Known as the "Great Eight Lakes", this trail is easy to intermediate and is 3 miles to Queer Lake, then 2.3 miles to Chain Ponds. Even longer loops to the other loops are possible in the Pigeon Lake Wilderness Area.

Key takeaways

• Distance: 6 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 750 feet
• Hike includes trail junctions and water crossings

Hiking to Queer Lake

Most people do the 3 mile hike from the trailhead to Queer Lake for a short, yet remote, backcountry lean-to camping experience. A nice lean-to is ready for use on the point just 500 yards up the trail and to the left when you come to the lake.

There are many opportunities for loop hikes and out-and-back hikes to other ponds in the Pigeon Lake Wilderness Area, which include Mays Pond, Chub Lake, Constable Pond, Pigeon Lake, and Otter Pond (which is the furthest from Queer Lake). There are many trail junctions in this area, so being prepared and carrying a map and compass is necessary.

Queer Lake in the winter

Winter access here is great for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The parking area is regularly plowed and the trail has very few elevation changes. Be prepared for the stream crossings. Take care crossing bodies of water in the early and late parts of winter. Being prepared is necessary for any winter hike.

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 and fishing

Queer Lake known for its native lake trout. You can also do some birding around these lakes you can look and listen for Olive-Sided and Yellow-Bellied Flycatchers, Nashville Warblers, Northern Parula and Palm Warblers, and Lincoln’s, Swamp, and White-Throated Sparrows.

How to get there

In Eagle Bay, turn onto Big Moose Road from Route 28. The parking area is on the right, 5.3 miles from Route 28.