The Adirondacks in the fall are nothing short of a natural masterpiece. They offer an array of activities that cater to both the adventurous spirit and those seeking peaceful moments surrounded by nature. There are so many things to do in the Adirondacks, and autumn offers the ideal weather for hiking, biking, kayaking, and exploring our region’s many trails and waterways. It’s truly an outdoor lover’s paradise!Â
For those who may be looking for a restful retreat at a more leisurely pace, the Adirondacks is a great destination, too. There’s a great mix of easy walks, scenic drives, and places to refresh during your visit. You’ll find a lovely selection of harvest festivals, farmers markets, and craft fairs that celebrate the bounty of the season, as well as local breweries and restaurants for memorable meals.Â
The most important element to a successful getaway in the Adirondacks, however, is your lodging choice. You’ll want to find a place that feels like a true escape—this is a popular vacation destination, and some well-known areas are crowded—but that’s not the case at Friends Lake Inn. Our lodge-style hotel is tucked away from the busier locations, creating a quiet and peaceful retreat to fully unwind. We can’t wait to host you; book your room for your next getaway to the Adirondacks today!Â
Things to do in the Adirondacks this Fall
There are so many wonderful things to do in the Adirondacks this fall! Each activity highlights the region’s natural beauty, from hiking among colorful fall foliage to paddling through calm, reflective waters. Combined with the area’s rich local culture, delicious cuisine, and peaceful retreats, a fall visit to the Adirondacks offers experiences that will be remembered well beyond the season.
Here are the best things to do in the Adirondacks this fall:Â
- Hiking in Lake George: While you’ll have private access to our trails as a guest at Friends Lake Inn, there’s a lovely selection of hikes in the nearby town of Lake George to witness the fantastic fall foliage. Try out Sleeping Beauty Mountain, Prospect Mountain, and the Pinnacle.Â
- Cruising on the Lake: Whether renting your own boat, exploring by kayak or canoe, or climbing aboard a historic vessel with Lake George Steamboat Company, viewing the fall foliage from the water is one of the most memorable things to do in the Adirondacks.Â
- Bike the Revolution Rail: Hop on one of these rail bikes to see some of the most pristine and untouched areas of the Adirondacks. You’ll ride through hardwood forests and evergreens, creating a stunning background of fiery reds, oranges, and golden hues for your peddling experience.Â
- Head to the High Falls Gorge: This is an exceptional destination in the Adirondacks all year round, but it is particularly magical in the fall season. This 22-acre nature park features hiking and walking trails, stunning waterfalls, bridges, and glass-floor pathways.
- Scenic Drive to Split Rock Falls: Known as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Adirondacks, Split Rock Falls is a scenic hour’s drive from our Inn. As the name implies, this waterfall is split into two cascades and is a sight to see in person.Â
- Horseback Riding at Circle B Ranch: Our neighbors at this local ranch and stable offer some of the most romantic things to do in the Adirondacks, including scenic horsedrawn carriage rides and horseback riding through the autumnal forests.Â
- Fall Foliage at Gore Moutain: As one of the most popular ski resorts in the Adirondacks, it’s only fitting that fall is a great stop, too. Head here for a scenic chair lift ride, hiking, disc golf, and downhill mountain biking.Â
- Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride: This is a great way to experience the fall scenery from a completely different perspective, and it is a “must” for things to do in the Adirondacks this autumn! Check out the options from SunKiss Ballooning.Â
Autumn Getaway: Where to Stay in the Adirondacks
Whether you’re here to explore all the best things to do in the Adirondacks in the fall or just looking for a cozy place to get away, you can’t beat staying at Friends Lake Inn. There’s a reason we’re considered one of the most romantic destinations in Upstate New York for couples! Our charming accommodations, private access to nature trails, and exquisite on-site dining are all right here. A few days here is the perfect antidote to busy schedules and juggling the everyday issues that life throws at us.Â
We offer a broad range of guest rooms to choose from, all uniquely decorated, outfitted with high-end amenities, and representing the feeling of the Adirondacks. Curl up by the fire, soak in a whirlpool tub, or enjoy the fall foliage from the windows of your room. We even have a secluded cabin for those more intimate and romantic getaways, which is a popular choice for those celebrating an anniversary or honeymoon in the Adirondacks.Â
Each morning, you’ll have a lovely breakfast provided—relax in the Birch Bistro with a cup of coffee and get ready for the day. In the evenings, our full-service restaurant in the Main Dining Room offers farm-to-table meals, craft cocktails, and delectable desserts. Our hospitality professionals are experts in their field and are always more than happy to give recommendations on the best ways to enjoy our stunning region during the fall. Book your lodging at our Adirondacks hotel today!Â
