As residents of the Empire State, we’re already more aware than most of just how many incredible trails there are within our state to go hiking along. From unique trails down in the Hudson Valley to our tallest mountains up in the Adirondack Park, you’ll find all sorts of adventurous ways to stay busy when it comes to going for a hike. Though we may enjoy the challenge of taking on a more strenuous hike, there’s nothing like enjoying an easier trail that will lead you to someplace special. If you’re seeking out a leisurely adventure that will blow you away, then see what awaits you inside of this one state park.
Covering more than 2,300-acres within Upstate New York, Saratoga Spa State Park is one of the many places within our state that absolutely belongs on your bucket list.
Matt Jiggins/Flickr
Inside this particular New York state park, you’ll find everything from music venues and museums to golf courses and playgrounds but if you follow the creek that runs through the park, you’ll find something truly special.
Ari Devin/Google
While you’ll find plenty of trails to hike along and explore within Saratoga Spa State Park, it’s the Vale of Springs Trail, also known as the Geyser Spring Loop, that will truly leave you in awe.
Leon LaSpina/Google
Along this short but sweet loop trail that won’t take you too long to explore, you’ll pass by natural springs where you can grab a drink from and bottle the water for free…
Ruth M/TripAdvisor
…while also greeting you with views of mossy terrain, waterfalls, and an up-close view of all that surrounds Geyser Creek in this part of the park.
Amy Schweiger/Google
As exciting as it will be to discover cascading falls and wildlife along the way, there are two reasons in particular that this loop trail is so special.
Ari Devin/Google
About half-way through the trail, adventurers will find that the terrain they’re strolling along changes from dirt to an element that you’re not used to seeing here in New York.
Ryan Hodnett/Flickr
That’s right, a large tufa deposit creates a scene unlike any other in our state here along the Vale of Springs Trail.
Liz Way/Google
Made up of all different shades of orange and other colors that will leave you in awe, the massive build-up of tufa in this one spot creates a landscape that simply cannot be found anywhere else within New York.
Ryan Hodnett/Flickr
Eventually looping you back around to the start of the trail where you’re met with the jaw-dropping sight of New York’s only island spouter, you’ll quickly feel as though you’ve entered another world when you explore this special slice of New York State.
Connor Farrell/Google
To find out more about what it’s like to explore Saratoga Spa State Park and the Vale of Springs Trail, click here.
Ruth M/TripAdvisor
Wondering what other amazing trails you can hike along here in the Empire State, then you’ll want to read about how you can Follow The River On This Simple 2-Mile Hike Through The Woods In New York!
Matt Jiggins/Flickr
Ari Devin/Google
Leon LaSpina/Google
Ruth M/TripAdvisor
Amy Schweiger/Google
Ryan Hodnett/Flickr
Liz Way/Google
Connor Farrell/Google
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Address: Saratoga Spa State Park, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866, USA
