How to See Lake George in the Fall: 10 Best Things to Do
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Picture this: a place where the air is crisp, the lakes shimmer, and the forests explode in hues of red, orange, and gold...
Welcome to Lake George, NY, in the fall!
Also known as the "Queen of American Lakes," this beautiful destination transforms into an autumn wonderland, making it a must-visit for leaf peepers and outdoorsy travelers.
Disclaimer: I grew up here, so maybe I'm biased, but I truly believe that this is one of the most magical areas in Upstate New York during the autumn season!
And no, I'm not just referring to a trip to the (quite touristy) Lake George Village. Yes, there are some gems in this hub town, but the real Lake George experience comes from exploring the lake itself, the mountains, and the surrounding areas.
In this guide, I'll dive into the best time to visit for peak foliage, the top ten activities to do in Lake George in the fall, and other essential travel tips. Ready to start planning your Adirondack fall adventure? Let's go!
PS. Looking for more autumn trip inspiration in the Adirondacks? Read this post next: Ultimate Guide to Fall in the Adirondacks: 30 Best Things to Do & Places to See
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Best Time to Visit Lake George in the Fall
10 Best Things to Do in Lake George in the Fall
How to Get to Lake George, New York
Where to Stay in Lake George
Places to Eat in Lake George
Tips for Visiting Lake George, NY in the Fall
Adirondack Foliage Report Map
FAQS
Final Thoughts
Best Time to Visit Lake George in the Fall
To experience Lake George in all its fall glory, timing is everything. The peak foliage season typically runs from early to mid-October. During this timeframe, the leaf colors are at their most epic, creating a gorgeous autumn backdrop for your outdoor adventures.
Peak dates vary from year to year, but I always suggest planning around the Columbus Day weekend timeframe for your best shot at catching peak fall foliage in Lake George.
Mid-week visits will give you a more peaceful experience, as weekends tend to be much busier. Plan your trip around weather forecasts for a better chance of clear skies and mild temperatures. And don't forget to pack layers; the days can be warm, but evenings are often chilly!
10 Best Things to Do in Lake George, NY in the Fall
1. Go Hiking
Lake George has some amazing hiking trails that really show off the stunning autumn colors! for the purpose of this blog, I'm recommending trails that specifcally give you a view of Lake George itself. But don't forget to branch out and explore the greater region, as well!
Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned hiker, you'll find plenty of great options that suit your comfort level. Exploring these trails in the fall is such a treat—aside from the gorgeous colors and cooler temperatures, you might even spot some wildlife getting ready for winter, like deer and different bird species.
Be sure to wear sturdy shoes, pack your 10 hiking essentials, and bring plenty of water. The trails in the Adirondacks can be challenging due to the rocky terrain, but trust me, the panoramic views at the top are worth every step!
Easy trails: Stewart's Ledge trail, Bradley's Lookout trail
Moderate trails: The Pinnacle trail, Shelving Rock Mountain, Cat and Thomas Mountain trail
Difficult trail: Buck Mountain
Yellow foliage hues along a trail
Views in VERY early fall from the Bradley's Lookout trail
2. Drive Up Prospect Mountain
For those who prefer a more leisurely way to leaf peep this season, a drive up Prospect Mountain is perfect. The Veterans Memorial Highway ($10 per car fee) takes you to the summit, where you'll be greeted with panoramic views of Lake George and the surrounding mountains.
There are several pull-off points along the way, so take your time to stop and soak in the beauty of the fall foliage. Once you reach the summit, you'll find picnic areas and hiking trails if you want to explore further. It's an easy way to experience the fall colors!
3. Cruise on the Lake
What better way to see the fall colors than from the water? The Lake George Steamboat Company offers cruises that will give you a super unique perspective of the foliage. Choose from various themed cruises, including dinner cruises and sightseeing-specific tours.
The calm waters of Lake George reflect the vibrant colors of the trees, creating such a stunning view! It’s a perfect way to relax and take in the scenery while picking up some history about the area. Just a heads-up: be sure to book your tickets in advance, because these cruises are quite popular during the fall weekends specifically.
4. Go Apple Picking at a Local Orchard
Apple picking is a quintessential fall activity, and the greater Lake George area has quite a few orchards where you can pick your own apples.
Hicks Orchard, McWhorter's Orchard, and Saratoga Apple are popular choices within easy driving distance. My personal favorite is Hick's Orchard - their cider donuts are THE best you will ever have!
Many orchards also offer more than just apple picking. Enjoy hayrides, explore corn mazes, and sample fresh apple cider. It's a fun, relaxed activity and a perfect way to spend a crisp autumn day.
