The best walks and hikes around Lakes West
4.8
(13)
172
hikers
32
hikes
Hiking around Lakes West encompasses a diverse range of landscapes, from turquoise glacial waters and ancient forests to dramatic mountain backdrops and coastal features. The region is characterized by deep blue lakes, snow-capped peaks, and varied terrain including sand dunes, wetlands, and red rock formations. Hikers can explore trails through dense woodlands, along scenic lake shores, and across more rugged, elevated areas.
Best hiking trails around Lakes West
- The most popular hiking route is Hemlock Hills and Pine Mountain Trail…
Last updated: May 20, 2026
5.0
(2)
11
hikers
12.7km
03:35
260m
280m
Embark on the Hemlock Hills and Pine Mountain Trail for a moderate hike spanning 7.9 miles (12.7 km), featuring a total elevation gain of 844 feet (257 metres). You can…
1
hikers
2.33km
00:38
50m
10m
Hike the easy 1.4-mile White Trail in Seth Low Pierrepont State Park Reserve, featuring views around Lake Naraneka.
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9.48km
02:40
180m
220m
Hike the moderate 5.9-mile Green Blaze and Yellow Blaze Loop in Bennett's Pond State Park, featuring varied terrain and Bennett's Pond.
5.0
(1)
12
hikers
5.48km
01:28
60m
60m
Hike the easy 3.4-mile Bennett's Pond via Ives Trail Greenway loop in Bennett's Pond State Park, featuring lake views and varied terrain.
4.0
(1)
7
hikers
7.25km
02:05
160m
160m
Hike the 4.5-mile Seth Low Pierrepont State Park Loop, a moderate trail with lake views, diverse forests, and overlooks near Ridgefield, CT.
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Tips from the Community
An offshoot of the trails leads to a swing with a view of the lake! There are residences around the lake, and you can sometimes see the residents boating, fishing, or swimming.
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This pond is part of the headwaters of the Saugatuck River, ultimately providing drinking water to lower Fairfield County. The trail circles the entire pond. We were there in August, and saw some swans! But also lots of mosquitoes. And there wasn't really any good spot to rest for a picnic either. The trail around the pond is very narrow and the vegetation is dense around the trail, at least in the summer.
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This is all that's left of a cabin built by Charles and Moss Ives in 1903 (Charles Ives was a well-known composer). Here is a picture of what the cabin originally looked like: https://vizettes.com/trailmaps/fcnemba-trailmaps/bennettspond/bp-images/Ives_Shanty.jpg You can see from the picture that the cabin had an incredible view down the mountain, which may have inspired Ives' work.
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Pine Mountain viewpoint. Not the summit, but an excellent view nonetheless. We saw evidence of someone's firepit at the viewpoint, but it's likely NOT an authorized firepit. This is NOT a place to build a fire! The clearing for the viewpoint is wayy too close to the pines!
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Once you hit the upper ridge of Pine Mountain, you start to get sporadic views through the trees. This is a great final rest point if you are still pushing uphill. On a clear day, you can see up to 5 rows of rolling hills in the distance.
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The Lake Windwing area has some nice trails that are fun in the summer and covered with snow in the winter. The lake itself is nice to visit while on a ride. There is a parking lot at the end of North Shore Drive to access the area.
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Nice view of Bennett's Pond. It is a great place to escape to for some peace and quiet. You would never guess that you are so close to craziness on Route 7.
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In summer, it is a great place for hiking, and in winter, when the lake is covered with ice, it is great for ice skating.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Lakes West?
Lakes West offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 30 routes recorded on komoot. These range from easy strolls to more challenging moderate ascents, ensuring there's something for every skill level.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes in Lakes West?
The Lakes West region is incredibly diverse, featuring everything from turquoise glacial waters and ancient forests to dramatic mountain backdrops and coastal features. You can expect trails through dense woodlands, along scenic lake shores, and across more rugged, elevated areas, including sand dunes, wetlands, and unique red rock formations in some parts.
Are there easy hiking options suitable for beginners or families in Lakes West?
Yes, Lakes West has plenty of easy hiking options, with 17 routes categorized as easy on komoot. A great choice for a quick and accessible walk is the White Trail, which is 1.4 miles (2.3 km) long and can be completed in under 40 minutes. Another family-friendly option is the Bennett's Pond via Ives Trail Greenway loop, offering a pleasant 3.4-mile (5.5 km) walk.
Are there longer or more challenging hikes in Lakes West?
For those seeking a moderate challenge, Lakes West offers 13 routes. The Hemlock Hills and Pine Mountain Trail is a popular choice, spanning 7.9 miles (12.7 km) and taking about 3 hours 35 minutes to complete, with varied terrain through hills and along a mountain path. Another excellent moderate option is the Green Blaze and Yellow Blaze Loop, a 5.9-mile (9.5 km) trail through marked forest paths.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions to see while hiking in Lakes West?
The Lakes West region is rich with natural beauty and interesting sights. You can explore areas like Sal J. Prezioso Mountain Lakes Park, enjoy the tranquility of Parks Pond and Picnic Site, or visit the scenic Titicus Reservoir North Side. For a historical touch, Hearthstone Castle offers a unique point of interest, and many trails lead to a Great Viewpoint for panoramic vistas.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Lakes West?
Yes, many trails in Lakes West are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to explore without retracing your steps. The Green Blaze and Yellow Blaze Loop is a great example, providing a 5.9-mile (9.5 km) circular path through the forest. Another option is the Seth Low Pierrepont State Park Loop, which is 4.5 miles (7.3 km) long.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Lakes West?
The komoot community highly rates the trails in Lakes West, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 10 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse lake environments, ancient forests, and varied elevations that define the region. Many appreciate the network of options available for different ability levels, from easy strolls to moderate ascents, and the well-maintained paths.
Are there any state parks in the Lakes West region that offer hiking?
Yes, several state parks in the broader 'Lakes West' context provide excellent hiking opportunities. For example, Lake Mineral Wells State Park & Trailway in Texas offers trails from easy to challenging, including lakeside paths. In Wisconsin, Kohler-Andrae State Park along Lake Michigan features trails showcasing sand dunes, wetlands, and forests. You can find more information about Lake Mineral Wells State Park on texas.gov and Kohler-Andrae State Park on dnr.wisconsin.gov.
Are there trails with waterfalls in Lakes West?
While specific waterfall trails within the immediate komoot guide data are not listed, the broader Lakes West region is known for its natural beauty. For instance, Lake Crescent in Olympic National Park, Washington, features trails leading to stunning waterfalls like Marymere Falls, offering a classic 'Lakes West' experience.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Lakes West?
The best time to hike in Lakes West largely depends on the specific location within this diverse region. Generally, late spring through early fall (May to October) offers the most favorable conditions with pleasant temperatures and less precipitation. However, some areas, like those in the Sierra Nevada, might have snow well into early summer. Always check local weather and trail conditions before heading out.
Are there any lakes that are particularly photogenic for hikers?
Absolutely! The Lakes West region is home to many incredibly scenic lakes. Convict Lake in California's Sierra Nevada is often cited as one of the most photogenic, with picturesque hiking trails surrounding it. Diablo Lake in Washington is famous for its unreal turquoise water, and Crater Lake in Oregon offers spectacular views of its deep blue, clear waters from rim trails.
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