Fall Foliage Adventures in the Adirondacks
A Colorful Escape to Long Lake NY
Every autumn, the Adirondack Mountains come alive with fiery reds, glowing golds, and rich oranges as the forests prepare for winter. Tucked in the heart of the Adirondack Park, Long Lake is perfectly positioned as your base camp for unforgettable fall foliage adventures. From here, winding backroads lead to panoramic mountain overlooks, quiet hiking trails, and mirror-like lakes that reflect the season’s colors. Whether you set out by car, foot, or canoe, the beauty of leaf season is always close at hand.
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Motel Long Lake & Cottages has been a favorite leaf-watching spot for generations. Built in the 1950s, the motel and cottages have welcomed visitors through decades of Adirondack autumns. Today, guests can choose from modern motel rooms or a variety of renovated lakeside and woodland cottages, accommodating two to eight guests, with pet-friendly options available. Whether you’re paddling one of our complimentary canoes or kayaks, taking your furry friend for a stroll, or simply sitting back on your deck to watch the hillsides glow with the season’s leaf turnover, Long Lake is the perfect base for experiencing the Adirondacks in fall.
When Is Peak Fall Foliage in the Adirondacks?
The Adirondacks stretch across six million acres, so peak foliage arrives at slightly different times depending on elevation and location. In the Long Lake region, the most brilliant colors usually appear from late September through early-October. Early in the season, higher peaks begin to glow, while by early October, the lakeshores and valleys are at their brightest.
If you’re planning a visit, feel free to give us a call - we’re happy to share an on-site foliage update so you know exactly what to expect when you arrive.
Our Favorite Fall Hikes
Coney Mountain
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Distance from Motel Long Lake: 20 minutes (12 miles north)
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Trail Length: 1.1 miles one way (moderate climb)
This short but rewarding hike is one of our go-to recommendations in autumn. A gradual ascent leads to an open summit with 360-degree views of the surrounding lakes and ridgelines, glowing with fall colors.
Castle Rock
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Distance from Motel Long Lake: 25 minutes (15 miles south, near Blue Mountain Lake)
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Trail Length: 4 miles round trip (moderate)
Castle Rock is another of our personal favorites. The trail winds through hardwood forests before opening to a sweeping overlook of Blue Mountain Lake. In fall, the lake is ringed by ridgelines bursting with gold and crimson hues.
Blue Mountain
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Distance from Motel Long Lake: 15 minutes (10 miles south)
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Trail Length: 4.8 miles round trip (moderate to challenging)
A true Adirondack classic, this climb rewards you with a historic fire tower at the summit. On a clear autumn day, dozens of lakes shimmer below, framed by mountain peaks glowing with foliage.
Our Favorite Scenic Drive
Long Lake → Tupper Lake → Saranac Lake
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Distance: About 45 minutes (32 miles one way)
When we head out for a fall drive, this is the route we love most. Following Route 30 north to Tupper Lake and continuing on Route 3 toward Saranac Lake, the road passes tranquil lakeshores and winds through hardwood forests. Every bend reveals another postcard-worthy scene, with mountain ridges rising behind the brilliant autumn colors.
For a longer day trip, continue on to Lake Placid to combine the natural colors of fall with a stroll through one of the Adirondacks’ most famous towns.
Tips for Leaf Peepers
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Timing is everything: Colors change quickly, so aim for late September to early-October for the best chance to see peak leaf turnover in the Long Lake area.
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Start early or late: Morning light makes the colors glow across the water, while late afternoon brings warm tones perfect for photography.
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Dress in layers: Adirondack weather in fall can shift from crisp mornings to mild afternoons, so bring layers for comfort.
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Weekdays are quieter: Trails and scenic routes are busiest on weekends. A midweek visit offers more space to soak in the views.
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Pack a camera and snacks: You’ll want plenty of stops for photos—and having a snack on a quiet overlook makes the moment even better.
Plan Your Adirondack Leaf Turnover Getaway
The Adirondacks are one of the best places in New York to experience fall foliage, and Long Lake sits right at the center of it all. Whether you’re hiking, driving, or paddling across the lake, Motel Long Lake & Cottages offers the perfect place to relax after a day of autumn adventures.
