- Town of Clifton Park
- Length: 10 miles
- Scenery: Mohawk River Floodplain
- Terrain: Crusted Stone
Trip Tip: Dog Walkers
This nature preserve is located in southern Saratoga County along the Mohawk River. The trail system is well maintained and integrates sections of the Old Erie Canal and Towpath. As you stroll along the Mohawk River there are historical markers providing information dating back to the early 1900’s. This area is a floodplain and during high water some of the trails are flooded. This wetland provides an excellent habitat for many species of birds and plants – Great Blue Herons (GBH) are often spotted.
The restored historic Whipple Bridge connects the trailhead/parking area along Riverview Rd to the preserve. Once over the footbridge, walk west along the river about 3 miles to reach the power plant on the Mohawk River. From this spot you can look across the river and see the Erie Canal Lock 7. As you walk along the river you will pass Old Lock 19 and the site of a past operating ferry, used to cross the Mohawk River.
Walking less than a mile east from the footbridge, the trail ends at Clute’s Dry Dock. The trail heading directly south from the bridge will take you to the river’s edge and will provide beautiful scenery of the Mohawk River. There is access here for launching a canoe or kayak. This nature preserve is popular among dog walkers and joggers.
Directions: VAN VRANKEN RD/RIVERVIEW RD
Take Exit 8 off of the Northway (I-87). Drive west on Crescent Rd (Rte. 92) for 2.5 miles. Turn left onto Van Vranken Rd and continue until it ends at Riverview Rd. Make a right onto Riverview Rd and you will see the main entrance to the preserve on the left. There are additional trailhead/parking areas to the west at Ferry Drive and east along Riverview Rd.
