Reporting by Victoria E. Freile, New York Connect Team/Rockland-Westchester Journal News
Travelers looking to take a trip through spectacular spots in the Empire State should look no further than these five scenic drives in New York.
With varied terrain of mountainous landscapes, stunning waterfalls and pristine waterways, the more rural routes offer an autumnal escape.
Check out these 5 scenic drives in New York
Upper Delaware Scenic Byway
The 70-mile-long road connects Port Jervis in Orange County and Hancock in Delaware County. The passage snakes along the Delaware River, mostly just north of the border of New York and Pennsylvania and through small but mighty villages and towns.
The Upper Delaware Scenic Byway is a windy, hilly road that was constructed in the 1920s. The most swoon-worthy stretch, known as the Hawk’s Nest Highway, is close to Port Jervis. The route offers plenty of access to fishing spots and there are many quaint camping spots near the road.
Whiteface Veterans Memorial Highway
A tollhouse marks the start of the 5-mile Whiteface Veterans Memorial Highway. The road takes visitors to the top of New York’s fifth highest peak at 4,867 feet. There is a heart-stopping stretch filled with hairpin turns and numerous jaw-dropping moments.
Once at the top, there are stellar panoramic views of the Adirondacks. There’s a short alpine nature trail at the end of the road for those who wish to reach Whiteface’s summit.
Lakes to Locks Passage
The Lakes to Locks Passage, a 230-mile corridor in northeastern New York, links Waterford in Saratoga County and Rouses Point in Clinton County. It connects a series of water routes, including the Hudson River, Champlain Canal, Lake George and Lake Champlain. Drive a small stretch of the route or a large section for optimal fall foliage.
Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway
Located less than tow hours from Manhattan, this 52-mile-long road follows New York State Route 28, with short extensions along state Routes 42 and 214 through the heart of the central Catskills. side trips from the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway feature many delicious eateries, historical spots and art galleries.
Among some of the more alluring spots are Phoenecia, an out-of-the-way Catskills town loved for its endearing rural charm, Belleayre Mountain Ski Center and Palmer Hill Trail, a nice roadside stop with lovely views.
Seneca Lake Scenic Byway
While any drive around one of New York’s Finger Lakes will offer stunning views, charming towns and an adventure, another Finger Lakes option also turns heads. The 19-mile-long Seneca Lake Scenic Byway runs along the southeast border of Seneca Lake. It follows New York State Route 414 and starts from near Watkins Glen in Schuyler County, best known for one of the most popular and unique state parks in the Finger Lakes.
It goes through to Lodi Point State Marine Park in Lodi, Seneca County, and past Hector Falls, an impressive roadside cascade, as well as several wineries, breweries and distilleries and plenty of spots to grab a bite. Numerous hiking trails and parks are along the route – as are opportunities to swim, boat, fish or bike.
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News.
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