For those of us who love summer, it might be tough to admit, but fall is just around the corner—and that means it’s time for some leaf-peeping. To catch Mother Nature’s vibrant display, you’ll need to plan ahead, as some of the best fall foliage appears from mid-September to late October.
Below are some ideas on where to go, but if you’re staying local, it’s best to check out the I Love New York Fall Foliage report at iloveny.com/things-to-do/fall/foliage-report.
Cooperstown, New York:
For stunning views, head to The Otesaga Resort Hotel in Cooperstown, known as “America’s Most Perfect Village.” Leaf-peeping from the hotel’s famous Veranda offers a chance to see bright yellow Ash tree leaves, the reds of Red Maples transitioning from yellow to orange, and the bright crimson of Pin Oaks. Guests can also enjoy golf on the Leatherstocking Golf Course or a photography tour. Don’t miss The Farmers’ Museum, The National Baseball Hall of Fame, and Fenimore Art Museum. Interesting to note, the maple trees in the area are also used for making baseball bats. More info at thisiscooperstown.com.
The Catskills, New York:
Spanning Greene and Ulster Counties in the Hudson Valley, this area offers plenty of options for viewing fall foliage. Take a ride on the Catskill Mountain Railroad’s Fall Foliage Train, or the Hunter Mountain Skyride, the longest and highest in the region, reaching 3,200 feet above sea level. For those feeling adventurous, Mount Utsayantha has two hang glider takeoff spots, and the Catskills Scenic Trail offers a colorful, mostly flat, and easy 26-mile-long trail. Accommodations include Callicoon Hills, INNESS, Piaule, or Airbnb options like Killer Cat Mountain House. For luxury and nostalgia, try Wylder Windham, recently partnered with Small Luxury Hotels of the World. More info at iloveny.com/places-to-go/catskills.
Allegany County, Maryland:
In this part of Maryland, nearly 70,000 acres of public land offer a stunning fall display. Located in the Appalachian Mountains’ “ridge and valley” region, Allegany County is known for hiking, biking, and lush views. WheezUp Adventures offers “The Big Deal” ride on the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP), while a self-guided driving tour of Green Ridge State Forest offers other views. Rocky Gap State Park, celebrating its 50th anniversary, provides overnight options, including Rocky Gap Casino, Resort & Golf. Expect to see a rainbow of changing colors from more than 100 tree varieties. More info at mdmountainside.com.
Shenandoah County, Virginia:
With over 26% of the county covered in national and state forests and 178 miles of trails, there are plenty of spots for viewing fall foliage. Buzzard Rock and Big Schloss stand out, with Big Schloss offering unique valley views from rock outcrops along the Virginia/West Virginia border. You can also book a guided horseback ride through George Washington National Forest. For lodging, consider Bear Lodge in Basye or Bryce Resort. More info at visitshenandoahcounty.com.
Mohonk Mountain Preserve, New Paltz:
This Ulster County location offers 85 miles of trails, paddleboarding, climbing, and horseback riding, with breathtaking views of the Shawangunk Mountains. After your outdoor adventures, the Mohonk Mountain House, now in its fifth generation of family ownership and celebrating its 155th anniversary, provides farm-to-table cuisine and relaxing spa services.
Other Close-to-Home Ideas:
- Hudson Valley Detours, Saugerties: Offers scenic biking excursions with upscale accommodations, dining, and spa treatments.
- Fantasy Balloon Flights, Middletown: Enjoy fall foliage from the sky with hot air balloon rides over the Lower Hudson Valley.
- Storm King Adventure Tours, Cornwall-on-Hudson: Explore autumn beauty via kayak on the Hudson River or a walking tour along Pollepel Island.
- Hudson River Cruises, Kingston: Take in fall colors and historic sites aboard the Rip Van Winkle II.
- Walkway Over the Hudson, Poughkeepsie: Enjoy panoramic views of the Hudson River from the longest elevated pedestrian bridge in the world.
- Harriman State Park, Sloatsburg: Discover 200 miles of trails, lakes, and reservoirs with stops at The Village Blend or Valley Rock Inn for refreshments.
- Bear Mountain, Tomkins Cove: Explore trails and take in fall foliage from Perkins Memorial Tower.
- Croton Gorge Park, Cortlandt: Enjoy fishing, picnicking, and hiking with views of the Croton Dam and spillway.
- Teatown Lake Reservation, Ossining: This 1,000-acre nature preserve features 15 miles of trails and over 230 species of native wildflowers.
- Boscobel House & Gardens, Garrison: Offers views of the Hudson River, Constitution Marsh, and the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.
- Putnam County Bike Path/Empire State Trail Travel: Enjoy scenic trails through wooded areas, lakes, and small communities.
