Lumbering trees and crisp autumn air are hallmarks of the end of fall and winter as the weather shifts from mild to chilly. During this transition, nature showcases its own bright and vibrant fashion. From the red maples of Central Park to the painted hills of the Catskill Mountains, some of the best views of fall foliage are found near New York City.
Whether you’re a hiker, sightseer, or just looking for a leaf-peeping adventure, there’s a variety of locations just a few hours away that offer breathtaking views of fall foliage. Here is an extensive list of the prettiest places to view fall foliage near New York City.
Central Park
A trip to New York City will never be complete without a trip to Central Park. Located at the heart of Manhattan, Central Park is the destination for thousands of visitors each year. The park is especially beautiful during the fall season and visitors can find many breathtaking displays of autumnal hues. From a canopy of turning foliage and orange and yellow trees, to cool air and gentle hues of fall leaves, Central Park is a great place to capture some of New York City’s most stunning landscapes.
Pocantico River
Located just a few hours north of New York City lies the stunning Pocantico River. This river is known for its beautiful autumn foliage, as it features some of the brightest and most vibrant foliage in the area. Stroll along the riverbank and take in the breathtaking views of the changing leaves.
Catskill Mountains
If ever there’s a place to make a postcard-perfect fall foliage photograph, the Catskill Mountains can certainly deliver. Located in Upstate New York, these mountainsoffer an unbeatable view of their breathtaking peaks and valleys covered in a blanket of orange and yellow foliage. Enjoy a stay in one of the quaint mountain towns and drive along the picturesque roads for some of the best views of fall foliage in the area.
Bear Mountain
The largest state park in New York, Bear Mountain offers some of the best of the Hudson Valley’s fall foliage. Pack your hiking boots and make your way to Bear Mountain to experience the colorful transformation of the park’s lush hills. You’ll find thatall the vibrant hued trees, breathtaking sunsets and mountain ponds are the perfect backdrop to get some of the most gorgeous fall photos.
Harriman State Park
Harriman State Park is the perfect place to experience the stunning display of color that starts to emerge in autumn. Located in Rockland and Orange counties, Harriman State Park is home to a variety of forests and trails perfect for walking, biking and exploring. With more than 200 miles of hiking trails, you will be able to take in some of the most beautiful views of fall foliage that New York has to offer.
Sterling Forest
Sterling Forest is located in the Hudson Highlands of New York, just an hour and a half from New York City. This picturesque region offers stunning views of fall foliage that seem straight out of a postcard. Take in the brilliant fall hues of the trees and then when the temperature drops, grab a cozy blanket and enjoy the breathtaking views of fall foliage from the comfortable forest trails.
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Known for its breathtaking views of the Shawangunk Mountains and pristine ponds and lakes, Minnewaska State Park Preserve is a favorite of many New Yorkers and visitors alike. The acres of forests here offer a stunning display of fall foliage as the hills and valleys get blanketed in colorful leaves. Spend a day hiking or biking around the nature trails and marvel at the spectacular views of red, orange and yellow foliage.
Monhagen Mountain
Monhagen Mountain is a favorite destination among photographers because of its stunning views of the changing leaves. Towering over the Monhagen Brook and near the Great Swamp Wildlife Management Area, Monhagen Mountain offers plenty of colorful magic from its summits. Enjoy the view that goes all the way to the Worthington State Forest and the Delaware Water Gap.
Storm King State Park
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Shawangunk Mountains, Storm King State Park is a great destination for viewing fall foliage. The park is known for its spectacular mountain views and its lighthouse, which is a popular spot for photographers who want to capture some of the best of the autumn season.
Palisades Interstate Park
The Palisades Interstate Park is an absolute must-visit during the autumn months. Just 45 minutes away from New York City, this park features some of the most breathtaking views of fall foliage in the area. Enjoy the scenic hike at the top, where you can take in the stunning views of the Hudson River and the turning leaves, then relax in the nearby towns and villages for the remainder of the day.
With autumn foliage that brightens the city of New York from the busy streets of Manhattan to the wooded hills of Upstate New York, there are plenty of prettiest places to view fall foliage near New York City. From Central Park to the Pocantico River, to the Catskill Mountains, Bear Mountain, Harriman State Park, Sterling Forest, Minnewaska State Park Preserve, Monhagen Mountain, Storm King State Park and Palisades Interstate Park, these stunning destinations are sure to be some of the best places to witness and capture the beauty of autumn.
