Autumn foliage is here! And there's no better place to peep leaves than at one of our beautiful parks or nature areas. Grab your camera, and hit one of these colorful spots.
Albany Pine Bush Preserve
The Albany Pine Bush is one of the few remaining inland pine barrens left in the world--and you won't find color like this anywhere else in Albany. Muted desert shades paired with long dramatic vistas make these trails a must-see when you're in the area. Wildlife spotting is easy, but if you're better with a coach, join one of the frequent guided hikes to find out more about the creatures that make this unique habitat their home. Read more.
Mountain Ridge Adventure
You don't have to view leaves from a distance. Mountain Ridge Adventure gives you the opportunity to get up into those colorful canopies. Their ziplines and rope courses dip in and out of Upstate New York's wilderness. Scale trees, fly through the air, and conquer the treetops in total safety, with assistance from the park's trained guides. You'll love fall even more when you see it up close and personal. Read more.
Mohawk Towpath Scenic Byway
The Mohawk Towpath Scenic Byway stretches along parts of the Hudson and Mohawk River, and each curve opens up a fresh vista, complete with land, water, and sky. Mornings and evenings offer the most dramatic views, but surprises can be found at almost any time of the day. This path mosies through cities and towns, with sparsely inhabited stretches in between, so it's easy to feel like you're off in the wilderness, even though you're not. Hike, bike, or simply stroll this trail, and explore. Read more.
John Boyd Thacher State Park
Hike John Boyd Thacher State Park trails for some beautiful fall foliage and panoramic views of the region. John Boyd Thacher State Park is situated along the Helderberg Escarpment, at the western end of Albany County. One of the richest fossil-bearing formations in the world, this park became a destination for geologists in the 19th Century, seeking to decode the earth's evolutionary record. Today, the park is a mecca for hikers, campers and photographers, who come to hike miles of paths and are rewarded with stunning views of the Hudson-Mohawk Valleys and the Adirondack and Green Mountains. In the fall, visitors are treated to a colorful tapestry of fall foliage, which spreads out as far as the eye can see. Read more.
Saratoga & North Creek Railway
All aboard-Ride the Saratoga & Northcreek Railway for an excursion into the gorgeous Adirondack wilderness, with lots of beautiful opportunities to leaf-peep and snap photos. This charming antique railroad winds its way up the hillside, offering jaw-dropping views at every turn. Take postcard perfect pictures of the changing leaves, and maybe snap a few of the wildlife as well. Plus, this train is a great adventure for kids, and hosts a Polar Express trips to see Santa in the winter. Read more.
