Hiking
How to get there
From the intersection of Route 28 and Route 30 in Indian Lake follow Route 30 toward Speculator. Continue for just over 16-miles to Jessup River Road (dirt) on the right. Follow here to Perkins Clearing (T-Intersection). Take a right onto Military Road to Sled Harbor. There is an intersection here, go straight to the Spruce Lake Trailhead, you will be at the trailhead in just over 7-miles.
Trail Description
From the trailhead you will start along a continuation of an old road, which has quickly become a foot trail to access the lake rather than a long hike along the Northville Placid Trail (NPT). This first section of trail is 1 mile in length and accesses the NPT about 2.25 miles south of Spruce Lake. You will gain a couple hundred feet in the climb along this section but it is very easy. Once on the NPT take a right and start a somewhat wet hike. There are a couple brook crossings along the way but they are relatively easy and narrow. You will arrive at the south end of Spruce Lake.
Bring a map and compass. While it is clear to follow, this is a non-maintained trail.
Distances
3.2 miles
Family with Young Kids
- 3.5 to 4 hours
Experienced Hiker
- 2.5 to 3 hours
Inexperienced Hiker
- 3.5 to 4 hours
Fishing
There's brook trout and black bullhead. Trail access on the east shore is from the Northville-Placid Trail. No motors allowed.
Camping
There are designated primitive tent sites along the trail, and three lean-tos on the eastern shore of Spruce Lake.
Snowshoeing
It's an easy trail with a fine finish at the lake, but do not attempt unless the trail has been broken out or you have a map and compass.
