Scenic drives are most impressive in fall when there are plenty of foliage views to enjoy on the way. Apart from the stunning fall foliage, travelers get to explore historical sites and spectacular landscapes. Fortunately, Pennsylvania boasts several scenic drives which put breathtaking fall sights on display for incredible experiences that leave vacationers in awe!
The state has many byways that would lead travelers to whichever destinations they are looking to explore. Here are the most scenic fall drives in Pennsylvania for leaf peepers.
10 Longhouse National Scenic Byway
The Longhouse National Scenic Byway is one of the most breathtaking scenic fall drives, taking travelers through some of the Allegany National Forest’s most impressive spots.
The winding road has the surrounding landscapes all painted in autumn's vibrant colors, allowing vacationers to slow ride and admire the beauty that abounds.
There are certain spots one may want to stop and explore for a while before continuing driving. Ensure to make a stop at the Jakes Rocks Overlook, and enjoy the incredible fall foliage views from the overlook.
Travelers who would like to do some hiking can pull over and follow the Morrison Run Trail or Rimrock Overlook Trail for more views.
- Distance: About 80 miles
9 Bucktail Scenic Byway
Also known as Route 120 covers over 100 miles and leads travelers through some of the most spectacular valleys in the Pennsylvania Wilds. The scenic drive is situated between Ridgway and Lock Haven.
Travelers will encounter numerous vistas, abundant wildlife, high cliffs, beautiful towns, and unspoiled woodlands of Sproul and Elk State Forests covered in vibrant fall colors, which create awesome views on the way.
- Distance: Over 100 miles
8 The Scenic Route 6
Covering more than 400 miles, the scenic Route 6's trip experience is second to none! Regarded by National Geographic as one of the most scenic drives in the USA, PA Route 6 is not to be missed by tourists looking for unmatched autumn views.
With all the magnificent views of the unspoiled forests and mountains, it’s like this scenic drive was designed for leaf peeping in autumn. The drive passes through PA Grand Canyon, and the Allegany National Forest, and offers visitors access to the incredible history of the region.
- Distance: Over 400 miles
7 The Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway
This scenic drive is bound to excite travelers with varying interests, thanks to all it offers on the way – beautiful farmlands, gorgeous waterfalls, and rolling hillsides, all surrounded by incredible fall foliage.
Along this route, vacationers will also explore several architectural wonders, historical treasures, pictures B&Bs, and more! There are several stops to make along the byway for leaf peeping opportunities. Travelers can choose to go biking or hiking at some stops.
- Distance: 68 miles
6 The Lincoln Highway
Passing through the Heritage Corridor in southwestern Pennsylvania, the Lincoln Highway is one of the best scenic fall drives in the state.
Also known as Route 30, Lincoln Highway was America’s first transcontinental highway, and vacationers can connect with its incredible history, as they take in the breathtaking fall foliage views, beautifully surrounding the driveway.
Starting from Irwin, Westmoreland County, one should drive east through the picturesque Chestnut Ridge to Ligonier. Continue driving through Jennerstown toward Bedford.
Make a stop at Shawnee State Park, about 10 miles west of Bedford, which is a perfect picnic spot. From there, continue driving up to the historic town of Bedford. Head to the Old Bedford Village and attend Bedford County Fall Foliage Festival.
- Distance: 16 miles
5 From Duncannon To Clearfield Along Route 322
This route winds through several lush mountain ranges, which display endless breathtaking views of autumn leaves. The fall foliage increases at all high places as travelers drive north.
The route boasts several incredible overlooks, so travelers will have to make many stops for more leaf-peeping opportunities as they drive.
One of the most impressive overlooks along the route is located at Laurel Creek Reservoir in Lewistown. Mid-October is the best time in autumn to experience the most impressive fall views along this drive.
4 Interstate 81, From Harrisburg North To New York State Line Near Great Bend
This is one of the favorite fall scenic drives that travelers shouldn’t miss. Along the way, visitors should make some sporadic stops and grab the incredible opportunities for autumn views.
The views over Wyoming Valley located in the Scranton-Wilkes-Barre metro area are incredibly breathtaking.
- Distance: About 150 miles
3 PA Route 611
This scenic road is maintained by the State of Pennsylvania. Covering about 110 miles, the route was commissioned in 1972, and boasts three overlooks in Delaware Water Gap National Recreational Area’s southern part.
The Delaware Gap is surrounded by a gorgeous deciduous forest, which is most impressive in fall, as travelers can catch some of the most breathtaking views, thanks to all the brilliant autumn colors.
- Distance: Almost 110 miles
2 Route 507
Route 507 heads to Pike County around Lake Wallenpaupack is one of the most scenic fall drives in Pennsylvania. The foliage around the Big Lake area is an experience no traveler would want to miss when visiting Pennsylvania in Autumn.
Continuing down into Green Town, this scenic drive offers incredible fall foliage views. The Greentown allows tourists to experience the magical autumn scenery of the central color zone.
- Distance: About 27 miles
1 Route 390
Starting from Lake Wallenpaupack in the north to Cresco and Mountainhome, this route is accessible from Route 507, and winds through the two lakes in Promised Land State Park. The lake is bordered by beautiful oak and maple trees, glowing in breathtaking autumn colors.
Travelers can drive around the mountainside for more leaf-peeping opportunities. Along the scenic drive, visitors will encounter many food eateries and cafes, where they can stop to grab some eats. This route is a must-see for leaf peeping.
- Distance: About 25 miles