It's the moment we've all been waiting for, folks: peak fall foliage time! Don't hesitate to get out and admire the colorful leaves, because they'll be falling before you know it. Before you head out, let us give you a sneak peek of what your favorite places in the Laurel Highlands are looking like, and maybe give you a new spot to check out!
Mount Davis in Forbes State Forest
There's no better place to take in the view than the highest point in the entire state! Mount Davis in Forbes State Forest sits at 3,213 feet and is easily accessible by vehicle. At Mount Davis, you'll find an observation tower that offers a 360-degree view of the ablaze trees. Make it a day by taking a short walk to the Mount Davis State Forest Picnic Area and enjoy lunch, and then continue on to the natural area.
The Great Allegheny Passage
Soar past walls of red, orange, and yellow on the Great Allegheny Passage, the fourth longest rail-trail in the country! The GAP trail stretches 150 miles from Pittsburgh, through the Laurel Highlands, and finally to Cumberland, Maryland. But you don't have to bike the entire thing! Pick a section and bike from one trail town to another, and along the way, you will see beautiful waterfalls, stunning gorges, windmills dotting the hillside, native wildlife and, of course, beautiful foliage.
Laurel Hill State Park
One of the hidden gems of the Laurel Highlands can be found in Laurel Hill State Park: Scenic View Overlook Tower. To access Scenic View, park off of Lyons Road and follow the signage as you take a short walk to the outlook. To get a better view, climb the stairs and take a seat in the overlook tower. The 360-degree view of rolling farmland as far as the eye can see will take your breath away during any season, but it is a special treat during peak fall foliage.
Ohiopyle State Park
There are so many magical spots in Ohiopyle State Park, including the main falls area, Meadow Run, Baughman Rock, and the GAP high bridge. But Cucumber Falls surrounded by fall colors is absolutely picture perfect! Plus, it's not a trip to Ohiopyle until you've snapped a selfie in front of Cucumber Falls. If you're feeling a little adventurous, get a grand tour of the park's beautiful scenery on a fall whitewater rafting trip!
A Cabin or Vacation Rental
Picture it: you're in a flannel sitting by a bonfire with a cup of coffee embracing the beautiful landscape. Sounds like the perfect fall weekend to me! Some campgrounds may be closing for the year soon, but there are plenty of cozy cabins, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals scattered around the region. You deserve a relaxing weekend before the holiday madness begins!
Anywhere A Fall Drive Takes You
Grab a pumpkin spice latte and set off on the perfect fall outing! Take a drive through colorful rolling hills, deep river valleys and the highest peaks in the Laurel Highlands. Make sure to bring your camera for some stunning snapshots! Even if you don't have a destination, you're bound to find charming towns, exciting attractions, picturesque covered bridges, historic sites, welcoming restaurants, and more along your way.
Be sure to use #LaurelHighlands when you post photo from your fall adventure!
