Cruise into autumn

There’s no wrong turn when it comes to fall in Lake Placid. Pretty much every road into this mountain town offers a scenic drive worthy of its own postcard. Cruise in from the south along Route 73, approach from the west, or follow scenic byways through the High Peaks. No matter which way you arrive, you’re met with roadside foliage, rolling vistas, and golden, leafy tunnels that make autumn unforgettable.

For road trippers, it’s a dream. Lake Placid’s scenic access means you don’t even have to leave the car to experience the season in full color. But for those looking to go beyond the windshield, many of these routes also lead to hidden trailheads, peaceful lakes, charming pull-offs, and classic Adirondack stops that make the journey even more rewarding.

Arriving via route 73: Cascade Lakes & the Olympic Jumping Complex

Approaching Lake Placid from the east on Route 73 is one of the most iconic and scenic drives in the region, especially in the fall. The road winds through dramatic mountain passes, where steep peaks frame a canopy of fiery reds, oranges, and golds. Along the way, the Cascade Lakes offer a stunning stop: two narrow lakes stretching between towering rock walls. Their still waters reflect the surrounding foliage, making it an ideal spot for a photo or a peaceful paddle by canoe or kayak.

Before reaching Lake Placid, the route passes through the charming small towns of Keene and Keene Valley. Here, a cozy fall breakfast or lunch at Noon Mark Diner is a must, or you can pop into Cedar Run Bakery for seasonal treats. These stops add a warm, hometown feel to your scenic journey before the road sweeps you toward Lake Placid.

As you continue toward town, you’ll see the towering ski jumps of the Olympic Jumping Complex rising above the trees. These iconic structures from the 1980 Winter Games are worth pulling over for, not just to admire, but to experience. Take a ride on the Olympic Skyride, a scenic gondola followed by an elevator to the top of the 120-meter jump tower. From there, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Lake Placid, the surrounding mountains, and the patchwork of autumn color that blankets the region.

A scenic in-town loop: Mirror Lake Drive

For a leisurely route that stays close to town, Mirror Lake Drive is a must. This scenic loop circles Mirror Lake, offering peaceful water views, vibrant fall foliage, distant mountain vistas—including Whiteface Mountain in all its autumn glory—and plenty of pull-offs for photos. It’s just as enjoyable on foot or by bike as it is by car, with a slow pace, a calm vibe, and classic Adirondack views.

As you make your way around the loop, plan to stop on Main Street, where the road runs right alongside the lake and through downtown. It’s the perfect place to park the car and explore on foot. Browse local shops, grab a warm drink, or enjoy a bite at one of the cafés or restaurants with lake views. Whether you're looking for cozy flannels, Adirondack-themed gifts, or a homemade maple treat, this part of the loop blends scenic beauty with small-town charm.

From Wilmington to Lake Placid: Wilmington Notch and High Falls Gorge

Taking Route 86 from Wilmington into Lake Placid, also known as the Wilmington Notch, offers a route that winds through vibrant forests and alongside rushing streams, making it a prime spot for autumn color. One highlight along the way is High Falls Gorge, a stunning natural attraction where you can stretch your legs and explore waterfalls cascading through a narrow mountain gorge. It’s a perfect stop to immerse yourself in nature’s spectacle before continuing your journey.

As you drive closer to Lake Placid, the views open up to reveal the towering peaks of the Adirondacks, including views of Whiteface Mountain. The Ausable River runs alongside parts of the road, adding to the scenery with its rushing water and rocky banks framed by fall color. The combination of fall foliage, mountain air, cascading waterfalls, and river views makes Route 86 a truly memorable entry into the Lake Placid region.

A scenic drive with trailhead access: Adirondack Loj Road

If you're looking to combine a peaceful fall drive with the option to hit the trail, heading toward Adirondack Loj via the Adirondack Loj Road is a perfect choice. Just a short way from town off of Route 73, this quiet, tree-lined road winds through dense forest with frequent glimpses of the surrounding High Peaks, especially stunning in autumn when the canopy lights up with color.

The drive itself is serene and beautiful, but it’s also your gateway to some of the region’s best hiking. At the end of the road lies the Adirondack Loj and Heart Lake, a major hub for trailheads leading to popular destinations like Mount Jo, Algonquin Peak, Wright Peak, and the Heart Lake Loop. Whether you're in the mood for a quick hike with big views, a full-day adventure, or a basecamp for your backpacking trip, this route sets you up perfectly.

Even if you don’t plan to hike, the drive to the Loj is worth it for the scenery alone, and the chance to enjoy a quiet corner of the Adirondacks surrounded by golden trees and mountain silhouettes.

A fall drive with summit views: Whiteface Veterans' Memorial Highway

If you’re looking for breathtaking summit views without the effort of a hike, the Whiteface Veterans' Memorial Highway is your go-to scenic drive. This 8-mile toll road winds its way up the mountain, offering spectacular overlooks at every turn and culminating at the summit parking area nearly 4,865 feet above sea level.

From the top, you’ll be treated to panoramic vistas of the Adirondacks, Lake Placid, and beyond, which are especially stunning during peak fall foliage season when the valleys below explode in reds, golds, and oranges. Walking a short, paved path from the parking lot brings you to the summit observation tower, where the views stretch for miles in every direction.

Whether you're traveling with family, short on time, or prefer to enjoy the autumn colors from the comfort of your car, this highway offers an unforgettable experience that captures the beauty and grandeur of the region—all without breaking a sweat.

Scenic side trips: Saranac Lake and Tupper Lake

If you have time for a scenic side trip, head west from Lake Placid on Route 86 toward Saranac Lake. This drive offers a mix of vibrant fall foliage, charming small-town views, and shimmering lakeside scenery. Once in Saranac Lake, stroll through the historic downtown for boutique shopping, art galleries, and cozy cafés. From here, continue north on Route 30 to Paul Smith’s College Visitor Interpretive Center (VIC), a fall paradise with over 25 miles of trails winding through vibrant forests, wetlands, and along quiet ponds.

For a longer loop, combine Routes 30, 3, and 86 to take in both Tupper Lake and Saranac Lake before returning to Lake Placid. Along the way, you can visit The Wild Center in Tupper Lake, wander Saranac Lake’s artsy downtown, and enjoy countless photo-worthy stops framed in the season’s fiery colors.

Start planning your next scenic fall drive in Lake Placid

In Lake Placid, all roads lead to stunning fall views. No matter which way you go, beauty awaits around every bend. Make the most of your drive by soaking in vibrant foliage, breathtaking vistas, and charming stops along the way. From cruising winding mountain roads and exploring peaceful lakeside loops to stopping for hikes and local treats, Lake Placid offers the perfect backdrop for unforgettable fall memories.

For even more seasonal inspiration, check out our Top Things to Do This Fall in Lake Placid and download the Lake Placid Travel Guide to discover other activities, attractions, and local favorites to enjoy while you’re here. Pack your camera, grab a cozy sweater, and hit the road, fall in Lake Placid is waiting to be explored!