9 Top Places To Visit In Pennsylvania This Fall
Like many states in the northeast, Pennsylvania has a landscape that seems to absolutely come alive when the Fall season rolls around. Although the days get shorter, the plantlife withers away, and the animals prepare for the long, cold winter ahead, from late September to mid-October, the many great small towns and vast forests of Pennsylvania transform into a scenic palette of reds, yellows, oranges, and other wonderful autumn colors.
If you are interested in seeing some of these sights for yourself here are 9 of the best spots in Pennsylvania that you should definitely check out this Fall.
Pine Creek Gorge
Pine Creek Gorge, also known as the "Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania," is a must-visit destination for fall enthusiasts. Located in north-central Pennsylvania near the town of Williamsport, this gorge offers breathtaking views of the changing foliage that blankets its steep walls and surrounding forests.
The 47-mile-long gorge can be best appreciated from one of the overlooks at Leonard Harrison and Colton Point State Parks, each of which is situated on opposite sides of the canyon. Hiking the Pine Creek Rail Trail is another popular activity, and it runs along the bottom of the gorge, offering ways for you to go biking and hiking in the area.
Wildlife such as eagles, deer, and wild turkeys are common sights and are particularly active during this time of preparation for the winter months. With its towering cliffs and seemingly endless canopy of leaves, Pine Creek Gorge is certainly an unforgettable fall getaway in Pennsylvania this year.
Winslow Hill Elk Viewing Area
When the subject of elk comes to mind, one's mind is generally drawn to images of herds of these majestic creatures roaming the wide-open landscapes in the western portions of the country. However, destinations like the Winslow Hill Elk Viewing Area in Benezette, Pennsylvania go to show that elk are truly content-spanning animals.
Located in the heart of the aptly named Elk Country, this spot provides unmatched opportunities to observe the state’s largest wild elk herd during their fall rutting season, which starts to get busy in October. The vibrant fall foliage surrounding Winslow Hill enhances the experience, as the landscape begins to be draped in rich colors.
Keep an ear open for the iconic bugling calls of bull elk and witness these majestic animals as they roam freely in open meadows and woodlands. In addition to the viewing platforms, several nearby trails allow for leisurely walks, just make sure to keep your distance from the elk, as they are particularly aggressive at this time of the year.
The Elk Country Visitor Center is a great place to start your visit, as it contains educational exhibits on elk biology and conservation efforts.
Allegheny National Forest
Allegheny National Forest is in the far northwestern corner of the state and is among the best national parks in the region places to see Fall foliage. As the leaves begin to change, the forest's 514,000 acres transform into a brilliant mosaic of colors that simply cry out for a photograph or two, whether you're on a hiking trail or at the side of the highway.
Visitors can hike along trails such as the popular Rimrock Overlook Trail, which will provide some of the most amazing views of the surrounding woods and Allegheny Reservoir. The reservoir itself is a popular local for canoeing and kayaking, giving you a fun way to enjoy the fall landscape from the water. You may also spot the park's healthy population of deer, black bears, and a variety of bird species preparing for migration.
The Longhouse National Scenic Byway offers a leisurely driving route for those who prefer to take in the colors from the comfort of their vehicle. Campgrounds throughout the forest, like the Minister Creek Campground, will allow you to extend your stay and fully immerse yourself in this wonderfully wild landscape in western Pennsylvania.
Gettysburg
The town of Gettysburg is best known for its pivotal role in the Civil War, and the Gettysburg National Military Park attracts visitors year-round. This strong element of history also lends itself nicely to a spooky getaway as Halloween draws near.
During the day you can take a guided tour of the battlefield or explore at your own pace, walking among historic monuments and memorials while learning about the events of the 1863 battle. At night, there are several ghost tours available throughout town, from the Civil War Ghost Walking Tour to the more "science-based" Ghost Hunt Tour with Ghost Hunting Equipment in and around downtown Gettysburg.
The nearby orchards and wineries will provide a more peaceful outing, offering seasonal harvests and scenic views of the countryside. You also don't have to go far, as right in town, there are several tasting rooms open, like the Reid's Winery Tasting Room and Cider House.
