Peak color around New York City typically arrives in mid‑to‑late October, sliding earlier at higher elevations. Choose loops with reliable parking and clear sightlines—then let Hola Car Rentals handle the vehicle side with our All‑Inclusive+ Rate and No additional fees, save 60% guaranteed.
Flying in? Make your car rental your first stop at EWR; UK readers can follow car hire flows with the same protections.
Three classic loops
Bear Mountain & Seven Lakes Drive: Enter via the Palisades Interstate Parkway. Perkins Memorial Drive is narrow and windy—arrive early for the viewpoints and be ready to walk from overflow areas.
Catskills via NY‑28/214: Aim for Phoenicia, Hunter, and Tannersville. Trailheads like Kaaterskill fill by mid‑morning; overflow and shuttle rules may apply on peak weekends.
Shawangunk Ridge from New Paltz: Take Route 299 toward Minnewaska and Mohonk. Expect fog in the early hours and brilliant glare at golden hour; clean the windshield at every fuel stop.
Parking & safety
Leaf film and damp shoulders reduce traction. Keep a calm pace, avoid squeezing into unmarked pullouts, and walk the last stretch to overlooks. If you’re staging on the Queens side, consider a quick hand‑off at JFK pickup, and if traffic stacks northbound, reset via JFK late‑night returns to bypass weekday congestion.
FAQ
- When is peak color? Mid‑to‑late October on average, earlier at elevation; weather drives the exact week.
- Are there fees? Some state parks collect day‑use fees—carry a card for self‑pay machines.
- What should I drive? Compact SUVs offer visibility and clearance without sacrificing city‑friendly parking.
Book now with Hola Car Rentals and enjoy fall roads on your terms.
