This is a pretty one! It is challenging, but on this day it was a very hot, so that made it much harder. I was struggling because I made the mistake of carrying my heavy camera. I eventually had Joseph carry my bag for me. We also should have had more water for the dogs.
what you need to know
This is a moderately challenging hike and takes 2-3 hours. Bring more water than you think you will need, and a snack.
You will need two cars, because it is not a loop.
Start
Park at the trail head on Rte 3 opposite the parking area near Champlain Mountain. This is so you are climbing up the steepest section, and walking down at a gradual incline. It’s safer. Pick up a trail map; they are sold everywhere.
End
Leave a car at the parking area in front Blackwoods campground on Rte 3.
Directions
Walk in from the trail head and go past the pond (see above), and turn left to follow Canon Brook Trail. The first half mile is easy, and then you reach a very steep section up the side of the brook – it is about a mile, but seems like so much more than that. There are places to rest in the shade and there are pools of water occasionally. Depending on the time of the year, you might be hiking over running water. When you get to the top there is a small pond and a rock to stand on for a photo opportunity. It’s an easy 2 miles down the Cadillac South Ridge to the parking area.
NOTE
Do not hike after rainy days because the rocks are very slippery and it is not safe.
