We have been looking for some short hikes to enjoy as a family, and found the Indian Kill Nature Preserve in Schenectady, New York.  The trails looked manageable for the kids, and the preserve is 100 acres, so there is still plenty to explore.

We started off on the trails, and at the end of the summer in early September, the trails ranged from grown in, to heavily traveled, to muddy.

Indian Kill Nature Preserve, Schenectady New York

The trails seemed well-marked, at least on the way into the preserve.  Later on the way out, we found ourselves going through the woods trying to find trails, and not finding trail markers.

Indian Kill Nature Preserve, Schenectady New York

Near the beginning of the trail is a small dam, which was originally used to impound water for the former Glenridge Hospital.

Indian Kill Nature Preserve, Schenectady New York

It was a little overcast that day, but the view over the water was very pretty, with some lingering wildflowers.

Indian Kill Nature Preserve, Schenectady New York

Indian Kill Nature Preserve, Schenectady New York

Indian Kill Nature Preserve, Schenectady New York

There are lots of areas to explore along the Indian Kill.  The water levels were low in the area, but the water was still flowing.

Indian Kill Nature Preserve, Schenectady New York

I liked the variety of trails, which meandered along the Indian Kill and through wooded areas.

Indian Kill Nature Preserve, Schenectady New York

Indian Kill Nature Preserve, Schenectady New York

We found a wooly bear caterpillar, a definite sign of Fall.

Indian Kill Nature Preserve, Schenectady New York

There were some muddy trails around the preserve, even though it was more of a dry time of year.

Indian Kill Nature Preserve, Schenectady New York

While mud is pretty common on trails, there were some downed trees on the trails, so I’m not sure how often this trail is maintained.

Indian Kill Nature Preserve

Indian Kill Nature Preserve Schenectady

Check out this website for info and trail maps.

Check out the other local trails we have hiked:

Albany Pine Bush, NY
Bozenkill Preserve, Altamont, NY (review coming soon)
Christman Sanctuary, Duanesburg, NY 
Hannacroix Ravine Preserve, Voorheesville, NY 
Hyuck Preserve, Rensselaerville, NY
Indian Kill Preserve, Schenectady, NY 
Landis Arboretum, Esperance, NY
Limestone Rise Preserve, NY
Moccasin Kill Sanctuary, Schenectady, NY 
Thacher Park Indian Ladder Trail, Voorheesville, NY 
Vosburgh Trails, Guilderland, NY
Wolf Creek Falls Preserve, Altamont/Knox, NY 
Woodlawn Nature Preserve, Schenectady, NY