With more autumnal colors, flavors, and experiences offered per mile than anywhere else on Earth, Ulster County is synonymous with fall. Breathtaking moments await you in our stunning Catskills. Come make core memories in the farms and orchards dotting Ulster County. And experience exquisite dining experiences in the region’s villages and towns. Your ideal autumn weekends are made here. Discover some of our favorites, or simply use this as your starting point and discover your own.

Remember, there are no wrong turns in Ulster County. Just space for new experiences that are waiting for you

Visit Leaf Peep HQ

We dare you to find a prettier spot to take in autumn’s colors. We have more colors than you thought possible in nature. And we have them for mile after glorious mile. 

Fall Views from the Mountains

The Catskill and Shawangunk Mountains beckon with more than 250 miles of carriage trails for walking or hiking. Your best bet for being engulfed in a canopy of color is Minnewaska State Park, Mohonk Preserve, and Red Hill Fire Tower. 

Autumn Colors on the Water

Fantastic fall foliage can also be spotted from the water. Jump on a charter from Hudson River Cruises or the Hudson River Maritime Museum’s solar-powered boat, The Solaris. For all you DIYers, paddle your way through fall’s palette at 

Sip and Leaf Peep

Or just drink in the views from the 500-foot deck at Hudson House Distillery! They are all bucket list ways to see fall at its most gorgeous.

Fall’s Favorite Treats

Others may think of autumn as Pumpkin Spice season, but here in farm country, we are about all things CIDER. 

With 24 places to pick your own apples and pumpkins, Ulster County is also the best place to go cider donut hopping. We can’t say which farm has the best cider donuts (truth be told, we all have a favorite), but here are some ideas on where you can find them: 

Enjoy a Fall Festival

If you’re looking for a delightful way to welcome autumn in Ulster County, the Belleayre Mountain Fall Festival offers the perfect blend of local flavor and fall foliage magic. Held in early October, this all‑ages celebration at Belleayre’s Discovery Lodge delivers free admission and parking, and a full weekend of good‑natured fun. Expect live music, craft vendors showcasing handmade jewelry, photography, and artwork, plus food trucks and seasonal treats. Whether you’re hunting for hidden gems or simply seeking a festive escape surrounded by blazing foliage, Belleayre’s fall festival serves up community warmth, crisp mountain air, and plenty of cozy autumn energy to discover.

Autumn Activities in Ulster County

Climb aboard Catskill Mountain Railroad’s Fall Adventure Train. Take a journey along the former Ulster & Delaware Railroad corridor and see the natural beauty of the Catskills from their open-top cars. Or hop aboard one of their Pumpkin Express trains and take home your very own pumpkin!

Ride Belleayre Mountain’s gondola to the summit for breathtaking views of the Catskill Mountains changing leaves. The gondola runs Saturdays and Sundays from 10 AM to 5 PM. 

For those looking for a more frightening experience, make sure to plan a trip to Headless Horseman Hayrides and Haunted Attractions, named the #1 haunted attraction in America. For more than 30 years, horror has lived here, and this year, their popular Haunted Hayride is scarier than ever.

Plan Your Autumn Escape to Ulster County

Now all that’s left is to decide on the perfect place to lay your head! Plan your Fall escape for the whole family today.