Written by Eric Pfau
1. North Creek
Experience one of the most stunning foliage views in the Lake George Area on the Northwoods Gondola Skyride. This scenic half-hour gondola ride offers views of distant High Peaks, the Southern Adirondacks, and more. Don't forget to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy when you reach the top! Looking for something a little more wild? Head up the road to North River to raft among the fall foliage.
2. Lake George
A walk through Lake George Village in the fall will satisfy any visitor's craving for stunning foliage. Start on Canada Street and explore the views of the east side of Lake George from Shepard Park. Stroll south and take a left at Beach Road to check out long distance views of Lake George. Want to see the rest of the lake? Follow Beach Road to the Lake George Steamboat Company's steel pier and take a ride on one of the cruise ships.
3. Chester
Dominate the Chester Challenge and discover brilliant fall foliage along the way. This hiking challenge offers both easy walks along wooded trails and tough hikes to mountain summits. You’ll find plenty of foliage on every single trail.
4. Bolton Landing
Catch fall foliage from a bird’s-eye view from the summit of Cat or Thomas Mountain. These moderate trails offer stunning scenes of color covering Buck Mountain, Dome Island, the Sagamore Resort, and the Narrows from the summits. Expect to spend 1-3 hours hiking to the summit of both of these trails. Thirsty for a post-hike beer? Check out the Bolton Landing Brewing Company.
5. Stony Creek
For an easy walk and vibrant fall foliage, check out Stony Creek’s Dean Farm Heritage Trail. Much of the trail is easy to walk and accessible. Some portions of the trail are a bit more challenging.
6. Queensbury
West Mountain is the one stop shop for fall foliage in the town of Queensbury! Take a quick scenic chairlift ride for unmatched views of foliage covering the Adirondacks and the Hudson Valley. After you drink in those views, head to the Aerial Treetop Adventure Park at the West Mountain summit and climb, swing and fly among the beautiful fall colors.
7. Warrensburg
Take an easy walk and find some beautiful colors on the Warren County Nature Trail in Warrensburg. These simple walking trails are mostly flat with a few brief hills. The Hudson River is easily accessed from the trail, making for stunning foliage views.
8. Glens Falls
Explore the Feeder Canal Towpath and take in stunning foliage in the historic city of Glens Falls. The Feeder Canal was used to transport water to Fort Edward from the Hudson River. Today, the Feeder Canal Towpath is a nine mile walking and biking trail that follows the canal through Glens Falls and beyond. If you're looking for some easy outdoor exercise with beautiful fall colors to enjoy, try the Feeder Canal Towpath!
9. Brant Lake
Brant Lake region is a beautiful community to see the fall foliage in a number of ways. Hike to the summit of Bartonville Mountain for stunning views of Brant Lake, then stop at The Hub for a craft beer, a sandwich, and some local conversation.
10. Lake Luzerne
For a new and different hike that offers miles of foliage views, try Potash Mountain. This moderate hike begins on wide, well-marked trails before turning into steep, narrow switchbacks. The view from the summit is worth the work.
11. Thurman
Those who love to drive the back roads and enjoy fall foliage will love a cruise through the town of Thurman. These winding roads through the Adirondacks are flanked by towering trees covered in colorful leaves. Tip: if you love Adirondack maple syrup, order a jug online from Toad Hill Maple Farm and pick it up during your drive. Choose "local pickup," when you check out and indicate in the notes section what time you'll be there.
12. Hague
Drive Route 9N from Bolton Landing over Tongue Mountain and take in the crazy fall foliage. Pull over at the Hague Lookout after driving down the backside of Tongue Mountain for one of the most beautiful views in the Lake George Area.
