This is a wonderful hike back to a seldom-visited pond. You will hike through a forest of deep green, pass babbling brooks, and walk between some very interesting rock features.

Getting there

From the four-way intersection in Wilmington, follow Route 86 toward Jay. In Jay, take a right onto Route 9N and head toward Keene. Continue for a bit over 6.5 miles and turn left on Styles Brook Road. Follow that for about a mile. The trailhead is on the left, parking for about 3-4 cars is on the right.

By the numbers

• Elevation gain: about 500 feet
• Pond elevation: 1,650 feet
• Round trip distance: 3-miles

Hiking

The trail climbs several hundred feet to reach the pond, but it is well graded and laid out. The route passes through a narrow saddle between two small knobs before descending slightly to the shore. The path sweeps around the pond to the north side, where excellent views across the water await. The trail will bring you to the north end of the pond, where it is obvious from the rhododendrons that humans have left their mark on the land.

Snowshoeing

A great starter snowshoe on this easy-climbing trail. The trail remains the same for winter use and the only difference snowshoers will notice is that with the leaves gone from the trees, the water can be seen as you make your water down the trail and mountain views can be seen through the trees.