Challis Pond Trail
43.992409, -73.663535
Ensign Pond Road POB 193, Moriah
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There is a slight incline to this hike, but it's a very pretty and relaxing hike. The pond gets its name from an early pioneer named Timothy Challis. 

Key takeaways

  • Distance: 1.3 miles round trip
  • Elevation gain: 260 feet

Hiking Challis Pond

The trail traverses a hemlock and cedar forest. This is a very enjoyable just over half-mile hike to a pond; it's easy to fall in love with. The trail passes a small, attractive waterfall before it reaches the north end of Challis Pond.

Fishing

Challis Pond offers early-season anglers brook trout. Reclaimed in 1992, the Little Tupper Lake strain of brook trout were then stocked in this 15-acre pond. Remember that trout fishing is best when the water temperatures are cool – ice out to mid-May and then again in mid-September until the close of the season. Because this is a reclaimed pond, the use or possession of baitfish is prohibited here.

Paddling

The hardest part of this paddle destination is reaching it, and that isn’t all that difficult with a lightweight boat. The portage to the pond is slightly uphill but the footing is pretty good in reaching this small backcountry jewel. It will be a 0.6 mile carry to the pond. The water is calm and well protected. There is no official launch, but anywhere along the shore can be used.

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!

How to get there

The trailhead is shared with the Challis Pond Trail. From Moriah, head west on Ensign Pond Road. The trailhead will be on the left after about 10.0 miles.

Challis Pond trail sign
Challis Pond trail sign

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