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Mashomack Preserve (Photo courtesy Jim Colligan)

Fall is in full swing!

The North Fork leaves have officially turned, providing something colorful to peep at while waiting to get past (or to) certain orchards and pumpkin patches — you know the ones. Yet, numerous trails and parks on the North Fork and Shelter Island offer less trafficked (read: Peaceful) ways to explore a quintessential autumn day in these parts. From well-known preserves to off-the-beaten-path parks and coastline in between, these are the most scenic places to take in fall foliage on the North Fork.

Downs Farm Preserve, 23800 Main Road, Cutchogue

This 51-acre parcel along Downs Creek was once a Native American fort site and later the estate of the late economist William J. Baxter. Today, it’s a National Historic Landmark with trails, tidal wetlands and wildlife maintained by Group for the East End. Colorful leaves provide a postcard-worthy backdrop to trailheads, historic sites and the Nature Center. The adjoining farmland adds to the bucolic ambiance that draws people to the North Fork, especially this time of year.

Downs Farm Preserve (Photo courtesy Group for the East End)

Hallock State Park Preserve, 6062 Sound Ave., Riverhead

Found on a mile-long coastline stretch that gives way to Long Island Sound views, Hallock State Park Preserve has a breezy walking trail that begins in foliage-filled woods, winds past a pond and dunes, and ends on the rocky shores of the aforementioned Sound. Along the way, you’ll peep birds foraging for berries, beach heathers, perhaps a red fox and — on a clear day — glimpses of coastal Connecticut.

Sound View Dunes Park, 4201 Soundview Ave., Southold

This park spans nearly 60 acres and has a mile-long trail that begins in woodlands full of oak and pine trees that offer colorful autumnal charm at every turn. It meanders into sandy dunes. Tucked between them, you’ll find a rare, marshy ecological environment called an internal swale community. Finally, the path gives way to a vista-filled shoulder-season beach day at the Long Island Sound. A shorter trail will get you to the water sooner, if you’re really coming for the water.

Laurel Lake Preserve, 5501 Main Road, Laurel Southold

A dog-friendly spot on 400 acres of land is home to 14 miles of hiking trails. Along the way, you’ll find an enchanted hardwood forest full of oaks, hickories and maples with leaves painted colors of gold, orange and yellow come fall. The soft breezes feel as gentle as a cozy Sunday by the fire, and woodpeckers add to the au natural soundtrack.

Laurel Lake Preserve
Laurel Lake Preserve. (Credit: Krysten Massa)

Bunker City County Park, Menhaden Lane, Shelter Island Heights

Mashomack Preserve may grab the lion’s share of hikers and foliage fanatics — deservedly so. But consider Bunker City County Park one of the Island’s best-kept secrets. Beyond views of changing leaves, the 35-acre stretch of land is home to glimpses of the Atlantic and protected species of Red Cedar. Access the park via Menhaden Lane.

Indian Island County Park, Cross River Drive, Riverhead

A more accessible drive for up-Islanders, Indian Island County Park is home to 275 acres of trails — several of which are marked — and shoreline. The park is ideal for an early off-season walk along the beach dotted with fall foliage. Have time to spare? Stop and stay a while — picnic tables make it ripe for a quiet lunch or watching the sunrise on a crisp fall morning with your beverage of choice.

Mashomack Preserve, 79 S. Ferry Road Shelter Island

This 2,000-plus-acre nature preserve is an oasis within an oasis for resident wildlife and trees. Speaking of the latter, they dress to impress each autumn. See pops of orange, yellow, and, of course, red along the red trail. The foliage in the meadow juxtaposes stunningly against browning grass, bushes and an endless fall sky. The light breezes combine with the gentle flow of the creek to provide a natural soundtrack to an adventure worth falling for.

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