Welcome to Lake Champlain

Fall is a spectacular time to enjoy Lake Champlain on New York’s Adirondack Coast. The leaves are turning and the weather is cooling so plan your next adventure with us. 

Our region offers a range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, from scenic drives along the lake to hiking one of the family friendly Champlain Area Trails (CATS) paths to rock climbing in Ausable Chasm. Fall is also peak harvest time in the region, so expect an abundance of farm fresh treats and fall festivals, like the Adirondack Harvest Festival, Essex County Cheese Tour, and the Penfield Apple Folkfest. You can’t have fall without apples and cider donuts, so make plans to visit the world famous Gunnison Lakeshore Orchards Olde Farmhouse Bakery & Gifts. Once you’ve had your fill of apples, take on the region’s rich history at Fort Ticonderoga and the 18th century fort ruins at Crown Point State Historic Site. Both have breathtaking scenery, and Fort Ticonderoga also adds historical reenactments, exhibits, a corn festival, and a corn maze to the mix.

Step into adventure

With every season our landscape transforms and displays a character all its own. Fall in the Adirondacks is perfect for leaf peeping, whether from your car on a scenic drive or while hiking on a CATS trail. Speaking of CATS, the trail system includes more than 40 miles of trail, many of which are short, easy hikes to spectacular vistas of Lake Champlain to the east and the impressive Adirondack High Peaks to the west. Check out our suggestions to help you choose the ideal hiking trail and to find our birding hot spots. 

Scenic drives are fun, but our roads are also a major draw for cyclists. Take a day or a weekend to cruise from town to town along one of the many Adirondack bikeways routes!

Fun for the family

Book a tour at Ausable Chasm and explore their many trails as you listen — and feel — the thunderous echoes of the Ausable River. Insider's tip: Visit the chasm in every season to see the true beauty of this ancient place. Of course, that's just where the fun starts. Explore more fun family ideas!

Reel in the big one!

Cast your line in the big lake or hit one of our many ponds and streams! Local bait and tackle shops can provide the most up-to-date information on lake and pond conditions, and what seems to be biting and where. They can also supply you with the best bait for your target catch, the right gear, and even a guide. 

Unwind and dine

After a day outside in the fresh air, you will appreciate our dining options and the opportunity to sip a hot beverage or cool cocktail. When you're ready to put up your feet, we've got you covered — from cozy, posh B&Bs to historical inns, there is a wide selection of lodging to choose from that will offer you a warm welcome.

 Don't miss the exciting events at Fort Ticonderoga throughout the fall, including battle reenactments. Browse all of our great upcoming events and plan your getaway today!