BEMUS POINT, CHAUTAUQUA LAKE
This is a great bird-watching spot where you may be able to see rare migratory shore birds.
After returning from Gull Point, head back along Peninsula Drive on the western side, stopping at any of the beaches to look for interesting stones and enjoy the views.
Then take Bayfront Parkway east through Erie until you join Route 5. The landscape transitions into rural countryside and lakeside vineyards— one of the largest grape-growing regions east of the Rockies.
Continue your drive through the towns of Harborcreek and North East, passing wineries, farm stands and fruit orchards, stopping to enjoy a glass of wine or some fresh produce and baked goods along the way.
CHAUTAUQUA LAKE AND PANAMA ROCKS
Approximately 1 hour from Erie
A quick hour’ s drive will take you to Chautauqua Lake in southwestern New York. This 17-mile-long lake is one of the highest navigable bodies of water in North America. The shores are dotted with idyllic small towns, popular for weekend getaways and world-class fishing. A fall drive around Chautauqua Lake will provide beautiful water views, lush golden and orange forests, and picturesque lake towns.
Start your day in Bemus Point, a charming lakeside village. Take a walk through the center of town, stopping at a café or restaurant and visiting some of the unique shops. The lake views will be framed by brilliant fall foliage.
Take the Southern Tier Expressway across the narrow part of the lake just south of Bemus Point, and then connect to West Lake Road, heading north to the Chautauqua Institution. This is a famed nonprofit education center and summer resort, known for its dedication to the arts, music, religion and recreation. The campus streets are lined with ornate Victorian cottages and hotels, and the addition of autumn colors makes it a picturesque destination for photos.
Now head inland and south along Chautauqua Stedman Road, which meanders to higher elevations. Finish your drive at Panama Rocks Scenic Park to see a natural wonder that almost feels otherworldly. This unique geological area features massive sandstone formations that create tight passageways and crevices that are perfect for exploring. The moss-covered rocks contrast beautifully with the reds, golds and bronze of the thick forest.
This drive combines waterfront views, charming small towns, and unique geological formations for a perfect fall adventure.
LETCHWORTH STATE PARK: THE GRAND CANYON OF THE EAST
Approximately 2 hours from Erie
If you’ re willing to venture a bit farther from Erie, you’ ll be rewarded with a visit to one of the region’ s most stunning destinations, Letchworth State Park. Dubbed the“ Grand Canyon of the East,” it’ s known as one of the most beautiful state parks in the country. Located in western New York, Letchworth features 14,427 acres of diverse landscapes, including a massive gorge with towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls and the beautiful Genesee River.
You’ ll start your drive by passing through the northern entrance of the park near Castile. Follow Park Road to the north, which will take you along the western rim of the gorge. At the Mount Morris Dam Overlook, an accessible viewing platform will afford you panoramic views of the gorge and Genesee River below, surrounded by a blanket of fall hues.
Head south to Middle Falls, the crown jewel of Letchworth State Park. This stunning waterfall is more than 100 feet high and 300 feet wide and is one of the most photographed spots in New York. Check out nearby Inspiration Point for the most picturesque views. Great Bend Overlook and Wolf Creek Overlook will give you even more amazing vantage points to see the falls from different angles. These spots are all connected by a winding roadway that’ s flanked by stunning fall colors.
You can also visit Lower Falls, another stunning waterfall scene, and end your day with a stop at one of the many picnic spots or just relax for a while in nature before you head home.
COOK FOREST AND CLARION RIVER
Approximately 2 hours from Erie
A couple of hours southeast of Erie, this scenic drive is the perfect leaf-peeping destination, due to its variety of old-growth forests, river valleys and sweeping views from overlooks.
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