Bear Pond Loop

The Bear Pond loop is a popular hike for those staying at Putnam Pond State Campground, and makes for a great walk through the woods, with intermittent views of a few different bodies of water within the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness Area.

Key takeaways

• Distance: 5.7 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 800 feet
• Hike includes trail junctions and a road walk

Hiking the Bear Pond Loop

From the day-use area, locate the trail on the right of the parking lot. Follow this through the woods to the campsite road and to the left. Continue on the road for around a half mile to the trailhead on the left. There is no parking at this trailhead. 

The trail continues easily through an attractive forest and passes by Heart Pond on your left through the trees. Stay right at this intersection and start a moderate to easy climb to the height-of-land before descending to the shore of Bear Pond. The trail sweeps around the south end of the pond and onto the western shore with outstanding views. 

The trail eventually climbs again up and over the shoulder of Bear Pond Mountain on your right before descending quickly to the shore of Rock Pond. At this intersection take a left and head back toward Heart Pond. En route you will pass by North Pond which is essentially part of Putnam Pond, separated by a narrow strip of water. There is a decent climb away from North Pond before you reach Heart Pond again and the trail you came in on. Retrace your steps back along the campground roads and to the day-use parking area.

Bear Pond Loop in the winter

Depending on where plowing ends, this hike may be a lot longer. Be prepared to walk additional miles on the road. Experienced skiers can do this as a cross-country skiing trip. Otherwise, bring your snowshoes and be prepared for all winter conditions.

Find more legendary trails in the Lake Champlain Region

Does the Bear Pond Loop 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, 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. There is a day-use fee. Parking in the day-use area near the beach. In winter, the road may not be plowed. Be prepared for a long hike.