The easily accessible Lost Ponds are some of the most scenic bodies of water in the region. Great for hiking, mountain biking, and paddling, any activity you choose is going to memorable. Take in the views of the shallow lake, distant hills, and craggy shoreline in the beautiful Adirondack backcountry.
How to get there
From the intersection of Route 28 and Limekiln Road in Inlet, follow Limekiln Road and turn left on Moose River Plains Road. Continue for 11.5 miles to the trailhead on the left. Take this left and drive the access road for an additional 0.2 mile to the trailhead. This access road is quite rough and should be driven very slowly.
Hiking
This trail opens into some wide, flat, plain areas covered in scrub brush.
Location: The trailhead is a 13-mile drive in from the Limekiln entrance to the Moose River Plains Wild Forest in Inlet. Drive 9.1 miles to the big T intersection, then turn left and drive 0.9 mile to the Lost Pond entrance and access road on the left. Follow that for 0.5 mile to the parking area, which is between three primitive campsites. The gravel access road is only open to vehicles in the summer.
Distance: It's an easy 1.3 miles to Lost Ponds.
Most hikers can expect it to take up to 3 hours to complete the round trip, less if experienced.
Cycling
Most mountain bikers can do the trip in half the time of hiking.
Camping
A campsite at the launch area on the south side is a nice place to hang your hat.
Paddling
Lost Ponds are some of the more attractive bodies of water in the region, and they're not all that hard to access. Be sure to check out the narrows on the north end of the pond and the rock cliffs on the far side. Trails around the pond give an added benefit to the region and an excellent way to extend your day.
Type of launch: Shoreline. The water is shallow and a bit boney.
Cart Use: Yes, well graded.
Portage/Carry Details: 1.0 mile, slightly uphill to the pond. There is a confusing intersection about 0.75 mile in. Take a left here for the best access to a launch area.
Type of water: Small and well-sheltered.
Fishing
It's an easy walk with a pack boat for those who want to do some native brook trout fishing.
Shoreline Fishing: Easy access on both side of the ponds via a 1 mile foot trail.
Boat Access: Canoe or kayak only with a 1 mile carry.
Insider Information: These ponds are only about 10 feet deep and can be fished from shore just as easily as from a boat. A hook and worm are about all you will need for these ponds, but a Phoebe works well too.
Fish Species: Brook trout, bullhead, perch
Special Regulations: Always follow state fishing regulations and be sure to pick up a NYS Freshwater Fishing Guide at your local outfitters or regional DEC office.
Birding
It's a great place for birding.
Winter Overview: This trail is not recommended in the winter as the Moose River Plains Wild Forest is a snowmobile corridor and not open to cars or trucks in the winter .