Plotter Kill Preserve Loop

Schenectady, New York

4.3/5
based on 3 reviews

Details

Distance

6.14 miles

Elevation Gain

860 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Outbound

Plotter Kill Preserve Loop provides stunning views of beautiful waterfalls and several smaller cascades on this local hike.

There are a few entries into the preserve' however, this hike has you entering off of Mariaville Road. There is a kiosk here and you will enter on the Blue trail. Shortly after you can go out on the Blue trail to view the Upper and Lower Falls from lookouts above.

From here, head northeast on the Orange trail, which will take you deeper into the preserve. The Orange trail will connect with the Red Trail, at which point, head to your right on the Red Trail as you continue east until the trail curves to the north. You will pass Jacob's Ladder Falls while you continue on the Red Trail. After this waterfall, there will be a quick offshoot on the Yellow Trail to see another smaller waterfall. After this quick detour, return to the red trail and continue west.  

You will have options to take a detour to Sergeant Falls, then continuing on the Red Trail, pass Rynex Kills Falls, then an optional scramble to the base of Upper Plotter Kills Falls before reconnecting with the Blue Trail. At this point, follow the Blue Trail back to the parking lot. 

Read More

Download Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app
Download GPX File

Features

Hiking
Dog Friendly
Forest
Scenic
Wildlife
Waterfalls

Plotter Kill Preserve Loop Reviews

Beautiful! Would highly recommend staying on the trail, it’s very dangerous if you don’t.

I have only ever been here in the winter. It’s an AMAZING place to snowshoe with some hills and a gorgeous waterfall.

So many great spots to hang out by the water. Only downfall was the loop back was confusing to follow.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Wolf Creek Falls Preserve White Trail Loop

Lisha Kill Preserve Loop

Indian Ladder Trail

Blueberry Hill West Red and Yellow Trail

Blueberry Hill East

Colonie Town Park