John Pond is a scenic destination in the Siamese Ponds Wilderness. This relatively flat trail through an Adirondack Wilderness Area ends at a lean-to, the perfect place to rest on the shore of John Pond, or stay for an overnight.

Key takeaways

• Distance: 4.6 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 340 feet
• Hike includes trail junctions

Hiking to John Pond

Finding the trailhead is much more difficult than the hike itself. Following a former road, the trail is well defined and marked with blue trail markers. Just over 1.5 miles, you pass by a couple grave sites from 1897 and just beyond that, you cross the outlet to John Pond. A trail intersection is reached about 2 miles from the trailhead, continue left. The path climbs a bit, and you pass by another trail intersection on your right (continue straight). You reach a lean-to in just around 2.3 miles. You might notice a faint path leading beyond the lean-to. This continues onto Clear Pond, but is overgrown and may be challenging to follow. 

John Pond in the winter

This would make a fine cross-country ski outing or snowshoe hike, but with a few hills. The trailhead may be hard to find and access in the winter. Be prepared for all winter conditions.

Experience more trails in Hamilton County

Does the trail to John Pond sound amazing, but a little more than you want to tackle right now? With hundreds of miles of trails, we can help you find the right hike in the big outdoors.

How to get there

A maze of backroads will take you to the trailhead for John Pond. From the hamlet of Indian Lake, take NY Route 30 south. Turn left on County Route 4. Turn left on Starbuck Road, which turns into Lakeview Road. At the end of the Lakeview Road, you reach Wilderness Lane. Turn right and follow Wilderness Lane to the end of the road, where there is a large snow plow turnaround. There is a dirt road that leads to a small parking area and the start of the John Pond trail.