Skip to main content

Peak Foliage Adirondacks 2024: Map, Predictions & the Latest Report

Get your camera or smartphone ready for peak foliage in the Adirondacks for 2024 - some of the best in the country! Keep reading to find out when peak foliage typically happens by region, a link to the latest 2024 foliage report, and a rundown on what elements can affect the color change. 

peak foliage
View from Baxter Mountain, photo credit: Alan Nudi

Adirondack Peak Foliage Map

The deciduous tree population is dominated by only a few species, which all change color more or less in unison. This provides all-over color at one peak time, which is rare in other parts of the world.

The following map depicts the typical schedule for peak Adirondack foliage viewing by region. There will be slight variations from year to year. 

Adirondack fall foliage peak map

For the latest on what's going on with the colors for 2024, click through the link below.

View the current fall foliage report from I Love NY >>

yellow foliage on trail in woods
Cobble Lookout Trail

What Factors Influence the Color Change?

Adirondack fall foliage can be difficult to predict with 100% accuracy, because the region encompasses 6 million acres, and there are so many factors that can affect the colors:

  • Consistent rainfall in spring and summer ensures healthy leaves and bright colors
  • Warm days and cool nights result in brighter colors
  • Increased sunlight can intensify reds and purples
  • Early frosts can abruptly end the color change process
  • Overcast days can reduce vibrancy in colors
view of foliage near lake and boat
Sabbath Day Point Overlook

Plus, proximity to bodies of water can affect leaf colors. Lakes and rivers tend to regulate temperatures and delay the onset of frost, and trees near water typically have higher soil moisture, for healthier trees - and vibrant leaves.

Of course, the type of trees affects what kind of colors you see, as the hues will vary from species to species.

See fall hiking and biking hotspots >>

« Back to the Fall Guide

woman in hat poses in front water
Erin Nudi Erin is an avid reader, yogi, jogger, and hiker living in Queensbury. When she's not perusing books at Northshire, Owl Pen Books, or Beldame Books, you can find her at a local event or park with her family.