Last Great Shoreline and Gull Bay Loop

This interconnected route begins from the northern trailhead off Warrick Road in the Town of Putnam, winding through the Last Great Shoreline Preserve before crossing into the neighboring Gull Bay Preserve. Starting on the blue-blazed trail, hikers climb gently through mixed hardwood forest to reach several open viewpoints of Lake George, then continue along a forested ridge with glimpses of the Sucker Brook wetlands and a rare white cedar swamp. After following old logging roads and woodland paths, a yellow-blazed connector trail descends steeply—use caution here—linking to the Gull Bay trail system. At the junction, stay on the marked route to complete a walk around the active beaver pond, where wetland boardwalks and side trails pass vernal pools and offer wildlife viewing. Dogs are not permitted in this section. From here, hikers can return via the same connector or exit south at the alternate parking area on Sagamore Road. Trail conditions vary seasonally, with muddy sections near wetlands and potential for icy patches in winter. This route offers a moderate hiking experience with varied terrain and a chance to see both upland forests and wetland ecosystems in one outing.