Fall Is Coming: See When New York’s Leaves Will Peak

Grab Your Sweaters: Fall Foliage Season Is Almost Here

Yes, it’s still summer… but if you’re already dreaming about crisp air, pumpkin everything, and those amazing fall colors, you’re not alone.

The Old Farmer’s Almanac has released its 2026 Fall Foliage Map, giving leaf peepers a look at when parts of the country — including New York — could reach peak color.

Adirondacks First to Show Off Fall Colors

If you’re hoping to catch those first hints of red, orange, and yellow, the Adirondacks are usually where the show begins. Higher elevations tend to cool down first, which means trees there often change before lower elevations.

READ MORE: Windiest, Most Scenic NY Road is Perfect Place For Picturesque Fall Foliage

Peak fall color in New York typically works its way through the state during October, with the Adirondacks, Catskills, and Hudson Valley among the popular destinations for fall views.

green and brown trees and mountains during daytime

Planning a Fall Road Trip? Timing Is Everything

Mother Nature always gets the final say.

Temperatures, rainfall, and early frosts can change when leaves turn and how bright those colors become. A few days of cool nights and sunny afternoons can make for some incredible views, while storms or unusual weather can shorten the show.

The Almanac has a fall foliage map designed to help people plan those scenic drives, hikes, and weekend getaways by showing the expected progression of fall colors.

a landscape with trees and hills

Best Destination for Fall Colors

The Adirondacks are among the best places in the country to see beautiful foliage.

Stunning fall colors can also be found in Alexandria Bay in the Thousand Islands.

See the vibrant foliage from the St. Lawrence River with a boat tour to Boldt Castle.

Saratoga

Plan a fall getaway to John Boyd Thacher State Park in Voorheesville.

Enjoy breathtaking views of the Hudson-Mohawk lowlands and the southern Adirondacks, and stay overnight at one of the park’s 140+ camping sites for the full autumn experience.

Western New York

Enjoy miles of stunning views along the Lower Niagara River gorge at Devil’s Hole and Whirlpool State Parks.

For even more breathtaking scenery, head to Letchworth State Park—known as the “Grand Canyon of the East”—where fall colors are truly spectacular.

Finger Lakes

Bristol Mountain Ski Resort, about 30 miles southwest of Rochester, is a prime spot for taking in gorgeous fall foliage.

You can even catch the views from home thanks to their handy webcam.

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Catskills

Explore the vibrant fall colors at Kaaterskill Falls, where multiple trails lead to scenic lookout points over the Hudson Valley.

For a unique twist, ride a rail bike along the Ulster & Delaware Railroad and glide right through the autumn foliage.

Hudson Valley

Head up to Skytop Tower at Lake Mohonk on Route 299, where you can take in a breathtaking sea of reds, oranges, and yellows stretching across six states.

Where Will You Go Leaf Peeping?

Whether you’re planning a drive through the Adirondacks, a trip through the Finger Lakes, or just enjoying the trees in your own backyard, New York’s fall colors are one of the best parts of the season.

Now the big question… who is ready for apple cider, hoodies, and a weekend chasing the perfect fall photo?