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1. The Orra Phelps Preserve

This ~18 acre preserve has one of the most beautiful creeks in the area. With over a mile of trails to explore and plenty of picturesque fall foliage, Orra Phelps is a perfect place to take your family, especially the younger ones. Come and catch the creek while it’s still flowing!

Location: 85 Parkhurst Road, Gansevoort, NY

Cost: Free

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2. Hadley Mountain

Looking for a great hike but don’t feel like driving all the way up to Lake Placid? Hadley Mountain has terrific views of the changing leaves and a fire tower at the top that’s one of two in the county! About a 2 ½ hour hike, the trip is short but steep. The views during the last quarter of the climb are spectacular, and the top provides a great view of the southern Adirondacks.

Location: 255 Tower Road, Hadley, NY

Cost: Free

*photo of Hadley Mountain by Regina Baker

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3. Saratoga Spa State Park

Did you know that Saratoga Springs area has the only active spouting geysers east of the Mississippi River? This, in fact, is where the springs are. The carbonated water that you can taste is rich in minerals and salts. Aside from the springs themselves, Spa State Park is the perfect place to go for a run or bike ride. And of course there’s plenty of space to picnic if you want to bring some friends.

Location: 19 Roosevelt Drive, Saratoga Springs NY

Cost: Free for park entry, $20 for bath entry

*photo of Saratoga Spa State Park Courtesy of  Saratoga Arms

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4. The Saratoga National Historical Park

The Battlefield isn’t just for reenactments! Part of Saratoga National Historical Park, the battlefields are beautiful pieces of land that look best this time of year. Bright leaves abound, and there are plenty of trails to hike and bike. Climb to the top of the Masonic Saratoga Monument for a great view of the county. The famous Revolutionary War battles that took place in Saratoga happened in the fall, so now is the time to visit if you feel like enjoying a little history.

Location: 648 Route 32, Stillwater, NY

Cost: $5 per vehicle, $3 per person hiking/biking, (children 15 and under free)

*photo of Saratoga Battlefield by Edward Chen

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5. Saratoga Lake

Drive by the lake in the evening and you’re in for a real treat – the setting sun sparkles brightly and you can see across to the shore. After the summer season, this area is a lot quieter and offers more opportunities for lake recreation. Bundle up, bring your canoe or kayak and get one more paddle out on the water!

Location: Crescent Ave Extension, Saratoga Springs, NY

Cost: Free


This is just a small sampling of the many wonderful places Saratoga County has to offer. If you visit all these places and are curious about other preserves, you can check out our database on our Explore page.