Experience Lake George in a New Way with Prospect Mountain Fall Foliage Peeping
What We Love About Lake George for Fall Foliage
Lake George is amazing. It’s one of our yearly New York travel destinations. Visitors find a classic lake town atmosphere combined with tourist activities. You’ll find outdoor activities for any season. Lake George offers lodging from nice hotels to camping. Hungry? Lake George has many options to feed the pickiest eater. Queensbury is a few minutes down the road for your Wal-Mart needs.
Much like the rest of the Adirondacks, Lake George is an amazing fall foliage destination. With so many locations to get the perfect Instagram shot, Prospect Mountain is at the top of the list.
Peeping the Foliage from Prospect Mountain in Lake George
Prospect Mountain offers a different perspective of Lake George. At the 2,030 ft. summit, you’ll have 3 overlooks to view Lake George, the Narrows and Eagle’s Eye. Surrounding peaks from New Hampshire, Vermont and Canada are visible from the peak.
There are two ways to the summit. First, the 3.3-mile hike from the base can be steep for kids or those with mobility issues. The second option is best for day trips or people wanting to see foliage. The Veterans Memorial Highway runs from Rt. 9 in Lake George to a parking lot shy of the summit. You can take the highway from May 29 to November 11 with a small $10 per car fee.
You’ll find several stops along the Veterans Memorial Highway. Each offers an elevating view and great picture opportunities. At the summit, you’ll find plenty of parking. There’s a short walk to the actual summit. It’s a bit steep but is walkable for most people. At the peak, you’ll have amazing views of Lake George. It’s worth the sweat.
Things to Do While in Lake George
One of the best parts about Lake George is you can’t just stay one day. If you plan on taking a weekend trip, here are a few places to stop and some of our favorite places to eat.
Places to Visit While in Lake George
Relive History on a Fort William Henry Tour
New York is full of history. Lake George is no exception. Historic American figures have stood in awe of “The Queen of Lakes.” George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin visited her shores. Fort William Henry played a role in the French and Indian War pre-American Revolution. The fort’s bloody past makes it perfect to learn about the struggle in colonial America. Also, you might see a ghost or two.
Fort William Henry is open from May to October. It’s perfect for a quick visit before peak foliage time. Take a guided tour or explore on your own. Haunted tours are available too. You’ll feel the eerie vibes when you explore the fort’s basement. We did.
Take a Fall Cruise with the Lake George Steamboat Company
During peak season, tourists can enjoy a lake cruise on the Minnie Haha. But, don’t let the chili weather stop you from enjoying a fall lake cruise. The Lake George Steamboat Company offers amazing lake cruises through October. It’s the perfect way to grab shoreline fall foliage Instagram shots.
A few options include an hour-long waterfront tour on the Mohican. Take a two-hour dinner sunset cruise on the Lac du Sacrement for a luxury experience. Enjoy the buffet, cocktails, and entertainment while waiting for the perfect sunset. You’ll have perfect social media Adirondack sunset posts.
Grab a Bite to Eat in Lake George
The Breakfast Spot Club
The Breakfast Spot is one of our go-to spots in the heart of Lake George Village. If you’re looking for 1950s charm with great breakfast food, The Breakfast Spot should be on your list. There was something for all our picky eaters. Also, it’s affordable. Although, there’s a good chance you’ll wait for a table.
The Algonquin
Take a short trip up 9N to Bolton Landing for the perfect waterside dinner or lunch. Pay attention, on the right as you enter town you’ll find the Algonquin. The restaurant sits on the water with indoor and outdoor seating available. Lunch offers sandwiches, burgers and other American fare. For dinner, enjoy seafood, pasta and other great choices. Stop by the Algonquin Company Store on the way out. The restaurant is open during the summer season, closing in October.
Martha’s Ice Cream
Save room for ice cream. If you want great ice cream with giant servings, head south past Great Escape. When you see the giant rooster, you hit Martha’s Ice Cream. It gets packed, but it’s worth it. Check out the monthly ice cream calendar and bring your appetite. You’ll have a foot of soft-serve ice cream to eat. They’re perfect for quick bites too. Burgers, shakes and the whole nine yards. If you want to enjoy a bucket of ice cream, go early in the fall foliage season. They close around Columbus Day.
We Know You’ll Love Lake George for Fall Foliage
Lake George is an amazing spot during the summer, but you’re missing out if you don’t check out the foliage. Prospect Mountain offers a different perspective of Lake George. You’ll get amazing social media posts. Lake George needs to be on your bucket list. Let us know what you think on Instagram. Don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to keep up to date with travel inspiration for New Yorkers.
