25 Must-Do Fall Adventures in the Adirondack Hub
Plan your perfect autumn getaway with this seasonal bucket list
As the air turns crisp and the leaves transform into fiery shades, the region becomes a playground for all things autumn. Spend your days chasing panoramic views from a mountaintop, savoring local flavors at a harvest festival, or simply soaking in the quiet beauty of a leaf-covered trail. Fall here is packed with charm, color, and adventure.
To help you make the most of the season, we’ve rounded up 25 of the best things to do this fall in the Adirondack Hub. From classic foliage drives to off-the-beaten-path hikes and cozy small-town experiences, there’s something here for every kind of fall adventurer.
25 ways to spend autumn in the Southern Adirondacks:
1.Enjoy fall foliage from the comfort of your car with a scenic drive through the Adirondack Hub, from Schroon Lake toward Lake Placid, surrounded by mountain vistas.
2. Take a fall gondola ride up Gore Mountain for breathtaking views of colorful autumn leaves stretching as far as the eye can see.
3. Pack a fall picnic complete with local snacks and spreads, then head to one of the area's beaches to enjoy peaceful moments and delicious treats with a seasonal backdrop.
4. Celebrate the season by exploring the Adirondack Hub’s fall events, including festivals, markets, car shows, craft fairs, and more!
5. Cast a line and enjoy peaceful fall fishing in the Adirondack Hub’s lakes and rivers. Reel in your favorite trout during their peak season while surrounded by cold, fast-flowing waters and a stunning display of autumn colors.
6. Pick out your favorite fall sweater, bundle up, and head to the Adirondack Interpretive Center to stargaze—join a night sky program or find a quiet spot to marvel at the brilliant stars in this dark-sky haven.
7. Set up base at a local campground or venture onto backcountry trails to discover the Adirondack Hub’s most breathtaking fall views.
8. Take a fall sunrise or sunset hike up Moxham Mountain and enjoy a scenic ridgeline trail that shines with autumn color.
9. Savor hearty fall meals at local favorites like Sticks & Stones and Flanagan’s Pub in Schroon Lake, perfect for warming up after a day outdoors—and don't miss Cupola Crepes for a cozy, sweet or savory autumn treat.
10. Tee off at golf courses around the Adirondack Hub, where fall foliage frames every hole with vibrant color.
11. Complete the Schroon Paddle Challenge and enjoy fall scenery and colorful shorelines as you explore scenic waterways—or paddle beyond the challenge to discover remote gems like Boreas Ponds for an even deeper wilderness experience.
12. Find your perfect autumn escape in a cozy cabin, lakeside cottage, or charming local lodge, ideal for relaxing after a day of exploring.
13. Shop for unique gifts and cozy home decor at local craft shops, seasonal markets, and the charming storefronts along Schroon Lake’s Main Street.
14. For serious adventurers, tackle a challenging hike in the Santanoni or Dix Range, where rugged trails and high peaks reward experienced hikers with breathtaking views and a true sense of accomplishment.
15. Step back in time at Great Camp Santanoni, where you can explore historic grounds, take in rich Adirondack architecture, and soak up the cozy fall vibes along the scenic carriage road.
16. Go for a scenic bike ride through the Adirondack Hub, where quiet roads and crisp fall air make for a perfect autumn cycling adventure.
17. Sip seasonal brews at Paradox Brewery, where fall flavors and mountain views come together in a perfect pint.
18. Grab your binoculars and go bird watching at local parks and trails, where fall migration brings a variety of species to the Adirondack Hub.
19. Boating season isn’t over yet—take advantage of the cool fall weather to cruise Adirondack lakes and soak in the beauty of autumn on the water.
20. Visit a local farm, apple orchard, or pumpkin patch to pick fresh produce, enjoy seasonal treats, and soak up the authentic flavors of fall in the Adirondack Hub. Places like It’s About Thyme Farm in Minerva offer just the right blend of charm and harvest-season goodness.
21. Experience the beauty of fall on horseback with a scenic ride at Circle B Ranch, where colorful trails and crisp autumn air make for an unforgettable adventure.
22. Warm up this fall by visiting local bakeries and coffee shops around the Adirondack Hub, where fresh pastries and cozy drinks await.
23. Experience the thrill of fall hunting in the Adirondack Hub, or team up with a local guide for a safe, successful outing in the region’s vast wilderness.
24. Traveling with the family? Plan a day of fall fun with kid-friendly hikes and attractions.
25. Celebrate the season through the arts by visiting local galleries, catching a performance, or exploring creative events happening throughout the Adirondack Hub.
Plan your next fall adventure
With endless ways to celebrate the season, now’s the perfect time to start planning your next fall adventure in the Adirondack Hub. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast aiming to bag a High Peak, traveling with kids in search of family fun, or simply craving the charm of a cozy mountain town during peak foliage, the southern Adirondacks has something for everyone. Come explore, unwind, and experience fall the way it’s meant to be.
