Heaven Hill Trails: Peaceful Loops with Big Adirondack Charm
Heaven Hill Trails: Peaceful Loops with Big Adirondack Charm
Looking for a laid-back trail experience just minutes from downtown Lake Placid? The Heaven Hill Trails offer a refreshing alternative to the region’s more rugged terrain. With gently rolling paths, open meadows, and views of the surrounding High Peaks, this locally loved network is perfect for a casual stroll, trail run, or a family hike year-round.
🥾 What Are the Heaven Hill Trails?
Located on land managed by the Henry Uihlein II Foundation, the Heaven Hill property features over 5 miles of interconnected trails through fields and forests. Designed for multi-season use, the trail system is ideal for hiking, running, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
The terrain here is wide and welcoming — no steep ascents, just peaceful paths that loop and wind through classic Adirondack scenery. The area offers a surprising variety of habitats, including meadows, successional forests, hardwood stands, and even wetlands. This makes the trails a great option for casual nature study and wildlife observation.
🌲 Trail Overview
- Trailhead: Heaven Hill Farm, Bear Cub Lane, Lake Placid, NY
- Distance: 5+ miles of loops (mix-and-matchable)
- Trail Types: Meadow loops, forested trails, and mowed paths
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Popular Loops:
- Big Field Loop (0.9 miles)
- Sugar Shack Loop (1.0 mile)
- Old Orchard Loop (0.6 miles)
🐾 Dogs are welcome on leash, and the soft, open terrain is ideal for a relaxed outing with your pup.
📍 Getting There
To access the Heaven Hill Trails, follow Bear Cub Lane (just off Route 35/Old Military Road) to the Heaven Hill Farm Trailhead. You’ll find a parking area with a kiosk and trail map display.
🗺️ You can also download a digital map or find printed maps on-site at the kiosk. Visit uihleinfoundation.org for more trail info.
🍂 Why We Love It
- Quiet & uncrowded – Often overlooked by visitors
- Great for all skill levels – Flat terrain and wide trails
- Panoramic meadows – Open views toward the High Peaks
- Year-round access – Ideal for snowshoeing and XC skiing
- Wildlife & Birding – In spring and summer, look for bobolinks and other grassland birds in the open fields
⚠️ Good to Know
- No restrooms or water available at the trailhead — plan accordingly
- Please stay on designated trails to protect fragile ecosystems
- Practice Leave No Trace and carry out all trash
🌲 Final Thoughts
The Heaven Hill Trails are a hidden gem for anyone looking to slow down and soak up the beauty of the Adirondacks without a strenuous climb. Whether you're a local looking for a daily walk or a visitor seeking a mellow way to experience the Lake Placid area, this trail system is a perfect go-to.
For a longer outing, consider pairing a Heaven Hill hike with a visit to nearby Henry’s Woods, just down the road — both are community-owned preserves that show off the peaceful side of the Adirondacks.
