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No season of the year is more spectacular to the eye than Autumn, and Eastern Pennsylvania boasts some of the most brilliant fall foliage in the country. Because Eastern Pennsylvania is made up of both mountains and valleys, the foliage season lasts from early October to early November, depending upon the area.
The immense forests that comprise the Pocono Mountains, located in the northern section of Eastern Pennsylvania, peak in early October. The Pocono Mountain area offers numerous sightseeing tours through the foliage. Whether you choose to observe the explosion of color on foot, bike or canoe, the views are spectacular.
Travel a little further south down the Pennsylvania Turnpike and you will arrive at historic Valley Forge Park, the site of George Washington's infamous camp site and battle site. Valley Forge Park is a magnificent place during any season, but Fall brings out the various shades of gold and red of the giant Maples and provides a sense of understanding of how strongly the soldiers of the Revolutionary War felt about fighting for freedom in this pristine and stunning region.
Travelling westward from Valley Forge Park, you will be mesmerized by the purity of Lancaster County, better known as "Amish Country". This is a step back in time where cars take a "back seat" to horse and buggies. The Amish take pride in their land and it shows during the Fall harvest season. The rolling hills of brilliant crimson and gold provide the backdrop for the bountiful orange pumpkin patches. Enjoy a hayride through the fields to choose a perfect pumpkin for carving; or browse the open markets where the Amish sell their handmade quilts and delicious pies.
The Delaware River makes up the eastern border of Pennsylvania and the route along the River provides stunning views of the leaves in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The narrow, winding back roads along the Delaware River in Bucks County are perfect for a brisk hike or a nature walk to bask in the colors of the season. The foliage along this stretch of the Delaware usually peaks in mid-October.
The southeastern-most part of Pennsylvania, which includes Philadelphia, is comprised mostly of valleys and a warmer fall climate. Therefore, the foliage continues through early November. The City of Philadelphia is surrounded by two rivers: the Delaware River to the east and the Schuylkill River to the west. Fairmount Park, the oldest and largest park in the Country, offers a panoramic view of changing leaves. Take a walk along Kelly Drive or West River Drive on the banks of the Schuylkill River and relish not only in the changing trees themselves, but in the reflection they cast in the waters of the river. This is truly a site to behold.
If you are a true nature lover and cannot get enough of the changing leaves of Autumn, Eastern Pennsylvania offers not only spectacular fall foliage but, because of its diverse climate, boasts one of the longest leave-changing seasons. So take the entire month of October, bring your camera, pack your hiking boots, and discover the beauty of Fall in Pennsylvania.
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