Skidmore's North Woods

Skidmore College owns a unique and valuable resource in its North Woods, a regional treasure of flora and fauna in an interesting complex of ecosystems. The North Woods comprises approximately 150 acres and is used by Skidmore and the Saratoga community alike. The woods are a place where people can connect with nature through meditation, cross-country skiing, walking, hiking and running; they also serve as Skidmore’s outdoor laboratory. More than 30 courses across the college rely on the North Woods, and numerous research projects are based in the North Woods each year.

Please explore the website to learn more about the history and ecology of the North Woods, as well as past and current projects of the North Woods stewards and rules and guidelines for use of the North Woods.

Contact us at northwoods@skidmore.edu with any questions or concerns. Please report any emergencies or lost and found items to Campus Safety at 518-580-5567.

This network of trails includes 5 entrances and about 3 miles of trails, including a red, green, blue, and orange trail.

Click here for a link to a high resolution PDF version of the map.

North Woods Brochure

Get a gander at our brochure for the North Woods trails, including some quick facts and history about the land. The North Woods Guide, designed and illustrated by Skidmore students, is coming soon.

North Woods Stewards

North Woods Stewards are students who take care of the land and the trails in the woods. They also seek opportunities to work with the campus community to foster opportunities for education and well-being. To learn more about our stewards, click here.

North Woods Regulations

The North Woods is valued by Skidmore’s students and faculty and the Saratoga community at large. Please ensure the North Woods stays an enjoyable place for years to come by following our guidelines and regulations. We prohibit fires, camping, biking, and littering. We ask that all dog walkers leash their dogs for the safety and comfort of all trail users. Review the complete list of regulations linked here.

North Woods Publications

Take a stroll through the past by exploring past newsletters and reports at this link to North Woods Pulications. In addition, for years our North Woods Stewards recorded their work and projects in this North Woods Blog, so click here for a blast to the past.

Everyone has a favorite nook or cranny. Individuals have formed havens and hideouts in our small forest for more than 50 years. They lie tucked inside our beautiful North Woods.