Chasing peak color near NYC? This classic loop threads Harriman and Bear Mountain State Parks for shimmering lakes, mountain views, and easy trailheads — all doable in a day from your NYC airport car rental or Newark airport car hire.
Route at a glance
- Outbound: From the George Washington Bridge area, take the Palisades Interstate Parkway (PIP) north to the Bear Mountain area, then glide onto Seven Lakes Drive.
- Scenic core: Cruise past Queensboro Lake and Hessian Lake toward lakes Nawahunta, Skannatati, and Kanawauke. Pull into signed lots for short walks and photos — water and foliage pop on calm, overcast days.
- Bonus spur: If conditions allow, drive Perkins Memorial Drive to the tower for sweeping Hudson River views. It is a seasonal road, so verify it’s open before you commit.
- Return: Loop back via US‑9W/202 over the Bear Mountain Bridge (pretty at golden hour) or exit near Sloatsburg for I‑87 south toward NYC.
When to go
Hudson Valley leaves often peak from mid‑October into early November, but timing shifts each year with weather. Check the state’s weekly fall foliage report before you set out, and remember that lakes at slightly higher elevation can peak a bit earlier.
Parking that keeps it peaceful
- Use official lots along Seven Lakes Drive and posted pull‑offs. Unmarked shoulder parking is discouraged; look for hiker lots and kiosk areas that clearly indicate trail access.
- Arrive early on sunny weekends — lots fill quickly when color pops. Carry a small trash bag and pack out everything you bring.
- Many short trails (like Pine Meadow from Reeves Meadow) start right from signed lots, so you can enjoy foliage without committing to a long hike.
Stops we love
- Reeves Meadow Visitor Center (Sloatsburg): Easy access, maps, and restrooms when open. Start with a mellow stroll on the Pine Meadow Trail.
- Lakes Skannatati & Kanawauke: Short loop options and brilliant reflections on calm days; picnic tables in season.
- Bear Mountain: Family‑friendly lakeside strolls around Hessian Lake. On clear days, the views toward the Hudson Highlands are spectacular.
Driving & safety notes
- Parkways like the PIP restrict commercial vehicles; most passenger rentals are fine, but oversized vans may be limited — check your vehicle class.
- Wildlife is active at dawn/dusk. Drive cautiously along lake edges and forested curves.
- Cell service can be spotty around the lakes; download maps ahead of time.
Car‑friendly planning with Hola Car Rentals
Pick the right size for leaf‑peeping gear and friends. Avis at JFK, Budget at Newark, or Alamo at EWR keep pick‑ups quick on either side of the Hudson. With Hola Car Rentals you get:
- Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pick-up.
- All-Inclusive+ Rate with maximum coverage.
- No additional fees — save up to 60%.
- Free travel insurance up to US$150,000.
Book today and enjoy a worry‑free fall drive through Harriman & Bear Mountain.
Sample day plan
- Morning: Depart NYC before 8 am. Rest stop at a Palisades overlook, then enter Seven Lakes Drive and explore early light on the water.
- Midday: Park at a signed lot for a short loop walk (60–90 minutes). Picnic at lakeside tables.
- Afternoon: If open and weather‑safe, drive Perkins Memorial Drive for panoramic photos. Exit via Bear Mountain Bridge for a different return view.
- Evening: Early dinner in Fort Lee, Nyack, or Tarrytown before crossing back into the city.
What to pack
- Layers, comfortable shoes, and a light rain shell.
- Snacks, water, and a small trash bag.
- A paper map or offline download as backup.
