Did a pair of easy walks in Saratoga County after work this afternoon on a picture perfect spring day. My first stop was the Malta Ecological Park, located on the south side of Saratoga County 63(Malta Ave). There is a large parking area with room for at least 15 or so cars, so I was a bit surprised to see no other cars there when I arrived, especially on such a lovely day. I headed over to the kiosk and trail map to look things over before heading out on the wide, meandering paths that wind through the park.
Spring blooms are really thriving now that we are getting some sunny days(finally!)
The trail is soft underfoot and walking is nice and easy on wide foot paths. A great place for a quiet stroll.
Wandered over to a small pond that can be checked out from a side trail and viewing platform. This tiny pond is teeming with the sounds of nature and would make a great place for kids to check out.
I explored the outer trails before making my way back into a large open, grassy meadow in the center of the park.
A nice, small park that almost seems forgotten amidst the fast pace of life all around it. Less than 1 mile of easy strolling.
My next stop was a bit further south at 246 acre Anchor Diamond Park at Hawkwood,
located along the west side of Middleline Road, just north of its intersection with Route 50. A park sign and large parking lot assure you that you are in the right place.
The park's main trail is actually an old carriage road that lead to the mansion. It is wide and straight and makes for pleasant walking. A well crafted foot bridge crosses a creek along the way.
Several side trails shoot out off the main trail, each well marked as they make their way through the picturesque woods. Just off one of these trails, I took a brief moment to soak in the sounds of the gently rushing water of the unnamed creek that flows through these woods.
The centerpiece of the park is the old Hawkwood Mansion, which burned down back in the mid 20th century. Remains of the estate can still be seen today. Foundations, old cellar holes, a stairwell, old bricks and this stone fireplace and chimney can all be found here.
I took many of the trails that comprise this park, passing through various types of woodland. On the yellow trail at the far west end of the park, I passed through a dark, hemlock forest.
From the southwest edge of the park, I caught a glimpse at a large wetland that sits just off the trail system.
Spring days don't get much better than this.
This peaceful little creek that meanders through the park eventually makes its way east, emptying into Ballston Lake.
Really took my time enjoying the sights and sounds of these beautiful woods. A total of about 2.5 miles with almost no elevation change.
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