Best Places to See Fall Foliage in the Adirondacks

The Adirondacks region of New York has one of the longest fall foliage seasons in the country, with peak foliage times from late September in the High Peaks region to mid- to late October in the Lake George area. With numerous lakes and scenic vistas, the Adirondacks offer some of the best fall foliage views in the area. 

We've rounded up the best family-friendly hikes and viewing spots to appreciate this spectacular seasonal change. So, if you're planning a leaf-peeping trip this fall, add this list to your options.

Rooster Comb Mountain - High Peaks Region

This is arguably one of the best views in the Adirondacks any time of year, but it is particularly magical when the leaves change. The "rooster comb" is a rocky formation that offers almost 360 views of the surrounding area, without requiring too strenuous a hike. Since it is nestled in between the larger mountains, you get expansive views of the fall foliage on multiple mountainsides, making you feel like you are inside a painting. 

This is a moderate difficulty hike. Parking is free in the Rooster Comb parking lot, but plan to get there early as it fills up fast. A trail map or GPS is recommended, and definitely pack plenty of water and snacks.

Roaring Brook Falls

Just a short hike from the Roaring Brook parking area, and visible from route 73, is the impressive 300-ft-high Roaring Brook Falls. The main trail takes you to the bottom of the falls, but if you go a bit on the Giant Mountain path, you can access the top of the falls and the spectacular view of the surrounding mountains. 

Whiteface Mountain

Whiteface Mountain can be accessed by a difficult hike, or you can drive to the top or take the ski lift. The ski lift offers an amazing experience as you get an open view of all the foliage the entire way up. 

Mount Jo - High Peaks Region

Mirror Lake - Lake Placid

As the centerpiece of downtown Lake Placid, Mirror Lake is one of the best places to enjoy fall foliage, especially on a clear morning with the foliage reflected on the still water. The lake is lined with shops and restaurants, many offering lake views. 

Another way to enjoy is to rent a boat or paddleboard from Mirror Lake Boat Rentals.

High Falls Gorge

For amazing fall views with no serious hiking involved, High Falls Gorge is a great option. The park features trails along a narrow granite-walled gorge with four spectacular waterfalls. There are two options to see the gorge, one being a half-mile easy path, which is stroller-friendly. The other path is on stairs and suspended walkways all along the edge of the gorge. All paths are safe for children as the walkways have fout-foot-high fencing with metal mesh. 

The admission prices are as follows: adults (13+): $17; kids (4-12): $14; 3 and under free.

Black Mountain - Lake George

A moderate hike, 

the top offers stunning views of the fall foliage and Lake George. 

Top of the World  - Lake George