Fall Activities in the Capital Region
The end of summer is here, and we eagerly anticipate the arrival of autumn and all the beauty and excitement it brings to the Capital Region. Living here means you’re ideally situated to enjoy a variety of fall activities that highlight the natural splendor and vibrant community spirit of the area. Here are some must-do fall activities to make the most of this enchanting season.
Explore Scenic Hiking Trails
Autumn is the perfect time to hit the trails and immerse yourself in the colorful foliage. The Capital Region boasts several scenic hiking spots that offer breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature. Popular trails include:
John Boyd Thacher State Park
Located in Voorheesville, this park offers stunning cliff-side vistas of the Hudson-Mohawk valleys and beyond. The Indian Ladder Trail is a favorite, featuring waterfalls and limestone cliffs. In addition to the trails, the park has picnic areas, playing fields, and a nature center, making it a great spot for a full day of outdoor fun.
Peebles Island State Park
Situated at the confluence of the Mohawk and Hudson Rivers, this park provides gentle trails with beautiful river views and an abundance of wildlife. The trails here are relatively easy, making them perfect for families with children. The island’s varied ecosystems, including riverbanks, wetlands, and forests, offer excellent opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography.
Moreau Lake State Park
Nestled in the foothills of the Adirondacks, this park offers a variety of trails that showcase the region’s diverse landscapes. Moreau Lake itself is a tranquil spot for kayaking and fishing, and the surrounding trails range from easy lakeside walks to challenging hikes with stunning overlooks. The park also offers camping facilities if you want to extend your adventure overnight.
Visit Local Apple Orchards and Pumpkin Patches
Fall isn’t complete without a trip to an apple orchard or pumpkin patch. These local spots offer a fun-filled day for families and friends:
Indian Ladder Farms
A family favorite located in Altamont, this farm offers apple picking, a pumpkin patch, a farm market, and delicious apple cider donuts. Beyond picking apples, you can explore the petting zoo, enjoy a hayride, or stop by the cafe for homemade treats. The farm also hosts special events like harvest festivals and educational tours about farming and cider-making.
Ellms Family Farm
Situated in Ballston Spa, Ellms Family Farm features a pumpkin patch, corn maze, hayrides, and a variety of family-friendly activities. Kids will love the playground, ziplines, and jumping pillows, while adults can enjoy the farm store’s selection of local goods. Don’t miss the nighttime corn maze for a spooky twist on this classic fall activity.
Bowman Orchards
Located in Rexford, Bowman Orchards offers apple picking, wagon rides, and a delightful petting zoo. The orchard has over 40 varieties of apples to pick from, ensuring something for everyone. Seasonal events include pumpkin picking and a Christmas tree farm in the later months, making it a year-round destination.
Enjoy Local Festivals and Events
The Capital Region comes alive with festivals and events celebrating the season’s bounty and community spirit:
Capital Region Apple & Wine Festival
Held at the Altamont Fairgrounds, this festival features wine tastings, craft vendors, live music, and plenty of apple-themed treats. The event also includes a juried craft show, cooking demonstrations, and a car show, providing entertainment for all ages. Enjoy sampling wines from local wineries and picking up unique gifts from artisan vendors.
The Great Pumpkin Challenge
This fun event in Saratoga Springs includes a 5K and 10K race, pumpkin carving, and other festive activities, all supporting a good cause. Participants are encouraged to dress in costumes, adding to the fun and festive atmosphere. The event raises funds for the Saratoga Bridges organization, supporting individuals with disabilities.
Experience Haunted Attractions
For those who love a good scare, the Capital Region has plenty of haunted attractions to explore:
Double M Haunted Hayrides
Located in Ballston Spa, this attraction offers a thrilling hayride through the woods, along with haunted houses and other spine-chilling experiences. Each year, the attraction features new scenes and scares, ensuring a fresh experience for repeat visitors. The hayride is followed by a series of haunted walkthroughs, including a dark maze and haunted houses with live actors.
Night Terrors Haunted Farm
Situated in Schoharie, this farm features haunted houses, corn mazes, and other eerie attractions designed to test your bravery. The farm offers multiple haunted attractions, each with its own theme and level of scare. From zombie-infested trails to haunted barns, there’s plenty to make your heart race.
Field of Horrors
In Troy, this attraction offers multiple haunted experiences, including a haunted house, trail, and hayride, guaranteed to give you a fright. Each attraction is designed to immerse you in a terrifying world, with detailed sets, professional actors, and state-of-the-art special effects. It’s a must-visit for horror enthusiasts.
Take a Scenic Drive
One of the simplest yet most rewarding fall activities is taking a scenic drive through the picturesque landscapes of the Capital Region:
Mohawk Towpath Scenic Byway
This byway offers a journey through the historic and scenic Mohawk River Valley, highlighting the natural beauty and rich history of the area. Along the way, you’ll find historic sites, charming small towns, and plenty of spots to pull over and take in the view. The byway also provides access to numerous parks and nature preserves, perfect for a leisurely picnic or short hike.
Upper Hudson Valley Wine Trail
Enjoy a leisurely drive through the Hudson Valley, stopping at local wineries to taste the region’s finest wines amidst stunning fall scenery. Many wineries offer tours and tastings, allowing you to learn about the winemaking process and sample their latest vintages. The trail also passes through picturesque towns and villages, ideal for exploring local shops and cafes.
Enjoy Local Cuisine
As the temperatures drop, savor the flavors of fall with the region’s culinary offerings:
Farm-to-Table Restaurants
Many local restaurants feature seasonal menus highlighting fall produce. Try places like The Hollow Bar + Kitchen in Albany or Lucas Confectionery in Troy for a taste of autumn. These establishments pride themselves on sourcing ingredients from local farms, ensuring fresh and flavorful dishes that showcase the best of the season.
Farmers’ Markets
Visit local farmers’ markets such as the Troy Waterfront Farmers’ Market or the Saratoga Farmer’s Market to pick up fresh, seasonal ingredients and artisanal products. These markets are great places to meet local farmers and artisans, sample fresh produce, and find unique items like homemade jams, baked goods, and handcrafted gifts. Many markets also feature live music and cooking demonstrations, making them a lively community gathering spot.
Make the Capital Region Your Home
Fall in the Capital Region is a time of beauty, celebration, and community. Whether you’re exploring the great outdoors, enjoying festive events, or savoring seasonal delights, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We hope you take advantage of all the wonderful activities this season has to offer and create lasting memories with friends and family. Happy fall!