AUTUMN’S CANVAS

As summer’s warmth fades and the crisp air of autumn settles in, New York State transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of colors. From the rolling hills of the Catskills to the vast expanses of the Adirondacks and from the picturesque Hudson Valley to the scenic Finger Lakes region, the Empire State offers an unparalleled fall foliage experience that draws visitors from around the world.

ADIRONDACK MOUNTAINS
Spotlight: Essex & Saratoga Counties The Adirondacks are renowned for their rugged beauty, and during the fall, they become a canvas of color. With over six million acres of protected land, Adirondack Park offers some of the most spectacular fall foliage in the state. The region’s vast forests turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a stunning contrast against the evergreen conifers.

One of the most popular ways to experience the fall colors in the is by taking a scenic drive along the Adirondack Northway (Interstate 87). The stretch from Lake George to Lake Placid is particularly scenic, offering panoramic views of the mountains draped in autumnal splendor. For those who prefer a more immersive experience, hiking trails such as the Cascade Mountain Trail or the High Peaks Wilderness provide opportunities to get close to the foliage while enjoying the crisp mountain air.

Lake Placid, a charming village in the heart of the Adirondacks, is a prime destination for fall foliage enthusiasts. The surrounding area offers numerous vantage points, including Whiteface Mountain, where visitors can take a gondola ride to the summit for a breathtaking view of the foliage from above. The reflection of the colorful leaves on the surface of Mirror Lake is another sight not to be missed. 

CATSKILL MOUNTAINS
Spotlight: Sullivan & Ulster Counties
Just a short drive from New York City, the Catskill Mountains offer a quick escape into nature’s autumnal embrace. Known for their rolling hills, dense forests, and picturesque streams, the Catskills come alive with color in the fall. The region’s diverse tree species, including sugar maples, oaks, and hickories, create a vibrant palette that attracts leaf-peepers from near and far.

The Catskill Scenic Byway, which runs through the heart of the mountains, is a popular route for those looking to take in the fall foliage. The byway offers numerous scenic overlooks where visitors can enjoy views of the surrounding landscape. The Kaaterskill Clove, with its dramatic cliffs and waterfalls, is a must-see spot for anyone exploring the region.

For a more active adventure, the Catskills’ hiking trails provide spectacular views of the fall foliage. The Overlook Mountain Trail, which leads to a fire tower with a 360-degree view, is particularly popular in autumn. The region also boasts several charming towns, such as Woodstock and Phoenicia, where visitors can enjoy local art, cuisine, and culture while surrounded by the season’s beauty. 

HUDSON VALLEY
Spotlight: Dutchess & Putnam Counties
The Hudson Valley is one of New York State’s most iconic regions. In the fall, it becomes a corridor of color stretching from Westchester County to Albany. The valley’s unique combination of rolling hills, farmland, and historic estates provides a picturesque setting for fall foliage. The region’s proximity to New York City makes it a fabulous destination for a weekend getaway.

One of the best ways to experience the fall colors in Hudson Valley is by taking a scenic drive along Route 9W, which runs parallel to the Hudson River. The route offers views of the river and the surrounding hills, which are ablaze with color during the season’s peak. Make time for the Walkway Over the Hudson, a pedestrian bridge between Poughkeepsie and Highland, offers a unique perspective on the foliage, allowing visitors to walk above the treetops.

The Hudson Valley is also home to several historic estates surrounded by lush landscapes, perfect for viewing fall foliage. The Vanderbilt Mansion in Hyde Park and the Lyndhurst Mansion in Tarrytown are notable examples. These estates offer guided tours of the grounds, where visitors can stroll through gardens and woodlands awash in autumnal hues.

River cruises along the Hudson River are popular for those who prefer to take in the scenery from the water. These cruises offer a leisurely way to enjoy the fall colors while learning about the region’s history and ecology.  

FINGER LAKES
Spotlight: Cayuga, Ontario & Seneca Counties The Finger Lakes region in central New York is known for its picturesque lakes, rolling vineyards, and charming small towns. In the fall, the landscape is transformed into a symphony of color as the leaves change, making it a popular destination for wine aficianados and nature lovers. The region’s mix of hardwood forests, open farmland, and deep gorges creates a diverse and dynamic fall foliage display.

The Finger Lakes region has numerous state parks offering excellent fall foliage viewing opportunities. With its dramatic gorge and waterfalls, Watkins Glen State Park is a standout location. The park’s hiking trails wind through the gorge, providing stunning foliage views against the backdrop of cascading water. Letchworth State Park, often called the “Grand Canyon of the East,” is another must-visit destination. The park’s deep gorge and towering cliffs are particularly striking when framed by the brilliant colors of fall.  

The region’s wineries and vineyards also offer a unique way to experience the fall foliage. Many of the wineries in the Finger Lakes are situated on hillsides overlooking the lakes, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Enjoy a glass of local wine while enjoying the breathtaking scenery, creating a truly memorable autumn experience.  

LONG ISLAND
Spotlight: Nassau   Suffolk Counties
While Long Island is often celebrated for its pristine beaches and bustling summer tourism, it also offers a surprisingly beautiful and often overlooked autumn experience. Long Island’s unique blend of coastal scenery, historic estates, vineyards, and wooded parks provide a diverse and colorful backdrop for fall foliage, making it a hidden gem for leaf peepers. Unlike the mountainous regions upstate, Long Island’s foliage season is more subtle but equally captivating, characterized by the golden yellows, deep oranges, and vibrant reds of oak, maple, and hickory trees.

The timing of peak foliage on Long Island typically occurs later than in the more northern parts of New York State, usually from mid to late October and sometimes into early November. The island’s coastal climate and warmer temperatures extend the foliage season, offering ample opportunities to enjoy the colors long after other regions have passed their peak.  

A true favorite is the North Fork Wine Trail, known for its wineries and vineyards. It offers a unique way to experience fall foliage. As the grapevines take on their golden autumn hues, the North Fork Wine Trail becomes a picturesque route for exploring the region’s natural beauty. Many wineries along the trail offer outdoor seating with views of the vineyards, allowing visitors to enjoy a glass of local wine while taking in the fall colors.  

Montauk Point State Park, at the easternmost tip of Long Island, provides a different perspective on fall foliage. The contrast between the golden foliage and the deep blue of the Atlantic Ocean creates a striking visual effect, making Montauk a unique destination for fall foliage. The park’s trails offer sweeping views of the coastline and the surrounding landscape, providing a peaceful and scenic escape from the hustle and bustle.  

Lastly, take Route 25A, also known as the Long Island Heritage Trail, which offers a scenic drive through some of the region’s most historic and picturesque areas. The route passes through charming towns like Cold Spring Harbor, Huntington, and Stony Brook, where visitors can enjoy fall colors, local history, shops, and restaurants. The road is lined with mature trees that create a canopy of color, especially in late October. 

Fall foliage in New York State is more than just a visual spectacle; it celebrates nature’s beauty and the changing seasons. Whether you’re hiking through the Adirondacks, cruising along the Hudson River, or sipping wine in the Finger Lakes, witnessing the leaves change is an experience that stays with you long after the season has passed.  

For more information on New York State’s Fall Foliage, visit iloveny.com