I’d read that the Zim Smith Trail had been recently paved. We’d ridden part of the trail in 2016 and many segments had been gravel hard pack, so I was eager to bike on fresh black top for a smooth ride.
The total trail is 13 miles end-to-end. Last time we’d started at Shentantaha Park and ridden about 17 or 18 miles, turning around at Coons Crossing in Mechanicsville. I only remembered the park where we’d unloaded the bicycles. So for me it would be like riding a new trail.
This time we parked the van at the northern end point, on Oak Street, which a lonely side street in Ballston Spa. Despite what Google maps indicates, there’s no designated parking lot but designated parking spaces along the street. Luckily, it was empty and we had a choice of shady spots. From this end point until Shenantaha Creek park (about 4 miles), the trail is quiet, shady, scenic. I really enjoyed this segment.
At Shentantaha park, there is more pedestrians and street crossings. About a mile outside of the park is where the new pavement begins. It is still very black and smooth as satin. It was a joy to ride on this new blacktop.
There is Ulster State Forest and side trails coming off the bike path.
There is an unmarked body of water that provides opportunity to hear frogs and watch for birds.
The end point at Coons Crossing Road has some parking spaces and a covered information sign. If you take a right and go over the railroad crossing, a new parking lot with picnic tables, bathrooms, and bike rack have been installed.
This is where the Zim Smith Trail and the Zim Smith East Trail meet. Somehow by looking at the Google maps this eventually connects to the Old Champlain Trail, that heads to Peebles Island State Park outside of Troy. Still working on the exact details. We rode a few miles down the Zim Smith East Trail.
Technical Notes: this trail is flat and with the new pavement very easy for a road bike to pick up so miles and maintain a high RPM. I’d say it is a great training trail since you’re off the street and it goes for miles. Once businesses open back up after the pandemic, there will be lots of places to refuel and rest. Not as scenic as other trails but lots of shade, at least on the Zim Smith portion.
Notes from the Trail 