Heart Pond is located in the 46,283 acre Pharaoh Lake Wilderness of the East-Central Adirondacks. It is probably the most popular day hike for those camping at Putnam Pond State Campground. It is only 0.4 miles from the trailhead near campsite 38 to reach the pond. The main yellow marked trail that is known as the Clear Pond Trail never really goes next to the pond, however there is a well worn herd path that takes you to a few nice view points.

From the trailhead pass a trail register. You are following yellow plastic DEC markers on a well worn path. At 0.3 miles reach a trail junction. The blue marked trail that goes straight travels to Bear Pond. There are some nice views of the pond just off this trail as well as an unauthorized campsite on the shore of Heart Pond. The yellow marked Clear Pond Trail turns left and crosses a small stream on a footbridge and climbs. At 0.4 miles you should notice a well worn, however unmarked path that will take you to Heart Pond. At first the path brings you well above the pond, but eventually will lead you to the shore of this small pond.

Look below for a few pictures, maps and a video featuring Heart Pond. The nice thing about this hike for those who are camping at Putnam Pond State Campground is that you can start the hike right from your campsite. There is no reason to drive to the trailhead near campsite 38 as there is no parking at the trailhead. It isn't a very far walk from any of the campsites to reach the trailhead. Use your campground map to find campsite 38 and the start of the Clear Pond Trail. There is a restroom located near the trailhead. It is about a round trip hike of about one mile for this really easy hike.

 

DEC Trail sign at trailhead

Heart Pond

Unauthorized campsite on Heart Pond off the Bear Pond Trail

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