miles to Round Pond.

Key statistics

• Distance: 2.5 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 250 feet
• Based on visiting both ponds

Hiking

A pleasant hike through Hammond Pond Wild Forest, with a trail following the Trout Pond's west shoreline. Continue on the trail to reach Round Pond's southern end.

Snowshoeing

The shoreline trail makes this showshoe trek easy to follow even with a fresh snow.

Fishing

Brook trout, which also means the use or possession of bait fish is prohibited. Unwanted introductions of minnows/bait fish are a primary factor in the decline of brook trout fisheries.

Hiking New York's 39th tallest mountain

Colvin is the 39th tallest of the Adirondack 46 High Peaks. It is a steep, serious hike that requires significant preparation. A successful hike of Mount Colvin involves research, physical fitness, the right gear, and knowledge of Leave No Trace principles. Colvin was named after Verplanck Colvin, the great surveyor of the Adirondack Park, and is often climbed with Blake Peak.

SPECIAL INFORMATION

This hike is accessed through a conservation easement with the Adirondack Mountain Reserve (AMR). A parking reservation is needed from May 1 - October 31. Although it is called a “parking reservation,” everyone will need a reservation to access hikes leaving from AMR, whether you drove yourself, rode a bike, got dropped-off, or walked. These reservations can be made online via the AMR website. For more information, please read these FAQs or contact the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

Key takeaways

• Elevation: 4,507 feet
• Elevation gain: 6,400 feet
• Distance: 20 miles round trip
• Hike includes trail junctions, steep rock slab, and ladders

Hiking Colvin

The primary way to hike Colvin is via the AMR. Hiking via Elk Lake, described below, is seldom done. It is a strenuous hike with serious elevation gain that leads over Pinnacle Ridge and Blake.

Starting along the trail to Panther Gorge and Mount Marcy from Elk Lake you will drop to cross The Branch. After that, you'll start a flat approach to the beginning of a wet hike to the shoulder of the Pinnacle Ridge. At around 3.7 miles there is a newer lean-to. Drop down to the Pinnacle Ridge Trail. From this point the trail, after a flat section, is very demanding and encompasses several smaller peaks with no official names. There is a spur trail to the summit of Pinnacle, which is recommended for outstanding views. Blake will be at the end of the ridge.

From Blake you drop down very steeply through a highly eroded area where footing is difficult. From the col you will pass the trail down to Warden's Camp, and then start an equally steep ascent up Colvin. There are a couple excellent viewing areas along the ridge to enjoy along the way. It is recommended to continue the traverse over Colvin and out to the AMR and a second car. Unless an overnight is planned this round-trip outing would be too demanding for most hikers. 

Colvin in the winter

It is recommended to hike Colvin via the AMR in the winter, as this way in the winter will be unbroken and sees very little traffic.

Find more trails in the Adirondack Hub

Does Colvin sound amazing, but a little more than you want to tackle right now? With the Adirondack Hub being at the center of so many trails, we’re sure to find the best hike for you!

How to get there

Get off at exit 29 on the Northway and follow the Blue Ridge Road toward Newcomb. Look for Elk Lake Road on the right in about 4-5 miles; follow it to its end.

For a short but sweet walk in the wilderness, check out the Grizzle Ocean loop in the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness Area.

Getting there

Follow Route 74 out of Schroon Lake toward Ticonderoga. After about 13 miles turn right on Putts Pond Road. Follow that to the end at Putnam Pond State Campground. There will be a small fee to use when the campground is open, but this time of year it is closed and free to enter. Pass by the booth and turn left to go up a small hill and into a parking area on the left. The trail is located at the far end of the trailhead parking.

Hiking

From the trailhead, you will follow a nice flat trail that passes by Putnam Pond to your right. The trail soon turns into a short, moderate climb before reaching a rather long descent to a major intersection. Right leads toward Treadway Mountain and Rock Pond, and left leads to Grizzle Ocean and beyond.

After a short climb you will soon come to the split for the loop, which is a fantastic hike that approaches and leaves the shore of this small backcountry pond. Certain areas of the pond are known for their cranberry growth. Once you finish the loop, return using the trail you followed in.

• Elevation: 1,475 feet
• Ascent: 150' of elevation change
• Distance Round Trip: 5 miles

Snowshoeing

This route makes for a fine snowshoe. Just be aware distances may increase as roads may not be plowed in the winter. Be prepared for a longer outing.

Camping

There is an attractive lean-to located in the open pine forest that is a perfect spot for a campfire and a snack. 

Hiking New York's 15th highest peak

Redfield is the 15th tallest of the Adirondack 46 High Peaks. It is a long, serious hike that requires significant preparation. A successful hike of Mount Redfield involves research, physical fitness, the right gear, and knowledge of Leave No Trace principles.

Redfield was named for Professor William C. Redfield: meteorologist, organizer of, and participant in, the first recorded ascent of Mount Marcy.

Key takeaways

• Elevation: 4,606 feet
• Distance: 16.8 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 3,400 feet
• Hike includes trail junctions, unmarked trail, bridges, and ladders
• Based on an out and back ascent from Upper Works via the Calamity Brook Trail

Hiking Redfield via Calamity Brook

Mount Redfield is often climbed with Cliff Mountain. Below is a description of the approach via Upper Works and the Calamity Brook Trail. Redfield via the Adirondack Loj is the other main way to approach this mountain.

