Leaf peeping season has arrived and, unfortunately, the time between near peak and peak fall foliage is all too fleeting. However, coming up with a plan allows us to jam-pack as much fall fun into our schedules as we can. While even a stroll through our own neighborhoods or a visit to a local park promises beautiful colors, we might also want to plan a day trip to the Laurel Highlands near Pittsburgh.
Consistently ranked one of the best places to go leaf peeping in Pennsylvania, the Laurel Highlands boasts a ton of space to explore – more than 3,000 square miles through Fayette, Somerset, and Westmoreland Counties.
The Laurel Highlands also lays claim to the largest state park in Pennsylvania. Ohiopyle State Park sprawls across more than 20,000 acres, giving you plenty of opportunities to admire the magnificent colors of autumn.
Go to the overlook near Ohiopyle Falls, one of several waterfalls at the park, for spectacular views of the cascade and the fall colors. Or, you can hit one of the 79 miles of hiking trails in the park.
You’ll find an abundance of hiking opportunities at the many parks that dot the Laurel Highlands, too. Laurel Hill State Park, Kooser State Park, and Linn Run State Park are among your choices.
For a day of fast-paced fun for the kiddos and gorgeous views of the fall foliage, head over to Mammoth Park. The park is famous for its 100-foot slides. Just don’t forget to bring a blanket for your ride down.
Ten covered bridges crisscross the Laurel Highlands and provide an idyllic backdrop for photos and leaf peeping during the autumn. Jump in the car and visit a few, such as Barronvale Bridge, Glessner Bridge, and King’s Bridge.
Sometimes nothing’s as relaxing as a leisurely drive to admire the fall colors. The Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway meanders nearly 70 miles that will take you through such adorable small towns as Ligonier and Donegal.
For a delightful meal, plan a stop at River’s Edge Café in Confluence. Nestled along the Youghiogheny River, it offers sensational views of the fall foliage.
Start planning your leaf peeping adventures on the official website of Visit Laurel Highlands, PA. Or, go here for Facebook.
Where’s your favorite place to go leaf peeping in the Laurel Highlands near Pittsburgh? Or do you have another favorite spot somewhere else in the Pittsburgh area? Let us know in the comments! For some of the best leaf peeping in the area, set off on one or more of these six short and sweet fall hikes around Pittsburgh.
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