A nice hike in a quiet section of the Hammond Pond Wild Forest leads to a grassy pond called Black Brook Pond.
Key takeaways
- Distance: 3.75 miles round-trip
- Elevation gain: 325 feet
- Hike includes trail junctions and water crossings
Hiking to Black Brook Pond
From the parking area, locate the trail to Hammond Pond. There are two trails here — the one you want is on the left; right leads to Moose Mountain Pond.
You will quickly come to an unmarked split in the trail. Left leads to Hammond Pond and dead ends there, so take time to check it out. Right leads slightly uphill toward Black Brook Pond.
There is a crossing of Black Brook, which can be tough if the water is high, but under most instances it’s not too hard. It can always be waded, so bring a towel if it's warm out. From here the trail stays mostly flat and eventually brings you to the west end of the pond. The pond is more grass than water, but it is a nice, attractive location to hang out.
Black Brook Pond in the winter
This is a remote area, particularly in the winter. You may not be following any tracks in the snow. Practice Leave No Trace principles by planning ahead and preparing. Bring all the winter gear you need for every circumstance, including extra non-cotton layers, food, water, and sleeping gear. Be particularly careful at the water-crossing. A fall into the water during the winter can be extremely dangerous.
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 off I-87, follow Blue Ridge Road east toward North Hudson, then drive north on Route 9. Continue for 2.5 miles and turn right on county Route 4C, then turn right on Ensign Pond Road. Follow Ensign Pond Road for just over 2.5 miles to the Hammond Pond trailhead on the right.
