Trails–Newcomb VIC
The Newcomb VIC features 3.6 miles of interpretive trails on its 236-acre
property, along the shoreline of Rich Lake and Rich Lake outlet. Trailheads
are located at the building.
R.W. Sage Jr. Memorial Trail  This
1.1-mile loop starts from the Sucker Brook Trail after it crosses the
Rich LakeOutlet. Enjoy an easy walk along the shoreline of Belden Lake
through a mixed forest of coniferous and deciduous trees. Make sure to
stop at the two overlooks along the lake for a photo opportunity, wildlife
viewing or a serene break away from society. The loop ends at the Little
Sucker Brook bridge on the Sucker Brook Trail. (YELLOW markers)
Rich Lake Trail This
0.6-mile trail is a terrific warm-up with great views of Rich Lake and
Goodnow Mountain. This short trek gives you a glimpse of what the other
trails have to offer. (RED markers) Easy access.
Peninsula Trail
This 0.9-mile loop starts from the Rich Lake Trail, continuing farther
up the peninsula with excellent views of Rich Lake. There are lots
of ups and downs as you travel through old-growth hemlocks. (GREEN
markers)
Sucker Brook Trail
This 1.0-mile trail leaves the building to the north and runs along the
outlet to Rich Lake. You will be walking parallel to the same route the
logs took during the Hudson River log-driving days. This is a wonderful
trail to see wildlife. (BLUE markers)
Newcomb VIC Summer Trails Map
[download the trail map]
Trail Use
Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Hiking: Yes
Snowshoeing: Yes
Cross-country skiing: Yes, on part of the Sucker Brook Trail and all of the R.W. Sage Jr. Memorial Trail. Ski to Great Camp Santanoni (a 12-mile round-trip) using the 0.7-mile Connector Trail!
Trail running: Yes
Dogs: Dogs are allowed during non-winter months only, and they must be
leashed.
Fishing: No
Canoeing/kayaking: No. For access to Rich Lake, contact the SUNY ESF Adirondack
Ecological Center in Newcomb.
Camping: No.
Natural object collecting: No
Hunting: No
Bicycles: No
Horses: No
ATVs/Snowmobiles: No
hours of operation
Summer Hours: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., daily, May 1 - Oct. 31
Winter Hours: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Tues. - Sat., Nov. 1 - April 30
Trail Hours: Dawn to Dusk, every day of the year
winter at the newcomb vic
Winter Trail System: Most of the Newcomb VIC's 3.6-mile Winter Trails System is only available for snowshoe use
during the winter. Cross-country skiing is available on select trails.
Don't have snowshoes? Don't worry. Use our snowshoes for FREE on the
Newcomb VIC trails. It's easy! Stop at the front desk, sign in,
leave a driverís license, go snowshoeing and return snowshoes after
you are done. We'll even show you how to use them. There are no ski rentals at the VIC.
Newcomb VIC Winter Trail Conditions
For current conditions, call (518) 582-2000.
Newcomb VIC Winter Trails Map
[download the trail map]
Winter Trails: Snowshoe and cross-country ski
Rich Lake Trail snowshoe only
The Rich Lake Trail, a 0.6-mile loop, is a terrific warm-up with great views of the lake and of nearby Goodnow Mountain with its fire tower. Ideal for families with small children, the Rich Lake Trail takes visitors on a loop through a variety of habitats, including a cedar swamp with its raised boardwalk, an open wetland, and mixed northern forest. The trail also features two overlooks at the water’s edge and one bridge across the narrows of the peninsula. Difficulty: Easy (RED markers)
Sucker Brook Trail snowshoe whole trail; skiing along northern portion only, follow signs along the trail)
The 1-mile Sucker Brook Trail takes the visitor around the outlet of Rich Lake, crossing the water along two long, scenic bridges. The open water of the outlet is a great place to look for otters (or at least their slides) in the winter. Many other animal signs can be seen along this trail as it winds through a variety of forest habitats. Difficulty: Moderate (BLUE markers)
Peninsula Trail snowshoe only
The Peninsula Trail, a 0.9-mile loop, begins about half-way around the Rich Lake Trail loop, taking visitors all the way around the peninsula through a dense old-growth conifer forest. The hilly terrain guarantees a good workout, with the added benefits of great views from the two elevated overlooks and from the boardwalk. The stairs are closed during the winter, so be sure to follow the winter route through the woods back towards the boardwalk when you return to the VIC. Difficulty: Challenging (GREEN
markers)
R.W. Sage Memorial Trail snowshoe & ski
The 1.1-mile Sage Trail is the only trail open in its entirety to skiing and brings visitors to the 0.7-mile connector trail for those who are interested in extending their trip to the Camp Santanoni property. Pure hardwood stands and south-facing slopes give this trail a different feel than our other trails. A long boardwalk across a seasonal wetland treats visitors to the deep-woods feel of the northern forest. Difficulty: Moderate (YELLOW markers)
WINTER TRAIL RULES
- No dogs are allowed on the trails.
- Stay on the marked trails.
- Stay off the ice.
- Stay away from closed areas.
- Report trail maintenance needs to VIC staff.
- Do not collect natural objects or disturb wildlife.
- Building closes at 5 p.m.
WINTER SAFETY TIPS
- Dress for the weather. That means wool or synthetics, which will keep
you the warmest.
- Keep your feet, hands and head warm and dry.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Allow ample time to return to the building.
The gate closes at 5 p.m.
- In case of emergency, alert VIC staff to location of injured persons
in need of assistance.
- Be careful when trail conditions cause ice to form.
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