Adirondacks fall foliage 2023: Where to see best colors this weekend
Fall is solidly underway in the Adirondacks and there's simply nothing quite like it. The spectacular hues, the crisp air. Lakes and ponds transform into mirrors to capture the seasonal splendor.
Much of the Adirondacks are at past peak of the seasonal leaf transition this week, with some spots still offering peak colors. As usual, the area leads the way for color transition in the Empire State.
Fall foliage in the Adirondacks, broken down by county
According to New York's weekly fall foliage report, here's the latest on the region:
Essex County: Expect peak foliage around Ticonderoga, with muted to bright orange, red, brown, yellow and green leaves, along with some bare trees. Leaf change in the area has been uneven this season and, in addition to peak areas, travelers will also find spots with minimal change and spots that are already past-peak. In Crown Point, observers predict peak and past-peak foliage with nearly complete leaf change and muted to average shades of orange and yellow/gold, along with some dark reds and russets. Foliage progression is further along in higher elevations.
Warren County: Past-peak conditions are expected around the county this weekend. Spotters in Lake George spotters anticipate with 100% color change and some beautiful and bright burnt orange and burgundy leaves remaining. In Queensbury, 100% leaf change and past-peak foliage is expected. Brilliant red, orange and yellow leaves remain on a few individual trees.
More: Where is the peak foliage in NY? Latest foliage report and map
Hudson Valley foliage report: Where have the leaves started to change?
5 places to visit in the Adirondacks for great fall foliage photos
Fire towers - There are 25 fire towers throughout the Adirondacks that each offer 360-degree views of their surroundings. Some hikes are harder - and longer - than others. Some D&C Staff favorites include Blue Mountain, Owl's Head Mountain and Poke-o-Moonshine Mountain.
Old Forge - The McCauley Mountain Ski Area offers scenic fall rides on its chairlift Fridays through Sundays through the fall. Stillwater Mountain nearby is also a great spot, and has a fire tower with a relatively easy and short hike.
Lake George - The drive up Interstate 87 is colorful, and at the lake, you are surrounded by color capped mountains. Drive to the top of Prospect Mountain's 2,030 foot summit on a 5.5-mile winding toll highway for 100-mile views on a clear day. You can also cruise with Lake George Steamboat Company or other cruise lines for a view from the water.
Mt. Van Hoevenberg in Lake Placid - Hike the main trail or follow Nordic ski paths in the woods at the Olympic Sports Complex, home of the sliding sports (bobsled, luge, skeleton) and cliffside coaster and around 35 miles of trails.
Route 86 - One of the main roads through the Adirondacks, State Route 86 extends from Paul Smiths to Saranac Lake and Lake Placid. You can see stellar views from your vehicle, or hop out and hike or view waterfalls or explore a covered bridge and small towns.
5 places to eat while checking out fall foliage in the Adirondacks
Adirondack General Store on the east shore of Schroon Lake in Adirondack, Essex County - adkgeneralstore.com
The Log Jam Restaurant on State Route 9 in Lake George, Warren County - logjamrestaurant.com
Walt's Diner on Main Street in Old Forge, Herkimer County - waltsdiner.com
Smoke Signals - a barbecue joint on Main Street on the western side of Mirror Lake in Lake Placid, Essex County - smokesignalsq.com
Lake Placid Pub and Brewery on Mirror Lake Drive in Lake Placid, Essex County - ubuale.com
Where is the peak foliage in other places in New York?
Check out the latest NY foliage report and map for the entire state.
See the current state of fall foliage in the Finger Lakes and find recommendations of where to eat while there.
See the current state of fall foliage in the Hudson Valley and the Catskills.
Here is what to expect for fall foliage in the Southern Tier this week.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Peak fall foliage Adirondacks 2023: Where to see best colors this week
