Fall Foliage Peaking Across Pennsylvania

PENNSYLVANIA - If you like to get out of the house to see some of the brilliant colors of autumn, this weekend is the perfect time to do it. The statewide peak for fall foliage has arrived, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

Peak conditions range from the eastern Allegheny Plateau eastward to the southern Pocono region, including significant parts of the eastern and south-central Appalachians. Excellent color also can be found in the in the southwestern part of the state.

Here are some of the best places to go to view the leaves according to the conservation and natural resources department:

In southwest and west-central Pennsylvania, the Laurel Highlands at peak foliage. Mt. Davis and Laurel Mountain are showing off reds, oranges, and yellows. Black gums are past peak, while sugar maple, red maple, and sassafras are fiery reds. Black birch, striped maple, and beech are
turning their golden hues, and butoaks (the final trees to change) are just beginning to turn.

In valleys and lower elevations of Washington, Greene, Allegheny, and Somerset counties, the reds, pinks, and oranges of maples are developing nicely, according to the conservation department. Westmoreland and Somerset counties will be peaking throughout the week, making this the best time to view the vibrant fall colors. Allegheny, Washington, and Greene counties are
still a bit behind Somerset and Westmoreland; the best color for these counties will be within the next week to ten days.

Great places to view the foliage include Mt. Davis, Wolf Rocks overlook (off Wolf Rocks Trail), and Beam Rocks. Forest visitors can also take a scenic drive throughout the Laurel Highlands; driving tours are available by clicking on the link.

In the southeastern part of the state, considerable color can be observed throughout the William Penn Forest District, especially to the north in Bucks, Berks, Lehigh, and Northampton counties. Many poplars are yellow and red maples have also changed. The forest understory is awash in shades of yellow in some areas from the spice bush.A drive on Sportsman Road near the town of Robesonia is recommended for great fall color from poplars and sassafras. Excellent fall scenery can also be found at game lands and routes near Mt. Gretna and Brickerville.