Leaf Peeping

The Adirondacks offer some of the best places to see fall foliage.
While the colors can be seen from pretty much everywhere, we’ve narrowed down some of our favorite spots to take in the breathtaking views.

Please note, while we wish we could predict the exact peak season – we are not that skilled!
Mother Nature has final say, but you can expect great colors from the end of September – mid October.

You can also follow I Love NY’s Foliage Report for a weekly guide on how the leaves are looking across the state.  

From a Mountain

If you want an aerial view of the foliage, a mountain is the way to go – and luckily the Adirondacks are not short on those!

You can get great views from any mountain, but Cobble Hill is the perfect choice for almost anyone to tackle. It’s a super short, easy hike that’s just across the lake from the Golden Arrow. 

Don’t want to hike at all? Check out the Whiteface Veterans’ Memorial Highway. You can take a drive up during the week and take in the views with minimal effort. 

On the weekends, you can take the Cloudsplitter Gondola up to Little Whiteface.

Hike Cobble Hill for stunning fall foliage

Views from Cobble Hill 9.30.19

From a Nature Trail

A mountain top isn’t necessary to get a glimpse at some great foliage. If you take the short drive over to the Heaven Hill trails, you will get breathtaking views of the high peaks. We suggest walking the Orchard or Big Field Loops for the best views! 

You can also walk the trail system at Henry’s Woods for more stunning views. Henry’s Woods if just 2 miles from Heaven Hill You actually drive by Henry’s Woods on your way to Heaven Hill. 

Heaven Hill Leaves in autumn

Views from Heaven Hill 10.10.19

From a Gorge

Take the waterfall walk along the AuSable River on your way to see the High Falls Gorge for once in a lifetime views! 

“High Falls Gorge is a 22-acre, privately owned nature park. We provide safe trail access for all ages to an otherwise inaccessible area. In the shadow of Whiteface Mountain, you can take a nature walk to view the famous AuSable River. Sturdy bridges, walkways, and groomed walking trails provide safe access to breathtaking views and scenic, photographic vantage points. View four-splendid waterfalls cascading over rocks into a deep crevice carved a billion years ago.”

Experience the breathtaking walk for yourself.

High Falls river and autumn trees

Views from High Falls Gorge 10.21.19

Take a Drive...

If you take a drive on 73E towards Keene, you’ll pass three great spots to take in the fall foliage. 

Take 73E through Keene. Just about halfway between Keene and Keene Valley there is a parking area with a lookout. It’s not a quiet, stay a long time lookout, but great for a quick stop and a few photos! Drive back towards Lake Placid and take the pull-off between Upper and Lower Cascade Lake. There is a small picnic area that is a great spot to take in the views while having lunch! Last up, as you’re driving back in to Lake Placid, you’ll see the ski jumps to your left. Look quick and you’ll see Whiteface Mountain in the distance, plus a beautiful array of fall colors! 

Fall foliage - Keene lookout

Views from Keene Lookout 10.10.19

fall foliage - cascades

Views from the Cascades 10.10.19

fall foliage views of whiteface mountain

Views of Whiteface Moutain from 10.10.19

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