Best Places to Explore the
Changing Shades of Fall
Now that October’s here, we’ll begin to see trees burst into fiery hues of red, orange, and gold.
Whether you prefer a scenic drive through the countryside or a crisp hike in the woods, there are many opportunities to catch fall in all its glory.
Here are some of the most popular spots to view autumn foliage in the mid-Atlantic region.
The Poconos
This northeastern Pennsylvania mountain range is home to 127 indigenous species of trees and shrubs that illuminate the region every fall.
If you’re driving through the Poconos, you can take Route 507 to cruise around Lake Wallenpaupack or wind through the mountains on Route 6. If hiking is more your style, the Poconos offer more than 260 miles of trails worth exploring.
You can also ride the rails on the Foliage Express, hop a hayride, or tour a vineyard. The choice is yours!
Stokes State Forest
Along the Appalachian Trail in northern New Jersey, Stokes State Forest encompasses more than 16,000 acres of undeveloped forests and mountain ridges. Here you’ll find a profusion of oak, maple, hickory, and beech trees arrayed in their autumn garments of red, gold, orange, and yellow.
Stokes offers over 63 miles of trails leading to Sunrise Mountain, Tillman’s Ravine, Stepping Stones Falls, and the big A.T. – the Appalachian Trail. Mountain biking, horseback riding, and camping are also available. All campsites are open through Oct. 31, and some are available all year round.
If you’re an angler, the Big Flatbrook provides some of the best trout fishing in the state.
Staten Island Greenbelt
New Yorkers who prefer to stay close to the city should consider the Staten Island Greenbelt, 2,800 acres of rugged natural beauty.
The Greenbelt boasts 35 miles of trails through parks and woodland for hikers and runners and a two-mile perimeter multi-use path for biking.
Four scenic rural trails take visitors on a tour of blazing red maples and highbush blueberry shrubs. It’s a great way to enjoy the fall foliage without ever leaving the city. If you get there before Columbus Day (Oct. 14), you can still ride the carousel.
Catskill Mountains
Located just north of the Poconos in eastern New York, these rolling mountains explode with red and orange come autumn.
Drive along the 52-mile Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway, or view the fall colors from various elevations by hiking Panther Mountain. If you’re up for it, the Giant Ledge offers breathtaking views – the top ledge is a 4-mile hike round trip.
Fall color here typically peaks around the second week of October. The mountain range is dotted with picturesque small towns, villages, and farms (including Woodstock). Take time to lift a glass at a local cidery.
Sources:
Featured Image: Adobe, License Granted
Pocono Mountains
New Jersey State Park Service
Greenbelt Conservancy
KOA