13 Best Hiking Trails Saratoga Springs has – Epic Spots for Saratoga Springs Hiking

Looking for the all-time best spots for Saratoga Springs hiking? If so then this super snazzy guide to the best hiking trails Saratoga Springs has is perfect for you.

After all, I live a hoot and holler down the road from Saratoga and have been visiting for the past 30+ years.

Therefore, I really do know all about some of the best hikes in Saratoga Springs – hidden gems that are next-level gorgeous and that you need to visit right this minute.

So, after visiting the immortal race track and the many stunning historic buildings that line the town center, be sure to get outside and use this guide to experience the best hikes near Saratoga Springs.

This way, you can quickly and easily swan dive into all the overwhelming natural beauty and the stunning landscapes that this town in upstate New York is known for.

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Easy Saratoga Springs Hiking

1. Five Mile

This trail is just over 5 miles long (as the name suggests or 8.4 km for anyone who uses the metric system) and is considered to be ideal for beginners.

Therefore, it’s a really easy, loop trail that takes you through Saratoga State Park – which is only about a 30-minute walk from downtown Saratoga Springs.

As a result, this is one of the most accessible things to do in Saratoga Springs since this trail starts and ends in the area where there are bathroom facilities and paved parking lots.

Additionally, there are plenty of other facilities and parking lots nestled along the loop. Therefore, you don’t have to start and end at the same trailhead.

Before you go, do note that the trail markers on the Five Mile trail are not wonderful.

As a result, bring a map, pay attention to where you’re going, and give yourself ample time. You know, just in case you get a little off the trail.

This way, you’re not out on one of the best hiking trails Saratoga has to offer after the sun goes down.

And, added bonus? This trail is really good for families with kids since there are a number of playgrounds nearby. Leashed dogs are also welcome on the trail at this Saratoga Springs hiking spot.

Distance: 5.2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Route: Loop
Elevation Gain: 259 feet

2. North Woods Outer Loop

The North Woods Outer Loop is, you guessed it, a loop. In total it’s about 2.9 km or just under 2 miles.

And as you navigate one of the best Saratoga Springs hiking trails in the area, you’ll encounter about 217 ft of elevation gain – or around 21 flights of stairs (but not all at once!).

Therefore, it’s one of the more straightforward hikes near Saratoga Springs that you can probably finish in under an hour – though where’s the fun in that!?

Plus, there is a lot to see along the way, including a vibrant array of flora and fauna.

Also, while the North Woods – all 150 acres of them – do belong to Skidmore College, they are open to the community, and you are permitted to use them.

So, don’t be alarmed when you pass through the college grounds here – like the recreation fields – as you tackle some of the best hikes in Saratoga Springs.

And If you’re interested in birdwatching, the North Woods Outer Loop is a great place to whip out your binoculars and spot things like woodpeckers and the Tufted Titmouse.

Distance: 1.8 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Route: Loop
Elevation Gain: 206 feet

3. Gideon Putnam Trail

While the Gideon Putnam Trail is a bit of a long trail at 10.3 km or about 6.5 miles, it is still considered to be an easy hike since it includes very little elevation gain, if any at all.

Now, this is one of the best hikes near Saratoga Springs trail does make a full loop, so there’s no need to go back on yourself and hike through the same area twice.

Plus, you can spot loads of wildlife in the trees and out in the open meadows, which are brimming over with wildflowers during the warmer months.

Or, if you’re looking to enjoy Saratoga Springs hiking trails in the wintertime, go for a snowshoe along the path.

After all, you’ll enjoy a combination of paved and dirt paths, complete with tons of facilities and plenty of spots to stop and take a break along a picturesque creek.

You will also share the road here with cyclists. So, if you’re on foot, be on the lookout and be sure to share the path with others.

Distance: 6.4 miles
Difficulty: 164 feet
Route: Loop
Elevation Gain: Easy

4. Bog Meadow Brook Nature Trail

Bog Meadow Brook Nature Trail is a little over 4 miles long and is an out and back trail with parking lots conveniently located at both ends.

Therefore, you can enjoy some amazing Saratoga Springs hiking in either direction since Saratoga PLAN – which started as Saratoga Springs Open Space Project – created this trail as part of their very first project.

And so, this is one of the best hikes near Saratoga Springs that has been around since the early 90s and that runs along an old, abandoned train track.

Also, because the trail is on a nature preserve, no bikes or motorized vehicles are permitted – ensuring you a bit of peace and quiet! Plus, dogs are allowed when on leash.

Just note that because the protected lands along this trail are wetlands, the trail can, indeed, get wet.

Therefore, it’s best to wear waterproof shoes when exploring this area and marveling at amazing waterbirds like geese and herons.

Distance: 4.1 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Route: Out and Back
Elevation Gain: 49 feet

5. Geyser Loop Trail

Geyser Loop Trail (also known as Vale of Springs Trail) runs for 4.7 km or about 3 miles and can be done in about an hour if you’re not taking too many breaks.

In fact, it’s the longest trail in Saratoga Spa State Park but is classified as easy since it features a very slight elevation gain that will largely go unnoticed.

