5.0
(3)
14
hikers
Rush Pond Trail
02:06
7.92km
70m
Hiking
The Rush Pond Trail offers a delightful journey through scenic wetlands, providing a peaceful escape for hikers of all abilities. You'll follow a wide, well-maintained path, often shaded, that winds past the picturesque Rush Pond. Keep an eye out for the unique hand-constructed bridges, especially the largest one on the south end, which offers elevated views of the surroundings. This moderate 4.9-mile (7.9 km) hike, with a gentle 244 feet (74 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 5 minutes to complete.
Planning your visit to the Rush Pond Trail is straightforward, as it's a popular and accessible destination. Parking is available at various trailheads, including the Gurney Lane Recreation Area, making it easy to start your adventure. The trail is incredibly family-friendly and dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your leashed canine companions and even strollers. It's a year-round destination, suitable for everything from summer walks to winter snowshoeing, though conditions will vary seasonally.
What makes the Rush Pond Trail truly stand out is its role as a vital community connector, linking neighborhoods and the Queensbury School campus. Beyond its practical connectivity, the trail's unique hand-constructed bridges and the stunning backdrop of the Adirondack Mountains visible from Indian Point add to its charm. It's a multi-use path, popular with mountain bikers as well, ensuring a lively atmosphere while still offering plenty of natural beauty and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
1.56 km
Rush Pond
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
4.14 km
Rush Pond Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
7.92 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
7.14 km
411 m
383 m
Surfaces
6.12 km
1.43 km
383 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Saturday 4 July
31°C
18°C
51 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I park to access the Rush Pond Trail?
The main access point for the trail is typically from the Gurney Lane Recreation Area. Parking is available there, providing convenient access to the trail system.
Are there any permits or entrance fees required for the Gurney Lane & Rush Pond Trail System?
No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Gurney Lane & Rush Pond Trail System, making it freely accessible for all visitors.
Is the Rush Pond Trail dog-friendly?
Yes, the trail is dog-friendly. Dogs are permitted on the main trail, but they must be kept on a leash at all times.
What is the best time of year to visit the Rush Pond Trail?
The trail is versatile and can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while winter allows for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Summer is also popular, though the main trail is heavily shaded, offering some relief from the sun.
What is the terrain like on the trail?
The main trail is predominantly a wide gravel doubletrack, generally described as easy to moderate. It's mostly flat, but does include a few short, moderately steep hills. Numerous dirt singletrack trails branch off, some of which are very smooth with few rocks or roots.
Are there any notable viewpoints or landmarks along the route?
Yes, the trail winds through the Rush Pond wetlands. You'll cross three hand-constructed bridges, with the largest on the south end offering scenic views of the wetlands. For direct pond views, you can venture off the main path or visit Indian Point, a small peninsula with views across Rush Pond and the Adirondacks in the distance.
Can I mountain bike or snowshoe on this trail?
Absolutely! The Rush Pond Trail is a multi-use pathway suitable for mountain biking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, in addition to walking and running. There are even specific singletrack trails designed for mountain bikers.
Is the trail suitable for families with children?
Yes, the area is considered very family-friendly. The main trail's easy to moderate difficulty and wide path make it accessible for individuals of all ages, including children.
Is the Rush Pond Trail a loop?
The primary Rush Pond Trail itself is not a single loop, but rather a system of interconnected trails. The main route often forms a larger loop when combined with other sections, and numerous singletrack branches offer various route options.
Does the trail connect with other paths?
Yes, the trail is an important link, connecting the Gurney Lane Recreation Area with neighborhoods in the Aviation Road corridor and the Queensbury School campus trail system. The route also passes through sections of the Rush Pond Nature trail, Hawkeye, and Escape trails.
What kind of wildlife might I see on the trail?
Given its location within the Rush Pond wetlands, you have good opportunities to spot local wildlife. Keep an eye out for various bird species, small mammals, and other creatures that inhabit wetland ecosystems.
Are there any specific sections of the trail recommended for mountain biking?
Yes, beyond the main trail, there's a matrix of unmarked singletrack trails popular with mountain bikers. One notable section is "Lucky 13," known for its continuous banked S-turns, offering an engaging ride for those seeking a more technical experience.
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