The Saratoga National Historical Park and the Twin Rivers Council Boy Scouts of America invite you to hike and explore the historic Saratoga Battlefield, site of the turning point of the American Revolution. Opened in 1987, the Wilkinson Trail and the accompanying Scout Annex Trail are part of the National Recreation Trails system of the National Park Service and the Historic Trails program of the Boy Scouts of America.
The historic trail you are planning to hike will traverse over some of the most significant areas in the Battlefield. Park visitors are able to follow the footsteps of the British using much of the same road system that the British Army used in 1777.
Scouts, BSA Program Guide
Cub Scout Program Guide
Trail Informational Brochure
Battle Informational Sheet
The program also has a Orienteering Course that was developed by Kraig Roche, of Troop 670. Everything works very well on a mobile device while on the hike.
Battlefield Orienteering Course
Course Pacing Guide
Topographical Map
Static Trail Map
Google Waypoint Map
The Saratoga National Historic Trail begins at the far edge of the lawn behind the Visitor Center. Most of the trail will follow the Wilkinson Trail; the Scout Annex Trail that extends from that will include several additional historical points, including the Benedict Arnold “Boot Monument”, the headquarters of the British Army, and the traditional location of the British General Simon Fraser Burial Site.
After viewing the Orientation Film in the Visitor Center, you will begin the Hike or Tour Road. The Saratoga National Historic Trail begins at the far edge of the field directly behind the Visitor Center. Most of the Hike will follow the Wilkinson Trail. One section, the Liaison Trail, cuts down and up a ravine to connect the north and south sides of the Wilkinson Trail.
Scouts BSA and Venture Scouts will cover about 8 miles while Cub Scouts will cover about 2.5 miles. Some sections of the Trail consist of rough terrain. Other sections may be wet or muddy, especially in the spring or after heavy rain. Proper footwear is therefore advisable. Drinking water must be brought, as there is none available along the Trail.
For more information on the BSA Historical Trail Program click here.