When autumn unfurls in the Adirondacks, the mountains blush in hues of russet, amber, and gold. Leaves drift like confetti through crisp air, and lake reflections shimmer in fire-lit hues. It’s a place for slow walks, warm mugs, and scenic drives that twist through a wilderness where time feels softer.
Come fall, every village seems carved from a storybook, each trail leads somewhere golden, and the air smells of pine and woodsmoke. Whether you’re looking to hike, paddle, feast, or simply breathe in the season, the Adirondacks in autumn offer a magic all their own.
Lake Placid
Cradled by high peaks and mirror-still waters, Lake Placid is a fall favorite for a reason. The foliage here is framed dramatically by the Adirondack High Peaks, making every hike and lakeside stroll feel like stepping through a painting. Take in the views from the top of Whiteface Mountain via the Veterans’ Memorial Highway or hike around Mirror Lake for a gentler pace.
Book a stay at the Mirror Lake Inn for cozy lakeside luxury, or you can try The Haus for a stylish, eco-friendly option downtown. After a day of leaf peeping, you can warm up with a fireside meal at The View or enjoy a hearty brunch at The Breakfast Club, Etc.
Saranac Lake
Saranac Lake is a haven for those seeking solitude and color. It’s quieter than Lake Placid, but just as enchanting. You can paddle along the Saranac Chain of Lakes where the shoreline trees glow crimson and gold, or wander through the quaint downtown filled with galleries and local shops.
The Hotel Saranac is a beautifully restored historic property with character to spare. For dinner, try Fiddlehead Bistro, where the menu changes with the season and the ingredients are locally sourced. It’s the perfect place to slow down and settle into the rhythm of fall.
Ticonderoga
Ticonderoga has a blend of Revolutionary War landmarks and vibrant fall scenery. Be sure to visit Fort Ticonderoga for panoramic views over Lake Champlain and a glimpse into America’s past. The La Chute River Walk, dotted with waterfalls and maple leaves, is especially charming this time of year.
If you want to keep it simple, you can stay at the Stone House Inn. There’s also The Inn on Lake Champlain. When it’s time to eat, find a table at The Wind-Chill Factory for casual fare, or you can try Seymour’s for a hearty dinner after a crisp day outdoors.
Old Forge
Old Forge is a classic Adirondack destination, especially during the fall when McCauley Mountain becomes a technicolor dream. Take a scenic chairlift ride to soak in the panorama, or hike Bald Mountain for a rewarding view of the Fulton Chain of Lakes surrounded by fall color.
There are plenty of unique and colorful places to stay. There’s the rustic Water’s Edge Inn and the charming cabins at Pine Knoll Lodge. When it’s time to enjoy a few meals, Walt’s Diner is a staple for breakfast, and Billy’s Restaurant is perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Blue Mountain Lake
Peaceful and wild, Blue Mountain Lake feels like a hidden retreat. To kick things off, you might like to explore the Adirondack Experience, a museum dedicated to the region’s rich cultural heritage. Then, take a canoe out on the glassy water while the hills sparkle orange in the distance.
The Hedges is a beloved lakeside lodge open through early October, offering a nostalgic, all-inclusive Adirondack experience. For a rustic meal, head to the nearby Chef Darrell’s Mountain Diner for some lovely comfort food with a view.
Tupper Lake
Tupper Lake is a fall playground for nature lovers and stargazers alike. For some family fun, you might like to visit The Wild Center, with its immersive exhibits and a treetop walk through the changing canopy. One night, be sure to visit the Adirondack Sky Center & Observatory to see some clear, starry skies.
The Faust Motel is a fan favorite for a simple stay. Then, there’s the Park Motel and Cabins for retro, roadside charm. For local eats, Reandeau’s Swiss Kitchen does a lovely breakfast, and The Woodshed on Park is oozing with comfort foods, craft cocktails, and natural wine selections.
Elizabethtown
Surrounded by rolling hills and painted valleys, Elizabethtown (or E-town, as the locals say) is full of quiet charm and wide-open scenery. You can enjoy the Cobble Hill Trail for some beautiful views or simply wander the tree-lined streets of this laid-back village.
The Deer’s Head Inn is a lovely spot to rest and dine, with rooms upstairs and a cozy restaurant that often features live music. It’s a wonderful base for exploring the southern edge of the High Peaks without the crowds.
Inlet
Small but spectacular in the fall, Inlet sits at the tip of Fourth Lake and bursts with color during peak foliage season. You’ll enjoy a stroll through Arrowhead Park, a paddle along the shorelines, and the nearby trails at Fern Park. Each turn frames a new palette of flame-hued trees and tranquil lakes.
For lakefront charm, you might enjoy a stay at The Woods Inn. There’s also the Great Pines resort just down the road. When it’s chow time, Screamen Eagle serves great pizza and comfort food in a friendly, low-key setting.
Let the Leaves Lead You
Fall in the Adirondacks is such a moment. There’s crisp air on your cheeks, crunching leaves underfoot, and a hush that settles over a landscape turning inward. Whether you’re drawn to mountain views or lakefront seats, cozy diners or winding trails, there’s a town in these mountains waiting to show you its own version of autumn magic.
If you’re looking for more places to explore as the seasons turn, come take a look at our library of destination guides. It’s loaded with ideas for leaf peeping trips all across the country, as well as wonderful road trips that’ll help you take all that fall splendor in, one road sign at a time.