As the leaves turn from green to yellow and orange, celebrate the cool temperatures with a fall foliage adventure in the Susquehanna Valley. Grab your boots and apple cider, because whether you feel like hiking, driving, or walking, there are plenty of vibrant foliage sights to choose from.
Lancaster County: Turkey Hill Overlook
2501 River Road, Conestoga, PA
In Conestoga, about an hour outside of Harrisburg and 30 minutes from Lancaster, Turkey Hill Overlook provides the perfect outing for a fall foliage adventure. Take in views of abundant watersheds and get some exercise on two hiking trail options overlooking the Susquehanna River. The northern overlook features an observation patio of the Conejohela Flats, a famous birding area. Put on your fall hiking boots and make the 6-mile hike to enjoy the changing leaves above the water.
Dauphin County: Hawk Rock Overlook
Appalachian National Scenic Trail, Duncannon, PA
Make a day trip to Duncannon and visit Hawk Rock Overlook. A section of the Appalachian Trail, Hawk Rock is a popular 2.7-mile hike with views for miles and miles. The overlook provides an expansive look at Dauphin County’s rich leafage. This dog-friendly fall trail will lead you right to the top, so grab your camera, a picnic lunch, and spend a moment observing the orange peaks and treetops. A note: the climb up might be a bit rocky, but the views are worth it!
Cumberland County: Colonel Denning State Park
1599 Doubling Gap Rd, Newville, PA
Bordering the Tuscarora State Forest, Colonel Denning State Park offers an outdoor experience for the whole family. With 273 acres of woodland and four different trails, the park is famous for its two foliage spots: the Flat Rock overlook and the stone spillway. Flat Rock Trail’s overlook offers the highest view of the trees, as far as the eye can see. Depending on when you visit, head over to New Cumberland’s Apple Festival for apple-themed food and activities or visit Carlisle's Harvest of the Arts for artisan crafts.
Lebanon County: Governor Dick
3283 Pinch Rd, Manheim, PA
For a full view of vibrant foliage in Lebanon County, head over to Governor Dick near Mount Gretna. With over 1,105 acres of land and 16-mile trail, spend the day hiking or mountain biking while admiring the sights of the forest. Governor Dick’s main overlook is the 66-foot observation tower located within the park on a 2.1-mile round-trip hike. Climb to the top of the observation tower to take in the treetops of Lancaster, Lebanon, Berks, Dauphin, and York counties.
York County: Heritage Rail Trail
Rudy Park, Mount Wolf, PA
Not feeling a full hike but still want to see the changing colors? Head over to the York Heritage Rail Trail. With your bike, zoom past the transforming leaves as you pass under old railroad tracks and tunnels stemming from the Northern Central Railway. Start at Heritage Rail Trail County Park and go all the way to the Howard Tunnel, or make a stop at one of the 11 municipalities that the trail passes through. After the ride, grab a seasonal drink or plate from Revival Social Club in York.
