Saratoga County offers many scenic walking trails. Natural and hard surface paths crisscross through the county, passing through wetlands, woodlands, and neighborhoods. We have walked most of the trails on the following list. Exploring trails in Saratoga County is a great way to spend the day. If you find yourself in the area, which one will you try?
Clifton Park/Rexford
We (Kathy and Hannah) wrote this post together, so we thought we would start with our home town: Clifton Park.
Vischer Ferry Nature & Historic Preserve: The trails at the Preserve are some of our all-time favorites. Located along the shores of the Mohawk River, the Preserve offers 700 acres of wetlands and floodplains. The town gem is also home to two Erie Canal towpath trails, historic locks, and many nature trails. We’re not sure what we like best: gazing at the river, sighting birds of prey, or reading the historic markers along the way. Our favorite place to access the trails is not at the Whipple Bridge but at the Sugar Hill Road Extension/Vischer Ferry Power Dam entrance. It involves a walk down a paved, steep incline past spectacular views of the power dam. We are told that this spot is an excellent place for bass fishing. Bring your binoculars: the site is a State Bird Conservation Area and an Important Bird Area recognized by Audubon New York. More than 200 bird species have been observed. The main trail is a 3.9-mile loop, and most of the trails are on a natural surface. You can download a map here. Parking: Free Hours: Dawn to dusk. Location: 16 Sugar Hill Road, Vischer Ferry, NY. Note: If you visit in July or August, be sure to bring bug spray. The still waters of the old Erie Canal are a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
Kinns Road Park (Saratoga County Forest): You’ll find that Kinns Road Park is a popular place to walk your dog. In fact, we’ve heard that Kinns Road Park allows dogs to be off-leash, once the pets are registered at the town hall. The state and town manage 96 acres of wooded, beautiful trails, including a 1.3-mile loop. The paths are well marked and usually dry with inclines in several spots. Trekking these natural surface trails make for a fairly easy and enjoyable walk. Parking: Free Hours: Dawn to dusk. Location: 625 Kinns Road, Clifton Park, NY. Note: The trails are good for all skill levels.
Garnsey Park: The first few times we walked these trails, we were a little nervous about the signs stating “Beware of Ticks.” But we’ve always stayed covered up and have never had an issue. Named after one of the town’s founding fathers, the lovely park, along the popular Route 146, offers four different nature trails. The paths meander through 50 acres of meadow, wooded ridgeline, and past two ponds, so you are able to enjoy different types of views. Our favorites are the red and blue trails since we have spotted many types of birds during our walks here (including the Eastern Bluebird!) Just to the north, lies the Waite Road Property owned by Saratoga P.L.A.N. At one point in the Park, you may see distant views of the peaks of two bordering states. Garnsey Park is also a great place to snowshoe. Dogs are allowed if they are on a leash. Parking: Free Hours: Dawn to dusk. Location: 1481 NYS-146, Rexford, NY 12148.
Corinth/Moreau
Lake Ann and Lake Bonita Trails: If you’re looking for a nice forest setting with trails that are good for all skill levels, Lake Ann and Lake Bonita Trails may be for you. The 4-mile loop is well-traveled but still peaceful. In the winter the trail can get covered and icy in spots. Still, you’ll enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way. Parking: Fee collected most days of the year Hours: Dawn to dusk. Location: Lake Bonita Trailhead-Moreau Lake State Park, 201 Wilton Rd, Corinth, NY 12822.
Moreau State Park (Other Trails): We’ve hiked these trails while camping at Moreau State Park. On our last visit, we saw a Loon and heard its eery cry as it took flight. We’ll never forget it! Trails at Lake Moreau travel through hardwood forests, pine stands, and rocky ridges. All in all, there are about 18 trails within the park. These range from .35 miles to 5.93 miles in length but many have elevation gains. Don’t miss the 1.8-mile Western Ridge Trail (with overlook) and the Moreau Lake Nature Trail/Mud Pond Walk, a 2.1-mile hike. A trail map may be found here.
Halfmoon
Margaret Lemire
Halfmoon Town Park: If you’re looking to walk and exercise in a pretty location, this may be the place for you. You’ll travel on stone dust trails around the perimeter of the park as you gaze at farmlands and wooded areas. Ballplayers may even be starting a game in one of the fields as you loop around several times. Bring Fido: dogs are permitted. Note: The restrooms are open May – October 15th. There is a playground for the kiddos on site. Parking: Free Hours: Dawn to dusk. Location: 162 NY-236, Clifton Park, NY 12065
Stillwater/Waterford
Wilkinson Trail: The Wilkinson trail is a beautiful path within the historic Saratoga National Battlefield. You’ll hike 4.2 miles through wide meadows and forest while remembering the Battle of Saratoga. From your history lessons, you’ll recall that the Battle was a major turning point during the American Revolutionary War. The lovely trail is named after a young lieutenant Colonel aide to the American commander, General Gates. Today, it’s the main trail located within the Park. Parking: Free Hours: Sunrise to sunset with the exception of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Day Location: 648 Route 32, Stillwater, NY 12170
Champlain Canalway Trail: The Champlain Canalway is planned to travel 60 miles through many communities, including the Town of Waterford. The 6-mile trail actually begins in historic Waterford at the junction of the Hudson River, Champlain Canal, Mohawk River, and Erie Canal. The varied-surface path passes Old Champlain Lock 4, Erie Canal Lock 2, and continues north to the border with the Town of Halfmoon. When open, we recommend stopping at the Visitor Center at the beginning of the trail to learn more about the fascinating history of the canal system. Parking: Free Hours: Undocumented Location: Park at various places including on a side street in Waterford or at Peebles Island (south entrance) or Lighthouse Park in Halfmoon and at Upper Newtown Rd (north entrance).
