Upstate New York Fall Foliage: Where and When to Go

Upstate New York is a fall foliage mecca. Thousands flock to the Catskills each autumn to see the mountains become a conflagration of fiery reds, oranges, and golds. Whether you’re planning a full-fledged fall vacation or a weekend road trip to escape New York City, Upstate New York delivers the cozy vibes and stunning scenery you crave during sweater season. So, join us as we reveal where and when to go for peak Upstate New York fall foliage. And stick around to the end to learn about the best boutique hotel in the Catskills – Callicoon Hills.

When and Where to See Peak Fall Colors in Upstate New York

In Upstate New York, the first fall colors typically appear in mid-September. Peak fall foliage tends to run from the end of the month through mid-October. Meanwhile, past-peak foliage lingers through early November. However, this timeline can vary from year to year, region to region, and elevation to elevation. For example, the Adirondacks usually experience peak colors first, followed by the Catskill Mountains and the Hudson Valley.

Because of the variable nature of the fall foliage timeline, be sure to consult forecasting sources like the New York Fall Foliage Report when planning your Upstate New York getaway. You should also book your accommodations early, as fall is a popular time to visit New York State. Want to avoid the crowds? Consider booking weekdays instead of weekends.

Best Regions for Peak Fall Foliage in Upstate New York

Catskills: Small-Town Charm Meets World-Class Fall Foliage

With rolling hills and winding rivers crossed by covered bridges, the Catskills are a fall paradise. Whether you’re hiking to spectacular Kaaterskill Falls or exploring small towns like Livingston Manor and Callicoon in search of the best local artwork and cider, this region caters to active and laid-back vacationers alike. Looking for the ultimate leaf-peeping experience in the Catskills? Take a drive along scenic Route 23A or Route 28 to see Upstate New York fall foliage at its finest.

Hudson Valley and Bear Mountain State Park: Rivers, Vineyards, and Maple-Covered Trails

Lying just two hours north of New York City, the Hudson Valley is a patchwork of rolling vineyards, winding rivers, and sun-kissed hillsides. Popular year-round attractions include the Storm King Art Center, Millbrook Vineyards, the Olana State Historic Site, and the historic Mohonk Mountain House. In autumn, however, the Hudson Valley becomes an attraction unto itself. Starting in early October and peaking in the middle of the month, the entire region ignites in a bright seasonal mix of red, brown, yellow, and orange leaves, setting the Hudson River aglow in golden reflection. For the best views of Upstate New York fall foliage in the Hudson Valley, check out the Walkway Over the Hudson, Bear Mountain State Park in Orange County, John Boyd Thacher State Park, the Pine Hollow Arboretum, or Catamount Mountain Resort, home of America’s longest zipline.

Adirondacks: Endless Wilderness in Full Color

Want to immerse yourself in nature this leaf-peeping season? Look no further than the Adirondack Mountains. Comprising six million acres, nearly half of which is protected wilderness or wild forest, Adirondack Park is one of the largest wilderness areas in the United States. Lying at a higher elevation than the Catskills or the Hudson Valley, the Adirondack Mountains generally experience peak Upstate New York fall foliage in late September, with red, orange, and yellow leaves dominating the landscape. As the season progresses, purple and gold leaves are known to make an appearance, too. Driving Route 86, riding the gondola up Whiteface Mountain, and paddling on Lake George, Mirror Lake, and Lake Placid are all popular ways to view the bright fall colors in the Adirondacks.

Finger Lakes and Letchworth State Park: Waterfall Views and Brilliant Fall Hues

The Finger Lakes may not be the first region you think of when you think Upstate New York fall foliage. However, this region is an underrated leaf-peeping gem. From the orange, purple, yellow, and red leaves on the gently sloping hillsides to the 11 deep, reflective lakes that give the region its name, the Finger Lakes offer Instagram-worthy views that would impress even the most hardened fall foliage enthusiast. Of course, some views are just that little bit better. For the best Upstate New York fall foliage in the Finger Lakes, hit the trails in Watkins Glen State Park, take a hot air balloon ride over Genesee Falls at Letchworth State Park, or go kayaking at sunset on Seneca Lake.

Callicoon Hills: Stay in the Heart of the Best Upstate New York Fall Foliage

Located in Callicoon Center in the western Catskills, Callicoon Hills captures the Upstate NY fall spirit with a blend of cozy comfort and vintage charm. Think antique furniture, exposed cedar beams, and spectacular views of the Upstate New York fall foliage. Meanwhile, this 1900s boarding house-turned-boutique 21st-century hotel provides everything today’s autumn adventurer needs for an unforgettable stay. Amenities include free property-wide WiFi, an indoor/outdoor gym, on-site dining, a nightly fire and s’mores-making experience, and more. Accommodations range from minimally appointed yet cozy A-Frame Cabins to sleek, custom-furnished guest rooms to the standalone Creekside Cottage complete with a craftsman-style kitchen and room for six guests.

Nearby Attractions

In addition to top-notch on-site amenities and world-class leaf peeping both on- and off-site, Callicoon Hills boasts quick and easy access to premier Callicoon attractions, such as:

• The Outside Institute: Located in downtown Callicoon, the Outside Institute offers year-round outdoor programming ranging from nature walks to foraging to wildcrafting and botanical mixology.
• Jensen Ledges: This moderately strenuous 2.9-mile out-and-back trail culminates in stunning panoramic views of the Upper Delaware River Valley. It’s a must for your leaf-peeping itinerary.
• Wineries/Breweries/Distilleries: Whatever your drink of choice, Callicoon is practically Dionysian in its density and diversity of beverage makers. Popular spots include Catskill Provisions (whiskey), Callicoon Brewing Co (craft beer), Seminary Hill Cider (hard cider), and Callicoon Wine Merchant (wine and local beer).
• Callicoon Theater: Established in 1948, this reasonably priced Callicoon movie theater is your one-stop shop for the latest blockbusters, cult films, film festival favorites, and nostalgic charm.
• One Grand Books: Few things are as fall-coded as curling up with a good book. And with a curated collection of reads based on what notable members of the literati would bring to a desert island, good books are what One Grand Books does best.

Beyond Upstate New York Fall Foliage: Explore More Autumn Destinations with Nook Outdoors

Can’t make it to Upstate New York this fall? No worries! From leaf peeping in Stowe and Bar Harbor to warm-weather destinations like Central Florida, the Texas Hill Country, and the Big Island of Hawaii, Nook Outdoors is your home for the best fall destinations across the US. Browse our collection of outdoor accommodations at the link below, and book your fall getaway today!