There is a small cascading waterfall formed from a small stream that begins at the outlet of Buckhorn Lake. The hike in to the falls follows along the famous Northville-Lake Placid trail, and is approximately 1.3 miles (one-way) with a slight elevation gain as you travel towards the falls. Buckhorn Lake, also known as "Fiddler's Pond," is a great destination, and requires following a small unmarked section.
Key takeaways
- Distance: 2.6 miles round trip
- Elevation gain: 275 feet
- Hike includes unmarked trail and bridges
Hiking to Buckhorn Lake
Follow the blue blazed trail markers on the trail for 1.3 miles. You will pass by a lovely marsh on the left before coming to a footbridge over the outlet. When you get to a wooden foot bridge, look right and you will see the top of the cascade about 25 feet downstream. Paths on both sides lead to the bottom of the falls. If you follow the creek upstream (a bushwhack) from the wooden foot bridge for 0.2 mile, you will be able to get a wonderful scenic view of Buckhorn Lake. Poplar Mountain towers above the far end of the lake and the slopes of Buckhorn Mountain come down to meet the water to the east.
Buckhorn Lake in the winter
This could be a nice snowshoe and cross country ski in the winter. Be prepared for all winter conditions.
Experience more trails in Hamilton County
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Fishing
This is a very shallow lake, but there is a bit of shoreline fishing on the south end. There is no boat access. If you enjoy catching brook trout, this could be the place for you.
Birding
This relatively easy less than 3 mile round trip hike follows the Northville-Placid Trail south through mixed hardwood forests of spruce, hemlock, and yellow birch. Habitats in the area include woodlands, marshland created by a beaver dam, meadows, and ponds. There are nesting waterfowl including several duck species at the lake. Also look for warblers, Winter Wrens, and Golden-crowned Kinglets along the trail. Alder Flycatchers may also be seen in the wet thicket to the south of the lake.
How to get there
Take Route 8 from Speculator 9 miles west. Watch for the DEC trailhead signs marking the Northville-Placid trail on the left past the Town of Arietta Highway Department, across from Casey's Corner in Piseco.
