Plattsburgh Escapes: Fall Colours and Year-Round Adirondack Charm
By Dan Donovan
If you’re seeking a quick yet unforgettable getaway, the Adirondacks deliver an idyllic escape in just under three hours from Ottawa by car. Take Highway 417 east, then cross the border at Cornwall into New York State and cruise through the stunning landscapes and charming hamlets. Before you know it, you’ll be on Interstate 87, nearing Plattsburgh in the Adirondacks.
It’s a great drive—whether it’s for fall colours, winter white lands, spring glory or the pull of summer lakeside vistas, the Adirondacks offer year-round appeal.
ABOVE: In the summer, Ausable Chasm provides a variety of activities such as floating, boating, hiking, climbing, or rappelling. However, in the fall and winter, the chasm is limited to hiking.
The renowned Ausable Chasm dubbed the “Grand Canyon of the East,” is one of the great natural wonders of the northeast. It features over five miles of scenic trails winding through an ancient forest. Visitors can marvel at Rainbow Falls, Elephant’s Head, and Mystic Gorge while walking on stone pathways carved by the Ausable River over millennia. Fall adds an extra layer of magic, with fiery red and orange foliage blanketing the gorge as you hike through the magnificent trails.
One of the most popular things at Ausable is to take a scenic raft ride through the chasm’s labyrinth of breathtaking rock formations, complete with rappelling and cable bridges. This ‘ride’ is open from May until mid-October, so be sure to check the dates for this excursion within the park.
ABOVE: The doughnuts alone at Rulfs Orchard make it a worthwhile visit. (Photos: Courtesy Rulfs Orchard)
Farm-to-Table Delights at Rulfs Orchard
Rulfs Orchard is a local year-round destination where fresh produce, baked goods, and quintessential fall activities await. It is always fun to navigate a corn maze—especially if you’ve never done it. Follow that with some warm apple cider doughnuts (so delicious!), a visit to the pumpkin patch and a short hike around the area. Rulfs offers U-pick strawberries and blueberries in season and a farm stand throughout the year.
The Valcour Inn: A Tranquil Escape by Lake Champlain
Located just outside Plattsburgh, the Valcour Inn and Boathouse offers a peaceful retreat with stunning views of Lake Champlain and Vermont’s Green Mountains. This charming inn is ideal for those looking to unwind and explore the Adirondacks, whether for a weekend or a mid-week getaway.
The cozy inn’s nine rooms are tastefully decorated, creating a welcoming atmosphere that feels like home. Each room bears the name of a historical figure from Plattsburgh, such as The Zephaniah Platt Room, named after the original owner of the Valcour Inn property. The rooms feature spectacular views of the surrounding countryside or the lake, providing a perfect backdrop for relaxation. During our October stay, we were greeted with three sunny days, crisp yet comfortable evenings, and the serene beauty of the lake just outside our windows.
ABOVE: The lakefront patio at Valcour Inn has a beautiful view across Lake Champlain. RIGHT: The Zephaniah Platt Room at Valcour Inn and Boathouse.
The Valcour Inn strikes the perfect balance between rustic charm and modern comfort. Our room was well-appointed with features like a king bed, a fireplace, and a balcony, allowing us to unwind while soaking in the views. We particularly enjoyed quiet mornings with a cup of coffee on the balcony and evenings spent sipping wine by the fire pit, taking in the peaceful surroundings.
The inn’s location is perfect for outdoor activities, with hiking trails nearby and the lake offering opportunities for kayaking or lakeside walks.
Whether you’re enjoying the natural beauty of Lake Champlain, hiking the nearby trails, or simply relaxing by the fire, the Valcour Inn is the perfect spot to stay. (Highly recommend!)
Coffee, Eats and Local Maple Syrup
There are lots of local cuisine options in the area. For dinner, Anthony’s Restaurant & Bistro, located at a remodelled 19th-century farmhouse in the central shopping district, offers European American cuisine crafted from local ingredients—the intimate setting pairs perfectly with their warm hospitality. The food is great, deserts are a dream, and they make a great martini.
It’s worth the drive on one of your mornings to visit Lakeside Coffee Roasters in Rouses Point, known for its cozy ambiance and stunning views of Lake Champlain. Drop in for a hearty breakfast. Then head to the Parker Family Maple Farm, where you can sample fresh maple syrup and learn about their historic sugaring traditions.
ABOVE: Campus Corner is a well-priced, friendly eatery where you can cosy up to the counter for classic comfort food. RIGHT: The forests surrounding Parker Family Maple Farm are interlaced with tubing that transports the sap to the farm, where it is transformed into delicious maple syrup.
