Great Camp Santanoni to Newcomb Lake

Parking is available at the Gate Lodge complex, which marks the start of the 5-mile historic carriage road to Great Camp Santanoni and Newcomb Lake. The road itself is closed to public vehicle traffic, so you'll park at the trailhead.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on this trail. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.

The trail is accessible year-round. Fall is particularly popular for its vibrant foliage. Summer offers horse-drawn wagon rides and interpreters at the camp. Winter transforms the area into a scenic route for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required for day hiking the Great Camp Santanoni to Newcomb Lake trail. It's part of the public lands within the Adirondack Park.

The primary route is a 5-mile (one-way) former carriage road, mostly gravel. It's considered easy to moderate, with a steady ascent of about 350 feet over the first 3 miles, followed by a descent of roughly 250 feet to Newcomb Lake. The path is wide and generally well-maintained.

Yes, beyond the main carriage road, a 5-mile trail connects the Newcomb Lake road with the Moose Pond Horse Trail. This route offers a more rugged experience, entering the High Peaks Wilderness and featuring sections that can be overgrown with some blowdown. The route also passes through sections of the Santanoni Camp Connector and the Moose Pond Road.

The main attraction is Great Camp Santanoni, a National Historic Landmark. You'll pass the Gate Lodge, a farm complex, and the main camp on Newcomb Lake. The main camp features restored buildings like the main lodge, artist's studio, and boathouse, with interpretive signs providing historical context. During summer, interpreters are often on-site.

At Great Camp Santanoni, you'll find interpretive signs and, during summer, staff who can provide historical information. Primitive campsites and lean-tos are available along Newcomb Lake for those looking to stay overnight. Horse-drawn wagon rides are offered during the summer season, and a power wheelchair can be reserved for visitors with disabilities.

The trail traverses mixed hardwood forests and passes a beaver pond/swamp/meadow area, offering opportunities to spot various wildlife. Keep an eye out for beavers, deer, and a variety of bird species. The dense forests and wetlands provide habitat for many Adirondack animals.

Yes, the main carriage road to Great Camp Santanoni is generally considered family-friendly due to its relatively easy grade and wide path. The 10-mile round trip can be long for very young children, but the availability of horse-drawn wagon rides in summer makes it more accessible for families.

As part of the Vanderwhacker Mountain Wild Forest, general Adirondack Park regulations apply. This includes practicing Leave No Trace principles, camping only in designated sites or following backcountry rules (e.g., 150 feet from water, roads, or trails), and keeping dogs leashed. Always check the latest DEC regulations before your visit for any specific updates.