Now, once you’re on one of the best hiking trails Saratoga has to offer, you’ll pass by two of the many springs that Saratoga Springs is named after Island Spouter and Orenda Spring.

In fact, Island Spouter is the only geyser in the US east of the Mississippi! Yup, shocking but totally true.

There are also quite a few options when it comes to parking at one of the best hikes near Saratoga Springs.

So, you can start the trail from a number of different locations and loop back around to your car.

Additionally, there are a few nice toilets along the route so you won’t have to heed the call of nature in the wilds of Saratoga.

Distance: 2.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Route: Loop
Elevation Gain: 285 feet

6. Spring Run Trail

Spring Run Trail is an awesome choice for one of the best hiking trails Saratoga has since it is handicap accessible – even in winter when the city of Saratoga plows it and sands it to keep it safe for hikers.

Unfortunately though, in wet weather water tends together under one of the bridge overpasses – but you should be able to pass through with few issues.

This out and back trail also measures out at 3.5 km, or just a bit over 2 miles, and is pretty flat and easy to hike.

And if you’d like to try a bit of a longer hike, you can combine the Spring Run Trail with the Bog Meadow Brook Nature Trail for a total of about 11 miles of hiking, walking, and running glory.

As with many of the hiking trails Saratoga has, you’re likely to spot amazing birds in the surrounding marshes, including everything from herons to woodpeckers and blue jays.

Distance: 2.2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Route: Out and Back
Elevation Gain: 36 feet

7. Warming Hut Loop

Go for a 3.2 km, or less than 2 miles, hike around the flat, easy, and paved Warming Hut Loop.

The loop is close to Saratoga and takes you through the area’s many majestic forests. So, if you’re looking for Saratoga Springs hiking trails that are energetic and exciting, this probably isn’t it.

But, if you want a relaxing stroll, especially with younger kids, then this is a great, easy choice. Dogs are also welcome to join you if they are on a leash.

Plus, the Warming Hut that this hike is named for is exactly as it sounds, and is a nice treat if you decide to hit the trails in winter.

There’s even a giant fire pit in the middle of the hut to help make the entire building warm and toasty during the cold winter.

Distance: 2.0 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Route: Loop
Elevation Gain: 16 feet

8. Hemlock trail

With little to no elevation gain, Hemlock Trail is considered an easy 3.9 km, or 2.5 miles, loop hike that takes you through a vast wooded area that also features several fields and wetland areas too.

Therefore, it can be done easily in an hour and features two distinct loops that can be combined to create one larger loop.

This is also one of the top hiking trails Saratoga has that run through Saratoga State Park – which makes sense since this path was originally designed to become part of a golf course.

Luckily for you though, that never happened and this is now one of the best Saratoga Springs hiking trails for families.

Dogs are also welcome and can use the path even when they are off-leash. Just remember that there’s lots of water near the trail, making things a bit boggy throughout the spring.

So, be sure to wear waterproof shoes and check for ticks since they are all too common from one of the best hikes in Saratoga Springs.

Distance: 2.4 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Route: Loop
Elevation Gain: 36 feet

9. Kalabus-Perry Forest Loop

If you’re looking for a slightly longer, but easy, well-maintained trail in Saratoga, Kalabus-Perry Forest Loop is a great choice.

After all, it measures 7.6 km long, or just under 5 miles, and has almost no elevation gain.

This is also one of the hiking trails Saratoga Springs has that is actually outside of Saratoga and about a 15-minute drive away.

It’s also one of the best hikes near Saratoga Springs that sits in between the towns of Wilton and Northumberland, just inside the Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park

If you do decide to bring your favorite canine companion with you, just remember that dogs are allowed but must remain on a leash at all times.

Motorized vehicles are also not allowed in the preserve, but you are likely to encounter cyclists since this trail is quite popular with both mountain bikers and cross-country bikers.

Also, please remember that there are tons of smaller trails cutting through the area that are not part of the main loop.

So, always stay aware of the path you are following! Because while you are welcome to head off the main trail, you are more likely to encounter mountain bikers coming around blind turns at wicked fast speeds – something that can definitely be more than a little scary!

Distance: 4.7 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Route: Loop
Elevation Gain: 229 feet

10. Rowland Hollow Creek  Trail 

Another trail that is a short distance away from Saratoga springs is the Rowland Hollow Creek trail. You definitely need a car to reach the starting spot of this trail because you need to drive for about 3 miles. The effort involved is so worth it because the whole trail is super peaceful. 

After you’ve soaked in the tranquil beauty of the creek, it’s time to lace up those hiking boots again and get moving. You’ll be veering off the beaten path, cutting across a breathtaking meadow teeming with wildflowers – hold up, did I just see Bambi dashing off in the distance?!

As you leave the meadow behind, you’ll find yourself in the heart of the forest. It’s like stepping into another world – a world where the tweets come from birds, not a smartphone! The air here is so fresh and invigorating, you’d swear it’s nature’s own brand of caffeine. And as you wander deeper into the forest, the canopies above create a beautifully dappled light show on the forest floor.

