Loons, Solitude, and Bullhead Pond

September 1, 2023 - By ashleykclevenstine

I had originally planned for the Indian River/Hudson River Confluence Trail to be the final hike of the day. Nature, however, had other plans. When we arrived, the road was completely blocked by a massive downed tree. Rather than add extra mileage by hiking the road, I pulled up the map and noticed another easy-rated trail we had passed on our way in: Bullhead Pond.

It turned out to be a great decision.

In fact, Bullhead Pond ended up being my favorite hike of the day.

Hike Report

9/1/2023

It was also the only trail where we encountered other hikers. Everyone we met was friendly, offering smiles and greetings to both Darby and me as we made our way along the trail.

Compared to the other hikes we’d done that day, Bullhead Pond was a little longer, measuring about 0.6 miles one way. The trail was mostly flat and easy walking until the final approach, where a steeper section descended to the shoreline.

As we neared the water, I heard a sound that immediately made me smile—the haunting call of a Common Loon, one of my favorite sounds in the Adirondacks. I quickly pulled out my binoculars and was thrilled to spot the loon out on the pond. I spent several minutes watching it dive and surface, attempting a few photos, and simply enjoying the peaceful view.

The pond itself was beautiful and quiet, the perfect place to sit and reflect after a full morning of hiking. Sometimes the hikes that aren’t part of the original plan end up being the most memorable.

After completing Sawyer Mountain, attempting Rock Lake, visiting Sprague Pond, and finishing the day at Bullhead Pond, both Darby and I were ready for lunch. We found a pull-off along Route 28, enjoyed a sandwich, and began the drive home.

It had been a wonderful day filled with lakes, ponds, mountains, and a reminder that sometimes the best adventures come from changing your plans.