Live in or visiting the Albany area? Albany is often called smallbany due to it's size as a capital city, especially compared to other cities in the state such as Syracuse and Buffalo. However, it's not lacking for beautiful natural areas within an hour of the region that are absolutely worth a visit.
Christman's Sanctuary
This is a great easy hike with big reward with multiple waterfalls located in Duanesburg, about 20 minutes outside of Albany. The parking lot isn't huge but many will overflow park onto the road. If you complete the blue and orange loop it's only 2.4 miles and you can get pretty close to the falls. These will dry up in the summertime.
Rennsalaerville Falls
Of the Capital Region hikes listed here, this one is probably my favorite. It really is the middle of nowhere, about 40 minutes outside of Albany. There are 12 miles of trails to many scenic spots, the best and most popular being the falls. We like to park at the falls and then complete the loop all the way around the lake. In the summer you can swim, kayak, and picnic at the lake.
Saratoga Spa State Park
Another great park with several miles of trails this not only features some picturesque sites but also has natural mineral springs that are a wonder to see. You can even try the water at each of the public springs! This park and area gets very crowded in the summer but there are tons of picnic areas and great pool options as well.
Thacher State Park
This one is near and dear and I go here multiple times a year. Thacher Park was even recently designated as a new National Park site due to the geological formations of the Helderberg Escarpment. There are a few different trails to explore but the best one is the Indian Ladder trail where you can see two large single drop waterfalls and even walk behind them.
Vroman's Nose
I grew up hiking this one and have hiked it dozens of times in all seasons. Located in the gorgeous Schoharie Valley about 40 minutes outside of Albany, you'll climb up to the escarpment and get beautiful views of the valley below. After your hike explore one of the Schoharie County breweries or wineries, and then stop at Schoharie Valley Farms for lunch or a baked good.
Stay tuned for a part II!
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