This Small Lakeside Town Is Perfect for Fall Foliage Right Now — and It's a Quick Getaway From NYC

Fall foliage season is officially upon us. And if you're looking for a last-minute getaway from New York City to see all the gorgeous colors on full display, we've got one particular place in mind: Saranac Lake.

Tucked away in the Adirondacks, Saranac Lake offers some of the most breathtaking fall scenery in the state, the region, and perhaps the entire nation. Here, the Tamarack and American Basswood trees turn a stunning golden yellow, the Red Oaks turn crimson and orange, while the Sugar Maple turns all three hues, all set off by the evergreen trees dotting the landscape around the glittering lake. But it's not just the leaves that make this such a special destination for autumn. Here's what to see and do to make it a spectacular getaway worthy of a five-hour drive from the city.

What to Do Get out and hike: OK, fine, the foliage is the star. The best way to see it is by lacing up your sneakers for a hike in the wilderness. Luckily, the Saranac Lake area is home to some of the best hiking trails in the Adirondacks, including Mount Baker, one of the Saranac 6ers , which offers a moderately challenging 1.8-mile hike , which comes with sweeping views of the surrounding forest along the way and a gorgeous panoramic shot of the lake at the top. Need more of a challenge? Try the nearby McKenzie Pond hike, a four-mile out-and-back hike with equally gorgeous views.

Or hop on a bike: If you'd rather peddle for your foliage, then the Adirondack Rail Trail is for you. The official Saranac Lake website suggests the 34-mile, multi-use trail for anyone looking to "soak up the fall colors." The trail connects the towns of Tupper Lake, Saranac Lake, and Lake Placid and is super flat (only increasing by a two percent grade along the way), making it an easy way to explore far and wide without having to put in too much effort.

Get artsy: The Saranac Lake region is known as a creative haven, which means you'll be spoiled with choices when it comes to arts and culture. All you have to do is make your way to Downtown to peruse the galleries on a self-guided tour, and dip in and out of its delicious cafes for a caffeine and sugar fix in between.

Best Time to Go Saranac Lake hits its foliage peak season between late September to mid-October. In fact, the official foliage report for the community on Oct. 1 read, "It's fruity pebbles out there! A bright mix of reds, oranges, yellows, and some greens," which means the coming days and weeks would be a great time to plot an escape. Early October is also fantastic timing as there are a ton of community events you can join, including the upcoming Haunted History Walking Tour , the Saranac Lake Farmers Market , and even Public Skating at the Civic Center for an early taste of winter.

Where to Stay The region is also filled with lovely little inns and cozy hotels that make for a stellar home away from home. Places like Hotel Saranac offer easy access to downtown and the nearby nature trails. It's also a pretty little spot all on its own as it's housed in a restored historic building from the 1920s. Those who want to stay a bit closer to the foliage should book a room at The Point , a rugged yet luxurious getaway that sits right on the water's edge.

How to Get There From NYC