They may be green now, but those leaves will change to brilliant reds, golds and oranges before you know it. We compiled a list of five great places just a short drive away from the Pittsburgh area to see some of the best fall foliage around Pittsburgh.

1. Raccoon State Park 

Distance from Pittsburgh: approx. 43 minutes from city’s center
Raccoon State Park is just under an hour from Downtown Pittsburgh and its 7,000 acres are bursting with fall foliage come peak color. The park is one of the largest and most visited state parks and open every day of the year, sunrise to sunset. The park offers programs year-round, so be on the lookout for autumn-oriented ones.

2. Laurel Highlands 

Distance from Pittsburgh: approx. 1 hr., 17 min. from city’s center
The scenic Laurel Highlands will absolutely take your breath away come the fall season. Late September to early October is the recommended timeframe for the best viewing of the fall colors. Spend the whole day in the Laurel Highlands, going to events like Fort Ligonier Days, Ohiopyle State Park and visiting the 9/11 Flight 93 Memorial.

3. Beam Rock Trail

Distance from Pittsburgh: approx. 1 hr., 36 min. from city’s center
Beam Rock is high above the Laurel Highlands and offers stunning views perfect for your fall foliage Instagram pics. View the Laurel Ridge into Somerset County and nearby Jennerstown. Beam Rocks is hugely popular among rock climbers and is often quite crowded. There are slots and caves for the less adventurous and it is advised to exercise extreme caution as in the fall there are often wet leaves which make things slippery.

4. Allegheny National Forest

Distance from Pittsburgh: approx. 2 hrs., 6 min. from city’s center
Allegheny National Forest is the state’s only national forest. It is located in the foothills of the Appalachian mountains and is full of dense forestry perfect for fall viewing. Enjoy over 500,000 acres in Elk, Forest, McKean and Warren counties. In addition to providing gorgeous views in the autumn, Allegheny National Forest provides wood products, watershed protection and a variety of wildlife calls the forest home.

5. The Gateway Clipper

Distance from Pittsburgh: 10 min. from city’s center
Why travel when you can find what you need right here? The Gateway Clipper offers gourmet lunch cruises and sightseeing cruises perfect for spotting the fall foliage our own city has to offer. Dine on items like strawberry shortcake and sauteéd chicken breast from the water while gazing at the beautiful colors outside.