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Embark on an Autumn Adventure Along the Great Lakes Seaway Trail

posted by Teresa Farrell at 2019-10-13 21:29:00

Each area of Upstate New York has something uniquely its own to offer. But if you’d like to go on an adventure that will let you experience the highlights of multiple areas in one trip, a journey along the Great Lakes Seaway Trail might be just what you’re looking for this fall.

Fall along the Seaway Trail photo credit Seaway Trail


The Great Lakes Seaway Trail is a National Scenic Byway that stretches for 518 miles along the shores of Lake Erie, the Niagara River, Lake Ontario, and the Saint Lawrence River. The route, which runs from West Springfield, Pennsylvania to Rooseveltown, New York, is marked with green and white signs that show you you’re on the right track, as well as interpretive panels that give a glimpse into the unique history, features and attractions of the area. With all the things to do, places to go and sights to see, it’s a collection of experiences waiting to be explored—and which of those experiences you choose to explore is entirely up to you.

Seaway Trail sign photo credit Cayuga County Tourism


This unique route offers plenty to do all year long, but a fall visit gives you the chance to take in the foliage as you travel the trail, as well as enjoy all the apple orchards, pumpkin farms and other seasonal fun along the way, since the areas the trail passes through are renowned for rich agriculture. Classic autumn activities like apple picking, hayrides, corn mazes and harvest festivals can be found around what seems like every turn. And of course, there’s plenty of places to try craft beer, local wine, hard cider and spirits, many of which offer fall flavors and special seasonal concoctions this time of year.

Apple orchard photo credit Tom Shockey


The route is sprinkled with big cities and small towns, offering museums and historic sites, nightlife, shopping and dining, and tons of attractions and activities to explore. It runs through the Thousand Islands, with its beautiful riverfront charm evident in spots like Alexandria Bay and Clayton; down the eastern shores of Lake Ontario, through waterfront towns like Sackets Harbor, Henderson Harbor, and Pulaski, which is known for its world-class fishing and remains a popular destination for anglers well into the fall; through Oswego, Fair Haven and Sodus Bay along Lake Ontario’s southern shore; and alongside bigger cities like Rochester and Buffalo as it makes its way into Western New York.
 

Of course, there’s still good weather to be enjoyed during the autumn, and there are still plenty of chances to enjoy the outdoors during your Seaway Trail trip. Whether that means visiting a lighthouse, hiking or biking along a wooded path or through a local state park, touring a historic fort, or even getting out on the water to enjoy the end of the sailing season, there are plenty of ways to make it happen along this scenic route. Plan your trip with a copy of the Seaway Trail’s official magazine, or just pack your car, your camera and your sense of adventure and hit the road!

Hiking trail in fall photo credit by Michael


 

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