This Hidden Lake Ranks Among the Best Spots for Fall Foliage in the Adirondacks

As I make my way to the summit, my hiking boots crunch on the fallen leaves. I pause to snap photos as a ruse to catch my breath, but my heart races again as the view opens up through the trees, unveiling a breathtaking panorama. A vibrant tapestry of deep reds, fiery oranges, and brilliant golds stretches endlessly toward the horizon. From my vantage point atop Castle Rock, the lake glistens, scattered with islands draped in autumn colors. The crisp, refreshing air invigorates me in one of my favorite spots to explore this season: Blue Mountain Lake in the Adirondack Mountains.

The quaint village of Blue Mountain Lake may be small, but it boasts incredible beauty. The Adirondacks have long been a sought-after haven for leaf-peepers, with brilliant foliage typically appearing in September and a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy the spectacle. While many tourists flock to popular towns like Lake Placid in the High Peaks region, Old Forge, and Lake George, these areas often overflow with visitors eager to admire nature's artistry and navigate crowded trails. Having grown up with this expansive six-million-acre park as my backyard, I can attest that it’s one of those hidden gems where you can truly enjoy your own private slice of autumn in the Adirondacks.

Nestled in the western part of the park, almost equidistant from Long Lake and Indian Lake, Blue Mountain Lake is the perfect spot for leisurely leaf-peeping. The haunting calls of local loons serve as your morning wake-up call for a daily display of magic. Enjoy your coffee as the mystical fog dissipates, unveiling vibrant colors lit by the soft morning sun. If luck is on your side, the stillness of the wind will create a stunning illusion; a mirror-like reflection that blurs the line between up and down. This enchanting place has a rich history, notably hosting Thomas Edison, who was a frequent visitor to the elite Prospect House, making it the world’s first luxury hotel to offer electricity in every room back in the 1880s.

The iconic Blue Mountain, a towering 3,750-foot sentinel, oversees this corner of the Adirondacks. It’s one of the 25 summits in the park crowned with fire towers, enticing hikers with a challenging 4.4-mile round-trip trail featuring steep, slippery rock faces. For a less strenuous yet rewarding experience, the nearly three-mile Castle Rock Trail offers a beautiful vista of the lake without the sweat. Other fantastic hiking options in the area include the Cascade and Stephens Ponds Trail, the Tirrell Pond Trail, or a segment of the long-distance Northville-Placid Trail, accessible from Lake Durant State Campground. For a different perspective on the autumn colors, consider paddling in a canoe, kayak, or motorboat. No matter your autumn adventures, don’t forget to fuel up with a homemade breakfast sandwich from The Corner Store, a delightful combination of gas station, general store, deli, bakery, and coffee shop—be sure to order the French toast sticks too!

After your adventures, unwind with a craft beer and tasty bites from the food truck at Strong Rope Brewery. Set aside some time to explore The Museum on Blue Mountain Lake, where you can dive deep into the fascinating history of the Adirondacks. Don’t miss the overlook on the cafe’s deck for stunning views of the surroundings. Check out the Adirondack Lakes Center for the Arts for current events or exhibits, and make a stop at the historic Church of the Transfiguration, a charming lakeside chapel built in 1855.

Most accommodations in Blue Mountain Lake feature private camps, some available for rent, alongside small resort clusters of housekeeping cottages that exude a rustic charm. Finding a suitable place to stay, especially if you’re bringing your adventure pup, can be a bit challenging. Fortunately, the nearby Indian Lake offers pet-friendly options like The Woods cabin rental on Lake Adirondack. If you plan your visit for the last weekend in September, you'll be perfectly positioned to enjoy the fall foliage in Blue Mountain Lake and the Great Adirondack Moose Festival in Indian Lake. And don’t forget to soak in the breathtaking autumn sunsets from an Adirondack chair.