Guide to Fall Hiking Near Lake Placid: Hidden Trails & Colorful Views

Why Fall Hiking in Lake Placid Feels So Special

Autumn in the Adirondacks is short but spectacular. By late September, the hillsides around Lake Placid explode with reds, golds, and oranges. Crisp mornings and cool afternoons make for perfect hiking conditions, and trails are less crowded than the summer peak. Whether you’re looking for a quiet walk with leaf-lined paths or a summit with sweeping mountain vistas, fall is the season when the Adirondacks truly shine.

7 Lesser-Known Fall Hikes Near Lake Placid

If you’ve already heard of Cascade or Mount Jo, try these less-traveled trails that really come alive in autumn:

1. Heaven Hill Trails (Easy–Moderate)

• Located just outside Lake Placid, this network of trails offers open meadows framed by rolling mountains.
  
• In fall, the mix of golden fields and colorful tree lines creates incredible contrast for photos.
  
• Perfect for families, dog-walkers, or anyone who prefers gentle terrain.
  

2. Henry’s Woods (Easy Loop)

• A peaceful, community-managed forest preserve just minutes from downtown.
  
• The well-maintained loop trail is about 2 miles and offers a quiet escape surrounded by foliage.
  
• Ideal for travelers asking: “Where can I take an easy fall hike close to Lake Placid village?”
  

3. Cobble Hill (Moderate)

• A short but rewarding climb that starts near Mirror Lake.
  
• On clear fall days, you’ll be treated to a bird’s-eye view of the village against a backdrop of fiery foliage.
  
• Great for sunrise or sunset hikes when colors glow extra bright.
  

4. Owen, Copperas, and Winch Ponds Loop (Moderate)

• This 3-mile loop links three scenic ponds just north of Lake Placid.
  
• In fall, reflections of bright foliage ripple across the still waters.
  
• Less crowded than the High Peaks but still incredibly photogenic.
  

5. Big Crow Mountain (Short, Moderate)

• A lesser-known gem in Keene, about 20 minutes from Lake Placid.
  
• The hike is only about 1 mile each way, yet the summit offers a sweeping view of the High Peaks painted in fall colors.
  
• Perfect for travelers wondering: “What’s a quick fall hike with amazing views near Lake Placid?”
  

6. Bear Den Mountain (Moderate–Challenging)

• Accessible from the Whiteface Mountain Ski Area.
  
• A quiet alternative to Whiteface’s summit, with gorgeous fall panoramas of the Ausable Valley.
  
• The trailhead is easy to reach but tends to be overlooked, making it a hidden treasure.
  

7. Jay Mountain Ridge Trail (Challenging)

• About 30 minutes from Lake Placid, this 8-mile out-and-back follows a ridgeline with constant views.
  
• In fall, it’s one of the most colorful hikes in the Adirondacks, offering long stretches of open rock with foliage on every side.
  
• Best for seasoned hikers who want a full-day adventure.
  

FAQs for Fall Hikers in Lake Placid

Q: What’s the easiest fall hike with big views?
A: Big Crow Mountain. It’s short, less crowded, and has some of the best panoramic foliage views for minimal effort.

Q: Are there good fall hikes right in Lake Placid village?
A: Yes. Cobble Hill and Henry’s Woods are both within minutes of downtown and perfect for quick morning or evening outings.

Q: Where can I see fall colors reflected in lakes or ponds?
A: Try Owen, Copperas, and Winch Ponds. The water mirrors the surrounding fall foliage beautifully.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Fall Hike

• Go early—fall weekends get busy, and trailhead parking fills quickly.
  
• Pack layers—temperatures can swing from chilly mornings to warm afternoons.
  
• Watch for wet leaves—they can be slippery, especially on rocky sections.
  
• Leave no trace—fall is a fragile season for trails, so stay on marked paths.
  
• Bring a camera—sunlight filtering through red and gold leaves is pure Adirondack magic.
  

Lake Placid isn’t just a winter destination, it’s one of the best fall hiking spots in the Northeast. Beyond the well-known High Peaks, you’ll find quiet loops through fiery forests, short climbs to colorful vistas, and ridgelines that stretch for miles.

After the trail, you can stroll into the Olympic Village for coffee or dinner, or head back to your basecamp at Town House Lodge to rest, recharge, and plan your next day’s adventure.