Saratoga Springs, New York

Not all adventures have to involve scaling crazy-steep mountains or paddling down intense white-water rapids. Some of the best adventures are the relaxing and mellow ones right in our backyards. When I cannot get into the woods every day, I go to the Colonie Town Park, just 10 minutes from my hou...

This 2.3 mile loop trail is lightly trafficked and great for all skill levels. Starting out the trail register, you will see signs from The Nature Conservancy which manages the preserve. Descending down a hill with lots of exposed tree roots, you will then cross over the meandering Lisha Kill and...

Hadley Mountain historically has faced its share of forest fires. The fires left thin soil, leading to more exposed rock on this fairly quick, scenic hike. Due to the rockiness, when you're thinking about heading out for this hike, be sure to grab a sturdy pair of hiking boots or at least your st...

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 Red trail. Shortly after you can go out and back on the Blue trail to view the Upper and Lower Falls from lookouts above. Once back to the Red t...

This scenic byway starts in Fonda, NY and travels along Route 30 to Malone, NY.  The area described and pictured here is a 65 mile stretch from Mayfield to Indian Lake. Starting in Mayfield you will head north driving past the Great Sacandaga Lake. Continuing through the town of Hope  you will dr...

Blueberry Hill East is a loop trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Albany, New York.

Blueberry Hill West Red and Yellow Trail is a loop trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Albany, New York.

Once you drive onto N. Long Pond Road you will follow it appproximately 1.5 miles to the end. From the parking you can take the short walk back on the road to the start of the trail. The trail is actually a rough Fire Tower Road. You will follow this for about 1.3 miles. Here you will see a se...

Over 3 miles of trails provide access to all parts of the preserve, and end up winding through mixed terrain including a wetland, waterfalls, and old stone walls. The property crosses the Bozenkill Road at two points on either side of private parcels (with beautiful homes), so be vigilant there; ...

Lake Shaftsbury State Park is a small park in Southern Vermont between Bennington and Manchester. It is well-loved by locals as swimming spot in the summer, especially for families with kids.  Less well known is the nature trail that meanders around the perimeter of the lake. While only a mile in...

There are many parking areas within the park. Park at the overlook parking. From here you head west following the wood fence. This is the Cliff Top trail. Approximately after walking 0.5 miles you will reach the stairs that will lead you to the base of the cliffs. This marks the start of the...

At the trail register stay to your right at the fork in the trail. The left trail will be where you return. At approximately 0.5 miles you will reach an open ledge area, as you look up a rock cairn will mark where you pick up the trail. At 0.8 miles you will reach the first of two ladders to a...

Of the 10 trails at The Merck, The Wildlife Trail is a great hike through the forest that offers you the best way to see wildlife, streams and tracks. You can do the whole hike as a loop in about 2-2 1/2 hours or shorten it up with some shortcuts if you just want a quick hike. Great for family ...

The hike to beautiful Shelving Rock Falls is only a half mile and well worth the side trip if visiting the east side of Lake George.  Shelving Rock Road, the road to the parking area, is long, winding, and unpaved, but maintained pretty well and passable in a sedan. You'll want to take the road a...

The trailhead for Shelving Rock Mountain has enough room for about five cars but additional parking can be found on the road leading to it. Be sure to sign the log book and begin the hike by passing around the "stop" car barrier.The trail starts off following a small stream (on your right) but yo...

There are a few ways to approach these two peaks. We chose to do a traverse using two vehicles.Starting at Edgecomb Pond Rd you will park along the road. There will be a sign and yellow discs directing you to the start of the trail. The first 0.4 miles is following a dirt road. You will then ...