The Best Spring Hikes in Lake George: Navigating Mud Season
Is spring mud season in Lake George? Yes, it is, but there's no need to shy away from the trails. We've rounded up the best spring hikes in the Lake George region where the mud isn't *too* bad, and you might even spot some wildlife or a waterfall.
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Berry Pond Preserve (Lake George/Lake Luzerne)
This quiet gem is great for birdwatching and escaping the crowds. Berry Pond offers a scenic hike of up to 4 miles, and is near wetlands and migratory birds.
The terrain is flatter and more manageable than many rugged summit climbs.
Amy's Park (Bolton Landing)
Amy's Park is centered around a massive wetland complex, making it excellent for wildlife and birdwatching. In the spring, the beaver ponds come to life.
The yellow and orange trails are fairly flat, and several bridges and boardwalks help hikers navigate the terrain.
"If you don't see a beaver, you'll definitely at least see a beaver dam or trees chewed up by them."
Shelving Rock Falls & Mountain (Fort Ann)
Enjoy wide trails and peak waterfall volume come springtime at Shelving Rock Falls & Mountain. You have two hiking options here:
The falls are a short walk from the road, and spring is the best time to visit, when the snowmelt is fueling the waterfall.
For the summit, embark on a 3.4-mile roundtrip hike. This option follows a wide, former carriage road, that can handle spring moisture better than narrow, steep hiking paths.
Note, Shelving Rock Road itself gets muddy in April. A vehicle with decent clearance is recommended for the drive in.
The Schumann Preserve at Pilot Knob (Fort Ann)
The orange trail in particular at the Schumann Preserve at Pilot Knob has rock steps and proper grading that helps reduce erosion and stormwater problems.
Head on a 3.8-mile roundtrip hike to check out the gazebo which is south-facing; it gets a lot of sun, which helps it dry out faster.
Continue past the gazebo into the woods to see a waterfall that's typically only active in April and May.
Rush Pond Trail (Queensbury)
Rush Pond Trail is pretty much a mud-proof hike on a mostly flat, out-and-back, 5.2-mile roundtrip trail made of crushed stone. There are three hand-constructed bridges along the way, and scenic views of wetlands.
These trails connect to the Gurney Lane Recreation Area trails, which can also be good for a spring hike, although sometimes the mountain biking trails are closed in the spring to prevent erosion and trail damage.
Rush Pond Trail is my family's go-to at any time of year. . .definitely not too muddy in the spring."
The Pinnacle (Bolton Landing)
For big mountain views without high-elevation mud situations, check out The Pinnacle. This is a well-traveled, well-marked, 2.2-mile roundtrip trail, that tends to clear of snow and ice earlier than the higher peaks.
From the trail leading out of the parking lot you'll be able to head to The Pinnacle or Bradley's Lookout, each of which provide great views of Lake George.
Meadowbrook Preserve (Queensbury)
In full disclosure, Meadowbrook Preserve can get quite muddy in the spring, but it makes our list because of how flat, easy, and accessible the trails in this preserve are.
Make sure to take the outer red trail loop to explore a wooden dock that extends into the wetland area of Halfway Brook.
"Stick to the wooded trails and try to avoid the meadowland sections, which hold the most water. You will need to momentarily go through the meadowland part before entering the woods."
Bonus Suggestion: Warren County Bikeway (Glens Falls/Queensbury/Lake George)
Although not technically a hiking trail, the Warren County Bikeway is perfect for long walks (or bike rides) in the spring.
Look forward to a no-mud, 100% paved experience on this 9.4-mile stretch from Glens Falls to Lake George. Enjoy informative signage and rest stops along the way.
Quick Tips for Lake George Spring Hiking
- Walk through the mud, not around it - this protects trailside vegetation, and yes, does mean you need to wear appropriate footwear
- Check the gate - seasonal roads can be closed during peak mud season; look ahead on the DEC's website, and Adirondack.net posts current trail conditions each week
- Tick season - ticks are out! Wear long pants and check yourself and pets
- Stay low - keep to lower elevation trails during March, April, May, and early June; bring microspikes if you do hike high elevations, as there may still be ice up near the summit
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