Every autumn, Highlands, New York turns into a vibrant playground where the forest insists you explore deeper. The Hudson Valley Fall Foliage Festival is not just a celebration—it's a full immersion into craggy trails painted with yellows, reds, and golds, daring hikers and explorers of all levels to join in. The festival centers around the Highlands region, where forested paths climb and curve along ridges, offering panoramic views that reward every steady step.

The main hiking trails range from 3 to 7 miles with elevation gains between 500 and 1,100 feet. Expect mixed terrain: well-packed dirt underfoot, rocky scrambles, and occasional roots that challenge your balance. The path feels alive, as if the trees lean in, their leaves whispering encouragement while the brisk river currents tease from below, pushing you forward.

A highlight is the Breakneck Ridge Trail, a vigorous ascent noted for its steep granite slabs that test your grit as well as your foothold. It demands focus but offers sweeping views over the Hudson River Valley that shift like a live painting in every direction. For those seeking a gentler experience, the nearby Bull Hill Loop offers forest walks with less elevation but no shortage of vibrant fall colors and quiet moments beside babbling brooks.

Hydration is key: crisp autumn air can mask dehydration, so carry at least two liters of water, ideally in easy-access bottles or a hydration pack. Good footwear with firm grip is non-negotiable—trail shoes or lightweight hikers that secure your ankles will help negotiate slippery rocks and leaf-covered trails. Start hikes early in the day to avoid afternoon crowds and catch soft morning light that brings the foliage’s rich colors to life.

The festival isn’t just about hiking. Artisans and local food vendors line parts of the trailheads and festival areas, introducing you to regional flavors and crafts—perfect to refuel or pick up a keepsake. The atmosphere balances calm with community energy, allowing you to share stories and recommendations with fellow adventurers before heading back into the woods.

Prepare for sudden weather shifts; autumn in the Highlands often swings from sun-soaked brilliance to fast-moving clouds and cool winds. Dress in layers that you can adapt as the forest environment changes around you. Remember, respecting the trail’s natural pace and toughness means engaging with it on its terms, ready to adjust, pause, and appreciate the evolving landscape. Leave no trace, keeping the forest fiercely its own and ready for the next visitor.

The Hudson Valley Fall Foliage Festival in Highlands invites you to step into a world that’s both adventure and escape. It’s a place where the forest speaks with color and challenge—waiting for you to say yes.