A Local’s Guide to Spending Fall in Upstate New York

Check Peak Fall Foliage Predictions Before You Book

Fall foliage is one of the main attractions for travelers to New York. The first bursts of color in the trees can appear in early September, then before you know it, entire landscapes are painted in gold, orange, and red.

Remember that “upstate” New York covers a lot of ground, and peak colors come and go at different times depending on where you’re headed.

I Love New York publishes an annual Fall Foliage Report that tracks changing conditions throughout the state. Since temperatures and rainfall vary from year to year, the timing of peak fall color in each area can change as well.

Elevation also impacts the timing of peak foliage. Here in the Catskills, the higher mountain slopes often hit their peak color while the valleys below are still quite green. Consider whether you’re seeking vivid mountaintops or bright colors at eye level when choosing your travel dates.

Plan a Midweek Trip to Skip the Crowds

Autumn weekends draw plenty of travelers to the region. If you’re looking for a peaceful experience in nature, a quiet midweek getaway makes it easier.

Hiking trails tend to be less crowded, scenic drives are easier to enjoy with reduced traffic, and you’ll have more room to wander small town sidewalks. You may also find weekday offers and specials at hotels in the area.

For Catskills and Hudson Valley locals, a midweek day trip offers an immediate escape into the natural beauty of the region, without needing to take much time off. Residents of Ulster, Greene, Dutchess, and Delaware County can take advantage of Locals Day here at The Emerson on Thursdays, and enjoy 20% off eligible shopping, dining, and spa treatments with valid ID. (Exclusions apply)

Make the Drive Part of Your Adventure

Your fall road trip deserves a better view than a line of brake lights. Major highways like I-87 can become busy during the peak foliage season, especially on weekends. Schedule time to veer away from the main routes, slow down, and take in the scenery.

Explore Scenic Backroads

Country roads will often bring you past forests of fall colors, rushing creeks, and farms dotted with horses and cows. Route your GPS towards a small town around the halfway point of your drive, and you might be surprised by the views. A stop for coffee and a walk will also break up a long drive and give you a chance to stretch your legs.

Stop at a Roadside Attraction

Throughout New York State, you’ll find plenty of curiosities worth pulling over for.

• Oversized Statues: You might spot the 28-foot tall dog overlooking the city of Albany, an even taller Fork in the Road in Dutchess County, a giant garden gnome in Kerhonkson, or a 12-foot long roll of Life Savers candy in St. Lawrence County.
• Underground caves like Howe Caverns and The Adirondacks’ Natural Stone Bridge & Caves will cool you off on a warm afternoon.
• Niche Museums: Depending on your route, you could wander the Borscht Belt Museum in Ellenville, the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum in Jamestown, the Jell-O Gallery Museum in Le Roy, and many more.
• If your drive brings you along Route 28, the Catskills Scenic Byway, visit us at The Emerson to step inside the World’s Largest Kaleidoscope, an immersive art and sound experience inside a former grain silo.

Research Trails Before You Travel

Cool air and colorful leaves make fall one of the most rewarding times to hike, but conditions can change rapidly this time of year.

Look up the trails on your itinerary before setting out, so you’re prepared for the distance and elevation gain. Keep sunset time in mind so you’re not stranded in the dark and note that some trails are very strict about not wandering off the main path. Pack appropriately, leave no trace, and keep in mind wet leaves can make your hike extra slippery.

Ticks remain active throughout the fall in New York, until temperatures consistently drop below freezing. Take a few minutes to check yourself, children, and pets after spending time outdoors. Wear tight layers to keep them on your clothes, not your skin, and consider bringing repellent.

For Catskills and Hudson Valley visitors, we often recommend the Ashokan Rail Trail for an easy walk or bike ride. The wide trail follows the Ashokan Reservoir for 11.5 miles and offers striking mountain views, especially in autumn. The path is stroller- and wheelchair-friendly, and leashed dogs are welcome. Download our map of the trail to plan your adventure.

The Ashokan Reservoir is also a great destination for birdwatching. Emerson Resort guests can borrow binoculars from our Front Desk.