While New England is often seen as the destination to see beautiful fall colors, people from all over the world visit Pennsylvania to see the stunning arboreal display found throughout our state parks.

Pennsylvania’s size enables visitors to see the amazing autumn display across the Commonwealth no matter where they’re staying. As a result, leaf peepers can visit nearly any state park and see incredible reds, oranges and yellows of fall.

But some places are special. Some places – their location, their views, their history, their setting – set themselves apart and invite visitors into a truly unique landscape.

Here’s a breakdown of what I could consider the best places to experience fall in Pennsylvania.

 

Pennsylvania Grand Canyon

When I think of the best place to see the most beautiful fall colors in the commonwealth, I think of the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon.

The views from Leonard Harrison and Colton Point State Parks are spectacular. The Pine Creek Gorge looks as if it’s been set ablaze – with some of the most magnificent colors on display in two state parks both located in Wellsboro.

The parks have numerous overlooks and vistas in which to take in the stunning scenery. In my opinion, the PA Grand Canyon is the best example of what is beautiful and magnificent about this incredible state.

 

Ohiopyle State Park

Ohiopyle State Park has a little bit for everybody looking for a fun fall weekend. It’s got a charming small town. It’s got beautiful waterfalls. And it’s got plenty of places to see amazing fall colors. The park encompasses approximately 20,500 acres, including sections of the Youghiogheny River.

Waterfalls are only steps away from “downtown” Ohiopyle. While I would argue there is no bad time to see Ohiopyle, I would highly recommend seeing it in the autumn. The small town and park light up with the beautiful colors of fall.

 

Lehigh Gorge State Park

Stretching through Luzerne and Carbon Counties, Lehigh Gorge State Park is one of the standout parks in eastern Pennsylvania. The park features a deep gorge carved by a river, thick vegetation, rock outcroppings and waterfalls.

The Lehigh Gorge Trail follows more than 20 miles of the D&L Trail, which is the foundation of the 165-mile Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor. Any walk or bike ride along this trail will bring you into breathtaking views of fall.

 

Hyner View State Park

Hyner View State Park in Clinton County is my favorite view in all of Pennsylvania.

After a winding drive up the mountain, you reach the overlook. At the stone wall, you see vast distances up and downstream over the West Branch of the Susquehanna River and surrounding mountains.

In the fall, the trees carry the beautiful yellows, oranges and reds of autumn throughout the valley. The park features several vistas, all of which offer great photography options. And, when the wind is just right, you can see hang gliders launch themselves off the platform next to the scenic vista.

 

Kinzua Bridge State Park

Located in McKean County, Kinzua Bridge State Park is the home of one of the best views in all of Pennsylvania.

The Kinzua Viaduct was once the longest and tallest railroad structure at 2,053 feet long and 301 feet high. When the railroad bridge was partially destroyed by a tornado in 2003, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources turned it into a pedestrian walkway.

Now, visitors can walk 600 feet out on the remaining support towers. There, you can peer miles out into the Kinzua Gorge and look down through the partial glass platform at the end of the walkway.
People come from all over come to watch the area light up in wonderful fall colors. I’ve made a trip to Kinzua every year for the past several years just to take in this spectacular view during the fall.

 

Elk State Forest 

While many state forests are wonderful places to see the color change, Elk State Forest has an added attraction that makes it a must-see this fall.

Elk State Forest is 217,000 acres of northern hardwood and mixed oak forest located in Elk, Cameron, Potter, and McKean Counties. It is home to the largest free-roaming elk herd in the northeastern United States. Between 1913 and 1926, elk from the Rocky Mountains were reintroduced to the area. The herd today has over 600 animals.

So while you’re out, driving around and taking in the beautiful sights of the changing leaves, be on the lookout for these amazing animals.

 

Christian Alexandersen has run one mile in each of Pennsylvania’s 125 state parks. He’s also the host of Hemlocks to Hellbenders– an award-winning podcast all about Pennsylvania’s parks, forests and great outdoors.  Read more blog posts from Christian on our News page.