PA Fall Foliage Approaching Peak Colors

PENNSYLVANIA —An end to the unseasonably warm temperatures across the state should mean more vibrant leaf colors, according to the latest fall foliage report from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

Peak leaf color has arrived in the state's northern tier, Allegheny Plateau, Laurel Highlands and Poconos.

In the southeastern part of the state, northern counties in the William Penn State Forest District (Bucks, Northampton, Lehigh and Berks) are approaching peak color. Poplars and birches are displaying bright yellow, and sassafras and beech are turning shades of orange.

Leaves in the district's southern counties, (Lancaster, Chester, Delaware, Philadelphia) have been slow to change but are showing some signs of the season on maples, dogwoods, and black birch. Fall foliage sightseers are advised to visit French Creek and Nockamixon State parks to view some early fall color.

In the southwestern part of the state, in Allegheny, Greene, and Washington and lower elevation areas of Westmoreland, Somerset, and Fayette counties, the leaves are noticeably changing. However, these areas may still be very green. Warmer than average temperatures during the day and night have slowed down leaf color progression and will delay peaking by a week.

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