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In the early days of October in central New York, the air turns cold and the trees transition into a kaleidoscope of red, orange and yellow. With leaves quickly approaching peak foliage and fall break right around the corner, make the most of the season before it’s gone.

Check out the New York Fall Foliage Report to explore more local areas at peak foliage. To fully enjoy the incoming season, go to these central New York locations to take the hues in.

Adirondack Mountains
Leaf peepers and hikers alike flock to the Adirondack Mountains every autumn to admire the expansive range of red, orange and yellow foliage. Crunch through vibrant fallen leaves while hiking the mountains, from easy paths like the Heritage Trail in Plattsburgh to challenging climbs like the 46 High Peaks. Or, feel the cool autumn air as you drive through the Adirondack Trail Scenic Byways with the windows down.

Fall break is the perfect time to gather friends for a road trip to the Adirondack Mountains, as many parts of the region are approaching peak foliage. Old Forge, an Adirondack Base Camp, is currently experiencing peak foliage with 90% of its leaves transitioning into amber and gold. The best part: it’s only an hour-and-a-half drive from Syracuse.

Green Lakes State Park
If you’re staying in Syracuse, Green Lakes State Park is only a 20-minute drive from SU’s campus and the perfect place to escape and reconnect with nature. The park contains two glacial lakes and miles of hiking trails for parkgoers to explore as autumn draws in. The park’s foliage is just beginning to change with 25% of leaves transitioning into soft red and yellow hues.

Green Lakes camping closes on Sunday, so if you don’t have any fall break plans, this is the perfect place to pop on over as leaves begin to turn. Cabins and campsites are available for reservations, along with other activities at the park like kayaking or frisbee golf.

Hannah Mesa | Design Editor

Onondaga Lake Park
Known as the “central park of central New York,” Onondaga Lake Park features four hiking trails totaling over eight miles for parkgoers to enjoy the fall foliage. With a range of trees overlooking Onondaga Lake, it’s a picturesque spot to lay a blanket and chat with friends over a picnic. Onondaga County’s foliage is just beginning to change, with 35% of leaves transitioning into average and bright shades of yellow.

Check out the park’s newly opened Wegmans Landing, which houses a pickleball court complex, playground and skatepark, or play shuffleboard, bocce and volleyball in the Griffin Visitor Center. Want to share the fall season with your pet? Round out your visit by taking a lap around the Wegmans Good Dog Park.

Erie Canalway Trail
The Erie Canalway Trail spans nearly 360 miles from Albany to Buffalo. With multiple trails passing through Syracuse, it’s a perfect spot for bikers or kayakers. Pedal through the tree-lined paths, breathing in the fresh autumn air and admiring the landscape, or take a moment to relax by the canal’s shoreline.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, paddle through the canals by kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard to get a better view of the foliage. Sightseeing tours also cruise the Erie Canal waters to show visitors all the area has to offer. Although foliage surrounding the canal is just beginning to change, the yellow hues reflected in the water are a sight to see.

Beaver Lake Nature Center
Located just 20 minutes northwest of Syracuse in Baldwinsville, the Beaver Lake Nature Center provides recreational and educational activities for visitors. Hike through the center’s nine miles of trails to explore how various habitats from meadows to wetlands are adapting to the shifting landscape. Foliage on the center’s 690 acres of land is just beginning to change, with some leaves transitioning into yellow and others red and orange.

If you’re staying in Syracuse, check out the Vince O’Neil Wild Mushrooms Festival on Oct. 12 at the center. Members of the Central New York Mycological Society will teach attendees about the role of mushrooms in the forest ecosystem and lead guided hikes through the center’s trails. The event is free with park admission.

Published on October 9, 2024 at 1:19 am

Contact: Jepryor@syr.edu