Kelly Hollow Trail Loop

The Kelly Hollow Trail Loop is approximately 5.4 kilometers (3.36 miles) long. For jogging, it typically takes around 35-40 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

Yes, the loop is generally considered easy and suitable for beginner joggers. While much of it follows old logging roads, offering a relatively smooth and gentle incline, there are some single-track sections and a more dramatic incline on the western side. The total elevation gain is manageable, making it a good option for those new to trail jogging.

Parking is available directly at the trailhead. The drive to the trailhead itself offers picturesque views of rural New York and working farms.

The terrain is varied, featuring both double-track paths (old logging roads) and single-track sections. You'll encounter numerous stream crossings, often aided by small bridges. The footing is generally excellent. The trail winds through shifting forest types, including towering spruce and hemlock stands, as well as deciduous trees. While some parts are amazingly flat, the western side of the loop has a more noticeable incline.

The trail offers beautiful natural surroundings, including scenic waterfalls, serene streams, and tranquil ponds. A notable highlight is the Beaver Pond and Kelly Hollow Lean-To. You'll also pass through dense pine thickets that create a magical light, and enjoy views of Mill Brook Ridge. The area around the Beaver Pond can sometimes be overgrown.

Yes, the trail has significant historical elements. You'll jog through spruce forests planted by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Additionally, you can discover an old cemetery with graves of Civil War veterans and cellar holes, which are remnants of earlier agricultural settlements, offering glimpses into the past.

Yes, the entire route of the Kelly Hollow Trail Loop is part of the official Kelly Hollow Cross-Country Ski Trail, which is clearly marked with yellow blazes.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, always ensure your dog is under control, preferably on a leash, and remember to pack out any waste to keep the trail clean for everyone.

The trail is beautiful year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and flowing streams, while autumn offers stunning fall foliage. Summer is pleasant, though the area around the Beaver Pond can sometimes be overgrown. It's also a designated cross-country ski trail, implying it's runnable when not covered in snow, making it a good option for winter jogging if conditions allow.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the Kelly Hollow Trail Loop, as it is located within the Balsam Lake Mountain Wild Forest, which is generally open to the public without charge.

Yes, while the main loop is about 3.36 miles, there are options for different distances. You can choose a shorter 1.9-mile loop or the longer 3.8-mile "Beaver Pond Loop" depending on your preference and time.