Take the easy, rolling old roadbed by foot, bike, or snowmobile out to the spacious waterfront of Mitchell Ponds for some scenic views. 

Key takeaways

• Distance: 5 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 440 feet
• Hike includes trail junctions

Hiking to Mitchell Ponds

The path is on an old roadbed that ends at both trailheads to Mitchell Pond. This trail is a snowmobile trail and mountain bike trail, so it is quite wide. The grade is very mellow, especially from the north. There are limited amounts of elevation change but the trail does climb slightly to Upper Mitchell Pond. A short spur trail on the left will lead to a rise and a picnic table. A bit further a spur trail leads to a dock overlooking Upper Mitchell Pond. Cross the inlet and another spur trail of roughly 0.8 miles will be on the left to access Lower Mitchell Pond. The views of and out over the ponds are fantastic.

Mitchell Ponds in the winter

This trail is not recommended for winter access as the Moose River Plains Wild Forest is a snowmobile corridor and not open to cars or trucks in the winter.

Experience more trails in Hamilton County

Looking to find some more trails to hike in Hamilton County? With hundreds of miles of trails, we can help you find more amazing hikes in the big outdoors.

Birding

Wood warblers, woodpeckers, and ruffed grouse are seen here often. On the water you might see great blue heron, merganser, and common loons. The last golden eagle to nest in New York state was along this trail in 1971.

Cycling

This trail can be used for mountain biking because of its mellow nature and how wide it is.

Paddling

Canoe or kayak access only, but very long carry from the Moose River Plains Road.

Fishing

Shoreline fishing is all you will have on these two ponds. Lower Pond is very deep, and that's where lake trout are. It is also reported that kokanee salmon are found here, but they're difficult to catch. Most people fish for brown trout.

Fish species: Brown trout, kokanee, lake trout (Lower only) 

Special regulations: Always follow state fishing regulations and be sure to pick up a NYS Freshwater Fishing Guide at your local outfitters or regional NYSDEC office.

How to get there

The trail starts 8 miles down Moose River Road from the Moose River Plains visitor sign-in near Limekiln Lake.