Autumn in western Pennsylvania is a magical time, as the landscape transforms into a kaleidoscope of seasonal hues. According to the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Pennsylvania has a longer and more varied fall foliage season than anywhere in the world. Whether you have time for a weekend getaway or just a short jaunt outside the Pittsburgh area, there are a variety of beautiful fall drives to enjoy.
OHIOPYLE AND THE LAUREL HIGHLANDS SCENIC BYWAY
Approximately 1.5 hours from Pittsburgh
The Laurel Highlands offer endless opportunities for scenic fall drives, less than two hours from Pittsburgh. The combination of dense forests, breathtaking waterfalls, and renowned architecture offers an adventure with unique points of interest and plenty of fall photo opportunities.
Start your day at Ohiopyle State Park, which covers more than 20,000 acres and features several waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and opportunities for hiking and biking. The forests are populated with tulip poplars, red and white oaks, sugar maples and more. Make sure you stop at Cucumber Falls to experience the rushing waters of a 30-foot waterfall tucked away in the forest.
Drive east along Route 381 through the Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway. The route winds through steadily climbing elevations, treating leaf peepers to red maples and golden birches along the mountainsides.
Continue just five minutes to Kentuck Knob and experience one of Frank Lloyd Wright’ s astounding feats of architecture amid the vibrant fall colors. Take a tour of the house to see how Wright masterfully blurs the line between nature and structure. The warm red cypress wood and native sandstone building materials blend seamlessly with the surrounding forest.
You’ ve only just gotten a taste of Wright’ s designs. Head over to Fallingwater, ending your day with a tour of this similar feat of modern American architecture.
Be sure to stop at several of the scenic overlooks near Chalk Hill before leaving the area.
LIGONIER VALLEY AND LINN RUN STATE PARK
Approximately 1.5 hours from Pittsburgh
If you’ re in the mood for small-town charm and mountain vistas among the glittering reds and golds of autumn foliage, it only takes a little over an hour to reach this scenic corner of the Laurel Highlands.
Begin your day in historic Ligonier to fuel up at one of the quaint downtown breakfast spots or cafés. This town was the site of Fort Ligonier, a vital British stronghold during the French and Indian War. There are several well-preserved landmarks, including the fort itself, and visitors can take a self-guided tour of the town— just look for the walking tour markers at different buildings. At the peak
Continued on next page >
MONROEVILLE ❘ FALL 2026 13