This summer, the park offers several new events and some new renovations to make for a premiere experience.

This year’s summer programs are being run by the park’s environmental division, which means all of them will have a bit of a green shade to them, with subjects ranging from conservation to clean-up. June 7 is National Trails Day, and the park will celebrate with an informal tour of the springs, along with an adventure to find “hidden” springs in the area. Time permitting, a clean-up of the trail will be performed. On June 8 and 13, as well as July 22, the park’s Karner Blue area will take center stage with two walks scheduled.  The walk on the 8th will be an educational walk dedicated to the area’s butterfly population, while the one on the 13 and 24 will be a guided tour.

On Wednesday, June 25 and Monday, July 14, a Mineral Springs Tour will take place allowing park-goers to traverse the park, stopping at each of the park’s natural springs to taste the water and talk about the park’s most famous attribute. From then on, the park will sponsor two events specifically for children – first up is the Kid’s Nature Appreciation event on July 24 and August 14, where kids will learn all about using the five senses in a natural environment.  Then, on August 21, kids can learn all about Stream Ecology at Geyser Creek.

The park also will hold two weekly events. On Tuesdays during track season, a tasting tour of the springs will be held. Also, every Sunday at 2 will feature a “Meet Your Park” hike, with locations varying week to week. All events are free of charge and open to the public, with the exception of classes, which are $3 for individuals and $5 for families.

The park will also play host to a few new renovations for the year.  Most notably, Peerless Pool has seen the construction of a new state-of-the art playground for children wishing to take a break from the pools and waterslides. In addition, Hathorn Pavilion has seen an expansion, with a new gazebo being built nearby, right near Route 50. Lastly, East-West Rd. has been fully paved.

For more information, call the park office at 584-2000. To reach the Education Department directly, dial extension 119. Lastly, you can also check out the park’s website at www.SaratogaSpaStatePark.org.