The Allegheny National Forest in Pennsylvania is a true gem during the fall season, offering a stunning display of vibrant foliage, scenic drives, and a wealth of hiking opportunities. As the leaves begin to change, the forest transforms into a breathtaking natural wonder, drawing visitors from near and far to experience the beauty of this unique landscape.
Peak Season
The peak season for fall foliage in the Allegheny National Forest typically occurs in mid-October, but the exact timing can vary depending on weather conditions. If you plan to visit, aim for the middle of October to ensure the best colors. However, if you can only visit once, don’t wait until the end of the month, as storms or cold snaps can cause the leaves to fall early.
Scenic Drives
- Longhouse National Scenic Byway: A 27-mile loop around the Kinzua Creek arm of the Allegheny Reservoir, offering stunning views of the forest and waterways. This byway is considered one of the top six fall foliage drives in the United States.
- Kinzua Sky Walk: Located at the Kinzua Bridge State Park, this skywalk extends 624 feet into the Kinzua Gorge at a height of 225 feet, providing breathtaking views of the fall foliage.
- Eldred-Rock City History Loop: A scenic drive that takes you through historic sites and charming small towns, offering a mix of fall colors and local culture.
Hiking Trails
- Marilla Bridges Trail: A 1-mile trail system that circles Marilla Reservoir, featuring colorful forest vistas and a wooden covered bridge. This trail is part of an interconnecting trail system, allowing you to hike through the deep forest along Marilla Springs Trail, White Pine Trail, or the popular Indian Pipe Trail.
- Morrison Trail: A 10.8-mile trail loop within the Allegheny National Forest, offering two unique experiences for day hikers or backpackers. The trail passes through open hardwoods and large rock formations, providing scenic views of the Allegheny Reservoir.
- Kinzua Valley Trail: A trail that takes you down the side of the gorge, allowing you to see the massive steel towers up close. You can also hike or bike on the Knox & Kane Rail Trail, which was selected as the 2023 Pennsylvania Trail of the Year.
Additional Information
- Lodging and Dining: The region offers a range of accommodations, from rustic cabins to luxury lodges. For dining, try local eateries like Kaffe Sol for breakfast and lunch or Lick N’ Sip for ice cream and wine.
- Events and Activities: Enjoy fall events like the Pumpkin Walk in Kane, the Marilla Trail Race, and the Photography Retreat at Olmsted Manor. For a full list of events, visit www.visitANF.com/events.
- Maps and Guides: Download the Scenic Driving Tour Map, which includes hot links to seven detailed maps of popular driving tours. You can also request a free scenic driving brochure by calling 1-800-473-9370.