Winter Overview and Trail Conditions:
You will start from the gate and work your way through the campground following the signs for the Debar Mountain Trailhead. This will be a ski of over a half mile just to access the trail. Pass through the gate on an old forest road and start along the trail toward Debar Mountain. You are on a snowmobile trail and will remain so for the entire route. In 1.1 miles from the gate you will pass by the Debar Mountain Trail on the left. Continue straight (right) as this ski remains very flat. You will cross over Winnebago Brook on a couple occasions and continue a gentle kick and glide through the Debar Mountain Wild Forest. This is a long section at 3.5 miles from the Debar Mountain Trail. After those 3.5 miles you will come to a junction, take a right here to reach Skiff Pond. Skiff Pond is 0.5 miles from this intersection, and only one small gentle hill is between you and the pond. The trail continues past the pond and eventually comes to a northern trailhead which is not easily reachable in the winter, but the pond is a good place to turn around.
Elevation Gain/Loss to Destination:
~40’
Approximate Time, Round Trip: (dependent on how far up the trail you choose to go)
Family with Kids: 5 to 7 hours
Experienced Skier: 4 to 5 hours
Inexperienced Skier: 5 to 7 hours
Distance Round Trip: (dependent on how far up the trail you choose to go)
11.0 miles
Trailhead Location:
Follow Route 30 south out of Malone and continue to the Campground Road for Meacham Lake on the left. Follow this road to the entrance to the campground on the left. Park near the gate, but do not block the gate.
Difficulty: 1=beginner, 5=advanced
Three: Mainly due to distance
Additional Important Information:
The roads through the campground are not open and become a snowmobile trail. This entire route is designated as a snowmobile trail as well.
Skiing over a frozen body of water is a cross-country skiing past time; it can access you to areas not seen by most in the summer. With that being said it is a dangerous activity to cross frozen water bodies and should be done with care and respect for your environment. Know the ice conditions and be prepared for anything including heavy winds, snow drifts, whiteouts, slushy conditions, and thin ice.
