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bristol mountain fall foliage cover

Bristol Mountain in the Fall

I love Bristol Mountain in the fall. The Comet Express carries you above the tree canopy for broad views across the Bristol Hills, and the drive south from Rochester is part of the experience. Consider taking one route to the mountain and another home, using any combination of County Roads 33, 34, and 12 and New York State Routes 21 and 64.

Fall Sky Rides

Fall foliage across the Bristol Hills from Bristol Mountain

Fall Sky Rides travel between the base and summit aboard the Comet Express chairlift. The ride takes about 15–20 minutes in each direction, with time at the top to explore before returning to the base.

For fall 2026, sky rides operate Saturdays and Sundays from September 12 through November 1, plus Monday, October 12. September hours are noon–4 p.m.; October hours are 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Admission is limited, and popular time slots may sell out, so purchase a timed ticket online before you go. Check the Fall Sky Rides page for current dates, rates, availability, and weather updates.

Passengers must be able to board, ride, and unload from the chairlift. Children must sit independently; children under four feet tall must ride with an adult. Children ages two and younger must be secured in a car seat or front baby carrier supplied by their family. Pets and service animals are not permitted on the chairlift.

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Walks and Views from the Summit

You can return directly to the chairlift or spend time exploring the summit. Short walks lead to several viewpoints, including Morning Star, Rocket, and Comet. The mostly level Bristol Ridgeline Walk is a half-mile round trip, while the Aries Cross-Country Trail makes a 0.85-mile loop through the woods. Terrain varies, and some routes include moderate or steep sections. Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and review the summit hiking map before choosing a route.

Aerial Adventure Park

Rope bridges and platforms in Bristol Mountain Aerial Adventure Park
Aerial Adventure Park at Bristol Mountain

Bristol Mountain Aerial Adventure Park is a self-guided treetop course reached from South Hill Road at the summit. Seven courses progress from beginner to advanced, combining rope bridges, tightropes, suspended obstacles, and zip lines. Admission includes three hours in the park. A separate Kids Adventure Park offers a one-hour course for ages 4–7.

The aerial park typically operates from May through early November, with a reduced schedule in fall. Reservations are recommended. Review age, height, footwear, and supervision requirements on the Aerial Adventure Park website before purchasing tickets.

More Information About Bristol Mountain

Autumn color on the slopes at Bristol Mountain

Cost: Varies by activity; advance purchase is recommended.

Location: 5662 Route 64, Canandaigua, about 45 minutes south of Rochester (get directions)

Plan your visit: Fall Sky Rides | Aerial Adventure Park

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Bristol Mountain chairlift above fall foliage

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Have you ridden the chairlift at Bristol Mountain in the fall?

I’d love to hear from you—please reach out and share your thoughts and experiences.

Debi Bower, Day Trips Around Rochester NY

Debi Bower is the creator of Day Trips Around Rochester, New York—a website and collection of books celebrating local exploration throughout the Finger Lakes and Western New York.

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See you out there!
Debi

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