Stunning Autumn Waterfall Drives: New York Scenic Byways You Must See by Car

An insightful review of Stunning Autumn Waterfall Drives: New York Scenic Byways You Must See by Car—check out the essential highlights.

In southeastern New York, the Shawangunk Mountains Scenic Byway circles a dramatic ridge of white conglomerate rock between the Catskills and the Hudson Valley. This 88-mile circuit travels past orchards, historic stone houses dating back to the late 17th century, and rugged state parklands.

Minnewaska State Park Preserve sits at the crown of the ridge along Route 44/55. A short walk from the lower parking area leads to Awosting Falls, where the Peters Kill drops 60 feet over an imposing cliff into a clear pool. The stark white rock cliffs contrast dramatically with the flaming red and gold canopy above. Because the Hudson Valley sits at lower elevations and experiences lingering coastal warmth, color progression here peaks later than anywhere else upstate, holding strong vibrancy well into late October.

The byway links historic river towns such as New Paltz, High Falls, and Stone Ridge. Motorists can spend their mornings navigating winding mountain hairpins and their afternoons walking down tree-lined village streets filled with 18th-century stone homes, artisan cider houses, and local farm markets.