5 places to visit in the Adirondacks for great fall foliage photos

The Adirondacks shine during any season - but are unparalleled in beauty each fall as the brilliant splendor of red, orange and yellow overtake the landscape. There are few places where you won't be able to find picturesque foliage in the region, however we recommend these spots as the area leads the way for color transition each fall in New York:

Route 86

One of the main roads through the Adirondacks, State Route 86 extends from Paul Smiths to Saranac Lake and Lake Placid. You can see stellar views from your vehicle, or hop out and hike or view waterfalls or explore a covered bridge and small towns.

Fire towers

There are 25 fire towers throughout the Adirondacks that each offer 360-degree views of their surroundings. Some hikes are harder - and longer - than others. Several D&C Staff favorites include Blue Mountain, Owl's Head Mountain and Poke-o-Moonshine Mountain.

Old Forge

The McCauley Mountain Ski Area offers scenic fall rides on its chairlift Fridays through Sundays through the fall. Stillwater Mountain nearby is also a great spot, and has a fire tower with a relatively easy and short hike.

Lake George

The drive up Interstate 87 is colorful, and at the lake, you are surrounded by color capped mountains. Drive to the top of Prospect Mountain's 2,030 foot summit on a 5.5-mile winding toll highway where you will be able to see for 100 miles on a clear day. You can also cruise with Lake George Steamboat Company or other cruise lines for a view from the water.

Mt. Van Hoevenberg in Lake Placid

Hike the main trail or follow Nordic ski paths in the woods at the Olympic Sports Complex, home of the sliding sports (bobsled, luge, skeleton) and cliffside coaster and around 35 miles of trails.

Where is the peak foliage in other places in New York?

• Check out the latest NY foliage report and map for the entire state.
• Where to see the best fall foliage in the Adirondacks this weekend.
• See the current state of fall foliage in the Hudson Valley and the Catskills .
• Check out where the leaves are changing in the Finger Lakes .

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: 5 places to visit in the Adirondacks for great fall foliage photos