For some of us who have lived in the 518 area our whole lives, we find ourselves saying, "There's nothing to do around here" way too often. But that is not the case, you just need to do some research on what is out there. This is exactly what I did last summer.
After exploring some of the 518 area's hiking locations, I quickly began to realize how wrong I used to be when I thought the summers here were boring. I was overwhelmed by the numerous adventures awaiting that were only a short distance away. Fortunately, I had friends and family that were willing to explore these new locations with me. Here is a short list of just a few of the hiking trails anyone in the area should try this summer!
1. Sleeping Beauty Mountain, Fort Ann
This is a fairly easy seven-mile hike. Once you reach the top of the mountain the views are breathtaking because it overlooks Lake George.
2. Plotter Kill Preserve Trail, Schenectady
This is a fairly easy five-mile hike. What makes this trail so popular is all of the waterfalls, but this trail is only open from March until November.
3. Thatcher Park, Voorheesville
This is an easy four-mile hike. There is a variety of trails that allows you to spend the entire day exploring. This is one of my personal favorites due to the high traffic of people and the breathtaking views.
4. Shelving Rock Mountain Trail, Fort Ann
This is a very easy two-and-a-half-mile hiking trail that can bring you to Lake George. Pack a bathing suit and consider taking a quick swim in the lake or stop by the waterfall.
5. Buck Mountain, Fort Ann
This is one of the more difficult trails. It is three miles in length and is primarily used for hiking and rock climbing. Making it all the way to the top is a challenge, but it is extremely rewarding.
6. Peebles Island Perimeter Trail, Waterford
This is a very easy two-mile hiking trail that loops around Waterford. This trail is good if you are looking for an easy walk while looking at all of the wildlife and scenery.
7. Gideon Putnam Trail, Saratoga Springs
This is an easy six-and-a-half-mile trail that is good for relaxation and enjoying the wilderness around you. I would advise you to pack a lunch since this is going to be a longer trail. This trail is open from March until October.
8. Kayaderosseras Creek Paddle, Ballston Spa
This is a six-and-a-half-mile trail that is used primarily for canoeing or kayaking but can be used for hiking as well. It is open from April until October.
9. Normans Kill Preserve, Delmar
This is a one-mile loop trail that is fairly easy. If you can't convince any friends to go with you, dogs are allowed on the trail as long as they are kept on a leash.
10. Cossayuna Lake and Moreau Lake, Gansevoort
This is another very easy trail that is only three miles. The trail can be used for hiking, fishing, and snowshoeing in the wintertime.
Although these are not all of the hiking trails in the 518 area, these are some of the ones that I have found and enjoyed. Hopefully, this summer instead of sticking to your usual routines you can go out and grab some friends and try some of these places out. I promise you will not be disappointed!
