Fall Foliage Road Trips Across Pennsylvania
Nestled about an hour and a half north of Philadelphia, the Pocono Mountains offer a classic autumn escape with the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Here, the Appalachian Trail weaves through forests ablaze with crimson and gold, and the scenic drive along Route 209 reveals sweeping views over the Delaware River gorge. The hike to Raymondskill Falls, Pennsylvania’s tallest waterfall at 150 feet, is a favorite for leaf-peepers. This easy-to-moderate trail showcases cascading waters framed by amber and russet foliage, providing a refreshing contrast of movement and color. Early to mid-October is prime time for fall color here, when crisp air and bright sunlight intensify the reds and oranges against the rocky cliffs.
Farther west, near Pittsburgh, the Laurel Highlands region makes for a rich and varied fall outing. Ohiopyle State Park, roughly an hour’s drive southeast of the city, is particularly captivating. The park’s Youghiogheny River Trail offers gentle hiking and biking amid vibrant hardwood forests, while the Ferncliff Peninsula Overlook rewards visitors with a panoramic view of the river winding through a palette of autumn hues. Ohiopyle’s rugged landscape, dotted with waterfalls and rapids, contrasts with the colorful canopy, making it a unique blend of geological drama and seasonal beauty. Late October is ideal here, when the peak colors coincide with cooler temperatures perfect for outdoor adventures.
Heading east from Harrisburg, about 45 minutes away, the Appalachian Trail cuts through the Michaux State Forest in South Mountain. The Raven Rock Trail is a standout trek, leading to a striking overlook perched above a valley swathed in fiery fall colors. This moderate 4-mile loop includes rocky outcrops and dense hardwood groves, where sugar maples and oaks turn brilliant shades of yellow and orange. What distinguishes Michaux is its quiet, less touristy atmosphere, allowing for a more peaceful immersion in the season’s splendor. Mid-to-late October brings the best foliage here, with the added bonus of fewer crowds compared to more famous parks.
In northeastern Pennsylvania, the Endless Mountains region near Scranton reveals a different kind of fall charm. The Lackawanna State Park, approximately 25 minutes from the city, features a 22-acre lake surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests. The Lakeside Trail offers an easy stroll encircling the water, where reflections of scarlet and amber leaves shimmer on the surface. This setting is ideal for families or those looking for a gentle walk amid vivid fall colors. The park’s combination of water and woodland makes it uniquely photogenic, especially on calm, sunny afternoons in October when the foliage reaches peak brilliance.
About two hours northwest of Philadelphia, the Brandywine Valley, anchored by the town of Kennett Square, is renowned not only for its fall foliage but also its vibrant community of farmers markets and mushroom farms. The Brandywine Creek State Park features the Rocky Run Trail, a moderate 2.5-mile loop that follows a babbling brook and passes through groves of beech and birch. The charm here lies in the blend of pastoral landscapes and colorful forests. Visitors can pair a scenic hike with a visit to local farms celebrating the harvest season, making the experience both natural and cultural. Late October, when the valley is awash in golden hues, is the perfect time to explore this area.
Driving about three hours north from Philadelphia, Ricketts Glen State Park near Benton is a treasure trove for waterfall lovers. Its Falls Trail System includes a challenging 7.2-mile loop passing by 21 named waterfalls, many framed by fiery autumn leaves. The park’s rugged terrain and sheer volume of cascading water create an immersive sensory experience. What sets Ricketts Glen apart is the sheer density of waterfalls combined with vibrant fall colors, offering endless photo opportunities and moments of quiet awe. Peak foliage here typically arrives in mid-October, when the cool mountain air heightens the vividness of the reds and oranges.
In the heart of central Pennsylvania, somewhere around an hour and a half northeast of State College, the Bald Eagle State Park invites visitors to explore the shoreline of Foster Joseph Sayers Reservoir. The park’s Dorsey Trail provides a gentle hike through mixed hardwood forests, where visitors can watch eagles and other birds of prey soaring above the fiery treetops. This wildlife element adds an extra dimension to the fall experience and underscores the park’s name. Early October, when the leaves just begin to turn, is a peaceful time to enjoy the interplay of color, water, and wildlife along the trails.
Each of these destinations reveals a distinct facet of Pennsylvania’s autumnal magic, from mountain vistas and cascading waterfalls to tranquil lakes and vibrant townships. They invite travelers to slow down, breathe in the crisp air, and witness the rich tapestry of nature’s seasonal transformation. Whether you favor rugged hikes or leisurely strolls, bustling valleys or quiet forests, the state’s diverse landscapes provide a perfect backdrop for memorable fall adventures.