The Best Places to See Fall Foliage Near Pittsburgh
Fall is a magical time of the year, especially in Pittsburgh and its surrounding areas. The city transforms into a delightful palette of rich yellows, fiery oranges, and deep reds, creating an enchanting spectacle for leaf peepers. This guide showcases the best places to see fall foliage in and around Pittsburgh, promising unforgettable autumnal adventures for nature lovers, photographers, and explorers.
Peak Fall Colors Season in Pittsburgh
The vibrancy of fall colors near Pittsburgh typically reaches its peak between the second and third week of October, depending on factors such as temperature and precipitation. Higher elevation areas usually display their peak colors a week ahead of lower spots, thus providing a prolonged period of colorful fall foliage views.
The Best Spots to Observe Fall Foliage in Pittsburgh
Point State Park
Located in downtown Pittsburgh, Point State Park offers a stunning cityscape backdrop for the brilliant fall colors. The park overlooks the beautiful South Shore and offers fantastic views of the Pittsburgh skyline. The fiery display of colors from early October to early November make this park a must-visit spot in autumn.
Emerald View Park
Emerald View Park, bordering Mount Washington, is another top spot for fall foliage viewing in Pittsburgh. The park boasts breathtaking panoramas of the city, making it a popular destination for photographers and nature lovers alike. The autumn colors provide a picturesque contrast to the urban skyline.
Schenley Park
Situated in the heart of Pittsburgh, Schenley Park provides a city-side, leaf-peeping experience. A mix of scenic trails and picnic areas amid vibrant fall colors makes this park a family favorite. Whether you choose a simple drive around its winding roads or a loop around the Panther Hollow trail, Schenley Park is sure to impress.
Frick Park
With over 600 acres of land within the city limits, Frick Park is Pittsburgh’s largest park. It offers an array of trails for those seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty of autumn. The Falls Ravine Trail and the Nine Mile Run Trail are particularly scenic during the fall season.
Best Parks for Fall Foliage Near Pittsburgh
McConnells Mill State Park
Located about an hour north of Pittsburgh, McConnells Mill State Park is nestled in a narrow valley along Slippery Rock Creek. The park is renowned for its historical covered bridge and mill, beautiful waterfalls, and fantastic rock climbing opportunities. The contrast of the red-painted covered bridge against the autumn colors offers a breathtaking sight.
Moraine State Park
Moraine State Park, situated about an hour north of Pittsburgh, is home to the beautiful Lake Arthur and a vast green space. The park provides a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, boating, and standup paddleboarding with SurfSUP Adventures. The splendid fall colors reflected in the lake make Moraine State Park a must-visit destination during autumn.
Raccoon Creek State Park
Raccoon Creek State Park, located west of Pittsburgh, is one of the largest parks in the region. It offers an array of activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing, all set against a backdrop of stunning fall colors. Don’t forget to visit the Frankfort Mineral Springs waterfall for an extra treat!
Laurel Highlands State Parks
The Laurel Highlands region, located southeast of Pittsburgh, is home to several state parks that display spectacular fall colors. Ohiopyle State Park, Laurel Hill State Park, and Laurel Summit State Park are some of the top spots for leaf-peeping. Each park offers unique hiking trails and scenic vistas, making the Laurel Highlands a prime destination for fall foliage enthusiasts.
Unusual Places to See Fall Foliage Near Pittsburgh
Kinzua Bridge State Park Sky Walk
Venture to the Sky Walk at Kinzua Bridge State Park for an extraordinary leaf-peeping experience. Once the world’s highest and longest railroad viaduct, the Kinzua Bridge was transformed into a Sky Walk offering panoramic views of the Kinzua Gorge. The expansive view of the fall colors from this vantage point is truly awe-inspiring.
Somerset’s Covered Bridges
For a less strenuous fall adventure, consider a trip to Somerset’s covered bridges. The Packsaddle Covered Bridge, in particular, is a must-see as it is the only covered bridge in the state that spans a waterfall. The combination of historic architecture and vibrant fall foliage offers a picturesque scene, ideal for photography enthusiasts.
Fall Foliage Train Rides Near Pittsburgh
Train rides offer a unique way to experience the fall foliage near Pittsburgh. The historical Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad offers seasonal excursions that provide an exceptional fall foliage viewing experience. The round-trip, which usually runs from early to mid- or late October, offers stunning views of the changing leaves and the natural beauty of the Oil Creek Valley.
Whether you’re a Pittsburgh local or a visitor, these spots offer an unforgettable experience of fall’s splendor. From city parks to state parks, and even a skywalk, there’s something for everyone. So, grab your camera, put on your hiking boots, and head out to witness the magnificent fall colors near Pittsburgh. Don’t forget to plan ahead, as peak fall foliage is a season not to be missed!
