New York State has begun its colorful transformation into fall. The first signs of autumn can already be seen in the Adirondacks, with the rest of the state to soon follow suit. To help New Yorkers follow the cycle of foliage, the state released this week its annual Fall Foliage Report. The interactive map is updated weekly using observations and reports from a state-wide group of volunteers known as “leaf peepers,” as 6sqft previously reported.
It takes approximately two weeks for fall foliage to complete its cycle, changing from the vibrant greens of the summer to the darker hues of the fall. Historically, the cycle begins in the Adirondack and Catskill mountains in early September, gradually spreading out across the state.
Peak foliage in New York City and on Long Island takes place in mid-November, with peak brilliance typically lasting three to four days in any given spot.
“From colorful foliage and unparalleled natural landscapes to breathtaking historical sites and one-of-a-kind state parks, there’s nothing like New York in the fall,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said in a statement announcing the start of this year’s fall foliage season.
“During this season, we invite travelers from New York and out-of-state to plan a perfect autumn adventure – whether it’s climbing an Adirondack peak, visiting a Long Island winery, or walking along Buffalo’s waterfront – and see what our great state has to offer.”
The state encourages New Yorkers and visitors alike to explore the state’s natural landscape amid the changing leaves. Whether it be in the Catskills, Finger Lakes, or Long Island, there is no shortage of destinations to enjoy the fall foliage.
The state’s tourism website, I LOVE NY, recommends hiking as the best way to take in the autumn foliage. For more experienced hikers, Mount Haystack in the Adirondacks is a great option. Haystack is the third-highest peak in the entire state and gives an incredible vantage point to take in the surrounding fall scenery.
For New Yorkers who don’t want to venture far from the city, there are plenty of great spots to observe the foliage within the five boroughs and on Long Island.
While New York City may not be filled with the same amount of greenery as the Catskills and Adirondacks, there is still plenty of beauty to be found in its public parks. Central Park’s autumn leaves can be viewed from within the park or from some of the city’s observation decks, including Top of the Rock.
Forest Park in Queens and Prospect Park in Brooklyn are two other great options to stroll through and enjoy the breathtaking fall leaves. Long Island offers grand views of the fall both along its coasts and on Fire Island and Montauk Point.
New York’s 2022 fall foliage map has arrived
POSTED ON THU, SEPTEMBER 15, 2022BY AARON GINSBURG via 6sqft.com
Image courtesy of I LOVE NY