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Explore Round Lake Preserve's Diverse Habitats & Recreational Activities

Donated to Saratoga PLAN by the Sweeney family in 2008, the Round Lake Preserve protects many natural resources, including the wide variety of birds and animals that call Round Lake and Anthony Kill home.

wetlands at round lake preserve Photo credit: Saratoga PLAN, a non-profit land trust

If you're looking for a fun and educational excursion in the Saratoga area, you'll love the Round Lake Preserve. Only a short drive away in Mechanicville, the preserve offers accessible trails, educational plaques on wildlife and history, a wetland boardwalk, fishing, paddling, birdwatching, wildlife viewing, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing.

How to Get There

From Saratoga Springs, head south on Route 9. In Malta, take the second exits from the first two traffic circles to remain on Route 9. At the third traffic circle, take the third exit to turn onto Route 67. In 1.7 miles, a sign for the Round Lake Preserve will be on your right. There are two parking areas: one at the beginning of the trail, and another (near the wetlands) for handicap parking and unloading.

What to Expect

field at round lake preserve Photo credit: Saratoga PLAN, a non-profit land trust

Round Lake Preserve is a wonderful combination of wetlands, fields, meadows, and woodlands. As a result, an interesting variety of wildlife live within the preserve. Birdwatchers in particular will enjoy observing both wetland and grassland birds, such as Great Blue Herons, Marsh Wren, Grasshopper Sparrows, Eastern Meadowlarks, American Kestrels, and Northern Harriers. Bald Eagles have also been spotted there in the past.

Bring the whole family (including leashed dogs) for a scenic stroll down the boardwalk, which its the perfect vantage point from which to view the wetlands that border Round Lake and Anthony Kill. At the end of the boardwalk is a launch site for canoes and kayaks. Additional trails, overlooks, and boardwalks are planned for this preserve, so be sure to make plans to return!

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Source: https://www.saratogaplan.org/explore/public-preserves-trails/round-lake-preserve/