Ann Lee Pond Preserve is a 2.3 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Latham, New York that features beautiful wild flowers and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail.
The pond is not very large, but is pretty and steeped in history. It was named for Mother Ann Lee, founder of the 18th century Shaker religious community. The preserve is owned and maintained by Albany County as well as the seven remaining buildings from the community. Although located in a bustling area today, this land was once all farmland and very rural in nature when the Shakers lived here.
The preserve is generally located south of Heritage Lane adjoining Ann Lee Pond and eastward to Albany Shaker Road. Parking is available in two nearly adjoining lots along Heritage Lane
Very icy right now, thank goodness for footprints in the snow or I would have been lost out there. The markers disappear on the trail for a bit but i made it out alive. It’s very quiet, which was nice! Wear warm waterproof shoes.
Hard packed snow today. No need for snowshoes or microspikes
A large portion of the loop as it’s shown on the AllTrails app is unmarked. Smaller sections of the trail are marked red or blue. In order to enjoy the unmarked trail I had to keep the AllTrails map open which worked ok but isn’t ideal. This unmarked section was worn enough that it’s popularity would warrant having it marked. Also there wasn’t a trail map at the head at the one parking lot so we only had the AllTrails app to go off. All that aside it was an easy & enjoyable nature walk appropriate for various skill levels. No change in elevation and nothing to get your heart rate pumping other than your own pace. Crossing the pond was lovely and added nice interest to our walk.
A local favorite. Saw a couple groups with dogs and a mountain biker.