My husband introduced me to this beautiful spot in Waterford, New York. Nestled near the eastern entrance of the Erie Canal, Peebles Island State Park covers 190 acres and offers stunning views where the Mohawk and Hudson Rivers meet. The park features trails, a visitor center, picnic areas, and—my favorite—clean restrooms. It’s a fascinating mix of natural beauty, historic roots, and old industry.

Walking the Trails

We followed the red 2.4-mile Perimeter Trail, which winds along the cliffs overlooking the Mohawk River and its waterfalls. Visiting in late fall turned out to be perfect—the trees had shed their leaves, opening up even more breathtaking views than you’d see mid-summer. It did get more cloudy as we hiked, so you’ll see the blue skies turn gray in the photos below.

If you’re looking for a shorter stroll, the blue trail cuts across the northern part of the island. There are also yellow and orange trails through the wooded interior, offering a pure woodsy walk.

Bring your binoculars and keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles and great blue herons. It’s also a great place to spot migratory birds, especially in early May. (In 2019, over 40 species were recorded here!)

The History of Peebles Island

The Visitor Center was closed when we visited, but informative signs around the site helped fill in the story—and there’s plenty more to uncover online.

Before the Europeans arrived, there was a Mohican village led by Monemin on this island. In 1609, Henry Hudson and a small crew from his ship, the Half Moon, passed the island by boat. Later, the land was granted to Philip Schuyler and Goosen Gerritsen Van Schaick, whose families held it for generations.

Near the trailhead and picnic area by the North Bridge, you can still see earthen fortifications built during the Revolutionary War in 1777. These defenses were designed under Colonel Tadeusz Kościuszko (known to Americans as Thaddeus) to stop General Burgoyne’s British forces advancing from Canada. Burgoyne’s surrender at Saratoga—before reaching Peebles Island—became a key turning point in the war, convincing France to join the American cause.

In the 1800s, Peebles Island entered the industrial era. The Rensselaer and Saratoga Railroad crossed here in 1835, one of the earliest railroads in New York. Then in 1909, Cluett, Peabody & Company of Troy built a plant on Peebles Island to process fabric for their famous men’s shirts and collars. By the mid-1900s, they had become the world’s largest shirt manufacturer. The lower floors handled soaking and pressure-cooking the cloth, while the top floor’s open design took advantage of natural light and ventilation for finishing.

The plant closed in 1972, and the following year New York State purchased the property. Today, the historic factory houses offices and labs for the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation—a fitting reuse for the site.

Peebles Island has everything I love rolled into one spot: a scenic walk, gorgeous views, and a complex history. And it’s just 20 minutes north of Albany—a perfect half-day escape.

Next week, I’ll be sharing a story about a reconstructed canal boat that traveled from Buffalo to New York City this fall, along with details about Lock E-2 of the Erie Canal—since I’m not quite sure when that canal boat will be viewable again.

‘til next week, happy exploring!
Kathleen

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Luke Kelly Travels on Instagram

This outdoor writer and adventure photographer posts Road Trip itineraries often featuring National and State parks and other neat places with beautiful views.

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