The Lewis Clearing Bay Trail 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.

Key takeaways

• Distance: 3.5 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 690 feet
• Hike includes trail junctions

Hiking to Lewis Clearing Bay 

Leaving the trailhead, the path tops out after about 0.2 mile. At 0.3 miles, a left will take you onto the Split Rock Mountain Loop. Continue straight. 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. Adding this onto your day will be an extra 0.5 miles and 100 feet of gain round trip. Pass this (or go on up and back) and start a somewhat steep descent to the shore of Lake Champlain at Lewis Clearing Bay. 

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.

Lewis Clearing Bay in the winter

Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are permitted on all hiking trails. The area is popular with skiers and snowshoers due to the width of trails, the opportunity to select trails with gentle ascents, and the scenic views. This particular trail would be difficult with cross-country skis, as the descent to the bay is quite steep. Even if the trails aren't ever too far away from the road, it's important to be prepared for all winter conditions.

When traveling on designated snowmobile trails, skiers and snowshoers should be alert for snowmobiles. Move to the side of the trail to allow snowmobiles to pass.

Find more legendary trails in the Lake Champlain Region

Does the Lewis Clearing Bay Trail sound amazing, but a little more than you want to tackle right now? With the Lake Champlain Region’s extensive trail network, we can easily help you find a hike that fits!

How to get there

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