Across Pennsylvania, rich colors light up our skylines every autumn. Deep crimson, gold, scarlet, and amber transform the state into a magnificent display of natural wonder. Whether you’re looking for exquisite hiking trails, festive activities, or breathtaking views—We’ve curated a list of hidden gems, iconic overlooks, and urban escapes to help you savor the season.

Tucquan Glen Nature Preserve, Lancaster County

Tucquan Glen, Lancaster County

Located in the Susquehanna Riverlands, Tucquan Glen Nature Preserve offers a lush, forested ravine with tumbling streams, mossy boulders, and a dense canopy of trees. Tucquan Glen is managed by the Lancaster Conservancy, an organization dedicated to preserving wild and forested lands, as well as protecting clean waterways in Lancaster, Berks, and York Counties. This preserve is hike-in only, making it a peaceful and secluded spot to take in Pennsylvania’s natural beauty. If you’re looking for a less strenuous leaf-peeping experience, visit the Pinnacle Scenic Overlook, located close by. From here, guests can admire the landscape from the comfort of an overlook or traverse the 4-mile round-trip route into Tucquan Glen.

Pine Creek Gorge, from Colton Point State Park, Wellsboro. Photo by PA DCNR

Pine Creek Gorge, Tioga County

Also known as the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, Pine Creek Gorge is a stunning 45-mile stretch of land in the Tioga State Forest. Carved by Pine Creek, this gorge offers sweeping views of the state’s fall foliage. The dynamic typography of this landmark showcases the full spectrum of reds, oranges, and golds that autumn is known for. The Pine Creek Rail Trail spans 62 miles along the gorge, offering a front-row seat for hikers and bikers to explore Pennsylvania’s most vivid season. For panoramic views of the gorge, visit Colton Point or Leonard Harrison State Park.

Hikers at Erie Bluffs, Erie. Photo by VisitErie

Erie Bluffs State Park, Erie County

Positioned along one mile of shoreline, the Erie Bluffs State Park boasts 90-foot bluffs that overlook Lake Erie, offering lakeside scenery alongside rich, vibrant leaves. The park itself covers nearly 600 acres of state land, protecting forested wetlands, meadow, and a thriving lakefront ecosystem. Just twelve miles west of the city of Erie, visitors can hike, fish, and immerse themselves in the gorgeous scenic lookouts.

Big Pocono State Park, Monroe County, PA

Big Pocono State Park, Monroe County

Big Pocono State Park comprises over 1,300 acres of land and 8.5 miles of hiking trails in Monroe County. While making the journey up Camelback Mountain’s many hiking routes, you’ll discover scenic summit views as you make your way to Big Pocono State Park. From the summit on clear fall days, hikers can observe views of three surrounding states. State park facilities are maintained in partnership with Camelback Mountain Resort, a premier ski resort in the Poconos offering outdoor adventure activities, delicious dining options, and cozy lodging accommodations, making this the perfect fall retreat.

Schenley Park, in the Oakland neighborhood, Pittsburgh, PA

Schenley Park, Pittsburgh

Schenley Park offers a chance to experience an urban twist on Pennsylvania’s autumn season. Tucked in Oakland, a residential district in Pittsburgh, this historic urban park features 456 acres of winding trails, hillside overlooks, and a glowing palette of fall colors. The park is home to Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, a 15-acre oasis with 23 distinct gardens. Across from the conservatory, Flagstaff Hill is a popular landmark with panoramic views of the city skyline. In addition to the natural beauty on display at Schenley Park, guests can play a round of golf at the Bob O’Connor Golf Course, swim at the community pool, participate in seasonal sporting activities at the Schenley Oval Sportsplex, and take part in rotating community events.

Whether you’re craving a leisurely stroll through the forest, mountaintop views, or the chance to explore a new neighborhood, each of these destinations offers a unique portrait of fall in Pennsylvania. Pack a light jacket, fill your thermos with piping hot apple cider, and hit the trails.