Clear Pond is as quiet a pond as you will find anywhere, and although many hikers use the trails surrounding the pond, very few access it by boat. Use the area trails to extend your adventure, and even consider a second carry to Rock Pond to the north.

How to get there

From the intersection of Route 9 and 74 near Schroon Lake, follow Route 74 toward Ticonderoga. Continue to Putts Pond Road on the right — this is also the entrance road for Putnam Pond State Campground. Drive this to the end to access the campground and the pond. A day use fee is required.    

Paddling

You will need to paddle through Putnam Pond to the narrows that separate it and North Pond. From the narrows you can access the 0.6 mile portage trail that leads to Clear Pond. This is a well-marked trail with decent footing. No motorboats are allowed on Clear Pond, but they are allowed on Putnam Pond. The waters are typically calm. Clear Pond is relatively small, with only approximately 1 mile of shoreline.

Fishing

Listed as one of the top brown trout waters in Essex County by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Clear Pond is also home to rainbow and brook trout, as well as their cousin, the kokanee salmon.

At 26 acres, Clear Pond is not large, but it still manages to draw anglers at ice-out. The use and possession of baitfish is prohibited. Access is via a trail from Putnam Pond Campground or paddle/portage from Putnam Pond itself. A lean-to provides shelter at the pond.

Hiking

The Clear Pond Trail extends 3.8 miles from the Putnam Pond Campground Trailhead North looping around Putnam Pond to the Grizzle Ocean Trail at a location approximately 1.2 miles from the Putnam Pond Campground Trailhead South. The trail drops 100 feet in 0.1 mile to the shore of North Pond, after passing along the northern shore of the pond it ascends 170 feet in 0.1 mile. Between Rock Pond and Clear Pond the trail ascends 265 feet and descends 135 feet in a 0.5 mile. The trail descends 120 feet in the 1.1 miles from Clear Pond to the Grizzle Ocean Trail. Clear Pond and the Clear Pond Trail can also be accessed from the western shore of Putnam Pond via a 0.6-mile spur trail.

A day use fee is required to park a vehicle at the Putnam Pond Campground when the campground is open. The trailhead may not be plowed in winter.

This large, 40,000-acre tract covers portions of two towns – North Hudson and Schroon. While the wild forest designation allows this area a higher degree of human interaction, the trails in Hammond Pond are not as heavily traveled as nearby wilderness areas and you can find some solitude here.

Hiking in the Hammond Pond Wild Forest

Here are a few hikes you can do in the Hammond Pond Wild Forest! 

• Belfry Mountain firetower
• Crowfoot Pond
• Courtney and Shingletree Ponds
• Baxter Mountain - This hike close to the High Peaks is surprisingly located on a section of the Hammond Pond Wild Forest!

Wolf Pond is a stunning 59-acre pond in the High Peaks Wilderness Area, with a lean-to and shoreline views that include some of the High Peaks. The trail follows Wolf Pond Brook all the way to Wolf Pond, but since it steers clear of the marshy woods that line the stream’s western bank, the brook is out of sight for more than half the trail.

Key takeaways

• Distance: 4.8 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 450 feet
• Hike includes bridges

Hiking to Wolf Pond

Leaving the parking area, the trail follows Wolf Pond Brook and soon crosses it on a wooden bridge. The trail gains a little elevation and continues to follow the brook, sometimes at a distance and sometimes along the bank, before finally swinging left and away from it to avoid the marshy area. Some ups and downs follow with the path gaining some elevation in spots, but those sections are brief and things never get too steep. Wolf Pond comes into view on the left at the 2.3 mile mark. There’s a lean-to that’s set back from the shore and a trail that follows the pond’s shore for stunning views of the mountains.

Wolf Pond in the winter

This parking area is typically plowed, and while this trail is hiked in the winter, you should expect to break trail. Bring your snowshoes, or grab some skis if you have the proper experience. You should be well-prepared for this hike in the High Peaks Wilderness Area.

Find more trails in the Adirondack Hub

Does Wolf 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!

Fishing

This pond is stocked with native strain brook trout.

How to get there

The trail to Wolf Pond starts on Blue Ridge Road, about 10 miles west of Exit 29 (Route I-87) and about 14 miles east of Newcomb. The large parking area is on the right if you’re coming from the highway. There is a designated primitive tent site at the parking area.

The High Peaks Wilderness Area is the largest Wilderness Area in the Adirondack Mountains and New York state. At 275,460 acres, the High Peaks Wilderness Complex includes Eastern (Central) and Western (Outer) zones, as well as the former Dix Mountain Wilderness Area, 11,411 of the Boreas Pond Tract, 4,418 acres of the MacIntyre East Tract, and 1,490 acres of the former Casey Brook Tract.

