What to do in the Adirondacks Now? Spring Leaf Peeping
A typical fall activity takes on a new meaning in upstate New York’s Adirondack Park.
When one thinks of leaf peeping, one most typically imagines a spectacular fall when the beautiful Adirondack State Park landscape turns gold, red and amber with incredible foliage. However, one of the best-kept secrets in travel in New York State is spring leaf peeping in the Adirondack forest preserve may be nearly as rewarding as it is in autumn.
Breathtaking scenery over thousands of miles all year round.
Travelers visiting the 6 million acres of the Adirondack Park in the fall anticipate a stunning view. The trees offer their annual showy display of scarlet, yellow, gold, and chestnut against a backdrop of evergreens. Whether they are just going for a scenic drive or plan to hike, bike, or paddle in the Adirondack wildlife, they will experience a spectacular view.
However, insiders know that spring provides another beautiful leaf-peeping adventure.
In the spring, visitors can witness trees sprouting their first verdant leaves of the season, wildflowers blooming, and chartreuse stalks of grass spiking through the soil. Hiking and biking trails through forests, past frozen lakes, and up to mountain tops offer incredible views.
What to expect during an Adirondack spring season.
The mountains, valleys, lakes, rivers, and streams provide beautiful scenery year-round; spring is no exception.
If you're planning to hike in the Adirondacks or have outdoor adventures from April to May, you can experience:
Trees and the mountainsides take on pink and green hues as buds emerge, swell, and unfurl.
The colors of the leaves get stronger and more vibrant as they grow, sometimes appearing suddenly.
In spring, lower elevations have blooming flowers and leaves before higher elevations and new leaves appear a little later in higher elevations.
We also think this is a good time to peer in on your neighbors' houses and camps through the trees. The foliage usually hides them in the summer and fall. Isn’t everyone curious about who is doing what to their house?
Where and when to see the spring foliage change.
Spring arrives first in the Central Adirondack region, including Blue Mountain Lake, Indian Lake, and Speculator, as well as the Lake Champlain, Gore Mountain, Schroon Lake, and Lake George areas.
The Adirondack high-peaks region, which includes Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, Whiteface Mountain, and Tupper Lake, is at higher elevations. Compared to lower-elevation areas, these regions can experience a delay of up to three weeks before they see the first bright shoots of spring.
The Adirondack Mountains offer excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation in a beautiful natural setting during spring. Luckily for many of us, they are just a day's drive of 25% of North America's population.
What to know about mud season in the Adirondacks.
In the Adirondacks, "mud season" also happens in early spring. During this time, the snow melts and the ground thaws. This makes trails and roads muddy and slushy.
Mud season occurs in March, April and even early May. During this time, temperatures rise above freezing during the day but drop below freezing at night. When the snow melts and rain falls, the soil becomes saturated, making it soft and muddy. This can make hiking and driving difficult.
Mud season can be challenging for outdoor enthusiasts. Trails may close or become difficult to navigate, and roads may require extra caution. Authorities may temporarily close some roads to prevent damage.
When hiking, always stay on marked trails to protect plants and wildlife. Avoid creating new trails or shortcuts, which can lead to erosion and habitat destruction.
Before heading out, check trail conditions and closures with local park authorities or online resources. Some trails may close or become impassable because of mud or lingering snow.
Spring, summer, winter or fall: it's always a great time to be in the Adirondacks.
As we like to remind our community, visiting the Adirondacks is always a good time. With some planning, you can have an amazing time in upstate New York, no matter the season.
Places to stay, shop, eat, and things to do in the Adirondacks.
A long-time favorite destination for travelers who want upscale accommodations, fine dining, and easy access to the ADKs natural beauty.
Upcoming events in the Adirondacks.
Local artisans and crafters showcase their unique handmade gifts, decorations, and holiday treats in Newcomb.
Don’t miss Warren Miller’s 75th wintersports masterpiece at the Charles R. Wood Theater in Glens Falls, NY.
North Country Community College holds its Annual Holiday Arts & Crafts Fair, featuring works by the Adirondacks’ best artisans.
The 2024 Canadian Pacific Holiday Train stops in the Adirondacks along Lake Champlain on Tuesday, November 26.
Join a month-long virtual competition and an epic in-person race on Thanksgiving Day in Saranac Lake.
Pre-game Thanksgiving dinner and help fight hunger at the Glens Falls Gobble Wobble 5K and family-fun race.
Join the 11th annual fun run celebrating the life of Erin Farkas Dewyea and supporting Tupper Lake youth.
Adirondack Health in Lake Placid sponsors the 15th Annual 5K Turkey Trot Walk/Run on Thanksgiving Day.
Shop local and enjoy live music, crafts, and more at this annual tradition in the Central Adirondacks.
Visit Blue Mountain Lake on Black Friday for a holiday shopping event at the Adirondack Experience.
The Herb Brooks Arena at the Olympic Center hosts the second annual Adirondack Winter Invitational Thanksgiving Weekend.
Catch the holiday spirit at this performance of one of the most beloved and classic ballets.
Lake George Village is lit by over 7,000 lights to celebrate the holidays in the Adirondacks.
Visit BlueSeed Studios to see an imaginative and creative display of Christmas Trees adorned by local artists and craftspeople.
Enjoy a mysterious take on the traditional “Night Before Christmas” featuring Sherlock Holmes at Tannery Pond Center.
It’s the 39th annual Sparkle Village Craft Fair in Saran Lake, celebrating the holidays in the Adirondacks.
Christmas in Warrensburgh has been a much cherished Adirondack event for over three decades.
Catch the holiday spirit at this performance of one of the most beloved and classic ballets in Plattsburgh in December.
Kick off the holiday season on Saturday, December 7, with the Saranac Lake Holiday Village stroll, which supports local businesses.
It’s America’s premier Snodeo in Old Forge on December 13 and 14, 2024. It’s the 48th year of this iconic winter sports event.
Don’t miss Warren Miller’s 75th wintersports masterpiece in North Creek near Gore Mountain.
Saturday Night Live alum brings his comedy tour to the Conference Center in Lake Placid on December 13.
Last-minute shoppers can find great Adirondack gifts at the ADKX Store in Blue Mountain Lake on Saturday, December 14.
Enjoy an educational Winter bird hike or snowshoe at Newcomb’s Adirondack Interpretive Center on December 14.