New York State transforms into a patchwork of luscious red, orange, and yellow foliage in the fall. It is home to one of the most vivid autumns in the world. The change in color from the bright greens of summer to the brilliant hues of fall follows a predictable pattern across the state. It begins high in the Adirondack and Catskill mountains in early September, and spreads out and down across the hills and valleys of the state, ending with peak in New York City in mid-November. It takes about two weeks for the color to complete its cycle in any area, with peak lasting three to four days in any one spot.
Following are some best places to see Fall Foliage in New York State:
Adirondack Mountains
Ready your cameras! Adirondack fall foliage is one of the most brilliant and breathtaking natural displays in the country. Vibrant reds, yellows, and oranges transform the Adirondack Mountains into a stunning canvas of color. Whether you see it from a scenic roadway, from up in the air, or from a gorgeous hiking trail, the vibrant fall leaves will fill you with wonder amidst the changing seasons in Adirondack!
Autumn arrives each year to paint a beautiful canvas across the Adirondacks. The Adirondack Region boasts one of the longest fall foliage seasons in the country, providing an incredible getaway for leaf-viewers, hikers, and couples looking to experience the natural beauty of the Adirondack Park and its rich history, diverse dining options, and variety of outdoor attractions.
For more information, visit Fall Foliage in the Adirondacks page.
The Catskills Mountain
In the Catskills, the landscape awakens as maple, oak, and birch trees put on a mesmerizing display of color. Visitors flock to this region, exploring the Catskills’ extensive trail networks, scenic drives, and charming towns to witness the fiery transformation of the forests. Fall foliage peaks in the Catskills around early- to mid-October.
Take in the beauty of the Catskills by climbing Mount Utsayantha, where you’ll find stunning views of the autumn landscape. Only one mile from base to peak, it’s a leisurely climb that’s perfect for hikers and dogs alike.
The Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway connects the hamlets of Phoenicia and Pine Hill, the villages of Fleischmanns and Margaretville, and the towns of Olive, Shandaken, Middletown, and Andes all within Ulster and Delaware Counties.
For more information, visit Catskill Center.
Hudson Valley
The full experience of fall in the Hudson Valley starts with the vibrant oranges, reds, and golds of autumn leaves. The leaves will generally begin changing colors in September, with the peak coming in the last few weeks of October. The region is full of parks, bridges, and other scenic spots where you can take in the gorgeous colors.
For more information, visit Fall Foliage in Hudson Valley, New York Page. And watch the video on Hiking Breakneck Ridge – BEST SPOTS you NEED to visit!!
Letchworth State Park
Letchworth State Park located in western New York State, also known as the Grand Canyon of the East. The park beauty is charming anytime of the year, especially in the fall. When each overlook becomes a masterpiece of its own. Learn more.
Throughout late September into October, Letchworth State Park’s fall foliage is at its peak, making it the perfect time for leaf peepers to get their fill of the hues found among the trees. For more information, visit Letchworth State Park Page.
Finger Lakes
On Cayuga’s southern tip lies Ithaca, where you can bask in the fall shades and 500 foot cascades of Buttermilk Falls State Park or scope out Taughannock Falls State Park and its waterfall that’s even taller than Niagara Falls. About 30 minutes west, you’ll discover Watkins Glen State Park and its 19 waterfalls cascading past 200-foot cliffs into an awe-inspiring gorge.
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