Hudson River Valley: Fall is one of the best times to visit the Hudson Valley. Temperatures are perfect and the great estates, many of them set among large old trees and gardens with gorgeous views of the Hudson, are splendid for aesthetic visits. The light is always great on the Hudson, but it's really special during the fall.
Catskill Region: Pick a county and go on a hike. Or kayak down the Delaware River. This extremely rural region is ideal for fall leaf-peeping. It's full of dairy farms and farmers' markets, emboldened by mountains and laced with lakes. The dense Catskill Forest Preserve is a kaleidoscope of color in autumn.
Finger Lakes Region: Autumn in the Finger Lakes region is impossibly scenic, with the golden hues of vineyards gracing the banks of deep-blue lakes, all set off against autumnal colors. It's a perfect time to visit the excellent wineries, take a boat cruise, or bike around the lakes.
Warrensburg to Indian Lake: This drive north nets you some amazing scenery and even more amazing fall colors. From I-87, take Route 73 through Keene Valley and Keene and you'll head straight into the Adirondack High Peaks area, one of the most scenic in the state, even without fall colors. You'll see mountains ablaze with oranges and reds; once you hit Lake Placid, go north on Route 86 and you'll be driving along the west branch of the Ausable River, also bright with color.
Letchworth State Park: Long and slender, the park's central feature is a 400-foot-deep cavern; the water from the Genesee River feeds tons of deciduous trees that absolutely light up with color during the fall. Go on a hike deep in the woods or see it all from above in a balloon.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
