Fall Foliage Adventure in New York’s Adirondacks by Rail Bike and Steamboat
What if you could greet the Adirondacks from a 500-foot railroad bridge in the morning and toast the same mountain skyline from the deck of a century-old steamboat by afternoon? Rails to Sails— a joint experience from Revolution Rail and Lake George Steamboat Company—makes that a fall foliage adventure a reality.
In addition to a comprehensive confirmation letter from both companies helping you prepare for the perfect day, here’s a play-by-play of the schedule, so you know exactly what to expect and how to maximize every vista, photo op, and snack break.
Schedule & Experience:
8:00 a.m. – Road-trip Rendezvous
• Get in the car, it’s time for your perfect day in Hadley and Lake George!
• Insider tip: Foliage pops earliest along Route 9N in the Adirondack Mountains—have your camera ready.
9:30 a.m. – Check-in & Safety Briefing
• Guides lead you to a double or quad rail bike and show you everything you need to know before your ride.
• Grab a water bottle for the ride, and take a quick restroom break—no bathrooms on the rails.
• Pack a snack for our halfway point break at a cozy picnic grove.
• Don’t forget to check out Rev Rail’s merch while you wait at the Station. Think comfy hoodies, t-shirts, pins, and more!
10:00 a.m. – Leaving on Hadley Station Run
Pedal 4 miles of track that crosses the Sacandaga River and features a gorgeous forest canopy.
• Highlight: Early in your trip, pedal over a 500-foot-long steel bridge that suspends 90 feet above the water with panoramic views all around you!
• Wildlife bingo: Keep eyes peeled for chipmunks, foxes, deer, bald eagles, and mergansers.
12:00 p.m. – Transition to Lake George Village
• After your tour completes by noon, drive 30 minutes to Lake George Steamboat Company’s Steel Pier on Beach Street.
• There is plenty of parking nearby with just a short walk to the Steel Pier.
• It’s always colder on the water, even on a sunny day, so bring a windbreaker in preparation for the lake breeze.
12:30 p.m. – Boarding the Historic Mohican
• Launched in 1908, the Mohican is the oldest continually operated passenger vessel in the United States.
• The Mohican is still powered by her original diesel-electric drivetrain and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
1:00 p.m. – Depart for a Stellar Cruise on Lake George
• Glide past Dome Island Wildlife Refuge, Millionaire’s Row mansions, and Rogers Rock cliffs while the captain narrates the history and legends of the lake.
• Tip: The Onboard snack bar features locally made treats, like maple fudge and Adirondack Brewery craft beer.
2:00 p.m. – Post-Cruise Gift Shop Visit
• Pick up a Mohican “Captain’s Log” postcard in the gift shop.
• If you’re not ready to head out, take a short walk along the Lake George Shoreline Trail, just five minutes up Canada Street.
2:30 p.m. – Extend Your Adventure in Lake George
The day doesn’t have to end when the boat docks. You’re already in the heart of Lake George Village, so why not explore a little more?
• Fort William Henry Museum is a 5-minute walk away. Step back into the 18th century and experience the living history of this frontier fort.
• Adirondack Winery offers a cozy spot to wind down. Sample local wines and browse their shop for fall-themed gifts before heading home.
For more ideas, places to eat, and events around the lake, check out VisitLakeGeorge.com
More Details
• Price: $140 per double, $260 per quad (includes rail bike ride and cruise)
• Limited fall departures only—book on Rev Rail’s site; cruises automatically reserved.
• What to pack: light gloves for cool rail bike mornings, sunglasses for lake glare, and a phone power-bank (you’ll be taking photos non-stop).
Reserve your Rails to Sails adventure before the last leaf drops!
