The best walks and hikes in Big Brook State Forest
4.1
(25)
184
hikers
4
hikes
Hiking in Big Brook State Forest offers access to nearly 3,879 acres of diverse terrain in Camden, New York. The landscape features natural forests, plantations, streams, and wetlands, providing varied scenery for outdoor exploration. The forest is characterized by Northern Hardwood and Northern Hardwood-Hemlock forests, with dominant species including sugar maple, red maple, and hemlock. Four protected trout streams and Johnny Smith Pond contribute to the area's natural features.
Best hiking trails in Big Brook State Forest
- The most popular hiking route is Big Brook Dam loop from Pemberton, a 2.6 miles (4.2 km) trail that takes 1 hour 5 minutes to complete, offering views of the dam and surrounding forest.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Gloucester Tree Lookout loop from Pemberton, a moderate 9.2 miles (14.7 km) path. This route features significant elevation gain and leads through varied forest terrain.
- Local hikers also love the Heartbreak Drive Trail loop, a 7.8 miles (12.6 km) trail leading through the forest's interior, often completed in about 3 hours 31 minutes.
- Hiking in Big Brook State Forest is defined by natural forests, plantations, and streams, with an extensive trail network offering options for different ability levels.
- The routes in Big Brook State Forest are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 3.9 stars from over 20 reviews. More than 150 hikers have used komoot to explore Big Brook State Forest's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 5, 2026
3.3
(3)
52
hikers
4.17km
01:05
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
20
hikers
6.17km
01:37
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(3)
7
hikers
14.7km
04:09
300m
300m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.2
(5)
32
hikers
8.89km
02:32
210m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
12.6km
03:31
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Big Brook State Forest
Tips from the Community
Warren River Lookout is a wooden viewing platform that extends slightly over the forest and offers a nice view of the Warren River through the jungle.
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Heartbreak Drive Trail is a one-way gravel road that must be taken in a counter-clockwise direction. Short spur trails lead to river access, viewpoints, and old trees. This is also a road where vehicles pass, and is best chosen over the more interior trail park loop, Warren River Loop, if you want more space, for a larger walking group, a longer hike, or side-by-side biking.
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Old Vase Road is a dirt road shrouded in thick forests. It can be used to make Heartbreak Drive into a full loop by hikers or cyclists. Keep an eye out for the Marianne North Tree on the northern edge of Old Vase Road.
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Closed for repair as of May 2025. Check this link for status if you want to climb it (you can still view it while closed though) https://exploreparks.dbca.wa.gov.au/site/gloucester-tree
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The Gloucester Tree was originally one of 8 fire lookout trees built in the south west. Foresters would climb these trees to the lookouts at the top to scan the area for signs of fires. Until 2023, it was possible to climb the tree but was currently closed as the platforms are being upgraded.
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The Gloucester Tree in Gloucester National Park is just 2 km from Pemberton. The Gloucester Tree was chosen as a fire lookout point in 1947 and is part of a network of lookout points built in the Karri Forest between 1937 and 1952. The Gloucester Tree was named after the then Governor-General of Australia, His Royal Highness the Duke of Gloucester, who was visiting Pemberton while the lookout point was being built. Today, visitors can climb the 53 m high mountain to enjoy one of the most spectacular views of the Karri Forest. I couldn't indulge in the "pleasure" myself because of my fear of heights, but I documented my wife's climb - chapeau!
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At 72 metres in height, the Gloucester Tree is the world’s tallest fire-lookout tree. This beautiful old karri tree can be climbed! Although the metal step pegs don't have a safety rail, surprisingly no-one has been hurt from a fall (although some people have had heart incidents trying to climb). When I was 14 this was a breeze to climb, but I'm not sure I could do it now! Absolutely worth a visit. About 10 metres off the Munda Biddi trail.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Big Brook State Forest?
Big Brook State Forest offers a network of trails, with over 4 distinct hiking routes documented on komoot. These routes utilize approximately 14 miles of unpaved roads and snowmobile routes that traverse the property, providing various options for exploration.
What kind of terrain can I expect when hiking in Big Brook State Forest?
Hikers in Big Brook State Forest will encounter diverse terrain, including natural forests, plantations, streams, and wetlands. The forest is characterized by Northern Hardwood and Northern Hardwood-Hemlock compositions, featuring species like sugar maple, red maple, black cherry, and hemlock. This variety creates captivating scenery throughout the year.
Are there any notable natural features or attractions to see along the trails?
Yes, Big Brook State Forest is home to several natural features. You can explore four protected trout streams—Big Brook, Furnace Creek, Maloney Brook, and Smith Brook—known for brook and brown trout. Johnny Smith Pond also supports a warm water fishery. The diverse forest composition itself, with its mix of hardwoods and hemlocks, offers scenic beauty.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Big Brook State Forest?
Big Brook State Forest offers seasonal beauty year-round. Spring and summer bring vibrant foliage and wildflowers, autumn showcases breathtaking fiery hues, and winter transforms the landscape into a tranquil, snow-dusted scene with frozen streams. The climate in Camden, with mild winters and warm summers, generally provides pleasant conditions for hiking.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Big Brook State Forest?
Yes, Big Brook State Forest has options suitable for families. For an easier, shorter walk, consider the Big Brook Dam loop from Pemberton, which is 2.6 miles (4.2 km) long and takes just over an hour to complete, offering pleasant views of the dam and surrounding forest.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Big Brook State Forest?
Big Brook State Forest is generally dog-friendly, allowing visitors to bring their canine companions. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Big Brook State Forest?
Yes, several circular routes are available. Popular options include the Heartbreak Drive Trail loop, which is 7.8 miles (12.6 km) and leads through the forest's interior, and the Gloucester Tree Lookout loop from Pemberton, a moderate 9.2-mile (14.7 km) path with significant elevation gain.
Where can I park when visiting Big Brook State Forest for a hike?
While specific parking areas are not detailed in the guide, state forests typically offer designated parking lots or roadside pull-offs near trailheads. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival or consult detailed maps for official access points.
Is Big Brook State Forest accessible by public transport?
Big Brook State Forest is located in a rural area near Camden, New York. Public transport options directly to the forest are generally limited. Access is primarily by private vehicle.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter while hiking?
The diverse habitats within Big Brook State Forest make it an excellent spot for wildlife observation and birdwatching. You might spot various bird species, deer, and other small mammals common to Northern Hardwood and Hemlock forests.
What do other hikers say about their experience in Big Brook State Forest?
The routes in Big Brook State Forest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.9 stars from over 20 reviews. Hikers often praise the serene ambiance, diverse scenery, and the well-maintained trail network that caters to various fitness levels.
What are the different difficulty levels for hikes in Big Brook State Forest?
Big Brook State Forest offers a range of difficulty levels. You can find easy routes like the Big Brook Dam loop from Pemberton, as well as moderate trails such as the Gloucester Tree Lookout loop from Pemberton, which features significant elevation gain.
Most popular routes in Big Brook State Forest
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