Presque Isle State Park
Presque Isle State Park, located on the shores of Lake Erie, is an idyllic Fall destination in the famed Great Lakes region. As the leaves change, the park’s nearly 3,200 acres of diverse habitats—from sandy beaches to wooded trails—transform into an amazing example of what Pennsylvania has to offer in the Fall months.
The park’s multi-use trails are perfect for hiking and biking, many of which offer views of both the land and the expansive lake nearby. For birdwatchers, Presque Isle is also a prime destination during fall migration, with hundreds of species passing through the area.
You should also take some time to explore the historic Presque Isle Lighthouse, which stands as a reminder of the area’s important history associated with shipping in this once bustling industrial region.
Ricketts Glen State Park
Ricketts Glen State Park is a spectacular destination for anyone seeking out waterfalls. Situated in northeastern Pennsylvania, the park is home to the famed Falls Trail, which features a whopping 21 named waterfalls flowing alongside it! As autumn sets in, the surrounding hardwood forests make this iconic trail all the more awe-inspiring. The 94-foot Ganoga Falls is the tallest out of the bunch, and easily the most impressive.
Other footpaths in the park range from easy to challenging and allow visitors of all fitness levels to explore the park's beauty at their own pace. In addition to its waterfalls, Ricketts Glen is also known for Lake Jean, where boating and fishing remain popular throughout the season.
For those looking to extend their stay, the park also has some good campgrounds nearby, including Red Rock Mountain Campground, which features a number of cozy cabins along with more traditional sites.
Hickory Run State Park
Hickory Run State Park, located in the iconic Pocono Mountains, covers over 15,000 acres and is especially popular in autumn. The park’s Boulder Field, perhaps the most notable part of the area, makes for a somewhat otherworldly experience as you explore the massive field of ancient stones set against a backdrop of fall foliage.
For those seeking more traditional scenery, the park features over 40 miles of hiking trails, including the scenic Hawk Falls Trail, which leads to a popular waterfall of the same name. Streams, creeks, and lakes crisscross the park too, with Sand Spring Lake even featuring a sandy beach on its shores. This park also features a large and modern campground, with restroom facilities and a nicely curated visitor center/front office, making it an ideal place to spend the night or have a pit fire to warm up after a day out in the crisp Fall weather.
Doylestown
Just a short drive north of Philadelphia, Doylestown is a charming destination for those who want an easy escape from the city. Located in Bucks County, the town's huge collection of historical landmarks is complimented by the scenic Fall beauty in the area around it.
The Mercer Museum, a towering concrete castle filled with American artifacts, and the nearby Fonthill Castle, home to the eccentric archaeologist Henry Mercer, provide visitors with a glimpse into the region’s past and some of its most well-known residents. The nearby Fonthill Park is full of walking paths and is a great way to extend your stay in the wilds near these two museums.
The Michener Art Museum, named after author James A. Michener, features a collection of American art and is another local museum worth checking out, perhaps best if rainy or cold weather is keeping you indoors for the afternoon.
Kinzua Bridge State Park
Kinzua Bridge State Park is a remarkable landmark in northern Pennsylvania. This park is home to the remains of the Kinzua Viaduct, once the world’s longest and tallest railway bridge. Partially destroyed by a tornado in 2003, the viaduct has been transformed into the Kinzua Skywalk, a pedestrian walkway that extends out over the gorge, now offering an amazing overhead view of the landscape below. Visitors can walk out on the remaining portion of the bridge and peer through a glass platform at the valley, where vibrant fall foliage in October often creates striking scenes.
Trails in the park, such as the General Kane Trail, will take you through the surrounding forests. The park’s visitor center also provides educational exhibits on the history and significance of the viaduct.
Explore Pennsylvania this Fall
From mountain ranges to sweeping forests, ghost walks, and beyond, there is so much to see and do in Pennsylvania this Fall. Ranked among the best states in the country to witness the changing colors of foliage, even a simple drive in the countryside will satisfy anyone looking for some scenic beauty in the later months of the year.
With its vast array of state parks, cozy small towns, and other unique attractions, you can use this list to plan the ultimate Fall road trip in Pennsylvania this Fall.
