This trail system located on the southwestern shore of Lake Placid, in Essex County, consists of three trails loops – Boundary Trail, Ridge Trail, and Lakeshore Trail – bisected by an old dirt roadway.
The trails wind over gently rolling terrain and are self-guided nature trails that may be explored using the brochures provided at the trailhead by the Lake Placid Garden Club.
Trail Descriptions
Corridor Trail: This trail is the initial trail that accesses the trail network. From the gate you descend slightly to a trail register. The trail continues to descend and eventually flattens out as it accesses the other three trails. It ends at the start of the Ridge Trail. For running this is an excellent warm up trail, a bit of mud resides near the end which can be very messy during the right conditions. Beginner – 0.75 mile in length, one way – 5 minutes travel time.
Lake Shore Trail: This trail is exactly what it says. It follows the shore of Lake Placid before ending at a dam. The trail is much rockier and uneven that the rest of the trail, but is a highlight of the system. This is a bit tougher of a trail due to its uneven and slightly rocky and root infested conditions, but a great place for a beginner to practice their foot work. Beginner – 0.4 mile in length, one way – Less than 5 minutes travel time.
Boundary Trail: This trail is can also be considered and connector trail. It is relatively flat with little change in elevation. This is a very easy trail for running and one that runners can pick up the pace and work on their stamina. Beginner – 0.9 mile in length, one way – 10 minutes travel time.
Ridge Trail: This trail is one of the favorites, might be because of the name, it kind of sounds like adventure. This is a fun trail for running with the only section of significant rolling hills. The trail starts from the end of the Corridor Trail and climbs steadily to the top of a long ridge. The trail then drops suddenly about 20 feet before moderately descending through a very attractive forest to the Boundary Trail. Beginner 0.7 mile in length, one way – 10 minutes travel time.
Ascent: Marginal
Trailhead Directions (Map). These trails are part of ADKGO’s Trails Less Traveled Challenge.
From the intersection of Routes 73 and 86 in Lake Placid, follow Route 86 toward the center of town and Saranac Lake. Continue to follow it as it swings left and climbs a short hill. Turn right on Peninsula Road — it looks like the entrance to a hotel, but you’ll see a large DEC sign for the trails — and follow it, bearing left at the next intersection. The trailhead and parking are on the left.
Map of Brewster Peninsula Nature Trails courtesy Adirondack Atlas. Trail data courtesy ROOST.
Leave a Reply