13 Of The Most Beautiful Fall Destinations In Pennsylvania
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
We can probably all agree that Pennsylvania is simply beautiful all year round. However, when fall rolls around, the burst of color added to the landscape makes it extra special. No matter where we go, we can drink in the breathtaking fall foliage. For some of the best fall foliage, plan a visit to these 13 fall destinations in Pennsylvania. You’ll quickly discover that the following spots are among the best places to visit in Pennsylvania in fall.
Pine Creek Gorge, Watson Township, PA 17740, USA
When it comes to beautiful places to visit in Pennsylvania in fall, Pine Creek Gorge makes for an obvious choice. The Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania is certainly worth a visit during the autumn. You can see the foliage from Leonard Harrison State Park or Colton Point State Park, both of which feature multiple hiking trails and viewing areas.
Kinzua Bridge State Park, 296 Viaduct Rd, Mt Jewett, PA 16740, USA
If you've not been to Kinzua Bridge Skywalk yet, you'll definitely want to visit during the autumn. Walk along the 600-foot bridge for sensational views of the fall colors. No matter the time of year you visit, you'll agree that Kinzua Bridge Skywalk is a bucket-list-worthy destination in Pennsylvania.
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Ricketts Glen State Park, 695 PA-487, Benton, PA 17814, USA
Can you think of a better pairing than the rustic colors of fall and waterfalls? Set off along Falls Trail, which spans almost eight miles and boasts 21 waterfalls, many flanked in the colors of autumn. It's easily one of the most beautiful parks in Pennsylvania.
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Presque Isle State Park, 301 Peninsula Dr, Erie, PA 16505, USA
Pennsylvanians may flock to Presque Isle State Park's beaches in the summer, but the state park is just as gorgeous, if not more so, drenched in shades of red, orange, and yellow. Explore one of the hiking trails, or visit the lighthouse while you're there. You might also spend some time in the town of Erie, Pennsylvania - it's a charming and picturesque day trip destination!
Gettysburg, PA 17325, USA
Gettysburg's charming downtown and Gettysburg National Military Park are just two spots for leaf-peeping in the fall. Since Gettysburg is also known as one of the most haunted towns in the United States, you might also want to go on a ghost tour or visit one of the spots known for the paranormal. (Devil's Den in the military park is one of those places.) If the haunting doesn't bother you, you'll likely agree that Gettysburg is one of the most charming small towns in Pennsylvania.
Jim Thorpe, PA, USA
Known as the "Switzerland of Pennsylvania," Jim Thorpe oozes charm. It's also stunningly gorgeous in the fall. For the best fall views, hop on one of the scenic train rides with the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway. Let's just say there's a lot to admire about this picture-perfect fall town in Pennsylvania.
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Ohiopyle State Park, 124 Main St, Ohiopyle, PA 15470, USA
Stretching more than 20,000 acres in Western Pennsylvania, Ohiopyle State Park is home to several waterfalls - Ohiopyle Falls, Cucumber Falls, and Johnathan Run Falls - and a series of hiking trails. It's also the perfect spot for a day of leaf-peeping. If you love the great outdoors, you owe it to yourself to visit this adventure-filled state park in Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, 1978 River Road, Bushkill, PA 18324, USA
No matter what you do at the Delaware Gap National Recreation Area, you're sure to be surrounded by the rich colors of the season. The area is popular with hikers, kayakers, and boaters. It's also perfect for a fall picnic. Oh, and you'll definitely want to bring your camera with you. Photo ops abound inside this stunning Pennsylvania destination!
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Worlds End State Park, 82 Cabin Bridge Rd, Forksville, PA 18616, USA
Embark on one of the more than 20 miles of trails at Worlds End State Park, for jaw-dropping views of the fall foliage. Most of the trails are challenging, so make sure you're up for the physical demands before setting off. If you're looking for gorgeous trails in Pennsylvania, this should be your go-to spot.
Cook Forest State Park Office, 100 PA-36, Cooksburg, PA 16217, USA
Whether you want to go for a leisurely drive or a scenic hike, you can't go wrong when you visit Cook Forest State Park. You can even rent a cabin by the Clarion River for some of the best views in the area. It really is an excellent weekend getaway in Pennsylvania.
Salt Springs State Park, 2305 Salt Springs Rd, Montrose, PA 18801, USA
With its towering hemlock trees and rushing waters, Salt Springs State Park is a natural oasis, not just during the fall, but the entire year. Bring along a picnic for your visit to Salt Springs State Park, a cozy spot that spans just over 400 acres. Don't forget your hiking shoes, so you can check out some of the nearly 15 miles of hiking trails.
Frick Park, Pittsburgh, PA 15217, USA
Who doesn't love the idea of a gentle stroll through brightly-hued trees? That's the exact experience you can look forward to at the lovely Frick Park. Tucked just a few minutes from downtown Pittsburgh, Frick Park is breathtakingly painted in the colors of fall. Have a relaxing picnic or follow one of the hiking trails to enjoy the scenery.
Bowmans Hill Tower Road, Bowmans Hill Tower Rd, Pennsylvania 18938, USA
Last, but certainly not least, on our list of amazing places to go in Pennsylvania in fall, Bowman's Hill Tower is truly iconic. Towering 125 feet about Washington Crossing Historic Park, Bowman's Hill Tower offers sensational views of the fall landscape. You can see up to 14 miles from the top on a clear day, making it an ideal fall destination. Plus, after your trip, you can stay the night inside this romantic Pennsylvania estate!
What are your favorite places to visit in Pennsylvania in fall? Let us know in the comments below — we would love to hear from you! Here are 19 more fall photos that prove autumn in Pennsylvania is simply breathtaking.
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More to Explore
places to visit in Pennsylvania in fall
Where can I go in Pennsylvania to see the fall foliage?
As you learned from reading the article above, Pennsylvania is simply extraordinary during the fall season. Each region of the state enjoys the stunning transformation of autumn; however, there are some places that seem particularly prone to gorgeous fall colors. Some of our top recommendations include the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum near Philadelphia, the Lebanon Valley Rail Trail, Starrucca Viaduct, and Memorial Lake State Park.