Here’s part eight in this summer’s exploration of public natural places in the Clifton Park/Halfmoon area.
Kinns Road Park is our next stop; put your blinker on and hop out of the car.
Location: 625 Kinns Road, Clifton Park
Description: This is a 64-acre Saratoga County forest property, operated by the Town of Clifton Park for public recreation.
This park has many natural surface trails that crisscross hilly terrain, including a great perimeter loop.
Keep in mind for the future that these trail routes provide a highly popular winter cross-country skiing location too, with more than 10 kilometers of trails. If you are really having fun exploring, follow the perimeter loop, and then bear south on the path that leads down to a great stream (a tributary to the Dwaas Kill) and look for fish and enjoy a cool stream-side visit. You can walk all the way southerly down into Sherwood Forest neighborhood and back. It is worth a detour!
Level of difficulty: This park offers mostly passive recreational opportunities such a hiking trails and picnic areas. Though it’s important to note that in some spots, it is a rugged hilly trail with uneven surfaces.
New heights: Another version of a visit is to head east along the perimeter loop. As a result you will catch a nice vantage point looking out upon the ravine that overlooks the tributary to the Dwaas Kill. As you backtrack, you will catch a view of the water tower next to the park.
Wildlife to see: This is a great place to do some bird-watching plus some bonus dog-watching.
It’s for the dogs: Dog-walkers love this place, so be prepared to see some pups along the way. (If you’re anything like me you will head here just to make some new canine friends.) Although — if you bring your own dog — please be sure to have your dog license up to date. Dogs must be on a leash unless the owner has a town permit to be off-leash.
Here are the rules:
u Dogs must come reliably when called.
u Dogs must not approach or touch people or leashed dogs without permission.
u Dogs must be leashed when in or entering the parking and picnic areas.
u Dogs are not allowed on private property adjoining the park.
u Dogs must have tags on collar identifying municipality, dog license and park permit.
u Owners must clean up after their dogs. (Town Dog Ordinance Chapter 92.6C)
u Owners must not lose sight of their dogs at any time.
u Owners with permit can’t be responsible for more than three (3) dogs at Kinns Road Park at any one time. Permit must be clearly displayed in car.
The town animal control officer enforces these rules. Violation is subject to fines and penalties as set in local laws and ordinances and may also lead to permit being revoked and permit fee forfeited.
Must bring: The typical tools — sunscreen, bug spray, snack and fluids — are essential. However, if you are coming with a canine companion, it may be beneficial to come equipped with a leash, a toy and — of course — some treats.
