The Hudson River feeds Schaghticoke’s upstate scenery
Schaghticoke is a rural area in the upper Hudson Valley, just over 20 miles north of Albany. Since the 1700s, the town of Schaghticoke and its associated hamlets, such as Speigletown and Melrose, have been a countryside retreat for wealthy residents of nearby Troy. "This is a country setting on the outer outskirts of the Capital District, mostly farmland, but it does have convenient access to bigger towns,” says agent Joseph Cardinale with Howard Hanna Real Estate, a lifelong resident of the Albany area. The Hudson and Hoosic rivers feed the farms and forests covering the rolling landscape. This greenery and privacy bring buyers to Schaghticoke and its hamlets.
Newer builds and 1800s American Gothic designs with river views
Schaghticoke’s hamlets are spread across the rolling hills, but their living options are consistent. The town centers host large colonial-style and American Gothic residences from the 1800s, along with pockets of ranch-style homes from the 1970s. “There are some old and some new developments,” Cardinale says. “But they are small. Maybe one loop with 20 homes.” Meanwhile, the countryside is blanketed with farms and homes on multiacre properties. Old fixer-uppers and smaller ranch-style homes can cost between $60,000 and $150,000. Many 1800s homes and more spacious ranch-styles go for $175,000 to $300,000. Newer colonial-style homes, farmhouses with acreage and 1800s mansions range from $300,000 to $500,000. Plus, riverfront homes and lots with water views can be found at nearly any price point.
Nature walks and fishing on the Hudson and Hoosic rivers
The Hoosic and Hudson rivers aren’t just there for looks; they’re also popular sources of recreation. “Being along the Hudson River is a huge attraction,” Cardinale says. “You also have some lakes and trails in the area.” The Hudson forms the western border of Schaghticoke and nourishes this expanse of upstate countryside. Paths like the Lock 4 nature trail allow residents to explore the scenic river within a short drive of home. The Hudson area in the countryside upriver from Schaghticoke is known for mountain fishing. The Hoosic River runs right through the town of Schaghticoke. Its waters are rich with trout, and fishermen can find spots to cast a line along its wooded banks outside town. Ten miles north of Schaghticoke, Willard Mountain is popular for summer hiking and winter skiing.
Students study and ski at Hoosic Valley Junior and Senior High
The Hoosic Valley Central School District is rated a C-plus by Niche. It only has two schools, and they’re both in Schaghticoke. Kids begin at Hoosic Valley Elementary, then they continue next door at Hoosic Valley Junior and Senior High. Both schools earn a C-plus. Seventh through 12th grade students can join the Hoosic Valley Ski Club to take advantage of the surrounding wilderness. The club makes the short trip to Willard Mountain once a week during January and February.
Chrissy’s Cravings and other family businesses on Main Street
Schaghticoke’s small town center provides enough necessities for residents not to have to drive to larger cities. “It has a small downtown-ish area with a few restaurants and stores for immediate needs,” Cardinale says. Local businesses are found on Main Street, like Lewis’ Tavern, a popular watering hole. Sammy Cohen’s Restaurant and Bar serves American fare, and Chrissy’s Cravings is a whimsical, family-run ice cream parlor that also serves sandwiches. Shop & Save is the town’s supermarket. Clifton Park is the closest town with a sizeable shopping center, less than 15 miles west.
Albany is just over 20 miles south
State Route 40 leads south from Schaghticoke to the area’s larger cities. Troy is less than 15 miles south, and Albany, New York’s state capital, is just over 20 miles in the same direction. Samaritan Hospital is a nearby medical center in Troy, while Albany Medical Center, in downtown Albany, is the area’s largest health care facility. Albany International Airport is also just over 20 miles southwest of Schaghticoke, and Schenectady is 25 miles west. Manhattan is a 170-mile drive south, but the train from Albany-Rensselaer Station to Penn Station takes less than 3 hours.
