Copperas Pond Trail + Lean-to

 

June 2025 | LAKE placid/Wilmington region 

The background: Having happily chased High Peaks and other hiking challenges (e.g. Fire Tower trails) the past few years, my goal this year was to discover different trails, even if they weren’t as challenging or long. This proved to be the perfect hike to the start of the summer, as we took our sweet time soaking in the sun on the perimeter of the lake, napping, having a picnic, and reading. Definitely a departure from the intense hiking days I am used to - but a welcome one!

Getting there: From Lake Placid, it’s about a 10-minute drive. Make your way to Route 86 east for about 6 miles. Note, you’ll pass the Owen Pond trailhead if coming from this direction. Shortly after that trailhead, the parking area will be on your left for Copperas. You will then cross the street to pick up the trail. Sign featured below.

If you reach the High Falls Gorge, you went too far.

The hike: Depending where you end up around the pond, it could be about 1.2 miles (1.93km) with an approximate elevation gain of nearly 400 feet (121.9m.) We chose to do it as an out-and-back and veered right when we reached the pond to sit and soak in the sun (before reaching the lean-to, which we did go checkout.) If you veer left, you will see other areas to sit and designated camp sites. It would be a beautiful spot to spend overnight, as the hike in and out is not extensive.

There are two other nearby ponds (Owen and Winch) which you can check out in the same visit. Just note where you’ve parked if you only have one vehicle, since there is a trail connected to Owen Pond which can take you to another parking spot on Route 86.