The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Ushers Road State Forest
5.0
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Family friendly hiking trails in Ushers Road State Forest offer a tranquil natural setting within Saratoga County, New York. This 118-acre forest is characterized by white pine and hemlock trees, providing a scenic environment for outdoor activities. The terrain is generally flat, featuring marshy sections and streams, which contribute to its ecological diversity without significant elevation changes. These natural features make it suitable for hikers of varying fitness levels, including families.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Ushers Road State Forest
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Zim Smith Trail – Shenantaha Creek Park loop from Round Lake, a 5.2 miles (8.4 km) trail that takes 2 hours 8 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers a pleasant journey through the forest's varied landscape.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Zim Smith Mid County Trailhead loop from Mechanicville, a moderate 5.2 miles (8.4 km) path. This route features gentle elevation changes and diverse forest scenery, ideal for a family outing.
- Local hikers also love the Zim Smith Trail, a 13.9 miles (22.4 km) trail leading through a mix of wooded areas and open sections, often completed in about 5 hours 43 minutes.
- Hiking in Ushers Road State Forest is defined by dense white pine and hemlock forests, flat multi-use trails, and connections to the broader Zim Smith Trail network. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy walks to more challenging long-distance routes.
- The routes in Ushers Road State Forest are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 2 reviews. More than 22 hikers have used komoot to explore Ushers Road State Forest's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
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hikers
8.39km
02:08
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
22.4km
05:43
90m
60m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
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6
hikers
8.39km
02:10
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This paved multi-use path takes you from Ballston Spa to Mechanicville via Round Lake and a handful of small parks. Here you bike under I-87 and pass some short gravel neighborhood trails.
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Lots of parking so you can drive up and take either direction.
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Bike trail bridge that goes over the Round Lake Bypass road. Leads up to a steep hill, but the view over the road is nice. There are also a bench on the southern side of the bridge.
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Local park with a playground for children, access to the Ballston Creek and is also right alongside the regional Zim Smith recreation trail that connects the village of Ballston Spa, Malta, Round Lake and Mechanicville.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Ushers Road State Forest?
This guide features three family-friendly hiking routes within Ushers Road State Forest, offering a range of experiences suitable for different ages and abilities.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Ushers Road State Forest?
The trails are generally flat, winding through serene white pine and hemlock forests. You might encounter some marshy sections and streams, adding to the natural diversity. The paths are well-marked, making navigation straightforward for families.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Yes, for families looking for a loop, consider the Zim Smith Trail – Shenantaha Creek Park loop from Round Lake. This route offers a pleasant circular experience without significant elevation changes.
Can we bring our dog on the family-friendly trails?
Ushers Road State Forest is generally dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant environment for all visitors.
What wildlife might we spot while hiking with kids?
The forest is home to various wildlife. Keep an eye out for whitetail deer, wild turkey, red fox, and cottontail rabbits. Birdwatchers might also spot songbirds, owls, and hawks, providing exciting moments for children.
Is there parking available for families visiting the trails?
Yes, Ushers Road State Forest offers convenient parking facilities, making it easy for families to access the trailheads and start their adventure.
What is the best time of year to visit Ushers Road State Forest with family?
The forest offers unique experiences year-round. Spring and fall provide comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery. In winter, the trails are open for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, transforming into a snowy wonderland for families.
Are the trails stroller-friendly or suitable for young children?
The trails are generally flat and well-maintained, making them suitable for easy walks and runs. While some sections might be marshy, many paths are accessible for strollers, especially the main Ushers Road Trail and its connection to the Zim Smith Trail.
What do other hikers enjoy most about family hikes here?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil natural setting, the well-marked and easy-to-navigate paths, and the opportunity for peaceful family outings amidst the beautiful forest.
Are there longer family-friendly routes for more adventurous families?
For families looking for a longer adventure, the Zim Smith Mid County Trailhead loop from Mechanicville offers a more extended hike while still maintaining a family-friendly character with minimal elevation gain.
Can we connect to other trails from Ushers Road State Forest?
Yes, a significant draw is the shorter Spur Trail which connects directly to the regional Zim Smith Trail. This connection expands hiking options considerably, offering extended exploration possibilities beyond the immediate forest boundaries.
Most popular routes in Ushers Road State Forest
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