by Linda G. Hull

Created on: September 19, 2010   Last Updated: November 19, 2011

New Yorkers relish leaf peeping trips into the Catskills and Shawangunk Mountains. Brilliantly colored trees clothed in red, yellow, and orange set against an azure sky are absolutely irresistible.  No one can withstand their alluring call.  Even on the dreariest of days, when the rain glistens on the leaves, you will find New Yorkers ambling along the roadways with camera in hand. 

Amazingly, prime fall foliage locations are only a couple of hours north of the Big Apple in Orange and Ulster counties.  First stop is Mountain State Park, where colorful fall foliage forms a backdrop around the crystal clear lake.  The more adventurous will want to make the climb up the Perkins Memorial Tower, for breathtaking views of four states and the Manhattan skyline.  Visitors who want to savor the season just a little longer will want to make reservations in the newly renovated Bear Mountain Inn.

Ulster County is home to the Shawangunk Mountain ridge.  “The Gunks” are beautifully forested in oak, maple, dogwood, and birch trees creating a panorama of brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow intermixed with the luscious green of pines.  Make the loop following Route 52 to Ellenville then onto Route 209.  Finish the loop on Route 299 into New Paltz for a fabulous dinner and shopping. 

Along the way, be sure to stop by the local farm stands.  Sip hot apple cider, and sample warm donuts.  Take home fresh baked pies, local honey, colorful mums, gourds, and pumpkins!  Jenkins and Lueken Orchards on Route 299 in New Paltz offers apple picking, a cornfield maze, and a wonderful bakery with fresh baked pies! 

For an unforgettable autumn retreat, stay at the famed Mohonk Mountain House, ninety minutes from Manhattan, situated along the Shawangunk Ridge and Lake Mohonk.  You’ll have plenty of photo opportunities along the miles of hiking trails.  The quiet of the woods, the snap of crisp leaves crunching underfoot, will leave you feeling refreshed and ready for an elegant dinner.

Scenic trails and gorgeous scenic photo opportunities can be found at nearby Minnewaska State Park, home to Lake Minnewaska.  Picnic tables, walking trails, and spectacular lake views provide fun for the entire family.  Pets are welcome but must be leashed.  Bicycle around the lake just for fun!  You’ll be in good company! 

The Hudson River Fall Foliage Cruise aboard the Zephyr is a yearly autumn event for many.  So book your tickets early online at Circle Line Downtown.  Spend a peaceful five and half hours relaxing in one of two climate controlled decks or savor the beauty along the Hudson River up on the sun deck.  A continental breakfast and buffet lunch is provided along with music and live narration as you sail to Bear Mountain Bridge and back. 

Busy leaf peepers can find Autumn’s changing colors right at home in Central Park!  Take some time to walk the many park paths with a camera in hand.   Half the fun is discovering photo worthy scenes to commemorate the autumn season.  Start with Shakespeare Garden with its lovely trees, flowers, and shrubs.  Relax to the sound of birds, and marvel at the ever changing colors of nature in transition.  It will bring peace to your heart, mind, and soul. 

Autumn comes but once a year.  It must be savored slowly to feel its full effect.  Don't miss a moment of it!

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