Summer has officially come to a close – but the fun has just begun! Fall is in the air, and that means it’s time to explore the many fun fall activities in Washington County, New York. From apple picking and hayrides to hiking and biking, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful upstate region.
If you love the changing of the leaves, you’re in for a treat! Washington County is one of the best places to see vibrant fall foliage throughout the season. And, there’s no better way to enjoy the sights, smells, and tastes of the season than by getting outside! In this blog post, we’ll share some of our favorite fall activities in Washington County.
Whichever way you prefer leaf-peep, you’re guaranteed to find a number of breathtaking vistas along the roads, rivers, and farmland that define this area.
So whether you’re looking for a family-friendly outing or a romantic getaway, you’ll want to add one of these fun fall activities to your itinerary!
Hike, Bike, Or Drive Through Your Fall Foliage Adventure
If it’s fall foliage you want to see, you’ll find it here. There’s no shortage of orange, yellow, and red leaves, turning our rolling hills and dense forests into a vibrant color display like no other. And, Washington County knows how to make the most of the season! With tons of fun fall activities planned, from our annual month-long Flannel Fall Crawl to Whitehall’s Sasquatch Calling Festival each September, you’re bound to find something special.
Want spectacular views of Lake George? It doesn’t get better than the peak of Black Mountain. Or, explore one of our many dedicated nature trails to soak in the autumn scenery, spot local wildlife, and discover the many mushrooms that grow naturally in this area!
If you’ve got a love of learning and want to know more about this area’s incredible biodiversity, visit the experts at the Pember Library & Museum. There, you can explore their huge collection of natural history artifacts and specimens, and then get back into the wild in the Pember Nature Preserve nearby. If you’re lucky, you may even catch one of their outdoor events, including guided mushroom hunts, plant identification hikes and more!
For a gorgeous view of the Salem, New York area, hike or drive to the top of Cary Hill Sculpture Park at Salem Art Works! Their 100+ acre property is a great place to view interesting sculpture installations set against the backdrop of the changing leaves.
Plus, this area is cyclist-friendly, and features tons of bike trails winding through some of the most beautiful parts of the state! Whether you prefer cycling along the banks of the Champlain Canal or Hudson River or cycling through the historic hills of Slate Valley, the stunning sights of the fall will take your breath away.
Want more ideas? Explore these great New York foliage drive ideas.
Adventure Among the Autumn Leaves Like a Local
There’s no better time to work up a sweat than when the weather starts to cool! Check out these fun fall activities to kick off your autumn adventure amongst the leaves.
Like going fast on a powerful, roaring machine? You’ll love these off-road guided tours through the mountains offered by Adirondack ATV Tours! You’ll never forget your group’s ride on the gorgeous trails of their private park.
Plus, fall means hunting season is here! If you’re licensed, geared up, and ready to go, check out the area’s top hunting hotspots for game throughout the season, including deer, turkey, rabbit, and beyond.
Or, make it an experience unlike any other with one of this area’s private hunting packages, guided by experienced hunters on private property! For instance, you can hunt free-range trophy animals at Easton View Outfitters‘ beautiful hunting preserve.
Fall Into Relaxation, Whether It’s On the Water or On the Green
Alternatively, chill out to take in the stunning views of the fall foliage from one of our many lakes, rivers, canals, and ponds! Whether you prefer kayaking down the Battenkill or enjoying the crisp fall air while fishing, there are plenty of adventures to be had in our bountiful waterways. If the weather is right, you may even be able to tube down the river for a late-season floating session with your friends! Take the stress out of your trip with a custom-made trip from Battenkill Valley Outdoors, who closes for the season after Columbus Day weekend.
Of course, it’s not too late in the season to play a few rounds on one of Washington County’s incredible golf courses! Whether you prefer waterfront views or mountain vistas, you’ll love watching the leaves change as you line up the tee shot.
Pumpkin Patches & Apple Orchards: The Taste of the Season
Last but certainly not least: the flavors of the season! Unsurprisingly, some of the most fun fall activities center around food. After all, autumn is when we celebrate a bountiful harvest and share the fruits of our labor with our friends, family, and neighbors. You can even help with the harvest yourself during certain times of the year at working farm destinations like Gardenworks Farm and their Pick-Your-Own-Healthcare field!
Naturally, you’ll find a variety of farm-fresh produce here from places like apple orchards, berry patches and farmers markets. But there’s also the seasonal favorite: pumpkin patches! While many of our local farm stands and farm stores offer farm-grown pumpkins, some even allow visitors to pick their own pumpkins, right from the field. A few farms that offer this unforgettable seasonal experience are Herrington’s Pumpkins, The Garden Barn, and most recently, Tiashoke: Farm, Store & More.
So, come support our local farmers! Your family will have a blast exploring some of Washington County’s most picturesque properties while meeting adorable animals and tasting incredible food and drinks. After all, some of Upstate New York’s best agricultural products come from here, including award-winning cider, donuts, maple, beer, and milk! Of course, you also won’t want to miss delicious pancake breakfasts from one of our best-kept local secrets: Rathbun’s Maple Sugar House & Restaurant.
On the other hand, if you’re a lover of adult beverages, be sure to check out our thriving local craft beverage community that’s built itself on farm-fresh ingredients. No matter your preference, one of the area’s wineries, cideries, breweries, or distilleries will hit your sweet spot. And, many of them offer special seasonal flavors, so try something new!
Discover More Fun Fall Activities
As you visit, be sure to visit some of the neat seasonal attractions put on by this area’s farmers! These include hay rides, corn mazes, and haunted houses, too. For more fun fall activities, check out more local pumpkin patches, u-pick orchards, and spooky thrills! Don’t want the fun to end? Stay longer and spend the night at one of Washington County’s farms!
Additionally, you’ll want to plan ahead, because autumn brings some of the most interesting farm-related events of the year! This includes both the Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival (in late September) and the Landscapes for Landsake Exhibition (in October.) Both events help showcase the incredible work of our local artists and craftspeople!
So pick up some pumpkins and gourds of all sizes at our many roadside farm stands. Stock up on seasonal cheeses for your upcoming holiday parties. And, don’t forget to load up on hard ciders, local craft beverages & more, because the taste of the season won’t last long!