From the Upper Works parking area and historic MacNaughton Cottage, follow a long and somewhat flat approach which initially starts along an old woods road. As the route narrows back to a foot trail you will follow along some attractive waterways and eventually climb modestly to the shore of Flowed Lands. You'll hand left around Flowed Lands, and in around 1 mile you'll cross Lake Colden and the dam. From there head towards Uphill lean-to. Once you reach this area you will see a small cairn on the right side which marks the start of the trail from Redfield and Cliff. Follow this trail to a second cairn.

The Redfield route is the main one and continues straight, right goes to Cliff. If you choose to tack on Cliff, expect to add 1.8 miles and 875 feet of elevation gain round trip.  From here you will hike along a gorgeous brook and at times in it. Be sure to take time to look back every now and then to enjoy the views as they open up. There are many attractive small waterfalls along the way as well. The summit of Redfield is a large boulder, offering nice views.

Redfield in the winter

Redfield is a challenging mountain that should only be attempted by experienced hikers, especially in winter, so make sure you are prepared. Snowshoes are necessary, and microspikes or crampons are needed to climb some of the steeper sections, particularly if you add on Cliff Mountain. Plan on temperatures in the higher elevations being at least 20 degrees colder than at the trailhead, not including the windchill. Bring several extra non-cotton layers, a headlamp with spare batteries, extra food, a windbreaker, goggles, a face mask, and supplies for spending the night in case of an emergency. The water crossings on the hike can be especially dangerous during the beginning and end of winter. Always use caution at water crossings. Turning around is always an option. 

Find more trails in the Adirondack Hub

Does Redfield sound amazing, but a little more than you want to tackle right now? With the Adirondack Hub being at the center of so many trails, we’re sure to find the best hike for you!

How to get there

From exit 29 off I-87, turn west onto Blue Ridge Road (CR 84) toward Newcomb. Follow this route for 17.4 miles to an intersection with Tahawus Road (CR 25). Turn right on Tahawus Road and stay on it for 6.3 miles then turn left at a sign for High Peaks trails. Pass by the old blast furnace at 2.8 miles up this road. From the blast furnace, it is less than one mile to your destination. The road dead ends at the Upper Works parking lot.

Hiking New York's 44th highest mountain

Cliff Mountain is one of the most challenging High Peaks, with a hike up the cliff face that is extremely steep and in many situations slippery. While, due to tradition, this is a 46er peak, it does not crest 4000’ in elevation. Cliff is often climbed with in conjunction with Mount Redfield. Cliff is a long, serious hike that requires significant preparation. A successful hike involves research, physical fitness, the right gear, and knowledge of Leave No Trace principles.

Key takeaways

• Distance: 15.5 miles round trip
• Elevation: 3960 feet
• Elevation gain: 3,450 feet
• Hike includes trail junctions, unmarked trail, bridges, and ladders
• Based on an out and back ascent from the Adirondack Loj via Lake Arnold

Hiking Cliff via Calamity Brook

Cliff is often climbed with Mount Redfield. Below is a description of the approach via Upper Works and the Calamity Brook Trail. Cliff via the Adirondack Loj is the other main way to approach this mountain.

From the Upper Works parking area and historic MacNaughton Cottage, follow a long and somewhat flat approach which initially starts along an old woods road. As the route narrows back to a foot trail you will follow along some attractive waterways and eventually climb modestly to the shore of Flowed Lands. You'll hand left around Flowed Lands, and in around 1 mile you'll cross Lake Colden and the dam. From there head towards Uphill lean-to. Once you reach this area you will see a small cairn on the right side which marks the start of the trail from Redfield and Cliff.

The Cliff Route is slightly up the joined herd-path and leaves right. If you decide to include Redfield on your hike, it will tack on 2.4 miles and 1,300 feet of elevation gain round trip.

After navigating through the muck and mire to the base of the cliff, take care going up the steep rock. Once over the cliffs, don’t be fooled into stopping at the next highest point, this is a false summit. Drop a bit and finish the climb to the true summit (with a wooden sign). Views are a bit lacking from the summit, so take in the nice ones along the steep climb.

Cliff Mountain in the winter

Cliff is a challenging mountain that should only be attempted by experienced hikers, especially in winter, so make sure you are prepared. Snowshoes are necessary, and microspikes or crampons are needed to climb the steep cliffs on Cliff. Plan on temperatures in the higher elevations being at least 20 degrees colder than at the trailhead, not including the windchill. Bring several extra non-cotton layers, a headlamp with spare batteries, extra food, a windbreaker, goggles, a face mask, and supplies for spending the night in case of an emergency. The water crossings on the hike can be especially dangerous during the beginning and end of winter. Always use caution at water crossings. Turning around is always an option. Only cross Flowed Lands when conditions dictate. 

Find more trails in the Adirondack Hub

Does Cliff sound amazing, but a little more than you want to tackle right now? With the Adirondack Hub being at the center of so many trails, we’re sure to find the best hike for you!

How to get there

From exit 29 off I-87, turn west onto Blue Ridge Road (CR 84) toward Newcomb. Follow this route for 17.4 miles to an intersection with Tahawus Road (CR 25). Turn right on Tahawus Road and stay on it for 6.3 miles then turn left at a sign for High Peaks trails. Pass by the old blast furnace at 2.8 miles up this road. From the blast furnace, it is less than one mile to your destination. The road dead ends at the Upper Works parking lot.