The Grizzle Ocean loop in the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness Area is a nice hike in the woods featuring a beautiful backcountry pond with a unique name. A good hike if you are staying at Putnam Pond Campground.

Key takeaways

• Distance: 4.4 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 620 feet
• Hike includes trail junctions

Hiking the Grizzle Ocean Loop

From the trailhead, you will follow a nice flat trail that passes by Putnam Pond to your right. The trail soon turns into a short, moderate climb before reaching a rather long descent to a major intersection. Right leads toward Treadway Mountain and Rock Pond, and left leads to Grizzle Ocean and beyond.

After a short climb you will soon come to the split for the loop, which is a fantastic hike that approaches and leaves the shore of this small backcountry pond. Near the northern shore is a lean-to located in an open pine forest, perfect for a beginner backpacking trip. Certain areas of the pond are known for their cranberry growth. Once you finish the loop, return using the trail you followed in.

Grizzle Ocean Loop in the winter

This route makes for a fine snowshoe (or cross-country ski for an experienced skier). Distances may increase as roads may not be plowed in the winter. Be prepared for a longer outing, and for all possible winter conditions. 

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

Follow Route 74 out of Schroon Lake toward Ticonderoga. After about 13 miles turn right on Putts Pond Road. Follow that to the end at Putnam Pond State Campground. There will be a small fee to use when the campground is open, but this time of year it is closed and free to enter. Pass by the booth and turn left to go up a small hill and into a parking area on the left. The trail is located at the far end of the trailhead parking.