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Fall is a magical time in Dutchess County. Yellows, oranges and reds sweep the treetops, making it an ideal fall destination. Plan a roadtrip and take the scenic Taconic State Parkway. This stunning route opened in 1931 for "Sunday drivers" to enjoy the surrounding landscape, and is perfect for soaking in Mother Nature’s canvas. Continue your journey to these Top 10 Places to View Fall Foliage here in the heart of the Hudson Valley.
For all things fall fun, click here.
This grand estate in Northern Dutchess County is set high above the Hudson River with a spectacular view of the Catskill Mountains. Stroll the grounds and admire the changing trees as you imagine the life of the Hudson Valley elite of a bygone era. To learn more about the region's unique historic sites, click here.
Beacon's breathtaking riverfront features stunning views of the Hudson Highlands. Leaf-peeping is enhanced by the contrast against the water. Of course, through the end of October, visitors can take a scenic boat trip to Bannerman's Castle on Pollepel Island for another vantage point. Fall foliage behind a Scottish-style castle? What could be better?
Related: Fall in Love With Dutchess County
Mills Mansion offers magnificent views across a rolling estate lawn, down to the Hudson, and across to the Catskills. It's the only estate west of the railroad tracks with uninterrupted access to the river. Plus, this autumn vista comes complete with a quaint 1800s lighthouse—Staatsburgh's shores reveal The Esopus Meadows Lighthouse. Strolling along the trails during peak fall foliage is an unforgettable Hudson Valley experience!
Visit an iconic Hudson Valley winery this fall! Millbrook Vineyards and Winery is a picturesque 130-acre estate whose main building is a converted dairy barn, high up on a knoll. Explore their walking trails or admire the views from the Terrace overlooking the vineyard while sipping award-winning wines. If there’s a chill in the air, step inside to get warm by the fireplace in Taproom. Enjoy a glass of vino on your leaf-peeping expedition!
Two coves on the east shore of the Hudson River form this massive intertidal marsh in the Town of Red Hook. Tivoli Bays is an important 1,700-acre upland habitat, estuarine reserve, and tidal coastal protected area, with an extensive trail network. In addition to the Hudson Valley foliage, you can spot a wide variety of wetland-dependent fish, wildlife, and plant species in these globally-rare wetland habitats. March along the boardwalks for one-of-a-kind fall hikes.
Related: Dutchess Tourism Zen Finder Outdoor Experience Trail
A 79-foot fire tower stands in the middle of this unspoiled 200-acre preserve. Located just off of Route 9 on River Road in Rhinebeck, view the stunning 360° views of the Hudson River, Catskill Mountains and beyond. Panoramas reveal stunning fall foliage, making the two-mile hike and fire tower climb well worth the effort.
The Walkway Over the Hudson in Poughkeepsie is the longest, elevated pedestrian bridge in the world. In fact, it's a former railroad bridge built in 1888. Now a Walkway spanning 1.28 miles and stretching 212 feet above the majestic Hudson River, visitors enjoy a magnificent birds' eye views of the beautiful Catskill Mountains.
The Appalachian Trail Boardwalk over the Great Swamp in Pawling is a must-see spot to take in the foliage. Visitors come from across the globe to hike the trail and marvel at the natural beauty of NYS’s third largest freshwater wetlands.
DeLaVergne Hill on Route 44 East in Amenia, a mile-long "S" curve on a descending road, features magnificent views of Silo Ridge and three states. On the way, be sure to stop in the quaint village of Millbrook, and once down the “hill”, make a left onto Route 22 north to continue toward Millerton and the lovely scenery of the Harlem Valley.
In the town of North East, in the northeastern corner of Dutchess County, go up Silver Mountain Road, and up Rte. 5, off Rte. 22 for picturesque views. In fact, the entire stretch of Route 22 north from Pawling toward Millerton and beyond is a fantastic fall drive. This route is nestled in the Harlem Valley, with beautiful views of the Taconic and Berkshire mountains looking east towards Connecticut and Massachusetts. Plus, the charming community of Millerton houses an entrypoint to the Harlem Valley Rail Trail. Crunch freshly fallen leaves and don't forget to stop in town for a cup at Harney and Sons Fine Teas.
Stay up to date with I Love New York's Fall Foliage Report and plan your trip to Dutchess around peak season!
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