Berrymill Pond is a scenic destination with hiking, camping, and paddling in the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness Area.

Key takeaways

• Distance: 4.4 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 525 feet
• Hike includes trail junctions

Hiking to Berrymill Pond

Locate the trailhead at the front left of the parking lot just as you enter. From the trailhead you will hike around 445 feet in elevation to reach the shore of Berrymill Pond and the lean-to located there. It is a slow and steady approach. The trail tends to be wet, especially in the spring of the year, so expect a bit of running water in areas.

There is an excellent spot on the peninsula where lunch can be had looking out over the water’s edge. The trail does continue past the pond giving other looks at the water, but eventually you should turn around since the trail would bring you out many, many miles from your car. A second car spot off West Hague Road would be an option for a point-to-point hike, but the highlight of the trail is the pond.

Berrymill Pond in the winter

Depending on where plowing ends, this hike may be a lot longer. Be prepared to walk additional miles on the road. This trail might need to be broken out in the winter, and doesn't get much attention during this time of year, so be prepared for all conditions. This could be a good cross country ski if you have some backcountry experience.

Find more legendary trails in the Lake Champlain Region

Want to find more hikes in the Lake Champlain Region’s open spaces? With the Lake Champlain Region’s extensive trail network, there are endless options to choose from!

Paddling

Wild cranberries, pitcher plants, bears, and great northern water snakes are what may greet you on this paddling adventure. Trails, lean-tos, terrific views of the ponds from campsites included. Not a premier paddling destination, however, due to a 2 mile carry to reach the pond. Still, a nice hike and worth carrying a lightweight (under 20 lbs.) boat if so inclined.

• Pond Size: 40 Acres.

Camping

Quiet setting for camping with a newer lean-to on the south edge of the pond. Camping is also available at the trailhead for this hike, which makes for a great basecamp for more hikes in the area.

How to get there

From the intersection of Route 9N, Route 22 and Route 74 in Ticonderoga follow Route 74 toward Schroon Lake. Continue for just under 5 miles to Putts Pond Road on the left. Follow Putts Pond Road to the end at the Putnam Pond State Campground. Head straight through the booth area and head up the hill, the trailhead will be on the left.