Plan an Adirondack Fall Getaway
From the High Peaks to Schroon Lake, autumn in the Adirondacks means blazing foliage, cool mountain air, and harvest flavors. Use this guide to the best places to see fall foliage in the Adirondacks, including top fall hikes, scenic drives, apple picking, and family‑friendly festivals.
Quick Trip Tips
- Peak foliage typically late Sept–mid Oct (varies by elevation)
- Weekday visits = lighter traffic on popular drives/gondolas
- Book rooms and gondola/activities in advance during peak
Best Fall Hikes in the Adirondacks
Leaf‑peeping trails with lake overlooks and quiet backcountry loops near Schroon Lake, Pottersville, and Lake Placid.
Pharaoh Lake Wilderness
Near Schroon Lake, NY
46,000+ acres of pristine forest with lakeside routes, beaver ponds, and ridge views - ideal for day hikes during peak color.
Stone Bridge & Caves
Pottersville, NY
Fourteen miles of riverside trails, ledges, sinkholes, and mountaintop vistas. Unique geology & blazing autumn canopy.
Mirror Lake Loop
Lake Placid, NY
A peaceful shoreline walk with classic Lake Placid cafes and shops nearby - perfect for golden‑hour photos.
Best Places to See Fall Foliage in the Adirondacks
Iconic lookouts, scenic drives, and aerial views across Wilmington, North Creek, and Lake Placid.
Whiteface Mountain Veterans' Memorial Highway
Wilmington, NY
Drive to the summit for sweeping High Peaks vistas draped in peak color; stop at pull‑offs for photo ops.
Gore Mountain Scenic Gondola
North Creek, NY
Soar above the southern Adirondacks for a bird's‑eye view of crimson and gold ridgelines.
Lake Placid Village & Mirror Lake Promenade
Lake Placid, NY
Classic main‑street strolls, lakeside views, and cozy cafes framed by brilliant maples.
Apple Picking, Cider Donuts & Fall Festivals in the Adirondacks
Harvest flavors and family fun across Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, and the Schroon Lake area.
Whiteface Mountain Oktoberfest
Wilmington, NY
A weekend-long, family-friendly Bavarian celebration featuring authentic music, dancing, German food and beer, scenic gondola rides, and activities for all ages- named one of SKI Magazine’s 5 Must-Visit Oktoberfests in North America.
Rulfs Orchard
Peru, NY
Pick your own apples & pumpkins, enjoy hay rides, and peruse the farm store with local crafts & baked goods.
Adirondacks Fall Map: Hikes, Views & Harvest Stops
Use the map to plan your route around Schroon Lake, Lake Placid, Wilmington (Whiteface), and North Creek (Gore Mountain). Save your favorites for peak‑color weekends.
Example 2‑Day Fall Itinerary
Day 1
- Morning
- Whiteface Highway (known for its lookouts and amazing photo ops)
- Afternoon
- Lake Placid cafes & Mirror Lake stroll
- Harvest Stop
- Stop at the orchard for apple cider & donuts
Day 2
- Morning - Afternoon
- Revolution Rail Co bike ride
- Evening
- Stone Bridge & Caves (a great spot for golden hour)
Where to Stay for Adirondack Fall Foliage
Stay lakeside and close to the region's best fall hikes, scenic drives, and orchards. Secure your dates for peak foliage.
