Fall is quickly approaching (read: is here, technically), and after a couple of hot days this past week, I think we can all agree that it is HIGH TIME for some beautiful fall weather - cooler days, rainy weekend mornings, sweaters and pumpkin spice, and changing leaves. Let’s talk about that last one, shall we? There is such a thing in this world as leaf peeping, which is where you pile your family, friends, and/or loved one(s) into the car and drive to the most scenic places to look at the beautiful changing leaves. If this has piqued your interest, you should know that there are so many great places in our great state of Pennsylvania to do just that! Keep reading for our recommendations on the best places to bring yourself to look at the leaves and absorb the fall!
The first place on our list is Big Pocono State Park, where the leaves will peak (i.e. be at their most beautiful) in the middle of October. This place is great because you can look at the leaves while hiking, or choose to stay in the comfort of your vehicle. You can also take a kayak along the Delaware River with a Fall Foliage River Tour, but make sure the weather is warm enough for you if you choose to go that route.
Number two is Gettysburg National Military Park, which peaks in late October. Not only is this park a great place to visit year-round due to its awesome historical significance, monuments, memorials, and the occasional reenactment or two, but in the fall it comes alive with color. There’s nothing better than getting your history on AND looking at the beautiful changing leaves, at the same time!
The third place is Pine Creek Gorge, whose leaves peak at the beginning of October. Because of the types of trees that grow here, you’ll get to look at all sorts of different colors and leaf types. The best places to go are Leonard Harrison or Colton Point State Park, where you’ll get the most superb views of all. Check out the Pine Creek Rail Trail, where you can bike, walk, or even ride a horse through the beautiful changing leaves.
Number four (and did we mention this isn’t in any particular order?) is Presque Isle State Park, on the scenic shores of Lake Erie. There’s the Karl Boyes Multipurpose National Recreation Trail, where you can walk and bike through the leaves, but you can also drive through the park’s roads or hike through the 11 miles of trails through the park.
Leaf peeping can be a fun day trip for you and your family and friends, but remember to stay safe out there! There might be a lot of other leaf-oriented tourists, so make sure you don’t get in anyone’s way or ignore the rules of the road in favor of some of that sweet, sweet leaf action. So get the lattes, get the sweaters, and hit the road!
