Nestled in the foothills of the Adirondacks, along the Green Mountains and Taconic range, Washington County is the place for outdoor adventures in Upstate New York.
Love the season of changing leaves? There’s no better way to enjoy the season than to get outside! Whether you’re an avid hiker or enjoy peeping from the car, there’s an adventure waiting for you here.
Foliage Hikes, Bikes, and Drives
From the Adirondacks to Vermont or Lake George, there’s no better time of the year to take the long way than the fall!
Washington County stretches up from Rensselaer County in the south, along the east side of Lake George, and out to the Green Mountains along the Vermont border. There’s no shortage of orange, yellow, and red rolling hills and mountain vistas to enjoy. Plus, the rolling hills are packed with trails to explore.
Conquer Black Mountain for spectacular views of Lake George from the peak. Or enjoy the lowland vistas of the area’s birding sites and preserves. Don’t miss the 119-acre Cary Hill Sculpture Park at Salem Art Works to take in the sights and changing leaves!
Make a day of it and enjoy a winding drive past the area’s farms and homes, with mountain views and plenty of great places to stop for a craft beverage or bite to eat.
Hungry for more? Explore these great New York foliage drive ideas.
Prefer two wheels over four? Explore the area’s incredible bike trails to see even more changing leaves along the banks of the Champlain Canal and Hudson River, plus historic and inspiring views of the Slate Valley, Adirondack Foothills, and more!
Outdoor Adventures Among the Leaves
Who says enjoying the season has to be leisurely?! Work up a sweat or get your heart racing with an adventure-filled day in the trees.
For an extreme off-road tour through the mountains, check out Adirondack ATV Tours! Outdoor enthusiasts will love hitting the trails in these brand new, top-of-the-line Polaris RZR side-by-sides. The private, off-road park and guided tour ensures its fun for the whole family!
Take things down a notch and hit the water instead for some late-season kayaking or fishing. There’s nothing quite like the reflection of those golden hues on the water. And when the weather is right, you may even be able to take a tube out on the river for a last-minute float.
Another great fall activity in Upstate New York involves a four-legged friend. There are dozens of horse-friendly trails throughout the county, but if you don’t have one of your own – don’t fret! Take a ride with 4J Farmm in Argyle for an experience you and your family will remember for years.
Love to hit the links? Get in a few last-minute swings this season at one of Washington County’s great golf courses. Take your pick of scenic views: from mountain ranges to river banks, each course offers a unique perspective of the changing seasons—and a different style of play!
Apples, Pumpkins, and Cider – oh My!
Don’t forget the best part of the season: the flavors! Local farms nestled in the rolling hills of Washington County have some of Upstate New York’s best cider donuts, farm-fresh beer, apples, and more.
Pick up pumpkins for pie making, seasonal cheeses for your next party, and a special hard cider to enjoy after your trip. The perfect season of outdoor adventures won’t last long!
