Leaf-peep like a local in one of the of the most beautiful spots in Adirondack Park.
Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure
My hiking boots crunch fallen leaves as we approach the summit.
A patchwork quilt of rustic reds, fiery oranges, and bright golds stretch endlessly into the horizon.
Blue Mountain Lake.Credit:Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure
From my perch atop Castle Rock, the lake sparkles, dotted with a smattering of foliage-cloaked islands.
The tiny hamlet of Blue Mountain Lake might be small, but it delivers big on beauty.
The haunting call of local loons are your alarm clock for the daily magic show.
Adirondack mountain range.Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure
Sip coffee as the mystical fog burns off, revealing robust colors illuminated by the early morning light.
The enchantment of this place is nothing new, though.
Do yourself a favor and order the French toast sticks, too.
Post-adventure, grab a beer and some delicious grub from the food truck at theStrong Rope Brewery.
Carve out some time atThe Museum on Blue Mountain Lakefor an informative and interactive deep dive into Adirondack history.
Finding a place to stay, especially if you have your adventure pup tagging along, can be tricky.
Oh, and out-of-the-world autumn sunsets from an Adirondack chair.
