PA State Park Nation's Top Fall Foliage Destination: USA Today

DERRY, PA — Keystone State Park in Westmoreland County has been selected as the best fall foliage destination in the country in USA Today's 10 Best Readers' Choice Awards. Keystone was the only Pennsylvania Park to crack the top 10.

The 1,200-acre park, less than an hour's drive from the Pittsburgh metro area, long has had a regional reputation of being an ideal place for wildlife watching and outdoor activities. The hues of the changing leaves gives the park an added allure every autumn.

Here's what USA Today had to say about the park:

"Kayaking, wildlife watching, and hiking are all popular activities around Keystone State Park, a sprawling preserve that's perfect for discovering the abundant beauty of Pennsylvania's Laurel Highlands. Keystone Lake is certainly the main attraction around here, and autumn visitors can experience the water feature at its best during a stroll along the Lakeside Loop, a 2-mile trail that's packed with pristine forest."

Laura Argenbright, senior director of creative strategies for GO Laurel Highlands, said of the ranking: "It is a true honor that USA Today has once again recognized the scenic beauty of the Laurel Highlands, and considering the nationwide competition, we are thrilled that Keystone State Park is the recipient of this year’s award."

The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and National Resources shares online weekly fall foliage reports to aid people finding ideal locations for taking in the seasonal views. Fall foliag typically peaks for several weeks in October across the state.