Getting to the trailhead was the hardest part of the trip. There is no parking on Palmer Pond Road, so we had to drive up an unmaintained logging road to a parking area. High clearance was important as Roxie dodged exposed rocks and deep puddles. However, once we arrived, the hike was easy. We went around the lake clockwise, which is counter to the sign. However, Roxie maintains that it is easier to find the shoreline trail that direction. She has often taken her grandchildren on that hike and stopped halfway or near the camping area to have lunch. (Now I have new hike for Timmy and Ian next time they are here.) The shoreline offers large rocks and sandy banks as well as marshy areas. There is an area marked for launching a boat, but the portage in would be rather long without a vehicle. (ATVs are allowed.)
There is plenty of evidence of beaver and a few of the hikers commented on how the beaver have changed the flow and landscape by building their dams over the years. I found the area peaceful and lovely despite the grayness of the day and the muted colors of the season.
These four pictures were taken about 1/2 way around the pond.
Unfortunately, this panorama is too light, but it gives an idea of the size of the pond and the terrain.
As we hiked past the pond, we came to this marshy area. In the picture below, the pond can be seen at a distance.
Beaver pond with ice.
It was delightful to meet a few new people, enjoy the crisp autumn air and get a little exercise. I'm still learning to use my new camera, so the pictures could be better, but the excursion was delightful. (I love being retired!)
