Directions to launch area: Take the New York State Thruway (I90) to Rt. 12 N, then to Rt. 28 N. Within 1 1/2 hours you will arrive in the Village of Eagle Bay. Just past the grocery store on the left take a left on Big Moose Road. Drive a few miles, passing two trailheads on the right. The Moss Lake parking area is on the left.

Of all the places I've been in the Adirondacks, there is no better general-purpose introduction to the area than Moss Lake. For a short, easy hike it's ideal; just take the 2.5 mile trail encircling the lake, which is particularly beautiful in the fall. If you are ready for a longer hike, take the trail to the left and then detour onto the Bubb Lake trail. Those who are feeling particularly ambitious may want to explore beyond Bubb to Sis Lake and perhaps even continue on the Scenic Mountain Trail which parallels Route 28 and ends at the Bald Mountain trailhead. But even if you don't roam far, Moss Lake itself holds endless treasures. Walk straight down the trail and you will find one of the best swimming areas in the Adirondacks. If you're a good swimmer you might even want to try for the island 1/4 mile out; your reward will be a closeup view of the ospreys in their nest perched atop the hulk of a great tree there. Moss Lake is also one of the best spots I have encountered to view loons; spend time on the water or along the shore and you will eventually see one hunting. Watch as it dives beneath the water; after 30 seconds to a minute you will find yourself wondering where it could possibly have gone. Then, out of the corner of your eye, you will see it bob to the surface, several hundred yards away from where it dove!