Did you know that there are at least four Silver Lakes in New York State? Two are located in the beautiful Adirondack Mountains. The Adirondack Park is a mixture of public and private lands, home to a multitude of habitats, plants, and animals, including 53 species of mammal and more than 275 species of birds. Covering six million acres and 2,000 miles of trails, this protected region is a haven for outdoors enthusiasts. Avid hikers frequent the trails at southern Silver Lake, while both walkers and hikers access the easier trails at northern Silver Lake.
Note: Check travel alerts and conditions before departing.
The Northville-Placid Trail
The Northville-Placid Trail extends 133 miles from the southern Adirondacks to the northern High Peaks District. Mostly forested, the rugged trail runs through valleys, along ridges, and over mountains before finally reaching Lake Placid. Portions of the trail are extremely remote and best suited for experienced hikers. Hikers following the trail south to Silver Lake can gain access at the West River Road trailhead in Wells at mile 26. From here it is 14 miles roundtrip through an area that often floods due to beaver activity. Proper footwear and a walking stick is absolutely essential to check trail conditions and mud depth. Familiarize yourself with safety guidelines from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation before departing, especially since bears and moose are often sighted in the Adirondacks.
Silver Lake Bog Trail
Walkers enjoy the tranquility and ease of the Silver Lake Bog Trail, operated by the Nature Conservancy Preserve. The 98-acre preserve is located in the Town of Hawkeye, and offers visitors an opportunity to explore the diverse habitats of the northern Adirondacks. The handicap accessible, board walk trail meanders 1/2-mile through a black spruce-tamarack bog and northern white cedar swamp. During milder seasons, visitors are likely to spot a variety of birds, including the olive-sided flycatcher and Nashville warbler. Black flies are prevalent in the area, so be sure to wear long pants and bring bug spray.
Pine Bluff Trail
The 2.5-mile Pine Bluff Trail begins at the end of the boardwalk. The trail rises slowly at first, over a stream and then up 400 feet to the bluffs of Silver Lake. Spectacular views of the lake and Catamount, Whiteface, and Silver Lake mountains can be seen from here. Along the trail, eight markers explain the vegetation, birds, and mammals of the hemlock forest and pine ridge. Walkers are likely to hear tree frogs singing in the trees. If you are quiet, you may also spot a fisher, snow hare, or spring peeper. Stop at the trailhead for guides to both trails. The Preserve is located on Old Hawkeye Road on the west side of the lake.
Silver Lake Mountain Hiking Trail
The hiking trail at Silver Lake Mountain takes you through pristine woods and up past scenic views. As you travel the moderate, 1.8-mile route, stop at the rock ledges for superb views of Taylor Pond, Union Falls Pond, and Silver Lake. Wear shoes with a good grip, because you must step carefully over rocky portions as you climb 2,374 feet to the top. From here, you can see surrounding mountains and over to the Green Mountains of Vermont. The land is managed by the state and can be accessed at the trailhead on Silver Lake Road, 2.5 miles east of the Silver Lake Bog Preserve.
References
Adirondack Experience: West River Road, N-P Trail to Silver Lake
New York State, DEC: Silver Lake Wilderness – Unit Management Plan
The Adirondack Coast: Silver Lake Mountain
The Nature Conservancy: Silver Lake Bog Preserve
Photo Credit
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