Graphite Range Community Forest

Graphite Range Community Forest (GRCF) is a multi-use, community-managed forest owned by Saratoga County and maintained by Saratoga PLAN. Stretching across 200+ acres, this community forest is a recreational hub for the surrounding communities and a space for environmental education and economic opportunity – all while helping to permanently protect the ecological value and resilience of the southern foothills of the Adirondacks, an area vital for regional natural resource connectivity.

Graphite Range Trail

Download Trail Map

Additional Information:
o Download the trail map and rules
o Watch the Palmertown Range Overview video
o Get trail updates from Saratoga PLAN
o File an Incident Report
o Visit Saratoga PLAN for more information about this trail

Town: Greenfield, Wilton
Miles: 6.6
Trail Use: Nature trail
Hiking, Biking, Cross-Country Skiing, Snowshoeing, Non-motorized with the exception of electric, pedal-assisted bicycle

Dogs: On leash

Parking and Trail Head:
721 US Route 9, Wilton
43.139455 N, -73.768393 W

Graphite Range Community Forest (GRCF) is nationally acknowledged for its role as a community forest project, with partial funding from the U.S. Forest Service Community Forest Program (CFP).

The CFP is a competitive grant program that provides financial assistance to tribal entities, local governments, and qualified conservation non-profit organizations to acquire and establish community forests that provide community benefits. Community benefits include economic benefits through active forest management, clean water, wildlife habitat, educational opportunities, and public access for recreation.

GRCF is located by the intersection of Worth Rd. and Route 9 in Wilton, New York. Street address: 721 Route 9, Wilton, NY 12832.

Saratoga County owns GRCF and local land trust Saratoga PLAN (Preserving Land and Nature) maintains it.

Absolutely! GRCF provides opportunities for mountain biking, hiking, trail running, snow shoeing, cross-country skiing, birdwatching, nature photography, and more. Please follow designated trails and guidelines to ensure the safety of both visitors and the environment.

The Community Forest will be open to visitors every day from dawn to dusk. Please note that these hours might vary during different seasons.

There is no entrance fee to access GRCF. We believe in providing free and equitable access to this space for all members of the community.

Yes, dogs are welcome, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please also remember to clean up after your pets to maintain the cleanliness of the area.

Hunting, trapping, and fishing are not permitted.

Certainly! We encourage community involvement in the maintenance of the forest. Fill out an online volunteer application (https://saratogaplan.org/volunteer-application-form/) and we’ll be in touch with opportunities to lend a hand.

Stay connected by subscribing to our E-News (mailchi.mp/saratogaplan/subscribe-for-updates) and following us on social media @saratogaplan. We will regularly post updates and important announcements.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors, we request that you adhere to posted “Rules & Regs,” refrain from littering, and respect the natural environment. Additionally, camping and fires are not allowed in the forest.

Your feedback is valuable to us! If you have any concerns, you may report an incident, email us at in**@sa**********.org or call 518-587-5554. We appreciate your input in helping us maintain a thriving community forest.

You can contribute by respecting the environment, following sustainable practices including Leave No Trace principles, and participating in initiatives aimed at preserving the forest’s natural beauty for future generations.

Please visit https://www.saratogacountyny.gov/wp/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Graphite-Range-Community-Forest.pdf

The recreational opportunities provided by this property will attract both community and regional visitors, benefiting local tourism and recreation-related businesses such as outdoor stores, restaurants, and lodging.

The Winter Family. Read more about their story here: https://saratogaplan.org/winterfamily/

Visitors are able to see historic graphite mine shaft openings and read an interpretive sign off the “Tin Can” trail. The physical mine entrance is fenced off for safety reasons.

Most trails are shared and multi-use. Bikers should yield to hikers. Hikers coming downhill should yield to hikers coming uphill. Trails 1 (Metamorphic – blue) and 10 (Shred Buzz – brown) are biking only and go down-hill one-way. Trail 8 (Boss’ Flume – red) is hiking only.

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