If you're looking for a fun and easy trail that you can enjoy at any time of the year with the whole family then you should check out the Clear Pond Trail in the Siamese Ponds Wilderness near North River. This is one scenic trail in New York that you won't want to miss!
This trail is close to Gore Mountain if you are vacationing there. It's relatively flat, with only 275 feet of elevation gain, but it's quiet and relaxed and you'll be able to enjoy great views the entire way. It's an out-and-back trail so you'll have to return the same way that you came, but you'll see plenty of wildflowers and other beauty so you certainly won't mind. Read on to learn more about this fun and simple trail. You'll want to put it on your list of the best hikes in New York!
The Clear Pond Trailhead is easy to find. It's only ten minutes by car from the town of Indian Lake. You'll drive through a neighborhood and pass some houses to get there; you can park on the street when you arrive. Look for signs to begin your hike.
Even though you just passed some houses on your way to the trailhead, as soon as you step onto this trail you'll feel like you're a million miles from everything. It's quiet and heavily wooded.
You'll pass some beautiful vistas along the way. This trail is only 2.2 miles roundtrip to the pond and back, but you'll really feel like you're going deep into nature.
This trail is great in all seasons. It can be a little muddy in the springtime, but for the most part, you'll be fine if you stay on the trail.
There's a good chance that you'll encounter some wildlife along the way.
When you get to Clear Pond, you'll understand how it got its name. You can see right to the bottom.
It's also a very still pond. You can often see the clouds and trees reflected on its surface.
Autumn is a great time to follow the Clear Pond Trail. Look at this beautiful foliage.
If you want to continue onward, you can stay on the trail to nearby John Pond. It's about the same size as Clear Pond and is just as beautiful. The loop trail will take you back from there. Otherwise, you can head back to your car from Clear Pond the same way that you came.
This trail will make you fall in love with hiking in New York. It's a great path that anyone can enjoy on any day of the year. If you want to get out into the wilderness but you don't want to go too far, and you want to experience a great hidden gem trail, then the Clear Pond Trail is for you! Before you head out on your walk through nature, check out The Ultimate Hiking Packing List: 75 Must-Have Hiking Accessories to make sure you're fully prepared!
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