Persistent Moose Blocks Popular Upstate New York Trail

A well-known hiking trail in upstate New York has remained closed for over a month due to a large, stubborn bull moose refusing to leave the area.

The Goodman Mountain Trailhead near Tupper Lake was shut down on June 6 after the moose settled near the summit of the 1.5-mile trail and has shown no intention of moving. Officials from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation noted that the animal continues to reside on or near the trail and exhibits unusual behavior.

It is believed that the moose may be suffering from an underlying illness affecting its behavior, as attempts to relocate it have been unsuccessful. While the animal has not displayed aggression thus far, it could become dangerous if approached too closely.

Hikers first spotted the moose in May near Horseshoe Lake Wild Forest. Observers, including Martha Quilliam, described the creature as non-aggressive, noting it was more curious than confrontational. She returned two weeks later to find the moose still in the same spot, remaining calm around humans.

Environmental conservation officers have kept the trail closed and station Rangers at its entrance to prevent public access while efforts to encourage the moose to leave continue. The trail is likely to remain off-limits until the animal is deemed healthy or able to be relocated safely.

While moose sightings are common in this region during spring and early summer, such an extended stay in one place is unusual. Wildlife experts warn that the size and lack of fear exhibited by adult moose make it easy for hikers to unknowingly get too close, increasing risk of dangerous encounters.

In 2018, officials documented approximately 600-700 moose sightings within the Adirondack Park, highlighting the species’ regular presence in the area.