3 Adventures for the family this fall while social distancing in Central New York

We have always been an active family. COVID-19 may have slowed us down a little, but we still find ways to get out and enjoy the world… at a distance.

Here are few fun fall family activities we have found in Central New York that may fit your budget and your heart! Plus, the scenic views of fall foliage en route to all locations below are absolutely breath-taking.

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1. HIKING – We’re so lucky to have Clark Reservation State Park in such close proximity. It’s one of my favorite New York State Parks. Located in Jamesville, NY, the park’s natural rugged cliffs and rocky paths make you feel like you’ve traveled hundreds of miles outside of the State to experience a secluded hike. There are five trails to choose from, including the Cliff Trail, which has a point that overlooks a 175 foot drop down to Glacier Lake, a meromictic lake (also the spot where we once saw six-foot black snake chilling in a tree next to the path). You must wear a mask near park buildings, including the bathrooms. Tip: Take the Cliff Trail and wear closed-toe shoes (preferably sneakers).
   • Guidelines: Masks must be worn near all park buildings and social distancing is required.
   • Fees: Depending on the season, there may be a parking fee or an entrance fee.

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2. APPLE PICKING – There are plenty of options for this activity throughout the area. The most popular being the Number 1 Apple Orchard in the country, Beak & Skiff, in the town of Lafayette. During any other time, I would be there for the breath-taking views, apple picking, tractor rides, the myriad of hard cider options, and the thousands of people, but… Covid. So, we took our kids to O’Neill’s U-pick Orchard & Barbeque, a smaller orchard down the road, which was perfect! The parking lot was full but that meant no more than about 40 cars, the staff was super friendly, and the walk to the orchard was short and swift (and great when you have little feet trying to keep up with you). Plus, social distancing was amazing! We did not come within 20 feet of any other family. We filled up a few bags of our favorite apple (Honeycrisp), picked some fresh raspberries (that were free). They also have a large variety of jams, baked goods, cheese, apple fritters, apple cider donuts, BBQ, and cider!
   • Guidelines: Masks must be worn at all times and social distancing is required.
   • Fees: No entrance fee. Pay for apples by the pound.

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• PUMPKIN PICKING – Springside Farms is a family owned agritourism farm in Pompey, NY. I stumbled upon years ago, while scoping out fall locations to promote when I worked for Visit Syracuse. It’s so darn cute! With a pumpkin patch (that we had to ourselves), a jungle maze, corn maze, petting zoo (currently non-touch due to Covid), kiddie train rides, slides, zip lines, barn rope swings (off hay bales) and more, this is a perfect way to spend a fall day with the family.
  • Guidelines: Masks must be worn at all times.
  • Fees: There is a minimal entrance fee for anyone over the age of 2. Pumpkins are charged by the pound.