Silver Lake Bog Preserve
If you’re looking for an easy walk, a chance to take in some of the more unique nature the Adirondacks have to offer, with a good view thrown in to boot – the Silver Lake Bog Trail is a perfect find. The bog itself is unique in the types of vegetation that grow there and animals it attracts, and plenty can be learned about the habitat from informative signs along the way. On fair weather days, the bluff at the end of the trail offers a beautiful view of the lake below and is a perfect spot to pause for lunch.
Trail Stats:
| Distance: | 2 miles round-trip |
| Elevation: | 2,374 ft |
| Ascent: | 938 ft |
The walk through the bog begins on a boardwalk that snakes its way through the bog. While hiking along you can see carnivorous pitcher plants, creeping snowberry, and plenty of green mosses. It is also not unusual to see small painted turtles and numerous types of frogs enjoying the wet habitat. The trail is 1.1 miles out in one direction, with a small amount of elevation gain. After approximately a half mile the boardwalk ends, and the trail heads gradually up through the forest until you reach a small but open bluff that overlooks Silver Lake. For such a short and easy hike, it offers a great variety of sights – from the thick green of the bog to the vast view from the bluff, the Silver Lake Bog Trail is a memorable hike for kids and adults alike.
Directions to the Trailhead:
From Wilmington, take Bonnieview Road to the end. At the T, take a left on Silver Lake Road. Follow this road to the end and take a left towards Silver Lake. Follow this road for nearly 7 miles until you reach Union Falls Road. Take this road for just over a mile until you reach Hawkeye Road, onto which you will take a left. Follow Hawkeye Road for a short distance until you come to the trailhead on your right.
