Ferris Lake Wild Forest

Encompassing a vast expanse of 147,454 acres, the Ferris Lake Wild Forest is characterized by the presence of ancient spruce stands. These can be observed along the Powley-Piseco Road, the northern banks of Alderbed Stream, the vicinity of Blind Man’s Vly, and the slopes of both Big and Little Alderbed Mountains. Adding to its allure, the region boasts an array of ponds, lakes, and streams, attracting outdoor enthusiasts and sportsmen year-round.

The Wild Forest accommodates 14.6 miles of hiking trails, along with an extensive 117-mile network of snowmobile trails (many of which are multi-use), catering to various recreational preferences. With 97 primitive campsites, a boat launch, and a boat dock, the area is well-equipped for adventurers. Furthermore, the public can access 10.95 miles of roads, granting motorized entry to this expansive and captivating property.

https://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/114279.html

Sand Lake Trail

 Sand Lake Trail

The Sand Lake Trail is about a half mile long but can be a somewhat difficult portage at the end due to the swampy, narrow trail. But it's a nice little wilderness lake, with a campsite, not too remote off of Piseco-Powley Road. There also is a designated roadside campsite at the trailhead.

G Lake – Aerial and Topo

G Lake is a pond at the end of the gravel G Lake Road that is a short portage or hike back from the end of the road at the wilderness boundary. Maybe not the most exciting lake, but worth checking out.

Brayhouse Falls

Aka the potholers on a cool slushy, wet late November day.

Dexter Lake – Spectacle Lake – Waters Millpond

Yesterday, I hiked back to Dexter Lake, Spectacle Lake and Water Millspond in Ferris Lake Wild Forest, off of Hall Road and Seeley Road (which is off of Piseco-Powley Road). I could have driven Hall Road, it's not rough and there was plenty of parking as I was the only one there, but I often prefer to walk remote mountain roads to look at wildlife without having to worry about tripping on rocks.
 
It was about 15 miles round trip, via Hall Road - Dexter Lake Trail - Burnt Vly Trail - Water Millpond Loop, but it was well worth it as it was remote wilderness with many scenic views, including North Creek Falls which is rarely visited. I didn't see a single other person hiking for 5 hours.

The bridge is open again

Except for the fresh cement on the one wing wall, you'd be hard pressed to find any changes from how it looked before the Halloween 2019 storm. 

Taken on Saturday November 28, 2020 at Piseco-Powley Road.