Harris Loop

The Harris Conservation Area Trail begins at the small trailhead on Bloody Hollow Road West in the town of Austerlitz. This short, easy route winds through a shady hemlock forest and returns to the same trailhead, forming a modest loop. From the parking area, follow the well-marked footpath as it gently climbs past scattered boulders and crosses over rocky ledges. Stay right at the Y-intersection shortly after the start to follow the loop counterclockwise through mature woods, where damp soil and woodland pools support amphibians and spring salamanders. Midway through the route, look for a small pond—likely a remnant of past mining activity—along with patches of moss and lichen-covered stone. The narrow trail can be muddy or slick, especially after rain or during early spring, and tree roots, logs, and shaded sections call for careful footing. Cell service may be limited, and there are no facilities on site, so plan accordingly. The route ends where it began, making for a peaceful, low-traffic outing suitable for novice hikers or families looking for a gentle walk through classic Columbia County terrain.