Hick's Orchard
Cider donut feast at Hick's Orchard
5. Mountain Biking on Nearby Trails
For the thrill-seekers, try mountain biking on trails around the Lake George area. This area boasts a surprisingly vast variety of trails for various skill levels, from beginner to advanced.
Popular spots include the Gurney Lane trails, Rush Pond trails, and the Brant Lake Bike Park. For downhill mountain biking, head to Gore Mountain or West Mountain.
Don't have your own mountain bike? Renting a bike is easy, with several local shops offering rentals. You can even rent your bike right at the Gurney Lane trailhead from Rick's Bike Rentals.
Biking through the fall foliage is such a fun experience! This is my favorite time of year to mountain bike in the northeast - the crisp air and those vibrant colors make it an adventure you won't forget.
6. Explore the Adirondacks by Horseback
Take in the beauty of the Adirondacks by exploring on horseback! The Mountain View Rocking B Ranch offers guided rides that take you along scenic trails with breathtaking views of the fall foliage.
Ride offers vary from a 1 hour excursion through the beautiful forests, to a 2 hour ride that brings you to the top of a mountain overlooking the surrounding landscapes.
Imagine riding through a colorful forests with a gentle breeze in your hair—it's such a peaceful and unforgettable experience! Plus, the guides are there to make sure you have a safe and enjoyable time, no matter if you're a total beginner or a seasoned rider.
7. Glamping Getaway
Just picture this: vibrant fall foliage right outside your tent, plus plush beds, hot showers, and fully equipped kitchens. It’s the best way to enjoy the great outdoors without giving up any comfort!
Two great local options for a glamping getaway:
>> Huttopia Adirondacks in Lake Luzerne, less than a 10 minute drive from Lake George Village.
>> Camp Hudson Pines in Corinth, just steps from the Hudson River.
Whether you're roasting marshmallows by the campfire or sipping your morning coffee with a gorgeous view, glamping will to give you an unforgettable autumn experience in the Adirondacks.
8. See Foliage from the Sky
Not afraid of heights? Perfect! Plan to see the fall foliage from the sky with an epic hot air balloon ride or scenic helicopter tour. Either one of these excursions would offer a bird's-eye view of the stunning foliage landscapes around Lake George.
These are two great options near Lake George:
Lake George views from the air of very early foliage
Private tour with North Country Heli-Flite
9. Ride a Gondola Up Gore Mountain
Roughly a 30-40 minute drive from Lake George, you'll find beautiful Gore Mountain. In the winter, this is a hot spot for spending a day skiing or snowboarding on the slopes. But in autumn, you can't miss taking a scenic gondola ride up Gore Mountain and enjoy panoramic views of the fall foliage!
The gondola takes you to the summit, where you can explore hiking trails and take in the stunning views. The ride itself is a peaceful experience, offering views of the changing leaves the entire way up. Once at the top, set up a picnic, hike around, or simply enjoy the scenery.
Gondola rides are available on weekends between 10am – 4pm through October 13th. You can also purchase your scenic gondola ride ticket online in advance.
10. Attend Local Annual Events
Adirondack Balloon Festival
The Adirondack Balloon Festival is a must-see event in the fall. This annual weekend-long festival features dozens of hot air balloons taking to the sky, creating a colorful spectacle against the backdrop of the surrounding landscapes.
In addition to the balloon launches, the festival includes live music, craft vendors, and food stalls - perfect way to kick off the autumn season.
World’s Largest Garage Sale
Just a short drive from Lake George, the World’s Largest Garage Sale in Warrensburg is an incredibly unique annual event. With hundreds of vendors selling everything from antiques to handmade crafts, it's a treasure hunter's paradise.
Stroll through the stalls, enjoy live entertainment, and sample local food. The fall foliage adds to the charm, making it a perfect day trip from Lake George.
Lake George Village Oktoberfest
Celebrate the season with a taste of Bavaria at the Lake George Village Oktoberfest. This annual event over Columbus Day weekend features traditional German music, food, and beer, all set against the beautiful backdrop of fall foliage.
Enjoy live performances, dance to German & Polka music, lounge in the Adirondack Brewery beer garden, indulge in delicious German cuisine, and so much more. Bonus: this is a totally FREE event to attend!
West Mountain Fall Festival
Kicking off in October, the West Mountain Fall Festival invites you to enjoy the first two weekends of the month in a very autumnal fashion.
