*Until further notice, parking and access to King's Flow has been closed. Keep up to date on access on the NYSDEC website (same as for Chimney Mountain).
Ski through the wild lands of Hamilton County!
Getting there
From the intersection of Routes 28 and 30 in Indian Lake, follow Route 30 toward Lake Pleasant. Continue for just under 0.5 miles to Big Brook Road. Follow here for 7.8 miles to Kings Flow Parking Area. This is the trailhead for Chimney Mountain, Johns Pond, and Puffer Pond. This is pay-to-use parking; pay the small fee at the small kiosk.
By the numbers
- Distance: 5.6 miles, round trip
- Elevation gain/loss: about 260 feet
Cross-country skiing
From Kings Flow parking, head out to the right and locate the Kings Flow East Trail – this is not marked. You will now ski along a heavily used trail that follows the eastern shore of Kings Flow, but not close enough to enjoy views. Please respect the rights of property owners and stay on the trail — there is no public access to the waterbody at this time.
The trail has a slight climb and many rolling hills as you cross several drainages. After 1.1 miles you will come to the Puffer Pond Trail on the left, where you will need to head right. The trail here is used much less and may require you to make first tracks. Crossing more small brooks, makes a couple spots tough on skis, but still enjoyable in your seclusion. Ignore any side trails on your right as they lead to other destinations much further away. The trail eventually ends on the side of Puffer Mountain.
Additional important information
Skiing over a frozen body of water is a cross-country skiing past time; it can give you access to areas not seen by most in the summer. With that being said, it is a dangerous activity to cross frozen water bodies and should be done with care and respect for your environment. Know the ice conditions and be prepared for anything including heavy winds, snow drifts, whiteouts, slushy conditions, and thin ice.
