  
Backroads and Battlefields Tour - Self Guided
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Let history unfold as you tour along a National Scenic Byway and the mighty Hudson River. A battle that turned the tide and set the course for democracy, a hero before his fall from grace….all of this and more in Saratoga County!
Your itinerary starts in Southern Saratoga County at Peebles Island State Park, site of Revolutionary War defenses that were never needed after the victory at Saratoga. The site was originally intended to be a final standing point before the Redcoats reached Albany, however General Horatio Gates decided to move further North to what became the Battle of Saratoga. The park features spectacular views of the Hudson and Mohawk rivers, a visitor’s center and many scenic trails.
If you head north on Route 4, you’ll find the town of Stillwater, nestled along the Hudson River. The Stillwater Blockhouse serves as an icon for the town and also houses a small museum. The Blockhouse was a common military fortification and this replica is one of the few left in the entire United States. The Blockhouse sits on a lovely park ground overlooking the Hudson. After taking in the history and views, head north on Route 4.
The Battle of Saratoga, perhaps the most important battle in American history, took place in the eastern Saratoga County town of Stillwater. Known as the “Turning Point of the American Revolution”, the battle featured heroics from future traitor Benedict Arnold and the surrender of the British Army by General Burgoyne. Today the battlefield is known as the Saratoga National Historical Park, open to visitors year-round. With an informative visitor’s center overlooking panoramic views of the Hudson Valley and a seasonal tour road over 9 miles long, this is not to be missed.
Heading North on Route 4, visitors can stop and reflect at The Gerald B. H. Solomon National Cemetery. Set on 337 acres, the former upstate New York farm field now serves as the final resting place for veterans, including several Medal of Honor recipients.
Traveling North on Route 4, visitors can view the Schuyler House, named for General Philip Schuyler. The estate was visited by such notable figures as George Washington, Alexander Hamilton and the Marquis deLafayette. The site is open seasonally from May through Labor Day.
The Schuyler Canal Park and Visitor’s Center also is the site of the Field of Grounded Arms, where British General Burgoyne ceremoniously laid down arms and colors. A commemorative “surrender tree” marks the October 17, 1777 occasion.
The Saratoga Battle Monument is located in the Village of Victory, adjacent to the Village of Schuylerville. Panoramic views of the Hudson Valley and Vermont can be seen from the top. The monument can be viewed year-round, but the interior is only open seasonally.
Journey further North on Route 4 to visit Stark’s Knob (open seasonally), a wonderful combination of natural and cultural significance. It is a geological formation and was a key feature in the final defeat of the British Army. It is located off Route 4 on Stark’s Knob Rd. adjacent to the Knox Trail marker and just north of the Village of Schuylerville in the Town of Northumberland.
Saratoga County - a pivotal part of the Revolutionary War where American freedom was won.
For More Information:
Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce - 518-584-3255
Peebles Island State Park – 518-237-8643 or NY Parks |
Chamber
Visitors