Rain extends Pennsylvania’s fall foliage show; here’s where to find peak color in mid-October

• By Erin Negley / LNP | LancasterOnline

Pennsylvania’s fall foliage continues moving south with 11 counties reaching peak color.

Most of central Pennsylvania is not far behind, approaching peak color.

The state’s fall foliage season started early. Recent rain helped extend what was expected to be a short show, according to the latest foliage report, issued Thursday, Oct. 9.

Blair, Cambria, Clearfield, Indiana, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Lycoming, Monroe, Pike, Sullivan and Wyoming counties have reached peak color. Northwestern Pennsylvania and central Pennsylvania are approaching peak color. Most of norther border counties, plus Somerset County are still nice but declining. Through the rest of the state, including Lancaster County, foliage is just starting to change.

Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources started weekly foliage reports a week earlier than usual because of dry conditions.

Fall color is expected to be vibrant, early and fast, according to the agency. Recent rain is helping extend the show.

To find the best areas to see fall color, state forest staff suggest:

• Blair, Cambria and Indiana counties: Babcock Picnic Area, along Route 56 west of Windber

• Clearfield County: Mud Run Road to Tyler Road in Moshannon State Forest

• Lackawanna, Luzerne and Wyoming counties: hiking trails on Thornhurst Tract and Miller Mountain in Pinchot State Forest

• Lycoming and Sullivan counties: hike on the George Will ski trail in Tiadaghton State Forest and Sharp Top, Slab Run Vista and High Knob in Loyalsock State Forest

• Monroe and Pike counties: Route 402, Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, Promised Land State Park and Lake Wallenpaupack; Delaware State Forest areas around Pecks Pond, Rock Hill Pond and the Thunder Swamp Trail System; and in southern Monroe County, Big Pocono State Park, Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, county and township parks, as well as the Laurel Run and Dixon Miller areas of Delaware State Forest.

More areas with fall color are in the latest report.

The weekly reports will be published each Thursday for at least six weeks this fall.