Saratoga Springs: Rich History and Natural Beauty

Moving from NYC to the Capital Region has given me access to the best of both worlds. I am close to everything I need to maintain our household and lifestyle and I also get to enjoy some of the most amazing state parks, nature trails and the rich history of New York State. Every day, I am amazed by the beauty of New York, and one of the places I will always be in awe of is Saratoga Spa State Park.

My mom is visiting us, and on our radar was Saratoga Spa State Park. Nestled in upstate New York, Saratoga Springs is a gem that beautifully intertwines rich history with stunning natural beauty. The last time she was there with us, was a few days after an early spring snowfall. I was eager to show my mother the transformation from spring to summer so that she can truly appreciate what the girls and I have grown to love.

A Bit of History

The original Indigenous inhabitants of Saratoga Springs were Algonkian peoples known as Mohicans, speaking an Algonquian language. Their native neighbors included the … Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) to the west. Both the Algonkian and the Haudenosaunee considered the area surrounding Saratoga Springs sacred. Because of its mineral springs with healing waters, it was considered an area of peace to be shared by all.

Stop 1: Polaris Spring

Polaris Spring is the first spring we encountered in Saratoga Spa State Park. It is located right off of Geyser Loop Road. The carbonated rich iron flavor is an acquired taste, but it was worth trying. I contemplated taking some home, but a gentleman who seemed well acquainted with the springs said it doesn’t store well. My mom was happy to take a cup with her.

Navigation Junkie/Polaris Spring

Stop 2: Geyser Creek

Everything about Geyser Creek is picturesque and calming. It takes me back to my childhood with days spent by the river having fun with family and friends. Looking at my daughters enjoying their time walking through the water and sitting on the rocks felt nostalgic. It is experiences like this that fuel a deep respect and appreciation for the earth. It was hard getting them out of there to visit some of the other springs.

Stop 3: Karista Spring

Approaching Karista Spring feels like a backdrop straight out of Lord of the Rings or Sweet Tooth. The towering trees that could tell stories if they spoke, invite you to a beautifully preserved spring, one of the very few that were left after the government took over what was once private land. We were amazed to find out that there were originally a little over 180 springs but only 21 were left after private industries were expelled from the land. A great fun fact.

Stop 4: Hayes Well Spring

Slightly off the intersection of Geyser Creek Trail and Geyser Loop Road, and before Geyser Brook Geyser is Hayes Well Spring. It contains two taps of spring water that drips into a small pool carved by the waters. It really is a beauty.

Stop 5: Geyser Brook Geyser

A spouter located near Hayes Well, Geyser Brook is truly a sight beyond words. Bedrock perched in upper levels of Geyser Creek allows for a spout to emit its healing waters. Though not accessible to the general public, the spouting water is evidence of the carbonated composition of this spring. We stood in awe, gazing at the spout while listening to the sound of surrounding water moving downhill.

Stop 5: Creekside Classroom

On our way out, we visited the Creekside Classroom. We first encountered the back of the building which has a bed of a variety of flowers. The classroom contains pamphlets and fliers with information about Saratoga Springs and a large birdwatching window with binoculars and information about yhe birds that inhabit the park. On display is the skins of animals native to the region. The girls were not super excited about that, but it is worth seeing.

On your way out, be sure to say hi to Lois the turtle. We all left rejuvenated and happy. Looking forward to a few more visits to the park.