Located near Nicks Lake State Campground is the one mile hike to the Moose Rive Lock & Dam.  This hike is located in the Black River Wild Forest of Adirondack Park.  The hike is a pleasant, easy walk to an old wooden dam on the Middle Branch of the Moose River.  You can choose longer loop hikes by utilizing the other hiking trails in the area, otherwise enjoy a pleasant two mile round trip hike to the old wooden dam.

This hike begins at a small parking area just past the bridge over the Middle Branch of the Moose River. The GPS coordinates for the Green Bridge Parking Area are N43 41.673 W74 59.919 for those who have a GPS devise in their vehicle.  his hike is located in Thendara, off NY 28 near Old Forge, NY.

This easy hike is for all members of your family and be sure to bring a blanket to enjoy a picnic in the open area near the river.  This is one of those hikes you'll want to do again and again.  From the Parking Area, follow the well used old road past the yellow stop gate and quickly reach a trail register on your right.  The wide trail follows the Moose River and at 0.1 miles there is a nice opening where you'll have a scenic view of the Moose River.

Moose River from Lock & Dam Trail

At 0.2 miles the trail bends away from the river and climbs gently.  The trail climbs a sharp hill at 0.4 miles before leveling off.  This brief climb is the biggest elevation gain of the hike.  At 0.7 miles there is a large clearing on your left and at 0.8 miles reach a trail junction.  The trail straight ahead is the Humphery Hill Trail that loops back over Humphery Hill and could be used by those who want a longer, tougher loop hike.  Turn right at this junction to reach the Lock & Dam.

At 0.9 miles the trail drops quickly as you make your approach back to the Moose River.  Soon the trail opens as you reach a large clearing near the river.  At 1.0 miles reach the Moose River Lock & Dam, marked by a sign.  There are numerous spots to sit and relax.  In the summer you might find folks swimming in the large pool of water created by the river.  To return to the parking area, simply retrace your steps back to your vehicle.

Look below for a couple of pictures, a video and trail map of this extremely popular hike in the Old Forge area.

Lock & Dam Trail passing by a clearing

Clearing as you approach Moose River