Before you know it, you’ll be back at the parking spot, your heart pumping with the thrill of the journey you’ve just experienced. Remember, the best adventurer is a safe one – so pack out anything you brought in, and leave only footprints behind.

Distance: 1.1 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Route: Loop

Elevation Gain: 6 feet

Moderate Saratoga Springs Hiking

11. Bee Trail Loop

A bit more of a challenge, the Bee Trail Loop is a 8.4 km long Saratoga Springs hiking trail. With over 400 feet of elevation gain, this loop includes some mountain-goating over rocky outcrops.

Therefore, it’s more of a semi- challenging hike that can be found in Daniels Road State Forest.

And while this is one of the best hikes near Saratoga Springs that is called a loop, the Bee Trail itself is actually point to point.

In fact, to actually complete the loop, you would need to continue on with the Main Trail. Regardless of how you decide to hike it though, It’s a lovely trail to head out on in spring or summer when the wildflowers are in full bloom.

And while this is a great hiking trail in Saratoga, it is also a favorite amongst trail runners and mountain bikers, which means you’ll need to be on the lookout for oncoming traffic, especially on hills where cyclists may be traveling quite quickly.

FYI, dogs are also welcome on the trail and can even venture off-leash in some areas.

Distance: 5.2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Route: Loop
Elevation Gain: 413 Feet

12. Carriage Trail Loop

Carriage Trail Loop is a 6.4 km – or just under 4 miles long – loop trail that has a slight elevation gain and is moderately difficult.

It’s pretty easy for most people though and can be completed in about an hour and a half.

Now, if you want to set yourself up for more of a challenge and spend extra time outdoors on one of the hiking trails Saratoga has to offer, you can combine this trail –Carriage Trail – with four others: Main, Upper Canyon, Devil’s Den, and Backstretch, for a combined distance of 16.4 km or just over 10 miles.

However, Carriage Trail on its own is great for walking, trail running, or mountain biking (the trail is maintained by a mountain biking association), but can also be great for snowshoeing or x-country skiing in winter.

Just be sure to always stay on the trail wherever you are hiking – a fact that is especially important here since the trail is largely on private land and going off-trail could lead to some big problems on one of the best hikes near Saratoga Springs.

Distance: 4.0 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Route: Loop
Elevation Gain: 324 feet

13. Kayaderosseras Creek from Lake Lonely

Now hold on to your hats, my friends, because this place isn’t just for those looking to dip their toes into some watersports. Oh no, it’s also a haven for us hikers! But, let me just give you the heads up here, this isn’t a ‘walk in the park’ trail.

It’s marked as a moderate hike, but not because the trail conditions are too challenging. It’s because this hike is a whopping 7.5 miles long. So, folks, make sure you pack your favorite trail mix and plenty of water!

One of the best parts about this hike? It’s usually pretty quiet. Most people come to the Kayaderosseras for the water activities, so the trail tends to be a little less traveled. And you know what that means? Peace, quiet, and the perfect chance to do some bird watching. Who knows what feathered friends you’ll spot along the way! Remember to pack your binoculars!

Distance: 7.5 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 45 feet

Hiking Trails Saratoga Springs FAQ

Can You Hike In Saratoga Springs?

Saratoga Springs is a hiker’s paradise with its small mountains that are just begging to be conquered and the lakes that are forever ready to mirror the awe-inspiring beauty of the skies.

You’re going to love the fresh, crisp air that’s like Mother Nature’s very own brand of air freshener. It’s just what your city-weary lungs are craving! And the views, oh the views! They are simply spectacular.

What Is So Special About Saratoga Springs?

Saratoga Springs is fondly known as “the Queen of the Spas.” Now, I know what you’re thinking – Queen of the Spas? That’s because, my friends, this place has been the go-to health resort and gambling hot spot for much of the 19th and 20th centuries. Oh yeah, it’s got some stories to tell!

So, let’s rewind to the Paleozoic Era (don’t worry, no dinosaurs here!). A series of faults or cracks split the bedrock underneath, creating these passageways for water to gush up to the surface. And this isn’t just your average H2O. We’re talking mineral-rich, health-boosting, spring water that put Saratoga Springs on the map! It’s like Earth’s own spa treatment, right from the source, and all those wellness-seekers couldn’t get enough of it.

So, you see, Saratoga Springs isn’t just a pretty face. It’s got a deep, geological history that’s been shaping its story for centuries.

Is Saratoga Springs A Nice Town?

Saratoga Springs is a super nice town. Its was even ranked as one of the best small cities in USA. It is walkable, has lots of sights, gorgeous hiking trails and so much nature to explore. Definitely one of the places that you should consider visiting especially if you love the great outdoors.

Map of the Best Saratoga Springs Hiking Trails

Additional New York Resources You’ll Love

• Best Hikes in Upstate New York
• Best Hiking Captions for Instagram
• Best Hikes in Syracuse
• Best Captions for Nature Photography

There you have it! That just about wraps up this guide to the best Saratoga Springs hiking.

Tell me, did your picks for the best hikes near Saratoga Springs make the list? If not then let me know in the comments below.

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