A Picnic, a Paddle, a Ride Down the Slide

Just 15 minutes east of Saratoga, on the banks of a mighty river, is a little park with a big presence. With dedication of a hundred volunteers (or more!), it has risen artfully from the neglected state lands that nestle as an island between the Hudson River and the Champlain Canal at Lock 5, just north of the village of Schuylerville. What begins as a curious turn off Rt. 4/32 North to see an operating lock up close becomes a delightfully unique peek at a relatively undiscovered play space for all ages, including canine family members. Upon crossing over the lock bridge, visitors must push through a moment of doubt, hesitating about whether there is any more to see. Undaunted, you will round the bend to see the majestic upswing of the distinctive picnic pavilion. With a parking lot nearby, you have arrived at the perfect place to dine al fresco while the children scamper over the natural play garden slides, a slate labyrinth, underhill tunnels and hillside lookouts. Bluebirds swoop, pileated woodpeckers zoom, Baltimore orioles flit in the high branches and bald eagles are likely to soar by high above, on their way to the river’s fish. If like the eagle you are drawn to the water, bring your kayak. At the end of Hudson Crossing Park’s riverwalk sensory trail, designed with special features for those with mobility and visual impairments, there is a kayak launch that provides access to the quieter stretch of the river just above the southern end of the lock. Put in here and journey down to the beach at Fort Hardy Park, pull out and take a short walk for a meal at Clark’s Steakhouse or Amigos Cantina, then return for a sunset paddle back to Hudson Crossing Park. For those who prefer to admire the water with solid ground underfoot, there are multiple trails on the Hudson Crossing Park island, including one that travels north to look out over the Northumberland Dam Falls. These trails are lightly sprinkled with interpretive signs and public art installations, but are most often enjoyed for the immersive experience they provide with woods and water all around. Hudson Crossing Park is open to the public, free of charge, from dawn to dusk every day, all year long. For more information, including directions and an extensive list of additional amenities and events hosted by the park, please visit www.HudsonCrossingPark.org.