Old Gick Farm & Fox Parcel: Neighboring Trails
The Old Gick Farm & Fox Parcel trails are both part of the Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park, and their trailheads are across the street from each other. Check out these great hiking spots and see what else the preserve has to offer!
Old Gick Farm
Part of the Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park since 1998 and owned by New York State, the Old Gick Farm used to be a fully operating farm. However, years of inactivity resulted in the growth of shrubs and trees, such as the pitch pine and oak that have since filled in some of the open areas there.
What To Expect
There is one main trail that is almost a full mile long and is mostly flat. The terrain is sandy and there are rarely wet or muddy spots. It's a great trail to utilize year-round for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. There are also three secondary trails that spur off the main one. The trailhead has a kiosk that includes maps and information about the natural environment.
The restoration of this farmland has provided habitats for many endangered species, including the Karner blue butterfly, frostin elfin butterfly, the spadefoot toad and the eastern hognose snake. Delegan Brook flows through the western part of Old Gick Farm, where there is a designated overlook where some have said to spot a moose or two!
How to Get to Old Gick Farm
From Saratoga, drive north on Route 50 for approximately five miles. Take a left into the "U" shaped parking lot that will have a sign marked "Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park."
Fox Parcel
Owned by the Nature Conservancy and located in the Wilton Preserve, Fox Parcel is a beautiful place to take a walk and soak in nature. This 89-acre parcel provides glimpses into rare ecological communities that are definitely worth checking out.
What To Expect
The Fox Parcel offers an outstanding combintation of sandy lands and pine barren ponds.The trails are mowed with a gently rolling terrain. Avoid wearing sandals; wet areas are very common here!
How To Get To Fox Parcel
From Saratoga, drive north on Route 50 for approximately five miles. Take a left into the "U" shaped parking lot that will have a sign marked "Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park." The Fox Parcel parking lots are located right across Route 50 from the Old Gick Farm Trail.