You can take scenic chairlift rides to the top, where you'll be treated to stunning views of the colorful fall leaves. If you're up for a thrill, try out the aerial treetop adventure course! There will also be live music, a mountaintop picnic opportunity, brewery tastings, pumpkin painting, local craft vendors, specialty food trucks, and much more.
Chairlift ride to the top of West Mountain during the early fall season
How to Get to Lake George, New York
Lake George is easily accessible by car, train, or bus. If you're driving, it's conveniently located right off Interstate 87, making it a straightforward trip from major cities like New York City, Boston, and Montreal. Driving is recommended, since you'll likely want to explore the surrounding area too.
Amtrak offers train services to nearby stations (Albany or Saratoga), and buses run regularly from various locations. Once you arrive, local transportation options like taxis and Ubers make it easy to get around.
Where to Stay in Lake George
Lake George has all kinds of places to stay that fit every preference and budget! Whether you're into charming bed-and-breakfasts or luxurious resorts, there’s something for everyone.
If you’re looking for a spot with luxe charm and amazing views, check out The Sagamore Resort in Bolton Landing.
Looking for a private rental property experience? This lake view lodge just outside of Lake George Village is a perfect base for your trip.
For a more woodsy vibe, Huttopia Adirondacks has great glamping options with modern amenities.
It's a good idea to book any accommodations well in advance, especially during the busy fall season!
Places to Eat in Lake George
Lake George boasts a pretty diverse culinary scene, offering everything from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants. The Log Jam Restaurant is a local favorite, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious comfort food.
For a more upscale experience, visit the Inn at Erlowest, offering gourmet meals with a view of the water. Don't forget to stop by Caffé Vero for a cup of freshly brewed coffee and some breakfast right across from the lake.
For seafood lovers, head to The Algonquin Restaurant, where you’ll dine on fresh catches while enjoying stunning views of Lake George. And for a perfect coffee and bakehouse experience (you MUST try their bagels!), check out Bear's Cup in Bolton Landing.
Tips for Visiting Lake George, NY in the Fall
Pack Layers: Fall weather in Upstate New York can be unpredictable, so bring layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Book Activities in Advance: Popular tours and events can fill up quickly, so reserve your spots as early as possible.
Check Foliage Reports: Keep an eye on foliage reports to time your visit for peak colors.
Bring a Camera: The fall scenery is absolutely stunning, so don’t forget to bring your camera to capture those memories.
Stay Hydrated: Whether you're hiking or just exploring, it's super important to stay hydrated for a fun experience!
Adirondack Foliage Report Map
Stay updated on the latest foliage conditions with the New York Foliage Report Map. This resource provides real-time information on the best times to see peak colors throughout the state, helping you plan your adventure accordingly!
FAQs
Is Lake George a good place to visit in the fall?
Absolutely! Lake George turns into a gorgeous autumn paradise with leaves bursting in red, orange, and gold. The crisp air is perfect for exploring scenic hiking trails, taking boat rides, and soaking in the epic fall foliage. With plenty of adventure opportunities, chill activities, local festivals, and cozy places to stay, it's the perfect spot for your autumn getaway in the Adirondack Mountains!
When is the very best time to visit Lake George for fall foliage?
The peak foliage season is typically from early to mid-October. As a born-and-raised Lake George local, I always tell people to aim for Columbus Day weekend in October! Plan your visit around this time for the most vibrant colors, which will be either very close to peak or right at peak.
Can I bring my dog to Lake George?
Yes! So many outdoor activities and accommodations in Lake George are pet-friendly. Here are a few dog-friendly hotel recommendations in the greater Lake George area:
>> Huttopia Adirondacks in Lake Luzerne
>> Private Lake View Lodge in Lake George
>> Select rooms at The Sagamore Resort in Bolton Landing
>> Camp Hudson Pines in Corinth
>> Select rooms at O'Sullivan's on the Lake in Lake George Village
How is the weather in Lake George in October?
October in Lake George is such a lovely time to visit! You get to enjoy that crisp autumn air and nice daytime temps in the mid-50s to low 60s (°F).
Just a heads up, the evenings can get a bit chilly, sometimes dropping into the 40s. Make sure to pack some layers to stay comfy and cozy while you explore the outdoors.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re hiking, boating, or just taking in the scenery, there’s truly no shortage of things to do in the Lake George region in the fall. The breathtaking mountains, lake views, and fun seasonal activities make it the perfect place to soak up the beauty of autumn.
Start planning your trip using this guide, and get ready to enjoy the best of fall in this Adirondack Mountains destination!
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How to See Lake George, NY in the Fall: 10 Best Things to Do
