Ballston Veterans Bike Trail

• Town of Ballston, Saratoga County
• Activities: Biking, running, walking
• Length: 3 1/2 miles
• Scenery: Natural, railroad tracks
• Terrain: Asphalt

Trip Tip: Parallels Ballston Lake

White Beach, Timeson and Oakwood were frequent stops on the Schenectady-Saratoga Trolley line that once ran off to the west of Ballston Lake.  General Electric employees and other visitors looking to recreate and relax on Ballston Lake frequented the trolley.  Converted to a bikeway and walking trail, this flat and straight, asphalt covered path is a great destination for the whole family.  The trail stretches for three and half-miles between Outlet Road to Route 146A in the Village of Ballston Lake.  As you ride on the trail, interpretive signs remind you of the past with information on the early settlers dating back to the 1700’s.  The small metal trail markers every quarter mile are a convenient way to keep track of your progress.  Active railroad tracks run parallel between the bikeway and the lake.  A high bank on the east side of the trail provides a nice visual barrier for the tracks.  Expect for the occasional train breaching the sounds of nature, the thick foliage around the trail gives you a feeling of solitude.

Directions: Outlet Road, Northern Trailhead

Travel south from Saratoga Springs for 9.5 miles on Route 50 through Ballston Spa to the traffic light at Outlet Road.  Remember to stop in Ballston Spa at the Wild Tea Co to pick up an energy drink before hitting the trail.  The Good Times Café sign is a good landmark marking Outlet Road.  Continue east on Outlet Rd.  The trailhead is on the right just before you go over the railroad tracks, although the parking area is a few hundred yards down the road on the left.  The parking area is large enough for plenty of vehicles and has one picnic table.  The Good Times Café is great spot to eat after your adventure.

Directions:  Route 146A, Southern Trailhead

To reach the southern trailhead in the Village of Ballston Lake, continue south on Route 50. Make a left onto Route 146A and drive east toward the Village of Ballston Lake.  There is a small parking area on the left.  Carney’s Restaurant, located 100 ft from the south end of the bike path has great food and drink.  Patrons are welcome to park in their lot while using the trail.