Waterfront Esplanade and Riverfront Park(City of Rensselaer, Rensselaer County)

Took advantage of a beautiful late summer day by bringing both of my young boys out for a couple of easy walks today along the east banks of the Hudson River in the city of Rensselaer.  Our first stop was the Waterfront Esplanade, which is a short walk, but offers up incredible views across the river to the Albany skyline.

Just down the road a short distance, sits Riverfront Park and the Empire State Trail, which was our second stop.  From the trail, caught a nice look across the water towards the USS Slater, a World War II relic, which also happens to be the last destroyer escort afloat in the United States.  

Conditions were perfect for a nice stroll, and just enough views all around us to keep my one and three year old's attention.

From the mouth of Quackenbury Creek, looking west across the Hudson.  My three year old was astonished by the U-Haul truck that somehow got on top the building.  

Looking south down the Hudson River, with the Rensselaer Yacht Club to the left.

Didn't cover a lot of ground, but that was not the goal anyways.  Our tracks added up to about 3/4 of a mile, but it was highly scenic and came with an added bonus.  A large playground at the Riverfront Park for my two toddlers to enjoy post hike.  My oldest starts Pre-K next week, so I may get some of my hiking time back again soon...then again, maybe not.