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75.3 km
~3 days
796 m
Multi-Day
The Cranberry Lake 50 is a renowned loop trail nestled in the wilderness of the Adirondack Park, near St. Lawrence County, New York. This moderately challenging trek spans approximately 75 kilometers (about 47 miles) and encompasses an elevation gain of roughly 700 meters (about 2300 feet), offering a diverse array of landscapes and natural beauty.
Getting There
To reach the trailhead, hikers can drive to Cranberry Lake village, which is accessible via NY-3, a major route that runs through the region. Parking is available near the Cranberry Lake Campground, which serves as a common starting point for the trail. For those relying on public transportation, options are limited due to the remote nature of the area, but during the peak season, there may be bus services running to nearby towns from where a taxi or local shuttle service can be arranged.
Trail Experience
Embarking on the Cranberry Lake 50, hikers will traverse through dense forests, serene wetlands, and along the picturesque shoreline of Cranberry Lake itself. The trail is well-marked with blue blazes, and the use of a navigation tool like HiiKER can help in keeping track of progress and waypoints.
The loop can be hiked in either direction, but many choose to go clockwise, beginning at the Cranberry Lake Campground. Within the first few miles, adventurers will encounter the first of many footbridges and boardwalks that aid in crossing streams and marshy areas.
Landmarks and Natural Features
As the trail meanders around the lake, one of the highlights is the Bear Mountain area, which offers a modest climb and a rewarding view of the surrounding wilderness. The elevation here is not significant, but the rolling terrain throughout the trail provides a steady challenge.
The trail also passes by the remnants of old logging camps, a nod to the region's historical significance as a hub for the logging industry in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Hikers will see evidence of this past in the form of old railroad grades and standing chimneys where loggers once lived.
Wildlife and Flora
The diverse ecosystems along the Cranberry Lake 50 are home to a variety of wildlife, including moose, black bears, and numerous bird species. Hikers should be prepared for possible encounters and know how to safely observe wildlife from a distance. The trail also offers a botanical feast for the eyes, with wildflowers in the spring and a spectacular display of fall foliage.
Preparation and Safety
Given the trail's length and remote nature, it is essential for hikers to be well-prepared with adequate supplies, including water, food, and a first-aid kit. Cell service can be spotty, so carrying a physical map and compass, in addition to a digital navigation tool, is advisable. It's also important to be prepared for variable weather conditions and to practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the trail's natural beauty.
Accommodations and Camping
For those looking to complete the trail over several days, there are designated campsites and lean-tos spaced along the route. These provide convenient spots to rest and take in the tranquility of the Adirondacks. Ensure to check the latest regulations regarding camping permits and campfire restrictions.
The Cranberry Lake 50 offers an immersive experience in one of New York's most beautiful wilderness areas, with a well-balanced mix of natural attractions, wildlife, and a touch of history. Whether completed in segments or as a multi-day backpacking adventure, it promises to be a memorable journey for all who tread its path.
What to expect?
Activity types
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to hike the Cranberry Lake 50 loop?
The Cranberry Lake 50 is 75.28 km, or about 46.8 miles, so most hikers treat it as a 3 to 5 day backpacking trip. Strong hikers sometimes move faster, but the route is long enough that even with only 796 m of total climbing, it is usually planned as a multi-day loop rather than a day hike.
Where do most hikers start the Cranberry Lake 50, and where can you park?
A common starting point is the Cranberry Lake Campground area near the village of Cranberry Lake. NYSDEC identifies a main trailhead adjacent to campsite 27 with a parking area and trail register kiosk, and there are also other established trailheads around the loop, including Gilbert Tract on Route 3 and access points near Wanakena.
Is the Cranberry Lake 50 marked well enough to follow without bushwhacking?
The Cranberry Lake 50 is a maintained loop trail and is marked with special blue Cranberry Lake 50 trail markers. The route follows established foot trails and connectors around Cranberry Lake rather than requiring off-trail travel, but at 75.28 km it still calls for solid navigation and attention at junctions.
Which direction is best for hiking the Cranberry Lake 50 loop?
There is no official direction for the Cranberry Lake 50, so it can be hiked either way. Many hikers go clockwise because the climbs tend to feel more gradual in that direction, and that has become the more common way to complete the loop around Cranberry Lake.
Is the Cranberry Lake 50 a hard hike or suitable for newer backpackers?
The Cranberry Lake 50 is rated easy overall, which reflects its modest 796 m of elevation gain spread across a long route. The main challenge is endurance and trip planning over 75.28 km, not steep climbing, so it can suit newer backpackers who are comfortable with multi-day mileage and Adirondack backcountry conditions.
What is the best time of year to hike the Cranberry Lake 50?
The most practical season for the Cranberry Lake 50 is late spring through fall, when the full loop is typically hiked on foot. Summer and early fall are especially popular around Cranberry Lake and Wanakena, while spring can bring wet, unstable Adirondack trail conditions and winter travel changes the route into a much more specialized trip.
Are dogs allowed on the Cranberry Lake 50?
Dogs are commonly seen on the Cranberry Lake 50, and the route passes through New York State Forest Preserve lands where leashed dogs are generally permitted. Because the loop is long, remote, and includes wetlands, bridges, and rougher backcountry sections, it is best suited to trail-experienced dogs that can handle a multi-day Adirondack outing.
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