The trail to Deer Pond from Route 3 gets a lot of attention, but this route is just as fine, as a one-way to Deer Pond or as a longer hike to Lead Pond. The trail has a remote feel while never being very far from the road.

Key takeaways

• Distance: 9.2 miles, round trip
• Elevation gain: 750 feet 
• Hike includes trail junctions and bridges

Hiking to Lead Pond

Once through the DEC gate start your hike along an old woods road through an attractive Adirondack forest. This initial 0.75 miles is rather flat. After 0.75 miles you come to the Deer Pond Trail from Route 3, take a right onto this trail. Aside from some occasional rolling hills you can enjoy an easy hike. As you near the pond, a short climb will bring you to a shoulder of a small knoll before coming to a trail intersection with Lead Pond on your right at about 2.5 miles from the trailhead. Follow the Lead Pond Trail.

The trail continues to Lead Pond, and while from here on out it gets much less use, it is a very nice hike. You will move around to the north side of Deer Pond before finally progressing away and climbing over a small hogback before accessing Lead Pond. An old trail used to access the pond from the Fish Creek State Campground, but it is, at this point, unmaintained and not recommended to use, even if it can be found. 

Lead Pond in the winter

Access is open for this trail in the winter, but do not expect it to be broken out as it gets little winter use. It can be part of a crosscountry ski loop of Deer Pond. This is a fairly long and isolated trail, especially in the winter, so be prepared for all winter conditions.

Discover more trails in Tupper Lake

Does Deer and Lead Pond sound amazing, but a little more than you want to tackle right now? No need to stress, with endless mountains, lakes, and waterfalls to visit in the Adirondacks, we are sure we can help you discover a trail that’s just right!

How to get there

From the intersection of Route 30 and Route 3 in Tupper Lake, follow Route 3/30 toward Saranac Lake. Continue to where Route 30 and Route 3 split and follow Route 30. Continue for just under 1 mile to the trailhead on the left.