Hiking and camping in the High Peaks

From the highest peaks in New York state to extensive wetlands and river systems, the High Peaks has a diversity of landscapes to get out and enjoy. Much of the hikers and campers going to this Wilderness Area are hiking the Adirondack 46 High Peaks, part of a popular hiking challenge. Amongst those High Peaks are hundreds of others smaller mountains, trails that carve through their valleys, and campsites on bodies of water big and small. Whether you come to challenge yourself on a High Peak, or simply go on a short hike or scenic drive, you'll experience one of the most unique areas in the state. 

With the increasing number of people recreating in the High Peaks, it's important to follow Leave No Trace principles, follow all guidelines for this specific Wilderness Area, and be prepared for whatever you decide to do in the Forest Preserve. Listed below are some important rules to remember.

• No campfires in the Eastern Zone of the High Peaks Wilderness Area
• Maximum of 15 people in a group for a day trip, and 8 people for an overnight
• No camping on summits or above 3,500 feet (except at lean-to)
• If necessary, at-large camping is allowed as long as sites are at least 150 feet from all roads, trails, bodies or bodies of water. Place your tent on a durable surface (hardened soil, leaf litter, pine duff). Do not place your tent on vegetation. Only at-large camp when no other designated site is available
• Bear canisters are required for all overnight campers in the Eastern Zone of the High Peaks Wilderness Area
• Carry out what you carry in. Properly dispose of waste and pack out all gear and garbage. Do not leave waste at trailheads.
• Dogs must be leashed at all times in the Eastern Zone of the High Peaks Wilderness and at trailheads, campsites, and above 4,000 feet everywhere else
• If accessing the High Peaks from the AMR trailhead, dogs are not allowed on AMR property.
• Bikes, drones, and ATVs are prohibited
• Skis and Snowshoes required when snow depths are at least 8 inches
• Reservations are required for parking, daily access, and overnight access at the Adirondack Mountain Reserve (AMR) between May 1 and October 31. Reservations can be made as early as two weeks in advance at hikeamr.org. Walk-ins are not permitted.

Popular trailheads to access the High Peaks:

• The Adirondack Loj and High Peaks Information Center at Heart Lake
• The Garden in Keene Valley
• Upper Works Trailhead in Newcomb
• Corey's Road between Tupper lake and Saranac Lake
• Northville-Placid Trail parking areas are located on Averyville Road and in Long Lake

Hunting in the High Peaks

The High Peaks might be best known for Mount Marcy, New York state’s highest peak, but hunting opportunities abound here, whether they be small or big game. Be aware this is true big woods hunting, and it’s best to be well-prepared before striking out.

The Boreas River Trail (aka the Boreas Loop Trail) is a pleasant loop hike that takes you along the Boreas River, to Hewitt Eddy, and onwards to the road. This hike is not to be confused with Boreas Ponds, a much larger body of water found further north.

Key takeaways

• Distance: 2.6 miles round-trip
• Elevation gain: 250 feet
• Based on a loop hike that ends with a road walk back to your car
• Hike includes a road walk

Hiking the Boreas River Trail

This is the northern approach to Hewitt Eddy and is a flat and pretty hike. The trail follows along the course of the river, where in the autumn the colorful leaves make it an outstanding destination. A trail continues past the eddy and becomes what is known as the Hewitt Eddy Trail. With two cars or a 0.75 mile road walk you could use both trails for an extended hike, which is what the key takeaway numbers above are based off of.

Boreas River Trail in the winter

Parking for this trail in the winter is accessible. You can snowshoe or cross-country ski the loop, but be mindful of doing the road walk. Shoulders of the road can be narrower. Be prepared for all winter conditions, and stay away from the edge of the river.

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 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 trail on the right (just as you cross the Boreas River).  

This trail is actually quite steep, but it is also short. The pond rests on the shoulder of Skiff Mountain in the Hammond Pond Wilderness Area, so essentially you are climbing the mountain to reach the pond.

Key takeaways

• Distance: 0.6 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 350 feet

Hiking Arnold Pond

The mountain you will be hiking near is private property, do not be tempted by the prospect of good views to trespass. You will come out to the southern shore of the pond; the cliffs of Skiff Mountain are seen opposite of you. Herd paths do go around the pond in parts to give different perspectives of this body of water. 

How to get there

From the intersection of Route 74 and Route 9N in Ticonderoga follow Route 74 west toward Schroon Lake. Continue to the small Hamlet of Eagle Lake and cross over the bridge separating the two portions of the lake. In roughly 0.25 miles there is a launch for Eagle Lake on the left. About another 0.5 mile or so the trail for the Short Swing Trail will be on the left, park here. The trail is about 100 feet further up the road on the opposite side of Route 74. 

In 1933, a fire tower on Buck Mountain was established on private lands between Long Lake and Tupper Lake. Today, thanks to a generous easement and hard work by a lot of people, the tower on Buck Mountain is open to the public via a 1.2 mile trail to the summit.

