The Hudson Valley is one of the most beautiful regions in the United States. Stretching along the river it is named for, this region includes scenic mountains and rolling hills, deep forests, and quaint towns and cities. It is a place people flock to for its culture and abundant natural beauty, with excellent hiking trails, a winemaking legacy, and farm-to-table food. Hudson Valley is a gorgeous place to visit year-round, but autumn might stand out most.
Autumn in the Hudson Valley is when the thick forests and tree-covered mountains of the region turn incredible shades of orange, red, and yellow. It is when fall flavors from locally harvested produce are sold at restaurants and farmers’ markets. It is an exciting time that draws many to this area to enjoy all it offers. Let’s look at some Hudson Valley hotspots ideal for an autumn vacation.
New Windsor
New Windsor is a mid-sized city home to around 30,000 residents. It is a peaceful community that has a fascinating history and quaint look. It is based on the waters of the Hudson River and has an abundance of parks and nearby forests, making it an excellent place to visit for nature lovers.
New Windsor in the fall is a beautiful setting for seeing fall foliage. Visitors can view fall foliage in the many parks and forests in the town and along the Hudson River, such as Stewart State Forest, which has 18 miles of scenic hiking trails. New Windsor is also famed for its seasonal farmers’ market.
Newburgh
Newburgh is another city located on the waters of the Hudson. Newburgh is a historic community with preserved historical buildings and appealing architecture. It has seen significant growth in recent years and is now becoming a fall vacation hotspot.
Visiting Newburgh during autumn will allow visitors to enjoy the natural setting in a mild fall climate. There are beautiful nearby scenic locations, including the Mohonk Preserve, which has excellent hiking and biking trails and paths. The Wallkill Valley Rail Trail offers 22 miles of trails in a densely forested location. Exploring the streets of Newburgh and sampling the delicious food options is also an excellent way to spend a fall day.
Hudson
Hudson is a small town on the river that offers a quaint and scenic destination for a fall visit. It is the ideal base for exploring the Hudson Valley and Catskills. The town has a lot to offer, with antique shops, cozy restaurants, and art galleries. The downtown is filled with restaurants and stores, and even though the town is only home to around 6,000, it has an outsized reputation.
Visiting Hudson in the fall will give you easy access to some of the natural settings of the Catskills and the valley that are made all the more beautiful by changing leaves. The High Falls Conservation area leads to a gorgeous waterfall, while the Stissing Mountain trail has an upward hike leading to a gorgeous view of the area.
Kingston
Kingston is a historic community located around a 2-hour drive from New York City. This appealing city is a consistent destination for visitors looking to enjoy excellent dining and shopping options. Kingston also has many historical buildings and the Stockade District, a well-known hotspot for visitors.
There’s much to do in Kingston in the fall. Kingston has a central location near many of the best hikes in the state, where the changing leaves make for an Instagram-worthy backdrop. Minnewaska State Park Preserve is a natural area with excellent trails and much to see. The Black Creek Preserve is a smaller area with footbridges and creeks. Or, if you want to enjoy Kingston’s downtown, exploring Kingston’s history and architecture is best done with a pumpkin spice latte on a crisp fall day.
