Fall is the perfect time for weekend travel, local getaways, and daily adventures. If you are in the Mid-Atlantic region, there is so much beautiful fall foliage just within reach! Take a trip to some of these beautiful areas! Take a hike or a drive and appreciate what Mother Nature has to offer.
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New York
Adirondack Mountains
The Adirondacks are home to stunning hikes such as Hadley Mountain, Heaven Hills, and the trail to Indian Head. A hot air balloon ride or scenic flight is perfect for those looking for an adventure, but not a workout. For something more relaxing, drive on one of the many roads winding through the mountains.
The best time to view foliage is late September through late October
Letchworth State Park
The “Grand Canyon of the East”, Letchworth State Park, offers stunning views of the Genesee River flowing through the gorge and over three waterfalls. Each waterfall is a short walk from their respective parking lots. For more autumn views, hike, bike, or even horseback ride on the 66 miles of trails in the park.
The best time to view foliage is late September through mid-October
Catskill Mountains
Mount Utsayantha, Veroony Kill Falls, or the trails at Walnut Mountain Park are known hikes for a close view of the foliage. Go to Hunter Mountain for a thrilling zipline and sky-ride experience over the Catskills. The Mountain Clove Scenic Byway and Upper Delaware Scenic Byway are great drives with even better sights.
The best time to view foliage is late September through mid-October
New Jersey
Ringwood State Park
Shepherd Lake may be too cold for swimming, but it makes a fantastic place for a fall picnic. Hike one (or more) of the 20 trails at Ringwood State Park to observe even more scenery.
The best time to view foliage is mid-October through early November.
High Point State Park
As the name suggests, High Point State Park has a high elevation, actually the highest in New Jersey. The summit is accessible via driving or hiking and is home to a monument dedicated to New Jersey’s Veterans. There are also over 50 miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails.
The best time to view foliage is mid-October through early November.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Canoe down the Deleware River to take in mountainous views of foliage. Other activities at the park include hiking, biking, and fishing. Another great option is visiting Turtle Beach for a relaxing picnic.
The best time to view foliage is late September through mid-October.
Pennsylvania
Allegheny National Forest
The Allegheny National Forest spans over 513,000 beautiful acres. The best drives to see foliage are the Eldred-Rock City History Loop, Longhouse National Scenic Byway, and Scenic Kinzua-Route 6 Loop. The Marilla Bridges Trail System, Morrison Trail, and Minister Creek Trail all have great views.
The best time to view foliage is the last two weeks of September through the first few weeks of October.
Pine Creek Gorge
Also known as the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, Pine Creek Gorge offers fantastic views of foliage. Hike Turkey Path, which goes from the rim to the gorge floor. The Pine Creek Rail Trail runs the entire length of the gorge and is open to hikers, bikers, and equestrians (in certain areas).
The best time to view foliage is the first two weeks of October.
Bucktail Overlook
Bucktail Overlook is perfect for those wanting great sights, but not a long or strenuous hike. 360-degree scenery is a few minutes walk from the parking lot. A short drive away is Fred Woods Trail showcasing breathtaking vistas and rock formations.
The best time to view foliage is mid-October.
Rothrock State Forest
At Rothrock State Forest, you can visit the Alan Seeger Natural Area to see some of Pennsylvania’s oldest trees turning colors. The Tussey Mountain Overlook, Seven Mountains area, and hundreds of miles of hiking trails also provide exceptional fall scenery.
The best time to view foliage is mid-October.
Big Pocono State Park
Visit the summit of Camelback Mountain to see the best foliage in the park. Areas of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York can be seen along the drive up to, and at the top of the summit. Other activities at Big Pocono State Park include hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
The best time to view foliage is mid-October.
Delaware
Delaware Scenic Coastal Highway
Drive on Delaware’s Route 1 to view the ocean on one side and fall foliage on the other. The charming towns along the way make a fabulous pit stop to explore Delaware’s culture.
The best time to view foliage is mid to late October.
Trap Pond State Park
Trap Pond is home to the northernmost naturally occurring bald cypress grove and beautiful fall colors. Multiple miles of canoe/kayak and hiking trails are also available to explore.
The best time to view foliage is mid to late October.
Brandywine Valley National Scenic Byway
This road winds through the hills of Northern Delaware and passes through many of the state’s hidden gems. Stop at local museums, gardens, and shops to experience America’s natural beauty and history.
The best time to view foliage is mid to late October.
Maryland
Appalachian Trail
Maryland’s gorgeous fall foliage can be seen along the Appalachian Trail at the peaks of Weverton Cliffs, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Maryland Heights. Another option is a three-mile-long walk on the C and O Canal from Harper’s Ferry to Washington County.
The best time to view foliage is between the second and third weeks of October.
Rock Creek Park
DC’s largest park, Rock Creek Park, is full of gorgeous fall scenery. Hike Western Ridge Trail and Valley Trail, or visit Miller Cabin, Rapids Bridge, and Boulder Bridge for the best sights. All three of these are a short walk away from a nearby parking lot.
The best time to view foliage is between late October through early November.
Great Falls
Only 15 miles from DC, Great Falls offers some of the best views of the Potomac. Visit the Washington Aqueduct Observation Deck and Olmstead Island Bridges to take in the falls and foliage.
The best time to view foliage is between late October through early November.
Virginia
Blue Ridge Parkway
A 15-mile section of the parkway has finally opened in Roanoke after three years of construction and anticipation. Visit the city of Roanoke for a cultural experience filled with shops, restaurants, and museums.
The best time to view foliage is mid-October through early November.
Lake Anna State Park
Many visit Lake Anna to sit on the shore and take in the views, but there are many more activities available. Hike or bike through over 15 miles of trails, or take a kayak tour of Pigeon Run Creek. Book a campsite if you want to spend more than a day exploring Lake Anna.
The best time to view foliage is mid to late October.
Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park is 311 square miles of pure beauty amplified by fall foliage. Travel along Skyline Drive and stop at some of the 75 overlooks facing eastward or westward. Hazel Mountain, Pinnacles, Thorafre Mountain, and Old Rag overlooks are some of the most stunning.
The best time to view foliage is early to mid-October.
North Carolina
DuPont State Park
Travel to DuPont State Park and observe the stunning waterfalls mixed with fall foliage. Some of the most popular activities include visiting Triple Falls (a location featured in the Hunger Games Movies) or hiking the main trail.
The best time to view foliage is the third week in October.
Forest Heritage National Scenic Byway
Forest Heritage National Scenic Byway is considered one of the most scenic roads in Western North Carolina, this byway travels more than 70 miles through the Pisgah National Forest. Make pit stops along the drive to see waterfalls, hike, or fish.
The best time to view foliage is early October through early November.
Paige Trendell
Paige Trendell is a high school intern at Sass Magazine. You can find her appreciating nature, crocheting, or reading a book. She hopes to go to college, major in journalism, and maybe even make it to the Washington Post!
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