Crisp crimsons, burnt oranges, and vibrant yellows saturate Pennsylvania’s lush landscapes in the fall. Whether you’re venturing by water, air, or foot, there are many ways to get outdoors and take in the seasonal colors!
BY WATER:
1. Cocoa Kayaks of Hershey
Palmyra
Minutes from Hersheypark, Cocoa Kayaks of Hershey offers access to the pristine, tree-lined Swatara Creek, boasting 60 miles of gentle waters running from Pine Grove to the Susquehanna River in Middletown. Kayak along the remains of the historic Union Canal for an exclusive fall experience.
2. Barbara J. Sternwheeler Cruise
Conneaut Lake
Enjoy the majestic fall foliage around Conneaut Lake as you take a ride on the Barbara J. Sternwheeler. Learn about the rich history of Pennsylvania's largest natural glacier lake and enjoy a day out with family or fun afternoon with friends.
3. Proud Mary Boat Cruise
Hesston
Relax and view vibrant colors of foliage while observing wildlife as you cruise along on a scenic boat tour aboard the Princess or Proud Mary showboats at Raystown Lake. Along with the lake, you’ll find many spots to unwind. Bring your boots, kayak, mountain bike, or fishing pole to really get the most out of your time in Raystown!
4. Nautical Nature Pontoon Cruises
Portersville
Cruise along on the Nautical Nature Pontoon Cruises operated by the Moraine Preservation Fund. This 45-passenger, enclosed pontoon boat offers interpretive boat tours on Lake Arthur while you get a glimpse at the wildlife and picturesque fall foliage landscape.
BY AIR:
5. Hot Air Balloon Rides
Hershey
Soar above the skies as you survey changing leaves on a Hot Air Balloon Ride by the United States Hot Air Balloon Team. The balloon ride takes you above scenic Lancaster County, where you can view the vibrant patchwork colors of PA Dutch Country’s agricultural landscape.
BY FOOT:
6. Green Lane Park
Green Lane
Green Lane Park includes three bodies of water that stretch across more than 870 acres. Explore the 25 miles of hiking trails that offer vantage points of fall foliage and wildlife or bring a blanket for a picnic.
7. Waggoner’s Gap Hawk Watch
Carlisle
Enjoy fiery foliage at one or all of Cumberland Valley’s three parks. Wander through Waggoner's Gap Hawk Watch for a glimpse of birds gliding over a landscape painted in late autumn reds, yellows, and oranges.
8. D&L National Heritage Trail
Bristol
Get out and explore stunning views along some of Lehigh Valley’s unbeatable trails. The Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Trail passes through the region, offering scenic views along the waterfront. Take a drive along the covered bridge tour for a relaxing way to admire the foliage. The drive spans approximately 50 miles and showcases no less than seven bridges.
9. Buttermilk Falls
New Florence
Hike Buttermilk Falls under a fall canopy of reds, oranges, and yellows to enjoy the 48-acre natural area nestled within the breathtaking Laurel Ridge. As a natural area, the site has been set aside to protect its unique plant and animal communities and its outstanding examples of natural beauty.
BY CAR:
10. Leaf Peeper Road Trips
The Endless Mountains of northeastern PA offer panoramic vistas highlighting fall’s brilliant and bountiful colors! Elk Mountain, the highest altitude ski resort in the state, the agricultural farmlands along the Susquehanna River near Tunkhannock, and forests viewed from High Knob Overlook in Worlds End State Park are just some of the scenic stops you will discover on one of the Leaf Peeper Road Trips listed on visitpa.com. Pick your autumn-charmed destination, and we’ve got the trip details ready for you.
For more fall foliage experiences in Pennsylvania check out the VISIT PA website, and be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram to stay up-to-date on even more great trip ideas and places to visit around our state. Don’t forget to never miss an update and sign up for our monthly PA travel e-newsletter.