With experts predicting that the East Coast is poised for a remarkably long and spectacular fall foliage season this year, the scramble to find the perfect scenic viewpoint is officially on. And if you’re eager to experience the Hudson Valley’s world-famous autumn colors without fighting highway gridlock, the MTA is bringing back a seasonal favorite.
To help New Yorkers get the absolute most out of autumn’s vibrant colors, the MTA has officially announced the return of Metro-North Railroad’s popular “Leaf Peeper” trains starting Saturday, October 3, 2026.
The expanded seasonal schedule gives New Yorkers a direct, stress-free front-row seat to peak fall foliage across the Hudson Valley just as the region’s vibrant display kicks into high gear.
Weekend Escapes: Extra “Leaf Peeper” Service to Beacon & Poughkeepsie
To accommodate autumn travel demand, Metro-North is adding six extra trains every weekend through November 8, 2026:
- Morning Outbound: Three additional morning trains will depart Grand Central Terminal heading north toward top foliage hotspots like Beacon and Poughkeepsie
- Afternoon Inbound: Three additional afternoon trains will return passengers southbound to Grand Central Terminal after a day of scenic exploring
Weekday Express Upgrades Starting Oct. 4
For travelers looking to beat the weekend crowds, new Metro-North schedules take effect Sunday, October 4, 2026, adding five regularly scheduled weekday trains and adjusting existing rush-hour routes across three major lines:
Hudson Line
- A new 4:52 pm peak express train from Grand Central Terminal to Croton-Harmon, making stops at Tarrytown, Philipse Manor, Scarborough, and Ossining
Harlem Line
- A new 7:32 am peak express train from North White Plains to Grand Central Terminal, stopping at White Plains before running nonstop to Harlem-125th Street and Grand Central
New Haven Line
To expand seating capacity during morning commute hours, the existing 6:59 am peak local train from Harrison to Grand Central will split into two express trains starting at 7 am:
- A 7 am peak express from New Rochelle to Grand Central (stopping at Pelham and Mount Vernon East before running nonstop to Harlem-125th St and Grand Central)
- A 7 am peak express from Harrison to Grand Central (stopping at Mamaroneck and Larchmont before running nonstop to Harlem-125th St and Grand Central)
For afternoon commuters and day-trippers, two new express trains will depart Grand Central for South Norwalk at 4:36 pm and 5:01 pm, stopping at Stamford, Noroton Heights, Darien, and Rowayton.
Tickets, Pricing, and Trip-Planning Tips
- Off-Peak Fare Savings: All weekend Metro-North travel qualifies for off-peak ticket pricing, offering a cost-effective alternative to gas and upstate parking fees
- Skip Station Lines: Riders are strongly encouraged to purchase mobile tickets and check real-time track departures using the official MTA TrainTime app or by visiting mta.info prior to heading to the station
Whether you’re planning a full weekend upstate or sneaking away for a quick afternoon excursion, these added Metro-North routes are the ultimate local hack for a stress-free fall season.
Be sure to keep up with our updates regarding the I LOVE NY Fall Foliage report to find out exactly when the leaves are turning in the Hudson Valley!