The annual race to find the brightest reds, fiery oranges, and golden yellows is almost on—and New Yorkers have a massive head start.
That’s because the best destination in America to experience fall foliage isn’t tucked away in New England or hidden out West–it’s right here in New York just 4 hours north of NYC.
According to new travel search data, the Adirondacks have officially been crowned America’s #1 fall foliage destination, covering six million acres of dramatic mountain peaks, pristine lakes, and storybook alpine towns.
And while forecasters are still debating whether this fall will be cooler than normal or lean warmer than average, one thing’s certain: this upstate icon is getting ready to put on another unbelievable autumn showcase.
So whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or just waiting for peak leaf season to arrive, now’s the time to start mapping out your trip.
Why the Adirondacks beat Vermont, Maine &, Colorado
Travel booking platform Priceline analyzed hotel search data for trips travelers are planning during peak leaf-peeping season in October to determine America’s most sought-after fall foliage destinations.
And while places like Stowe, Vermont, Acadia National Park, Maine, and Aspen, Colorado usually dominate autumn bucket lists, travelers searched the Adirondacks more than anywhere else.
It’s easy to see why.
- It’s massive: At six million acres, Adirondack Park is larger than Yellowstone, Yosemite, Glacier, Grand Canyon, and Great Smoky Mountains National Parks combined
- One of the longest foliage seasons in the U.S.: Thanks to varying elevations, vibrant colors start turning in late September and stretch well into November
- Endless ways to view it: From mountain summits to historic railbikes and gondolas, you don’t have to just sit in traffic to take in the views
Unforgettable ways to catch peak leaves upstate
Being named America’s best leaf-peeping destination isn’t just about pretty views—it’s about having endless ways to enjoy them. Here are some of the best experiences waiting in the Adirondacks this fall:
🚗 Drive the High Peaks Byway
Stretching 30 miles through the heart of the Adirondacks, the High Peaks Byway is easily one of New York’s most scenic drives.
Roll the windows down, put on your favorite playlist, and cruise past towering mountains, sparkling lakes, and forests glowing with autumn color.
🥾 Hike One of the World’s “Top 100” Trails
If you’re up for a challenge, tackle Algonquin Peak, whose trail has been recognized among the world’s “100 Hikes of a Lifetime.” The challenging climb rewards you with sweeping 360-degree views across vast oceans of red and gold.
Looking for something easier? Mount Arab, Coney Mountain, and Ampersand Mountain all offer spectacular fall views with less demanding hikes.
🚠 Float above the forest canopy
You don’t have to hike to enjoy incredible views. Ride Gore Mountain’s scenic gondola above forests exploding with fall color while taking in sweeping views of the Adirondack Mountains and Hudson River Valley.
Whiteface Mountain also offers unforgettable aerial views, while the Olympic Jumping Complex lets thrill-seekers zipline above the trees.
🚲 Pedal Historic Rail Trails
Cycle the newly opened 34-mile Adirondack Rail Trail connecting Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, and Tupper Lake. Alternatively, book a custom tandem railbike with Revolution Rail Co. to pedal directly along historic railroad tracks cutting through remote autumn wilderness.
🚂 Ride one of America’s most scenic train routes
Amtrak’s Adirondack route—regularly ranked among America’s most scenic train rides—travels from New York City’s Moynihan Train Hall to Montreal, winding through some of the Northeast’s most breathtaking mountain scenery.
🏞️ Explore Keene Valley
Keene Valley, recently recognized as one of America’s top places to visit in 2026, is the perfect basecamp for an Adirondack getaway. Surrounded by many of New York’s highest peaks, the tiny mountain town is packed with historic trailheads, local shops, and incredible scenery.
Don’t miss the Adirondack Balloon Festival
If you time your getaway for September, you can experience one of New York’s most surreal annual spectacles: The Adirondack Balloon Festival.
Taking place in Queensbury and Lake George, this massive community tradition fills the sky with over 70 colorful hot air balloons drifting over the turning autumn canopy. And best of all—it’s completely free to attend.
Turn it into a full fall getaway
With so much to explore, the Adirondacks is worth more than a day trip.
- Whiteface Lodge: A majestic timber resort tucked deep into High Peaks woodland
- Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa: A picturesque lakeside retreat that looks like it stepped right out of a 19th-century postcard
- Hotel Saranac: A restored, high-style historic hotel in the center of downtown Saranac Lake
- The Point Resort: An ultra-exclusive Great Camp estate on Upper Saranac Lake for the ultimate fall splurge
📍 Pro Tip: Keep an eye on I Love NY’s weekly Fall Foliage Reports throughout late September and October to time your drive right at peak color!