Jockeybush Lake is an easy hike through beautiful forests to a remote and beautiful lake in the southern Adirondacks
Jockeybush Lake
1.1 miles (2.2 round-trip)
Ferris Lake Wild Forest
Arietta, Hamilton County
Hiking, Snowshoeing
Level of Difficulty: Easy
The Hike to Jockeybush Lake
The 1.1-mile trail Jockeybush Lake is located in the southwest corner of the Adirondack Park, in the Town of Arietta in Hamilton County. Jockeybush Lake is on part of the public Forest Preserve in the Ferris Lake Wild Forest Area. The trail is a short out-and-back hike that features numerous stream crossings, peaceful waterfalls, and a secluded lake.
The trail to Jockeybush Lake begins at the trailhead just off of Route 10, south of Piesco Lake. The trail is immediately immersed into a beech-dominated forest. The trail then bends to the right amid a few mild ups and downs and reaches a muddy crossing at approximately the 0.3-mile mark. The crossing is difficult, but herd paths lead to a narrower crossing.
About 200 yards after the stream, the trail passes a tiny waterfall on the right. Its loud pulse is hard to miss and invites a comfortable (and recommended) rest. The surrounding forest is a mix of northern hardwoods, and the understory is lush.
Over the next 0.5 miles, large erratics line the trailside, and long muddy stretches complicate the path in sections. Then, just a short distance from the trail’s end, the canopy opens up and offers beautiful scenery before ultimately arriving at beautiful Jockeybush Lake.
Remote Jockeybush Lake
Remote and secluded, Jockeybush Lake stretches out for what appears to be an immeasurable distance as seen from the trail’s bedrock resting area. There is a campsite nearby, and herd trails push off in both directions around the lake, but the open rock spot by the water is ideal for an extended picnic or to enjoy the view.
The trail back to the parking area follows the same out-and-back trail used to hike in.
Click here for a map and directions to Jockeybush Lake.
When You Hike Make Sure to Practice “Leave No Trace” to be Prepared and Protect the Forest Preserve
Please follow “carry in, carry out” rules for all trash and follow other Leave No Trace principles when hiking in the public Forest Preserve and other wild areas. The seven Leave No Trace principles are: 1) Plan ahead and prepare ; 2) Stay on hiking trails and camp at designated areas; 3) Dispose of human waste and trash properly; 4) Leave what you find; 5) Minimize campfires; 6) Respect wildlife; 7) Respect other hikers.
Educated hikers do not damage the environment. Prepared hikers do not need search and rescue unless injured.
Winter Use: Raquette Falls is popular for cross-country skiing in the winter.
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