Autumn is the perfect time of year to enjoy the open air and rich, vivid colors of the changing leaves. And what better way to capture the beauty of the season than with a trip to one of upstate New York’s top outdoor destinations? Here are just four spots in and around Albany where you can catch a view of the area’s blooming fall foliage.
Albany Pine Bush Preserve
The Albany Pine Bush Preserve has approximately 18 miles of multiple-use trails that range in difficulty from easy to moderate. You’ll journey past gradual slopes, sand dunes, and woodland areas, and you’ll be amazed at the 1,500 plant and animal species that inhabit the lands.
You’ll also get the chance to enjoy activities such as hiking, jogging, mountain biking, hunting, and bird watching. As you make your way along the many trails, don’t forget to look around and take in the abundant fall foliage. This season, the Albany Pine Bush Preserve is hosting a 2.6-mile hike for anyone interested in exploring the park’s enchanting autumn scenery.
John Boyd Thacher State Park
Located just 15 miles southwest of Albany is John Boyd Thacher State Park. Here, you’ll find plenty of open fields, woodland areas, rocky slopes, limestone cliffs, and more than 25 miles of hiking and biking trails. Plus, with striking panoramic views of the Hudson and Mohawk valleys as well as the Green and Adirondack mountains, this state park is the ideal spot for capturing lovely views of the surrounding foliage. With more than 140 campsites, you can explore the area’s native trees and colorful leaves for days.
Catskill Mountains
The Catskill Mountains are located about two hours away from Albany in southeastern New York, though this region is still a top destination for locals to enjoy all that autumn has to offer. Visit the Catskill Forest Preserve for sightings of wildlife and stunning landscape views. Take a scenic drive past rolling farm country and twisting roads or opt for a hike along the various trails surrounding the mountains.
Notable pathways include the Giant Ledge with its exceptional views of the Catskills, the North Mountain trail that overlooks the Hudson River and spans 6 miles along thick forests and waterfalls, and Sam’s Point with its towering views of the Verkeerderkill Falls, Catskills, and abundant foliage.
Adirondack Mountains
About two hours north of Albany lie the Adirondack Mountains. Here you’ll find various summits, waterfalls, forested areas, and more than 2,000 miles of quality hiking trails. Get into the autumn spirit this year with a trek along Mt. Jo, Pharaoh Mountain, Panther Mountain, Cranberry Lake, Auger Falls, and the Otter Creek Horse Trails, all ideal paths for enjoying the Adirondacks’ flourishing foliage.
For the best photo ops, though, take a trip aboard the Amtrak Adirondack Train that departs from Pennsylvania Station. Along the way, you’ll get 180-degree views of the mountains and greenery via a glass dome as you venture from New York, past the Hudson Valley, into Montreal.
Make the most of autumn in Albany with a visit to these top four places guaranteed to deliver exceptional views of the surrounding fall foliage.
