by Audrina Kingston

Created on: September 21, 2010   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

This fall, plan the perfect getaway to New York State and view breathtaking fall foliage in strikingly brilliant hues. As September rolls along, and summer and flowering gardens fades into the background, peoples’ attentions turn to the spectacular oak trees, maples, birches, and hickories dotting the landscape for miles.

A day trip to the rolling countryside to view autumn’s splendor is an annual ritual for fall foliage enthusiasts. Depending on destination, the drive Upstate from New York City is approximately two to five hours.

Since daylight hours diminish the closer you get to November, travelers might consider leaving early to spend a full day not only enjoying scenic vistas, but also to do as much sightseeing as possible. Crowds are heaviest on weekends—visit on weekdays to avoid throngs of day-trippers traveling from the city or from hotels nearby.

When you arrive Upstate, viewing the foliage by biking through towns offers a stronger emotional impact than does driving. Putting your foot to the pedal is an eco-friendly way that tourism groups encourage for leisure travel.

Driving, either in your own car or by securing a spot on an organized tour, is the most popular way to get around. Be sure to exit the vehicle to walk around and take pictures during peak leaf-peeping periods—when the leaves begin to lose their green color and change into the familiar fall colors of orange, yellows, and reds.

FALL FOLIAGE OUTSIDE NEW YORK CITY:

Hudson Valley and The Catskills

Leave the car at home and ride the rails. Hop aboard The Adirondack at Penn Station en route to the Hudson Valley and surrounding regions. You will hear lots of ‘oohs and aahs’ because of the picturesque landscape outside the train windows. The Adirondack travels for miles through mountains, forests, and along streams, rivers, and covered bridges. Look out for prestigious West Point Academy; further adrift is the crumbling, hundred-year-old Bannerman Castle.

The Adirondacks & Thousand Islands

This area is quite vast and somewhat remote. Many travelers can maximize their leaf-peeping experience by embarking on serious hikes through the High Peaks and forests, or walking gentle trails along Lake George and Lake Champlain. From higher elevation points, you can see foliage from Vermont’s Green Mountains in a kaleidoscope of colors.

Finger Lakes

Five hours from Manhattan, this idyllic setting with rolling fields is spectacular for viewing fall foliage, which peak here around Columbus Day. An awesome spot for leaf-peepers to take pictures is City Pier. The Finger Lakes is also perfect for wine lovers given its 100 wineries, vineyards, breweries, lakeside restaurants, and pubs.

Greater Niagara Region

What better place to view waterfalls and fall foliage at one spot than majestic Niagara Falls. Head to the Observation Deck 775 feet above the falls to get stunning panoramic views.

Saratoga

Saratoga is famous for its outdoor activities. Spend a weekend and enjoy apple picking, hay rides, nature hikes, and balloon festivals. Enjoy a leisurely train ride through rural towns to experience the sweeping views of fall’s colorful foliage, and perhaps moose sightings.

FALL FOLIAGE IN NEW YORK CITY:

Urbanites don’t have to head Upstate to view fall foliage—they can stay right in New York City. Start with Central Park, a sprawling 843-acre green space with over 25,000 trees. Other great vistas include Van Cortlandt Park in the Bronx, and Brooklyn’s Prospect Park. While the weather still favorable, a Manhattan boat cruise offers a unique opportunity on the Hudson River to take a fall foliage tour.

Visit the www.iloveny.com guide for current fall foliage event listings.

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