Fall Destinations: The Adirondacks in Upstate New York

The Adirondacks region of New York encompasses six million acres of protected natural area, featuring 46 mountain peaks, 30,000 miles of rivers and streams, and 3,000 lakes. Starting in late September and lasting through October, the autumn leaves begin to change color, almost in unison. The immense size of the region allows for endless outdoor recreation opportunities, from hiking and biking and late season kayaking to scenic drives.

Outdoor Activities

– Visit Ausable Chasm, also known as the Grand Canyon of the East. This must-see Adirondacks attraction is a 150-foot deep chasm with river rafting / tubing, trails for adventure hiking and mountain biking, as well as rock climbing. The fall season can be the perfect time to book a tour at the Chasm for the entire family.

– There are dozens of scenic drives crisscrossing Adirondacks Park. The 150-mile Central Adirondacks Trail runs through the heart of the region. For a shorter drive, choose the 40-mile Dude Ranch Trail or the High Peaks Byway, which is only 30 miles. Take the scenic route to a few of the best historic attractions in the region, including Fort Ticonderoga, Adirondack Experience- The Museum on Blue Mountain Lake, and The Frederic Remington Art Museum.

– Enjoy a sunrise or sunset balloon ride with breathtaking views of Washington County, the Adirondacks, and Vermont Mountains. The Adirondack Balloon Festival is postponed until 2021, but you can still book your own experience with Adirondack Balloon Flights.

Spotlight: Lake Placid

The region includes over 100 communities— we suggest staying in the village of Lake Placid, New York. After a day of exploring, check into the historic Lake Placid Lodge or Whiteface Lodge. Take a walk downtown with amazing views of the lake and experience one of the best small towns in America. Have dinner at one of the cozy restaurants, visit the unique boutique stores, and don’t miss the Olympic attractions that tell the stories of the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics.

Lake Placid Area Fall Activities

– Explore the wide-open spaces at John Brown Farm State Historic Site.

– Shopping and dining on Main Street, Lake Placid.

– View the fall foliage from the Skyride, an 8-person state-of-the-art gondola that takes travelers from the Olympic Jumping Complex’s base lodge to the 90-meter and 120-meter ski jump towers.

– Connect with nature and walk along the treetops at The Wild Center’s Wild Walk.

– Experience High Falls Gorge, for a 30-minute walk past four waterfalls cascading over rocks into the deep crevice.