New Trail Now Open at Moreau Lake State Park 

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation recently announced the opening of a new multi-use trail at Moreau Lake State Park. The 0.7-mile trail provides an additional, less strenuous route from the Lake Bonita parking area to the southern Lake Bonita viewing area as an extension of the existing Lake Ann Trail. The path takes visitors to picturesque lakes of Bonita and Ann, connecting with the park’s nearly 35-mile trail network.  

 The wide, gentle trail meanders through the forest with views of vernal pools and unique rock formations, offering a relaxing experience. The trail features several new boardwalks and bridges, along with an expansive trailhead area for educational programming and group outings.  

 The trail is perfect for hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and non-motorized biking. Pets are allowed on the park trails but are required to be on a leash no longer than six feet and under control at all times. Visitors can access this trail from the Lake Bonita parking area on Wilton Mountain Road. The roughly two-mile Lake Bonita Loop trail is still accessible from this parking area.  

 The new trail is part of the two-mile Lake Ann Trail as shown on the Moreau Lake State Park Trail Map. Visitors are encouraged to download trail maps through the free New York State Parks Explorer app before traveling to the park.  

 Equestrian use is allowed in this area of the park, but is not recommended because of steep, rocky trails. Nearby Big Bend Preserve features six miles of multi-use trail, including horseback riding. An equestrian permit is required to ride in Moreau Lake State Park and Big Bend Preserve.  

 Hunting is prohibited in the Lake Bonita area but is permitted in other sections of Moreau Lake State Park. Hunting is not permitted within 500 feet of any building, road, playground, or parking lot, and all trails are considered safety zones where hunting is not allowed. Hikers are encouraged to wear high-visibility colors such as orange or pink when on the trails during the hunting season. For more hiking safety tips, click here.   

Trail and hunting maps are available at the Moreau Lake State Park Office, the park’s website, and the Explorer app. For further information, call the park office at 518-793-0511.