This is one of the longer trails in Split Rock Wild Forest, and since it is often used to access other trails it is essentially a corridor trail. This is the only trail in the Wild Forest open to snowmobiles, making it wide and well-graded.

How to get there

From the intersection of Route 9N and Route 22 in Westport, follow Route 22. Continue for 0.5 mile to Lake Shore Road on the right. Follow Lake Shore Road for 4.5 miles to the trailhead on the right. 

Hiking

Leaving the trailhead, the path tops out after about 0.2 mile. Things remain flat for quite some time, until an easy climb to a height-of-land. Pass by the Gary’s Elbow and Barn Rock Bay trails, which will be on the right. Snake Den Harbor Overlook will come up soon on the right; pass this and start a somewhat steep descent to the shore of Lake Champlain at Lewis Clearing Bay. 

• Distance: 1.9 miles

Note: The Split Rock Wild Forest is known for having timber rattlesnakes, which can often be seen sunning themselves at lookouts and along the trail. Negative encounters with humans are not likely as these animals are easily spooked, but it is highly advisable to keep pets on a leash and to never approach or corner a timber rattlesnake. If you or your pet has been bitten, seek medical attention as quickly as possible.