It's not all about fishing at Bass Pond. Simply hiking to this backcountry body of water in the Hammond Pond Wild Forest is a good day in the woods.
Key takeaways
- Distance: 4.4 miles round-trip
- Elevation gain: 475 feet
- Hike includes trail junctions
Hiking to Bass Lake from the east
At the trailhead there is an immediate split; left leads toward Hammond Pond and right leads toward Bass Lake. Bass Lake can also be approached from the west, so a thru hike (point to point) is possible if a second car is spotted. The trail is mostly gentle, with only a couple of spots that might be considered a moderate climb. The path remains high above Berrymill Brook before branching away and starting the climb to the lake. To lengthen the trip, continue along the shore to the western portion of the lake, where additional views await. Heading all the way to the western side of the lake, and then back the way you came, would add on about a mile and a half round-trip.
Hiking Bass Lake in the winter
The trailhead is accessible in the winter, and the trail can be snowshoed. A cross-country ski of this trail may be hard, given the handful of tough descents. Given the remoteness, be prepared for all winter conditions, and be careful around the frozen lake. Take particular care around inlets and outlets of Bass Lake, the ice can be much thinner in these areas.
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!
How to get there
From Exit 29 on Interstate 87, follow Blue Ridge Road toward North Hudson and take a left onto State Route 9 and follow it north. Continue for 2.5 miles and turn right onto Caza Turn Road, then take the next right onto Ensign Pond Road. Follow Ensign Pond Road for just under 3 miles to the trailhead on the right.
