For the Route 146A trailhead, take Exit 9 off I-87 and head west on State Route 146. Take Route 146A north for about 6.5 miles to the Village of Ballston Lake. Shortly after crossing the railroad tracks, you'll spot the parking area for the bike path on your right.
This is one of my favorite rail trails near me. My husband and I have walked and biked this trail on evenings and weekends to enjoy the outdoors as much as possible.
We enjoy the occassional sightings of deer, groundhogs and snapping turtles. Also, the frequent train that passes by.
However, we have stopped walking here for safety reasons due to a group of dirtbike riders who have no regard for the rule that prohibits the use of motor vehicles on the trail. It saddens me that I cannot walk there anymore.
http://blog.russnelson.com/bicycling/1193406384.html
The second ride on Oct 26, 2007, was on the Ballston Lake Rail Trail. It follows the old trolley line from Schenectady to Saratoga Springs. It's only 3.5 miles long, but the ATVers keep it open to the north of the official end of the trail. Unfortunately, it runs into a bridge which is out, and the informal trail turns down the embankment to the road. The abutments look in fine shape, and a little steel and wood would restore the bridge. Hopefully they're considering doing that.
It parallels the Delaware and Hudson (now owned by Canadian Pacific) railroad for most of its way, but that and the bridge abutments are the only railroadiana you'll see.
I tried to do this trail with my family and it was not a hit. There wasn't much for the kids to see or stop at to explore along the way. The path was also buggy and not pleasant for the kids.
This is a nice short trail in good condition. I was surprised that there were no views of Ballston Lake anywhere along this trail, as the route is right along the western side of the lake. The trail is right next to an active rail line, which is not a problem except for the horn blasts for grade-level crossing.
In short, a nice trail for exercising, but not very scenic.
This is a wonderful trail. It is very well maintained and it is in very good condition. The markers to measure your distance are definitely an asset. Also they have signs along the way to tell you what was there. My husband has a problem with his vision and this was just wonderful for him.
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