Fall is one of the most beautiful times of the year. Mother Nature puts on an amazing display as trees change their colors. For a few weeks each year, highways, local roads and towns are afire with color when trees display their beautiful and vibrant hues. Pennsylvania’s trees are no exception. Pennsylvania’s fall foliage lasts for over a month and has more varieties of color than other popular foliage destinations in the Northeast.1 There are many places in Pennsylvania where this beauty is on display.
Short Day Trips
Some of these places are just short trips for those who live in the Philadelphia area. Route 903 is a sixteen-mile stretch of highway which runs north from Jim Thorpe and meanders through Adams and Monroe counties. The forests of French Creek State Park are also great places to “leaf peep” during the fall. French Creek’s many trails and lakes make for a fine day of outdoor fall fun. Other state parks include King’s Gap State Park in Carlisle and Michaux State Forest outside Gettysburg.
Weekend Excursions
For those who have more time and want to take an extended trip across the State, the western and northern regions of Pennsylvania will deliver a beautiful panorama of fall color. Raccoon State Park in Hanover close to the West Virginia border is a great place to start an excursion. From there, State Road 18 continues south through Washington and has many small towns and farmer’s markets to enjoy. The Laurel Highlands offer the widest variety of trees for spectacular foliage. This region includes the Ohiopyle State Park and Frank Loyd Wright’s famous architectural achievement Fallingwater. In northern Pennsylvania, the Longhouse National Scenic Byway is designed to showcase fall foliage for tourists. This fifty-five mile loop through the Allegheny Forest is a great way to spend a weekend.
Staying In Philadelphia?
There are some great spots right in Philadelphia to see glorious fall foliage. Driving down the Ben Franklin Parkway will showcase a canopy of yellow, orange and read. Franklin Square Park in Old City is another great location for a walk through bright fall foliage. Wissahickon Valley Park features covered bridges and a scenic gorge to explore. Do not miss the Forbidden Drive in Wissahickon Gorge. It is a spot of peaceful seclusion in the midst of busy Philadelphia. Chestnut Hill features the Morris Arboretum. The Schuylkill River Trail also provides beautiful views of fall foliage. The campuses of the University of Pennsylvania and St. Joseph’s University are also great options for fall foliage in the city.
Fall reminds us all of the natural beauty of trees. We will drive for miles to catch a glimpse of spectacular displays of fall color. But sometimes the most beautiful trees are in your own backyard. These trees provide year-round beauty for your daily enjoyment from the comfort of your own home. With proper care, these trees can enhance your life with their beauty and add value to your property. Rick’s Tree Service can help you to maintain your trees keeping them healthy and beautiful for years to come. Check out our website to see how we can help you.
