Glacier Ridge Trail

Dogs Unknown

Features Fall Colors · Lake · River/Creek

This is a popular hiking trail, and a brief section is within the mountain biking trail system, though NCT does not permit biking. Loose gravel on the up and down slopes can be tricky to navigate in winter/fall.

The trailhead is located at the parking lot for the bike shop. As is the case for North Country Trail, the blaze is bright blue. In general, the trail is well-groomed, but there are sections of loose rock and larger rocks that slow your pace.

The trail starts by taking you over Hidden River Bridge before crossing the bike path and N. Shore Drive. Once over the road, you start the first of many climbs. Continue following the blazes over several roads, around one small pond, and past the marina on your way to the end of this section at Route 528, near the bridge crossing over Lake Arthur.

Once you cross Route 528, you'll be presented with a 300-foot climb to the top of a ridge, which offers a nice view of Lake Arthur in fall and winter when the leaves have dropped. There are several stretches of open space as you climb which also give glimpses of the lake.

The next 5 miles are similar to the first 8. You'll make 3 climbs along singletrack trail which is primarily smooth with occasional sections of loose rock.

You'll recognize the end of the trail when you reach the Jennings Environmental Center and a uphill slope of flower beds. The end of the Glacier Ridge Trail does not mark the end of the North Country Trail, which continues on to Allegheny National Forest, and all the way to the New England states.