Early October is the best time to start viewing the fall foliage in Central New York. You can take your bike, Canoe or Kayak or a pair of hiking shoes. We recommend the following two day trips for the best enjoyment of fall colors and at the same time some of the Adirondack wilderness areas. 

Limekiln Lake

The first trip is the Old Forge, Inlet, with a side trip to Limekiln Lake and the Moose River Wilderness Area excursion. 

Head north on Route 12. Take Route 28 North at Alder Creek to Old Forge and Inlet. Pass through Inlet and turn right on the Limekiln Lake Road. Then enter the Moose River Wilderness Area. This is a seasonal road that goes all the way to Indian Lake. You can continue through the recreation area all the way to Rout 8 and then south back to Route 12 or just visit and go back by Limekiln Lake back to Inlet.

The recreation area is just jam packed with trails to rivers, streams, ponds and lakes that are well marked. A great place for biking or hiking. The views of the foliage are breathtaking.

When you get back to Inlet take a left in the center of town on South Shore Road along Fourth Lake. This takes you back to old Forge. Try stopping at the public boat launch about half way to Old Forge. You can enjoy the fall colors around Fourth Lake.

Panhandling deer on the South Shore Road near Old Forge.

Independence River Cascades

Take Route 12 North to Lowville. At Lowville take a right on the Number Four Road. While you're in this area make sure you stop at the Independence River. This beautiful wilderness river has sections of large sand banks and other section of water cascading down through huge rocks.

Continue to Number Four, along the Beaver River to the Stillwater Reservoir. Then take the Big Moose Road to Eagle Bay. Turn Right on Route 28 south back to Old Forge.

Either trip is a wonderful way to get away from it all for a day.

Independence River Sand Banks