It’s almost the end of September and the leaves are just starting to turn on the trees in the Hudson Valley, New York area. Soon, the green hue will be replaced with these vibrant reds, oranges and yellows and when the leaves are at their peak, the trees are absolutely beautiful. If you plan to take a drive around the Hudson Valley during this time, you won’t be disappointed.
If you’re into the changing of the leaves, then you’ll love driving in the Northeast during September and October. Part of the Hudson Valley runs right alongside the Hudson River and there are plenty of amazing spots to stop and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. In Hyde Park, you can stop by the home of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, take a tour of the former president’s residence and then walk behind it and take a look at the view.
If you’re on the other side of the river, Mohonk Mountain House is the place to be. This Victorian-style castle sits on top of a cliff and provides a view of the Hudson Valley unlike no other. Here you can also go horseback riding, enjoy campfires, spa treatments and more, but that view!
Drive a little further north and stop in the bucolic Catskills, where you can see the changing leaves in the reflection of the waterfalls. Vernooy Kill Falls is in Kerhonkson and the water drops down 60 feet, while the Kaaterskill Falls, which is 90 feet higher than Niagara Falls, is the tallest waterfall in New York State (careful though – it’s the most dangerous).
Drive up the Taconic State Parkway and enjoy more leaves and, when you’re ready to stop, visit such quaint towns as Rhinebeck. Here, pick up a new read at Oblong Books, an independent bookstore, or see a movie at Upstate Films. Stop in Samuel’s Sweet Shop and enjoy a great dinner at Terrapin Restaurant.
If you’re making plans now to driving up the north east coast, whether it’s through the Hudson Valley or further north to Vermont or Maine, keep in mind that many accommodations already sell out at this point during this popular time. You might find available reservations in hotels that aren’t on a leaf-changing route and remember to plan early for next year. Seeing the leaves changing in the northeast is something everyone should see for once in their lifetime.
Travel Makers MD