Where to Find Easy Fall Foliage Hikes In & Near Saratoga Springs, NY
While many people dream of summer when they think about hiking, you do not want to miss out on all the views of vibrant foliage during fall. Luckily, there are a number of great walking trails in the Saratoga area where you can see the colorful leaves and enjoy the crisp autumn air.
Congress Park
Don't want to travel too far for your next leaf peeping trip? Head to downtown Saratoga for a nice easy stroll through Congress Park. The walking trails are perfect for all ages, and you can admire the fall foliage, the statues and monuments, and ornate fountains. Have a seat on one of the benches and soak up the scenic surroundings. It's a short tour, but well worth it this season!
Saratoga Spa State Park
You can find plenty of easy hiking trails throughout Saratoga Spa State Park that are perfect for exploring during the fall season. If you're up for a full five-mile hike, you can go around the entire park; otherwise, follow the other main trails and shorter routes. Trails vary in length from .22 mile to 2.9 miles long.
Bog Meadow Brook Nature Trail
Located in Saratoga Springs, the Bog Meadow Brook Nature Trail is a two-mile path that travels along an abandoned railroad. It's a year-round favorite for a fun hike in the woods, and you'll pass by benches, interpretive signage, and viewing areas where you can get a good look at the natural surroundings. Bring the family and travel down the nature trail this fall.
Saratoga National Historical Park
Saratoga National Historical Park in nearby Stillwater is the site of the Saratoga Battlefield where the Battle of Saratoga took place - this was a crucial battle fought and won by the Americans in 1777 during the Revolutionary War. The park is also home to the popular Wilkinson National Recreation Trail, a 4.25-mile long hiking trail that offers amazing views of fall foliage. You can also drive, walk, or bike along the Driving Tour Road to scenic overlooks and historic sites.
Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park
Over 2,400 acres of land and 20+ miles of hiking trails await you in the Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park, located in Gansevoort, just under 20 minutes from Saratoga Springs. There are a number of components to the park, ranging from Camp Saratoga (a former boy scout camp) to Old Gick Farm and more. The land encompasses wetlands, vernal ponds, sandy areas, and forestland.
Established in 1996, this preserve and park is dedicated to conservation and education efforts, and they're the only other preserve in the area besides the Albany Pine Bush Preserve that engages in serious efforts to protect the Karner Blue Butterfly. Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park is open daily from dawn to dusk, so come by and see the colors of fall during your outdoor hiking adventure.
Moreau Lake State Park
Moreau Lake State Park in Gansevoort, located approximately 20 minutes from Saratoga, features beautiful fall foliage surrounding the lake. Try hiking the 5.93-mile Western Ridge Trail that passes by a number of scenic overlooks. There are a wide range of trails to choose from, whether you want to hike a mile into the woods or spend a few hours in Moreau Lake State Park. Map out your route ahead of time and enjoy the great outdoors!