In the fall, when the temperatures begin to cool and the leaves change, it is hard to find a place that can beat the Hudson Valley! If you want to maximize this short season and soak in the beautiful scenery and fun activities this fall in the Hudson Valley, try to accomplish these 6 items!
Scenic Drives and Lookouts
Harriman State Park features over 200 miles of trails that cater to hikers of all levels. Additionally, the park boasts picturesque roads that meander through the park, providing stunning views and a great opportunity for a leisurely leaf-peeping drive.
John Boyd Thatcher State Park offers a gorgeous panoramic view and unique hikes along the Helderberg escarpment.
Apple and Pumpkin Picking
Nothing quite says fall like heading to a farm and going apple or pumpkin picking! Kristy’s barn in the Capital Region, Hurd’s Family Farm in Modena, and Samascott Orchards in Castleton are some of my favorites, but any will do! Bonus points if the farm you choose has a corn maze or you grab some apple cider and apple cider donuts after a day of picking!
Fall Foliage Hikes
Hiking is one of the best ways to enjoy the cool autumn weather and beautiful multicolor leaves. There is something truly magical about hiking in the fall as the leaves twirl down around you. If the foliage wasn’t a big enough draw, there are fewer bugs, and the heat is less intense this season, making this a perfect fall activity to add to your bucket list.
My favorite Hudson Valley Fall Foliage Hikes are Sam’s Point in Minnewaska State Park, and walking through Bear Mountain’s zoo and trails!
Visiting Farmers Markets
Fall is one of the best times to visit a Farmer’s Market! You can get great fresh produce without having to sweat out in the sun. Apples, pumpkins, winter squash, pears, carrots, kale, and Brussels sprouts all peak in the autumn!
Haunted House
Do you love fall for the spooky vibes? Headless Horseman Hayrides and Haunted Attraction, Pure Terror Scream Park, and Kevin McCurdy’s Haunted Mansion are a few local haunts that are very popular around Halloween.
Brewery Tours (Pumpkin Beer)
Fall is the perfect time for a brewery tour. There are often fun events planned with things like axe throwing, live music, and other activities! Indian Ladder Farms near Thatcher State Park, Upper Depot Brewing Company in Hudson, and Angry Orchard Cidery in Walden all have events throughout the fall season.
How do you celebrate fall in the Hudson Valley? Let me know in the comments below, and thanks for reading!