Chub Pond has incredible potential for wildlife viewing. Explore the trails surrounding the pond, and venture down to its shores for views of the water and the hills that it lays beneath.
Key takeaways
- Distance to Chub Pond: 1.5 - 1.75 miles round trip depending on herd path taken to shoreline
- Distance for entire Castle Rock loop: 3.1 miles round trip
- Elevation gain for entire Castle Rock loop: 850 feet
Hiking to Chub Pond
Chub Pond is located along the Castle Rock Loop, and short side trips will be required to reach its shores for best viewing.
Initially you will be following a private dirt road, please stay on the marked route. The trail markers are on the power poles. After a short distance you will leave the road and start on a foot trail. Within a few hundred feet of leaving the road you will come to split in the trail.
To reach the south sides of the pond follow the trail left over a small foot bridge. After a short distance you will see the pond off to your right. Very faint herd paths in this area will bring you to the shore.
To reach the northern sides of the pond follow the trail split to the right. This trail will bring you slightly uphill at times and above the pond. Along the trail, there are faint herd paths that will bring you down to the pond. This side of the pond gives the best views out over the marsh and open water. This is an excellent destination for birding and even moose watching. Look around and you could potentially see a moose track and maybe even some fresh scat.
Chub Pond in the winter
The loop gets moderate use in the winter, but the side trips to the pond will get none. Trail is not recommended of cross-country skiing. Being prepared is necessary for any winter hike.
Experience more trails in Hamilton County
Looking to find some more trails to hike in Hamilton County? With hundreds of miles of trails, we can help find the perfect hike for you in the big outdoors.
Fishing
Shoreline fishing is limited, but accessible in some spots.
Insider information:
- The deepest portion of the pond is located on the southwest end of the pond, which is accessible via the Castle Rock Trail on the south side of the pond.
- This pond gets very infrequent use for fishing, so the stock could be very good.
- Much of the pond is shallow, so it's best to float a bobber or use weedless hooks.
Fish species: Brook trout, bullhead
Special regulations: Always follow state fishing regulations and be sure to pick up a NYS Freshwater Fishing Guide at your local outfitters or regional DEC office.
How to get there
From the intersection of Route 28 and Route 30 in the hamlet of Blue Mountain Lake, follow Route 28/30 toward Long Lake. Continue for 0.6 miles and turn left on Maple Lodge Road, then follow it to its end at the well-marked hiker parking area. Note that some sections of the road are very narrow and seemingly private. The hiker parking is well designated.
