NEPA’s Forests Are Blazing With Fall Colors
October marks the height of fall foliage season in NEPA, and the mountains and valleys will soon be decked out in fiery red, brilliant orange and radiant gold. It’s a phenomenon that only happens in a few places in the entire world, and we’re lucky enough to have this spectacular show in our own backyards.
We’ve put together a list of some of the awesome spots to go leaf peeping in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Some are bucket list destinations while others will take you off the beaten path to NEPA’s small towns and hidden trails. Plan your a road trip this fall season and admire Mother Nature’s handiwork at its finest.
Bushkill, PA
Bring your camera, because the scenery is endless in this 70,000-acre park. Over 150 miles of trails within the Delaware Water Gap will lead you through the famous Pocono foliage. You’ll also find roaring waterfalls, charming towns and fascinating historic sites along the way.
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Jim Thorpe, PA
This Victorian town looks like something out of a postcard. Head Downtown to the Annual Jim Thorpe Fall Foliage Festival for food and vendors. As always, you can also hit the trails and catch a scenic train ride through the gorge.
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Wyoming, PA
Frances Slocum is an ideal spot for families with its gentle trails and plentiful picnic spots. Spend a day exploring the park’s peaceful forests, sweeping meadows and lakeshore views.
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Kempton, PA
As if the 70-mile views and awe-inspiring overlooks at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary weren’t enough, over 18,000 eagles, hawks and falcons will soar over the preserve just in time for the fall foliage season.
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Scranton, PA
The Lackawanna River Heritage Trail connects over 30 communities with several historical and cultural stops along the way. Hop on the nearest trailhead for an easy stroll or a bike ride along the Lackawanna River.
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Scranton, PA
This peaceful, 3.5-mile trail is a short drive from the hustle and bustle of the Electric City. Take a stroll along the lake and soak up the views from the shore on the Lake Scranton Walking Trail.
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Hawley, PA
At 5,700-acres, Lake Wallenpaupack isn’t just a summer vacation destination. Squeeze in one last kayak trip or take a stroll along the levee at the Wallenpaupack Lake Trail. Shuman Point, Lacawac Sanctuary and the Wallenpaupack Creek Trail are other prime spots to see some color.
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Factoryville, PA
This 26-acre nature preserve is home to a steep gorge and rushing rapids. A short path will take you to a picnic pavilion and a meadow beside the creek— the perfect place to spend an autumn afternoon at Little Rocky Glen Preserve.
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Jim Thorpe, PA
The fall colors are even more stunning when they’re reflecting off the water at Mauch Chunk Lake Park. Visit this public park to see Pocono Mountain foliage at its peak. Pack a picnic lunch, wander along the nature trails or go boating or fishing.
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Scranton, PA
The David Wenzel Treehouse at Nay Aug Park will put you right in the middle of the brilliant fall colors. For even more views, take a walk along the Davis Trail to admire the cliffs and waterfalls of Nay Aug Gorge.
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Benton, PA
Autumn is a special time of year at Ricketts Glen State Park. The famous Falls Trail is a “must” with over 20 waterfalls, while the Grand View Trail and Valley View Vista will give you panoramic views of the countryside.
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Nicholson, PA
This enormous, arching railroad bridge is an incredible sight any time of year, but it’s all the more impressive when it’s surrounded by the vibrant colors of the Endless Mountains. You can view the Tunkhannock Viaduct at spots along US-11 and PA-92.
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Tobyhanna, PA
From easy trails along the lakeshore to challenging treks through the forest, Tobyhanna State Park has something for all ages. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy lunch beside the lake.
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Dunmore, PA
If you’re chasing views, put Top of the World on your list. You’ll see miles upon miles of rolling mountains from this popular overlook, which makes the climb so worth it.
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Tunkhannock, PA
The stunning beauty of fall in its full glory is on display all along the Susquehanna River at Vosburg Neck State Park. Rolling farmland, verdant meadows, lush forests and impressive riverside views can be found from every corner of the park.
Learn MoreAutumn in is a glorious sight to behold. Fall brings us the majestic changing of the leaves, fun day at the local orchard, crisp walks through a pumpkin patch, and so much more. Take a look at our collection of things to do and build your NEPA fall bucket list.
Article Updated from its Original Version Published on 10/07/2020.