If you want a great comfort breakfast before spending a morning exploring the old town of Plattsburgh, be sure to visit the legendary diner, Campus Corner. It’s small, and the comfort food served at their lunch counter of yesteryear is hot and delicious, all made to order.
Take a break later at Chapter One Coffee and Tea, a local favourite across the street from city hall. They have great pastries and delicious maple syrup and sell local gifts that are great takeaways for your trip.
The Black Brook General Store in nearby Ausable Forks is another gem. It’s a general store in a restored church. The shelves are stocked with Adirondack-themed gifts and delicious homemade treats like fresh baked goods and sandwiches. It’s the ideal spot for a quick bite or grabbing a snack on the run.
ABOVE: Valcour Brewing Company is located in the old stone barracks on the Plattsburgh Air Force Base.
The Valcour Brewing Company is a beloved local brewery that draws inspiration from the surrounding Adirondack landscape. The brewery, founded in 2014, is a local favourite known for its exceptional craft beers and a commitment to using local ingredients. The name “Valcour “pays homage to nearby Valcour Island, where a significant naval battle occurred during the War of 1812. The brewery’s selection includes everything from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts. The taproom offers a cozy, rustic ambiance, where visitors can enjoy a beer flight while taking in the scenic views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Champlain. The sandwich menu for lunch is superb, and they have daily specials!
Latitude 44 Bistro is recognized for its fresh, seasonal ingredients and farm-to-table dishes, highlighting the best local produce and regional flavours. The chef-owned restaurant serves a range of dishes, from fresh lake perch to hearty steaks and creative vegetarian options. They have an impressive wine list and make some mean craft cocktails, perfect for pairing with a leisurely meal. The ambiance is relaxed and inviting and was well worth the visit.
ABOVE: The historic B-47, known as the Pride of the Adirondacks, along with the FB-111, glistens in the sunlight at Clyde A. Lewis Park. These retired aircraft serve as a testament to the significant role that the Plattsburgh Air Force Base, which closed in 1995, played in the history of the United States.
ABOVE: The quaint chapel on the old Air Force base grounds. RIGHT: History buffs will enjoy the Battle of Plattsburgh Association Museum, which chronicles Platsburgh’s role in the Battle of 1812 and takes a deep dive into the Battles at Plattsburgh (1814), where a young Amiral McDonough outsmarted the much larger British Navy, convincing them that victory was futile.
The historic downtown area of Plattsburgh offers a charming blend of small-town character and rich history. Strolling through its tree-lined streets, visitors will find beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture, with red-brick buildings and vintage storefronts that evoke the area’s past. This vibrant district is home to a mix of local boutiques, cafés, and art galleries, creating a welcoming atmosphere for those looking to explore. Landmarks like the Battle of Plattsburgh Association Museum highlight the area’s fascinating role in the War of 1812. Meanwhile, the adjacent Plattsburgh Air Force Base Museum commemorates its notable role during the Cold War.
In addition to its historical appeal, downtown Plattsburgh is a hub for local culture and community. The area hosts year-round events like farmers’ markets and festivals, where you can sample fresh produce, local crafts, and regional specialities. The waterfront along Lake Champlain adds to the charm, offering scenic views and a peaceful setting to unwind. With its blend of history, culture, and small-town warmth, the downtown district of Plattsburgh is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the Adirondacks’ unique charm.
ABOVE: Stone Ledge Sculpture Garden is an unexpected treat on Route 9 between Valcour Inn and downtown Plattsburgh. RIGHT: The Classic Revival building, its Doric columns and copper roof, is the City of Plattsburgh Town Hall.
A Scenic Farewell
While visiting the Adirondacks, planning an afternoon excursion to explore one of the numerous trails is a great idea. The Silver Lake Mountain Trail is a short 1.8-mile round trip that offers stunning views of nearby lakes and Whiteface Mountain.
A fall drive from Ottawa to Plattsburgh offers the perfect escape into the Adirondacks, with vibrant autumn colours giving way to crisp air, serene landscapes and hints of the oncoming winter. Whether it’s enjoying the scenic beauty along the route, exploring the historic charm of Plattsburgh, or indulging in local craft beer and farm-to-table meals, this getaway is a refreshing retreat from city life.
The Adirondacks in late fall provide a peaceful, unforgettable experience, blending natural beauty with small-town charm—a journey worth taking every season.
Winter in this region—is just as great—for other reasons . . . but that story will have to wait!