How to get there

From the intersection of Route 30 and Route 28N in Long Lake, follow Route 30 north toward Tupper Lake for 7 miles. Turn left onto Sabattis Circle Road (sometimes referred to just as Circle Road on maps) and continue for a little over 2 miles to a large parking lot on the right. There is room for many vehicles.

By the numbers

• Trail distance: 1.2 miles one way; 2.4 miles out and back
• Elevation gain: 500 feet
• Summit elevation: 2,400 feet

Hiking

The trail begins in the back corner of the parking lot. Since it is a brand new trail, it is soft underfoot. In the first half of the trail, several bridges and wooden boards will help you traverse wet and muddy areas. Closer to the summit, the terrain starts to get steeper. A series of wooden steps and stairs, and rock staircases, assist with these sections. Buck Mountain's summit is completely wooded, so there are no views from the top, unless you climb the 60-foot tall fire tower. From the tower cab, views of the William C. Whitney Wilderness stretch out before you, as well as views of many other fire tower summits in Hamilton County.

Buck Mountain in winter

Due to the steeper terrain near the summit, traction is highly recommended when the trail is icy or snowy. This would be an excellent beginner snowshoe hike, but is not suited for cross-country skiing given the series of ladders and stairs near the summit.

Trail information

This historic fire tower and hiking trail is located on private land owned by Cedar Heights Timber, LLC. The public is invited to enjoy the hiking trail and fire tower, but please observe the following rules.

• Plan ahead and prepare
• Please stay on marked trail
• If you carry it in, carry it out. Please do not litter
• No campfires  
• No overnight camping
• Leash all dogs
• No public hunting, trapping, or fishing
• No motorized vehicles
• Dispose of waste properly
• Leave what you find
• Respect wildlife
• Be considerate of others

Hiking to the top of Mount Severance (also known as Severance Hill) offers views of Schroon Lake and Pharaoh Mountain. There aren't many marked trails in the Hoffman Notch Wilderness Area, so take advantage of this one.

Key takeaways

• Distance: 2.4 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 750 feet
• Mountain elevation: 1,693 feet

Hiking Mount Severance

After leaving the parking lot, the trail first passes under the Northway via two culverts and soon begins a steady, moderate climb before leveling off just before some plank bridges at 0.6 miles. Soon resuming the climb, the trail reaches the mostly wooded summit at 1.2 miles. The first ledge offers views of Schroon Lake and Pharaoh Mountain, while a second view adds in Paradox Lake. 

Mount Severance in the winter

This is a good snowshoeing option for beginners with a bit of experience. The trail is not recommended for cross-country skiing. Being prepared is necessary for any winter hike, make sure to bring your microspikes and snowshoes, along with all other winter hiking essentials.

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

The trailhead is located on the west side of Route 9, 0.6 mi. south of the junction of Routes 9 and 74 off Exit 28 on I-87, the Adirondack Northway. There are two parking areas marked by a large brown and yellow sign.

Due to the shallow nature of this water, top water is the best type of lure or using a bobber to float a worm. There is no official boat access, but one can be carried to the pond.

Key takeaways

• Distance: 1.8 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 260 feet
• Hike includes unmarked trail

Hiking to Vanderwhacker Pond

Once you have located the primitive parking spot you can locate the path on the left. The trail is not marked either; it is a fisherman’s path to access the pond. The path is very mellow and not steep. You will follow along Vanderwhacker Brook which is an attractive, mossy rock brook. You will reach the south end of the pond relatively quickly, where you can work your way around very easily for different vantage points. This trail is not recommended in the winter.

Find more trails in the Adirondack Hub

Does fishing at Vanderwhacker 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 to a body of water for you!

Fishing

Maximum depth is only around 12 feet, but the fishing isn’t too bad from shore. The shore is very grassy near where the path ends, but you can work your way around the pond and it gets better. An old camping spot is located on the NE shore.

Fish species: brook trout, bullhead, brown trout

Special regulations: Always follow 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

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 for 15.5 miles to a very small pull-off by trees on the right, located on a sharp corner just prior to where Vanderwhacker Brook runs beneath the road. There is room for no more than 2 cars. The parking lot and trail are not marked.

The Grizzle Ocean loop in the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness Area is a nice hike in the woods featuring a beautiful backcountry pond with a unique name. A good hike if you are staying at Putnam Pond Campground.

Key takeaways

• Distance: 4.4 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 620 feet
• Hike includes trail junctions

Hiking the Grizzle Ocean Loop

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. Near the northern shore is a lean-to located in an open pine forest, perfect for a beginner backpacking trip. Certain areas of the pond are known for their cranberry growth. Once you finish the loop, return using the trail you followed in.

Grizzle Ocean Loop in the winter

This route makes for a fine snowshoe (or cross-country ski for an experienced skier). Distances may increase as roads may not be plowed in the winter. Be prepared for a longer outing, and for all possible winter conditions. 

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

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.