Peebles Island Perimeter Trail: Peebles Island State Park in Waterford is a personal favorite of Hannah and her dog, Ferris. Purchased by New York State in 1983, the island has a rich history: from its original Mohican inhabitants to its Dutch colonial possession, and then as a strategic staging ground for Colonel Thaddeus Kosciuszko’s troops during the Revolutionary War. Earthworks created by these troops are still visible today near the visitor center. The Perimeter Trail is 2.0 miles of dirt and shale trails that meander through woodlands and along the edge of the Island’s cliffs, giving spectacular views of waterfalls, dams, and smaller islands in the Mohawk and Hudson Rivers. If you’re looking for a shorter loop, make use of the interior Fire Run, Eagles View, or Deer Run trails. Visitors love these trails because of the opportunities to sight Bald Eagles, migratory birds, and White-tailed deer. Dogs on leash are permitted. Parking: Free Hours: Sunrise to sunset Location: 1 Delaware Avenue North, Cohoes, NY 12047
Ballston Lake/Ballston Spa/Malta
Ballston Veterans Bike Path: Walk or bike on the 3.5-mile flat and straight, asphalt covered trail. The Veterans Bike Path starts out narrow, but soon widens. Stretching from Outlet Road in Ballston Spa to Route 146A in the Village of Ballston Lake, the paved path follows along the western shore of Ballston Lake. It’s interesting to note that the trail is built on the rail bed of a part of history: the extinct trolley line of the Schenectady Railroad Company. Listen for trains whistling and birds singing as you enjoy your time on this trail. Parking: Free Hours: Undocumented Location: Northern Trailhead: Outlet Road, Ballston Spa, NY (past the railroad tracks. Parking area is down the road on the left) Southern Trailhead: Route 146A, Ballston Lake, NY (near Carney’s Tavern)
Burl Trail at Gray’s Crossing: Burl trail is a one-mile loop within Gray’s Crossing Park. The lovely, wooded trail follows the Kayaderosseras Creek; a popular waterway for kayakers. It’s so relaxing to walk this path in the summer with its plethora of wildflowers on display. We have to remind ourselves that we can’t pick the flowers! Also in season, look for songbirds, turtles, garter snakes, and pickerel frogs. Parking: Free Hours: Undocumented Location: Northline Rd, Ballston Spa, NY 12020 (Between Route 50 and Old Post Road)
100 Acre Wood Trail System: We’ve only been on this trail once, but we noticed that it’s good for all skill levels. The 2.6-mile out and back trail offers an opportunity to view wildlife while fitting in exercise. The trails (many of which are former logging trails) are marked well. We have also heard that they are usually in good condition. Look for the wooden stairs near a small creek for a nice photo opportunity. Parking: Undocumented Hours: Undocumented Location: Luther Forest Blvd, Ballston Spa, NY 12020
Zim Smith Mid-County Trail: The Zim Smith Trail has always been one of our go-to’s when we need a flat, accessible, and wheels-ready trail. This 11.5 mile asphalt trail connects several towns in Saratoga County, stretching from Ballston Spa to Halfmoon, and then east towards Mechanicville. Zim Smith has many access points along the route, but our favorite places to join are in the adorable village of Round Lake and at the Shenantaha Creek Park in Malta. The trail extends through various habitats in Saratoga County, including meadows, woodlands, and wetlands. The vast majority of the trail is flat and paved, which makes it perfect for strollers, bikes, and young children. Note: The Zim Smith Trail is completely linear, so make a plan about how far you want to walk before you head back to your parking spot. Parking: Various Hours: Sunrise to sunset Location: Various
Saratoga Springs/Wilton/Gaansevoort
Did you know that Saratoga has been known for its medicinal, mineral springs since early Native Americans discovered their healing powers? In the 1800s, a railroad moved passengers between downtown Saratoga Springs and Saratoga Lake for outdoor fun, with stops for the mineral springs and mud baths en route. Today, some of the city’s best trails follow the Victorian-era railroad bed.
