There is a distinct, beautiful shift that happens in the mountains as October settles in. The air turns perfectly brisk, the deep greens of summer have given way to the final, brilliant flashes of amber and gold, and the urge to cozy up by a roaring fire becomes irresistible.
If you find yourself asking, "What is there to do in the Adirondacks in October?” The answer is everything that makes this region so deeply restorative, with an added layer of quiet, late-autumn magic.
The upcoming Indigenous Peoples' Day and Columbus Day long weekend marks the grand finale of the autumn season. It is the perfect opportunity for October long weekend upstate NY travelers to experience the classic Adirondack escape before winter blankets the high peaks. For those seeking last-minute luxury getaways in the Adirondacks for the October long weekend, The Lodge at Schroon Lake offers an expansive lakeside resort filled with outdoor play, great food, and good times.
Here is how you can make the absolute most of this final splash of fall at The Lodge.
Wander the Woodsy, Winding Trails
Forget the rigid schedules and technology overload. October is about unpretentious, spontaneous outdoor fun. Start your morning wrapped in a warm sweater, stepping out into a magnificent stand of white pines. The Lodge features expansive grounds that include trails, fields, and woodsy groves that practically invite wandering and discovery.
Take a peaceful morning hike along our woodsy, winding trails, breathing in the crisp air. If the afternoon sun warms up, you can still grab a canoe and paddle across the crystalline waters of Schroon Lake for a serene paddle across the unspoiled water.
Embrace Rustic Comforts
After a day of exploring the natural beauty of the region, there is nothing quite like retreating to genuine warmth. Our generous, rustic-chic accommodations are appointed with wool camp blankets, crafted furnishings, and charming regional touches that instantly make you feel at home.
If you prefer to mingle, gather around the glowing fire in the main lodge. It is a place that fosters the kind of relaxed, social experiences that turn a simple weekend trip into an indelible vacation memory.
Savor Hearty Adirondack Dining
When it comes to dining, we believe in hearty, authentic fare without the fuss. As the evening sets in, head over to The Brown Swan. Grab a table on the patio or near the bar, order a satisfying pub burger, and pair it with our custom Brown Swan Adirondack IPA. It is the ideal setting to share stories of the day's adventures.
To cap off the night, grab one of our lanterns and wander back down to the lake. The October sky, free from city lights, is a canvas of brilliant stars—perfect for late-night stargazing and quiet reflection.
When searching for the best Columbus Day weekend getaways NY has to offer, look no further than the pristine shores of Schroon Lake.
Treat yourself to an autumn long weekend. Book your fall getaway before the season slips away.