Madawaska is part of a conservation easement in the larger Santa Clara Tract. This remote pond covers more than 220 acres and is largely oriented east-west.

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Birding

This beautiful area of state lands has exceptional birding. Look for Common Loons, Common Mergansers, and American Black Duck. There's a long list of warblers, which include Yellow-rumped, Pine, Northern Parula, and Common Yellowthroat.

This is one of the featured locations of the annual Paul Smith's VIC Great Adirondack Birding Celebration (GABC), a 3-day Adirondack birding festival.

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Paddling

The hand launch for paddling is 0.4 miles from the trailhead. Be aware that, due to the pond's size, windy days may make paddling into the wind slow going. Paddling here, among large stretches of water lilies and pickerel weed, is very attractive. Paddling south from the launch will take paddlers downstream into the Quebec Brook, a popular paddle.

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Hiking

The pond is great for walking and paddling. Walking the old road is easy and gentle, with consistent views of the pond. Walk to the western end of the pond, where the remains of a small wooden bridge cross the stream. While walking, look for interesting plant life, including mosses and lichen.

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Getting there

Drive south on Route 30 to the intersection with Route 458, turning right. Watch for a left-hand turn 1.4 miles after the intersection. Follow this dirt road to the pond trailhead. Be aware that the road is very rough and in wet weather can be extremely muddy and/or flooded.

From the trailhead, walk the old road along the pond.

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Read our blog about Birding in Madawaska