NPS Website; Local Website
WHAT IS IT?Site of the pivotal Revolutionary War Battle of Saratoga.
BEAUTY (3/10)
Not the prettiest. The sight is marked by hilly forested terrain and barren farmlands. On the plus side, the hikes are serene and there are no modern facilities to mar the view and the history.
HISTORICAL INTEREST (9/10)
The National Parks Guidebook ranks the Battle at Saratoga as one of the 15 most decisive battles in World History. We should say so. It was our nation’s first significant victory of the Revolution. Had we not won, the Britons would have effectively cut New England from the remainder of the breakaway nation, dooming our chances for success. From the victory came French support and perhaps most importantly an impetus to France to rekindle war efforts in Europe against England. No Saratoga victory, no United States.
CROWDS (8/10)
We saw five people and one dog during our five hour walk.
EASE OF USE/ACCESS (3/5)
The park is close to Saratoga Springs, New York via a winding road. If the auto tour road had been opened it would have been very accessible. As it was, walking was necessary. However, once the road opens, short trails to and through the Redoubts are paved.
CONCESSIONS/BOOKSTORE (3/5)
A modest selection. No food. Nice postcard of Kosciuszko.
COSTS (4/5)
Free until the roads open. Then it’s $4 per car.
RANGER/GUIDE TO TOURIST RATIO (2/5)
There are very helpful Rangers at the visitor center. Once you get out on the road, however, you’re on your own.
TOURS/CLASSES (5/10)The documentary is new and OK. The museum is small, but nice.
FUN (6/10)
If history’s not you’re thing, the park is not going to blow your socks off. You’re imagination must be on full blast.
WOULD WE RECOMMEND? (8/10)
Yes. It is such an important part of American history. If you are in the delightful and historic town Saratoga Springs for the races in August, definitely come. If not, Saratoga NHP deserves far more pilgrimages than it receives. At least as many people as the throngs that flock to Gettysburg.
TOTAL 51/80
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