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Hiking to Spectacle Pond is a great outing in the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness Area, just east of Schroon Lake.

Key takeaways

  • Distance: 3 miles round-trip
  • Elevation gain: 350 feet

Hiking to Spectacle Pond

The trail to Spectacle Pond is perfect for an afternoon jaunt or a family outing. A slight climb from the trailhead goes past Beaver Meadow Hill before descending to cross Shanty Brook, a pleasant backcountry stream. From here, another slight climb leads to Spectacle Pond, where the trail continues along the south shore for better views. The mountainous terrain around the pond gives it a really interesting feel, with stellar vistas to boot. 

Spectacle Pond in the winter

The trailhead is accessible in the winter, and while most snowshoe this trail, you can cross-country ski in if you have some experience. As with all frozen bodies of water in the winter, be extra careful around the shoreline, near outlets, and on the ice. Be prepared and bring all gear necassary for all conditions in the winter.

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!

Paddling

Paddlers will need to carry a canoe or kayak the 1.5 miles to this pond. What you see from the water is a mass of imposing cliffs. Make sure that you visit on a clear day.

Fishing

There is plenty of shoreline fishing available. Paths lead partway around the pond to access other areas. The northern end of the pond is quite marshy and not good for shoreline fishing, but most of the other sides are good. There are great camping areas on this pond. Use them for an overnight and have fun catching bullhead.

  • Fish species present: bullhead, brown trout
  • Pond size: Size: 33 acres

Always follow New York state fishing regulations and be sure to pick up a NYS Freshwater Fishing Guide at your local outfitters or regional NYSDEC office.

How to get there

To get here, take Exit 28 off of Interstate 87 and follow Route 9 south toward Schroon Lake. Continue for 0.6 miles and turn onto Alder Meadow Road and follow that to East Shore Road and continue for 2.75 miles to the trailhead on the left. 

This is a wonderful pond with an unusual shape.

Accessibility Information

Fish Species

  • Brown Trout

Hike Features

  • Ponds / Lakes