See the 8 Best Places to Experience Albany Fall Foliage
As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to glow with hues of gold, amber, and crimson, it's the perfect time to explore the Capital Region’s most scenic parks and natural areas. Whether you're a photographer, casual stroller, or full-on foliage fanatic, there’s no shortage of places to enjoy the stunning Albany fall foliage.
Prime leaf peeping is typically at its best between the second and third weeks of October in Albany and surrounding areas. From city parks to mountaintop overlooks, here are the best spots to soak in the season.
Washington Park
Located in the heart of Albany, Washington Park is a fall favorite for locals and visitors alike. Designed by the same team behind Central Park in NYC, this 81-acre urban oasis features winding paths, graceful trees, and peaceful water features—all of which become stunning in autumn.
It's a great place to relax on a bench, enjoy a picnic, or take a walk under a canopy of colorful leaves. The park’s mature maples and oaks provide a dramatic transformation each fall, making it one of the city’s most photogenic spots.
Albany Pine Bush Preserve
A rare inland pine barren ecosystem, the Albany Pine Bush Preserve is just 15 minutes from downtown Albany and offers a quiet escape into nature. With over 20 miles of marked trails, it's ideal for hikers, bikers, and families looking to enjoy the changing season.
The Albany Pine Bush Preserve is also home to unique wildlife and a mix of open dunes, forests, and ravines. These landscapes take on rich fall tones that make every trail feel like a new adventure.
Admission is free year-round, and fall is one of the best times to explore.
Cohoes Falls
Few places offer the drama of autumn leaves framing a powerful waterfall. Cohoes Falls is a hidden gem just north of Albany, where the Mohawk River plunges nearly 90 feet. The vibrant foliage makes the scenery even more breathtaking.
There are two main viewing spots: the upper deck at Falls View Park and a lower-level platform accessible via a steep stairway.
Past visitors have said the falls are an "unexpected and unforgettable sight," especially in fall. Pack a lunch and enjoy the foliage with the sound of rushing water in the background.
Peebles Island State Park
Located at the confluence of the Hudson and Mohawk Rivers, Peebles Island State Park offers wooded trails, scenic overlooks, and calm river views—all enhanced by rich autumn color. It's a peaceful place for a walk through nature without venturing too far from the city.
Several observation decks along the trails give sweeping views of the water and foliage. The terrain is mostly flat, making it a great choice for families or anyone looking for a light hike surrounded by fall beauty.
Saratoga National Historical Park
Take a scenic fall drive through Saratoga National Historical Park, located in nearby Schuylerville. The Battlefield Tour Road guides you through rolling hills and open fields, with interpretive stops and expansive views throughout.
This 10-mile drive takes about 1.5–2 hours to complete with stops, and it offers some of the best wide-open views of fall foliage in the region. Pair your visit with a short hike or explore the visitor center for some Revolutionary War history while you're there.
Thacher State Park
Just a short drive southwest of Albany, Thacher State Park in Voorheesville is known for its sweeping cliffside views and wooded trails. The Indian Ladder Trail is a popular choice in summer, but in fall, the park becomes a hotspot for foliage fans.
Hike one of the many scenic trails or head straight to the overlook for a panoramic view of the Hudson-Mohawk Valley blanketed in color. It’s a must-see destination for locals and visitors each autumn.
Saratoga Spa State Park
Saratoga Spa State Park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and historic charm. The mix of open lawns, wooded areas, and classical buildings creates a scenic backdrop for fall color.
Trails wind past mineral springs, stone pavilions, and through tree-lined paths, making it ideal for walking, biking, or a relaxed afternoon outdoors. With a variety of trail lengths and features, the park accommodates every kind of leaf peeper.
The Catskills
If you're up for a short day trip, head south to the Catskills, where mountain views and brilliant foliage await. This region boasts fire towers, scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and charming backroads, all exploding with color in October.
For sweeping views, climb one of the area’s popular fire towers like Hunter Mountain, Overlooking Mountain, or the Upper Esopus Fire Tower at the Maurice D. Hinchey Catskills Visitor Center.
Keep in mind the foliage here peaks a bit later than in Albany—often mid to late October—so it's a great option for a second round of leaf peeping.
Tips & FAQs for Leaf Peeping in Albany, NY and Nearby
Where are the best places to see fall foliage in Albany, NY?
Fall foliage can be seen all over Albany and the Capital Region, however there are spots in particular that stand out for their beautiful views. Some favorites include Albany Pine Bush Reserve, John Boyd Thacher State Park, Cohoes Falls, Washington Park, Saratoga National Historical Park, Peebles Island State Park, Saratoga Spa State Park, and other local forests and parks.
Are there scenic drives near Albany, NY for leaf peeping?
Most of the time, you won't even need to unbuckle your seatbelt to be able to enjoy all of the foliage that Albany has to offer. The best roads to drive around, relax, and enjoy the fall colors are Route 9N in Lake George, I-87 going towards the Adirondacks, Route 2 East, Route 29 West of Saratoga Springs, and the Catskills Scenic Byway.
How long does fall foliage season last in Albany, NY?
The fall foliage season in Albany generally spans four to six weeks. The first splashes of color begin to appear in mid to late September, marking the start of the transition. Peak foliage, when the colors are at their most distinct and vibrant, is typically seen in early to mid-October. By late October, the colors begin to fade, and most of the leaves have fallen from the trees by early November.
What is the best time of day to enjoy the fall foliage in Albany, NY?
Enjoy the bright morning lighting that is almost golden between 9 am and 11 am, where the sun looks golden shining on the leaves. Between the hours of 11 am and 2 pm the sun is at its peak, making the colors pop and even more vibrant. Hours outside of these do not do the leaves justice. Too early in the morning, and the fog blocks the color of the leaves and the views, and too late in the afternoon leads to shadows on the leaves as the sun begins to set.
Plan Your Fall Foliage Adventure
There’s no shortage of beautiful places to explore during fall in Albany and the Capital Region. Peak foliage is the perfect excuse to get outside, breathe in the crisp air, and experience the natural beauty that makes this season so special.
Check out the Lake George leaf peeping guide >>
