Pole Hill Pond and Ridge Loop

Looking for a rugged Adirondack loop with big lake views and real solitude? This 6.2-mile blue-marked loop serves up open-rock vistas from Walnut Ridge and a serene, J-shaped backcountry pond. Expect about 1,580 feet of total climbing, a few steep pitches, and old-logging-road wanderings that feel wilder than the proximity to Lake George suggests.

The route starts from the small lot along Route 9N and eases in on an old logging road before a notable, unbridged stream crossing—use caution in high water. From there, the trail climbs steadily, sometimes steeply, toward Walnut Ridge. The ridge grants sweeping views over Lake George and toward the Tongue Mountain range, with stretches of open rock that make the effort worth it. After the ridge, the trail drops toward Pole Hill Pond, a quiet shoreline ringed by pine and hemlock, complete with a visible beaver lodge and frequent bird activity. The loop then follows the pond’s eastern edge and returns via logging roads.

This is a moderate-to-challenging half-day outing thanks to the elevation gain, rough footing, and a few steep ups and downs. It’s also one of the area’s better bets for solitude. The loop is blue-blazed; there’s also a shorter yellow trail option if you want to keep it quick. Underfoot you’ll find rocky knobs, roots, and sometimes muddy patches—especially near the pond where beavers keep things wet.

Best time to hike: Spring through fall, with especially great foliage from the ridge in autumn. Summer brings shade and even the possibility of a refreshing dip at the pond’s edge. Winter snowshoeing is possible, but expect icy, steep sections and trickier navigation.

Tips: Bring sturdy boots and a map/GPX; reclaimed logging roads and infrequent traffic make paying attention to markers important. After rains or snowmelt, the early stream crossing can be a trip-ender if you’re not prepared. Parking is on the west side of Route 9N, just north of Bolton Landing—look for a lot diagonally across from a driveway marked by stone lions.