Escapes

WHERE TO FIND FALL COLORS

Bright, multi-hued autumn foliage beckons—sometimes in places you wouldn’t think of. Here are 5 top spots.

Some of us are busy Instagrammers or serious nature photographers. For others, lovely fall colors are an excuse to hit the road—and feel that brisk air—when it’s no longer hot and muggy, but not yet frigid and blustery. Below you’ll find five destinations within an easy drive where the leaves put on a show of paintbox variety.

FORT TRYON PARK, NEW YORK, N.Y.

Distance from Bergen: 25 minutes east. Peak time to view: Late October Manhattan probably isn’t the place that leaps to mind when you think of fall foliage, but this park is up there—literally and figuratively— with some of the best spots in the Empire State to view the changing leaves. It nestles at the northernmost tip of the west side of Manhattan at Riverside Drive and 191st Street, a hidden gem of horticultural treasures. Because of its high elevation, Fort Tyron Park offers a sweeping view of the Hudson River—and while you’re there, you can wave at your neighbors across the Palisades. Bike, hike or walk along eight miles of pathways, snap photos within the three acres of manicured lawns—and bring Fido for a visit to the city’s largest dog run. Don’t miss it: Fort Tryon Park is also home to the Cloisters, a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art that houses nearly 5,000 medieval works of art.

DELAWARE AND RARITAN CANAL STATE PARK, PRINCETON, N.J.

Distance from Bergen: 1 hour, 30 minutes south. Peak time to view: Mid to late October It’s best to experience the beauty of this 70mile linear park in Central Jersey in the fall, when orange, red and yellow leaves are abundant. You can take in the sights on foot, by mountain bike or even by canoe, which you can rent in nearby Griggstown or Princeton. (Fishing is encouraged along the canal too.) This park also features 19th century mills, bridges and tender houses, making it a popular attraction for history buffs. Don’t miss it: The main canal passes through a handful of quaint towns such as Kingston, Griggstown and Blackwells Mills, with enticing shops and cafes. For a more officially cultural option, the Princeton Art Museum is just a 15-minute drive away.

SAUGERTIES LIGHTHOUSE IN THE CATSKILLS MOUNTAINS, SAUGERTIES, N.Y.

Distance from Bergen: 1 hour, 30 minutes north. Peak time to view: Early to mid October A lighthouse is romantic in itself; add some fall foliage to the mix and you have perhaps the best day date ever. This historic landmark located along the Hudson River has views of Esopus Creek that are nothing short of extraordinary, especially as the seasons change. Its plot of land is 17 acres, alive with fauna and various bird and animal species. But the main attraction here is a short-but-sweet half-mile walk that will take you to the Lighthouse, where you’ll be rewarded with the view—spot boats, watch for birds and, of course, catch those leaves. Don’t miss it: Boomers will appreciate the nostalgia of the Woodstock Museum, while the younger set will enjoy a trip to the Catskills Animal Sanctuary. Each is about a 20-minute drive from the Lighthouse.

LAKE WALLENPAUPACK IN THE POCONOS MOUNTAINS, HAWLEY, PA.

Distance from Bergen: 2 hours west. Peak time to view: Early to mid October This man-made lake is a favorite in Pennsylvania among both tourists and residents. The reservoir itself is 13 miles long and has 52 miles of shoreline, so there’s plenty of space to sprawl out all year round. But in the fall, that means there are all the more vantage points from which to check out the gorgeous changing foliage—and the flaming colors reflect off the water. There are also hiking trails, forest lands, campsites and boat tours along what locals refer to as “the Big Lake.” Don’t miss it: Unwind with your favorite white or red at Three Hammers Winery (about a halfhour’s drive from the lake), or choose a brewski at Wallenpaupack Brewing Company (just 12 minutes away). Just make sure you designate a driver first!

JACOB’S LADDER SCENIC BYWAY IN THE BERKSHIRES, RUSSELL, MASS.

Distance from Bergen: 2 hours, 30 minutes north. Peak time to view: Early October This scenic byway is our top pick for the season in the Berkshires area; its 35-mile stretch across Route 20 is also one of only two trails in the state that have been designated “state scenic byways.” And scenic it is; Jacob’s Ladder snakes through some of the region’s prettiest Massachusetts towns, but also features open fields, wetlands, steep ledges and streams for some seriously stunning fall photo ops you can take advantage of on foot or by car. Don’t miss it: The town of Lee, Mass., where Jacob’s Ladder begins, has a bevy of historic monuments and charming shops to round out your afternoon. If you want to continue your adventurous streak, pick up the Appalachian Trail in Lee for an additional hiking opportunity; this famous trail goes from Georgia all the way up to Maine, covering 90 miles in Massachusetts.