Bee Trail Loop: Located in the Daniels Road State Forest, Bee Trail is a 5.2-mile natural surface, loop trail. Bikers and hikers enjoy viewing the wildlife and flora as they traverse the rolling terrain of the trail. Watch for the unusual “skeleton man rock” as you walk. For hikers, the trail takes about two hours to complete and is considered moderate-to-difficult. Note that the Bee Trail Loop has many rocks and roots so wear appropriate shoes. The trail is also not well marked in some spots and can be icy in places. Bee Trail Loop is very popular with expert mountain bikers. Parking: Free and available around the horse stables on Daniels Road. Hours: Unknown Location: 157 Daniels Rd, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Bog Meadow Brook Nature Trail: Bog Meadow Trail is worlds away from Bee Trail Loop. Although they are both natural paths, Bog Meadow is an easy-to-moderate walk through 174 acres of wetlands and woods. The two-mile path (4.1-mile out and back) follows an abandoned railroad that once connected Saratoga to other points in the Northeast. About halfway in, a wooden boardwalk spans open marshland. Look for heron, raptors, evergreens, ferns, and meadowsweet. Bicyclists are prohibited but snowshoeing and cross-country skiing is permitted. Parking: Free Hours: Sunrise to Sunset Location: 2 Lake Ave. at Old Schuylerville Rd. and Meadowbrook Rd./CR 65157 Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Saratoga Spa State Park: Over ten trails covering more than 18 miles are available in this fantastic state park. Many of the trails are actually multi-use. We have hiked and snowshoed in the park and it is really an awesome way to spend a Saturday afternoon. Whether you prefer a stroll along the paved 1.8-mile Avenue of the Pines, or hiking and bird watching on the Gideon Putnam Trail, you are sure to find the right path. Our favorite is a scenic walk through nature on the Geyser Creek Trail, just east of the Performing Arts Center.
Saratoga is, of course, known for its historic mineral springs and infamous race track. Before leaving do as the people of the 19th Century did; enjoy a drink from a mineral spring and a refreshing dip in the Roosevelt Mineral Baths. The Baths usually require an advance appointment. Hours: Vary by season Parking: $10 per vehicle (summer & fall) Location: 19 Roosevelt Drive, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Spring Run Trail: Owned by the City of Saratoga Springs, Spring Run Trail is an off-road, walking, and bicycle loop trail. We have never walked this trail, but have heard that it follows a Victorian-era railroad bed. Many people seem to enjoy the 1-mile, paved path that travels through woods, wetlands, and by the Spring Run waterway. Look for snow geese, hawks, owls, and more on this recognized year-round birding destination. The trail is handicapped accessible. Hours: Undocumented Parking: Free Location: Park near the corner of East Avenue and Excelsior Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park: Several government agencies and a private organization have come together to manage this unique nature park. The site houses 2,400 acres which include a visitor center with programming and over twenty-five miles of hiking trails. Stop at the visitor center to learn about the ecological features of Saratoga Sandplains; an area of ancient sand dunes. The ecological community is home to the federally endangered Karner Blue butterfly. We’ve never spotted the butterfly at this park (we have at another in Albany), but we did attend a guided hike to learn about the threatened Blanding’s Turtle. It’s a smallish turtle that looks like it is always smiling. So, in season, watch where you are stepping! Trails are natural-surfaced and comprised of forest and field floor with some sandy sections and steep terrain. Hours: Dawn to dusk Parking: Free Location: 80 Scout Road, Gansevoort, NY 12831 (In winter, the town plows parking lots #1 and #3.)
Champlain Canalway Trail: Saratoga: The Champlain Canalway travels 8 miles through the Town of Saratoga. The crushed-stone and dirt path passes by the historic Schuyler House (U.S. General and father of U.S. canals), Dix Bridge, and ends at Hudson Crossing Park. Here you will also find a sensory nature trail. We’ve walked the lower portion of the trail near Waterford. It is one of our favorites. We can almost imagine a horse pulling the canal boat by rope as we walk the path. Hours: Undocumented Parking: Free Location: Several entrance points. See the map here.
Considerations
Prepare for your walk. Review the safety advice of the managing land agency before you start. Stick to the trails and do not disturb wildlife. Trails may have poison ivy nearby, be buggy, and can be close to vegetation with harmful ticks. Bring bug spray and sunscreen, and keep all skin areas covered. Check for closures, conditions, hours of operation, and other information, before you start out.
References
Chanplain Canalway Trail: Home
Clifton Park Open Spaces: Vischer Ferry Nature & Historic Preserve
Friends of Peebles Island State Park: Virtual Hike of the Perimeter Trail
New York State Dept. of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation: Peebles Island State Park
New York State Dept of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation: Moreau Lake State Park
New York State Dept of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation: Saratoga Spa State Park
Saratoga.Com: Ballston Veterans Bike Trail
Saratoga Plan: Bog Meadow Brook Nature Trail
Saratoga Plan: Spring Run Trail
Saratoga Plan: Zim Smith Trail
Wilton Wildlife Preserve and Park: Home
Resources
Parks & Trails NY: Trailfinder Map
Photo Credits:
Carly Lemire-Lake
Margaret Lemire