Pennsylvania is one of the best states in the country for fall foliage thanks to its diverse landscapes and long season. Because of the variety in elevation, you can actually chase the colors across the state — with the northern mountains turning first in late September, and the southern valleys holding onto their colors through late October.

With gorges, waterfalls, forests, and even the highest point in the state, Pennsylvania offers a front-row seat to autumn’s best show. Here are the places I recommend most if you want to see fall in all its glory.

Often called the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania, Pine Creek Gorge is nearly 50 miles long and drops 1,000 feet deep. The overlooks at Leonard Harrison and Colton Point State Parks give you jaw-dropping views of ridges blanketed in fiery reds and golds.

If you want to get closer to the action, hop on the Pine Creek Rail Trail, which winds along the gorge floor. Surrounded by towering trees and crisp fall air, it’s an unforgettable ride or hike.

📍 Best Time: Early to mid-October.

The Allegheny National Forest in northwestern Pennsylvania covers more than 500,000 acres — and it’s breathtaking in the fall. The Longhouse Scenic Byway is a perfect loop drive, circling the Allegheny Reservoir with overlooks at nearly every turn.

Hikers will love exploring Minister Creek or the Hearts Content Scenic Area, where old-growth trees glow in the autumn light. For water views, head to the Kinzua Dam, where fall foliage reflects across the reservoir.

📍 Best Time: Late September to early October.

The full trail is challenging, but shorter loops still give you unforgettable views. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to pack lunch and spend the whole day exploring.

📍 Best Time: Early to mid-October.

From here, you can see nearly 20 miles of ridges filled with autumn color. This year is especially unique: the bridge is undergoing a two- to three-year renovation, and it’s been closed for much of the year. But this fall, it has reopened so visitors can still take in the incredible foliage. If you’ve ever wanted to experience Kinzua in autumn, now is the time.

To find out more about Kinzua Bridge and its fascinating history, be sure to read my full blog post dedicated to it Exploring The Kinzua Bridge Skywalk

📍 Best Time: Early October.

High above the West Branch of the Susquehanna River, Hyner View State Park offers one of the most panoramic overlooks in Pennsylvania. From this high vantage point, the mountain ridges roll out in waves of red, orange, and yellow.

It’s also a popular hang-gliding spot — so you might even catch sight of gliders soaring against the backdrop of fall foliage.

📍 Best Time: Early to mid-October.

Home to the famous Forest Cathedral, Cook Forest State Park is a National Natural Landmark with some of the tallest and oldest trees in the state. Walking through its old-growth white pines and hemlocks in autumn feels like stepping into a golden cathedral.

Climb the Fire Tower for an incredible view of the canopy or take a quiet stroll along the Clarion River. For something different, horseback rides are also available through the forest trails — a peaceful way to enjoy the season.

📍 Best Time: Late September to early October.

At 3,213 feet, Mount Davis in Somerset County is the highest point in the state. Its elevation means the leaves change earlier here, making it a great spot for crisp mountain views.

As I walked through the lobby, I couldn’t help but imagine those moments in time—political strategy whispered over coffee, movie stars passing through on tours, and local celebrations filling the ballrooms.

The Poconos are a classic fall getaway — filled with waterfalls, lakes, small towns, and scenic drives.

Take Route 507 by Lake Wallenpaupack, where the water mirrors the fiery trees, or hike to Bushkill Falls, often called the Niagara of Pennsylvania. For something special, hop on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway and see the colors roll by from your seat.

📍 Best Time: Mid-October.

Closer to Pittsburgh, the Laurel Highlands are a wonderful fall destination. Rolling hills, charming towns, and stunning overlooks make this region worth the trip.

Stop at Ohiopyle State Park for waterfalls framed by colorful leaves, or visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater, which is especially stunning surrounded by autumn. For drivers, the Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway is a road trip you won’t forget.

📍 Best Time: Mid-October.

• Check weekly reports: Pennsylvania’s DCNR posts foliage updates every Thursday.

• Go high first: Higher elevations peak earlier.

• Catch the light: Sunrise and sunset make colors glow.

• Pack layers: Fall days are mild, but nights get chilly fast.

I recently filmed my road trip through Pennsylvania’s best fall foliage destinations, and you can watch the full adventure above. It includes the sights, sounds, and stories from each of these stunning locations. After watching, keep reading for all the details, travel tips, and photos to help plan your own trip!

Pennsylvania in the fall is an adventure for the senses — crisp air, glowing forests, and views that take your breath away. Whether you’re standing on the Kinzua Skywalk, hiking through waterfalls at Ricketts Glen, or climbing to the highest point at Mount Davis, every stop offers its own unforgettable moment.

🍁 This season, I hope you get out there and experience it for yourself. Trust me — you’ll never forget autumn in Pennsylvania.