Autumn on display at Fort Drum

FORT DRUM, N.Y. (Oct. 14, 2026) -- Stop for a moment, will you?

In the relentless pace of life, it’s easy to get caught up in that “move with a purpose” mentality. But when summer surrenders to fall, nature puts on a display so spectacular it should make us all pause and take in the surroundings.

Walking down the street, you see opposing treelines that showcase a triumvirate of reds, oranges, and yellows against the blue sky. A trail path disappears into a tunnel of gold and, underfoot, the ground is blanketed in a thick carpet of crunchy leaves – a soundtrack for the season – as you immerse yourself in peak fall foliage.

No offense to July 4th celebrations, but the colors in October are a can’t-miss living fireworks display. In the right light, a single maple tree becomes a torch of brilliant oranges and reds so vibrant they seem to glow from within.

And this isn't confined to any one area of Fort Drum but woven into the very fabric of the community. The “Commandos” sign in front of the 2nd Mobile Combat Brigade headquarters building stands before a backdrop of autumn splendor, as the barracks are framed by trees in full crimson glory.

The change of season is also evident at Memorial Park, whose monuments serve as the backdrop for countless ceremonies and events on post. In this solemn space, the small details of nature make their presence known.

Signs at Remington Park point the way to perfect setting for a family get-together or a quiet afternoon of reflection. Here’s a thought to ponder: How can this season be both fall and autumn, and why don’t the other seasons get two names? Talk amongst yourselves.

As you mull this over on your journey, be mindful of the occasional woolly caterpillar on the ground, making its slow march across the pavement. And don’t be startled by the flock of wild turkeys foraging for food, shooting side-eye glances at approaching cars as they dash to the nearby fence line.

There are even more spectacular sights to be seen throughout the training ranges, as attendees witnessed during the recent Fort Drum history tour. A recreational pass gives community members access to not only hike, hunt and fish, but also a chance to appreciate an ecosystem that supports military readiness, provides rich wildlife habitats, and creates the fall foliage that everyone can enjoy.

The season can be as brief as it is beautiful. Soon, the colors will fade, and the snow will fall. But for now, the North Country is showing us some of its finest work. So, take the advice of the stop sign on the side of the road. Pull over, get out of the car, and take a walk. You won’t be disappointed.

Additional fall foliage photos are available.