A hike of John Mack Pond requires a canoe-paddle to the trailhead. Put in at the Indian Lake Islands boat ramp and canoe the 3.3 miles (one way) to the landing on John Mack Bay, just past a small island near campsite 26.

Key takeaways

• Distance: 3 miles round trip (hike portion)
• Elevation gain: 400 feet
• Hike includes trail junctions

Hiking to John Mack Pond

The trailhead is clearly marked by a DEC signpost on the shore, near campsite #27.

The hike on land to the pond is approximately 1.5 miles long, and after gaining elevation, you drop back down the gain by the time you get to the pond. The pond doesn't have much open space around it, but is a good combined day with the paddling. The trail continues past this pond to Long Pond, but hiking to John Mack Pond is a great day hike by itself.

John Mack Pond in the winter

Since this is a paddling/hike combination, it would require solid ice to cross Indian Lake in the winter. This combination is rarely done in this season because of the danger. If you decide to go, be cautious of the ice depth, and recognize that you will be far away from people in the backcountry. Be prepared for all winter conditions, and bring enough gear to spend an unplanned night in the backcountry. 

Experience more trails in Hamilton County

Does this paddle/hike 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

The Indian Lake Islands DEC campground is 12 miles south on Route 30 from Indian Lake, on the left hand side of Rte 30, or 12 miles north of Speculator on the right side of Route 30.