Autumn at Kinzua Bridge
Autumn at Kinzua Bridge
McKean County, PA kicks off the fall season at its most iconic landmark
Photos / ANF Visitors Bureau
As the vibrant colors of fall envelop the Allegheny National Forest and the Trail Central region, it's time to embrace the season with a range of exciting festivals and outdoor adventures. At the heart of this autumnal celebration is the 25th Annual Fall Festival at the Kinzua Bridge State Park, located an hour south of Ellicottville, New York, September 21st and 22nd from 10:00am-5:00pm. This unique festival, set to the stunning backdrop of one of Pennsylvania’s most iconic landmarks, is a cornerstone of the local fall festivities, offering a delightful mix of arts, crafts, food, and music.
Supporting the Kinzua Bridge Foundation, the festival features a variety of local artisans showcasing handmade crafts and artworks, providing an excellent opportunity to find unique gifts and support local creators. Attendees can indulge in a range of seasonal foods and enjoy live music performances throughout the day. The park’s elevated location and unique wind patterns through Kinzua Gorge ensure that it experiences peak fall colors earlier than other areas in the Allegheny National Forest, creates an exceptional backdrop for festival-goers and photographers alike.
To make your visit as smooth as possible, consider parking outside the park and taking the convenient trolley service to the Kinzua Bridge State Park Visitor Center. This service helps manage traffic and enhances the overall experience. Be sure to bring a chair for the live music performances and dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
While at Kinzua Bridge State Park, take advantage of the park’s excellent hiking and biking trails. Hike down the Kinzua Valley Trail to experience the massive steel towers of the historic bridge up close. This trail offers spectacular views and a closer look at the park’s impressive engineering marvel. Additionally, the Knox & Kane Rail Trail, named the “2023 Pennsylvania Trail of the Year,” is perfect for both hiking and biking. Enjoy scenic views and the tranquility of the Allegheny landscape. After your outdoor adventures, relax with a picnic in the park and visit the Kinzua Bridge Center. The modern interpretive building provides fascinating insights into the history of the skywalk and the bridge itself.
The Allegheny National Forest also boasts several scenic overlooks, perfect for experiencing the fall foliage. The Longhouse National Scenic Byway, which circles the Allegheny Reservoir, features three notable overlooks: Rimrock Overlook, Kinzua Point, and Jakes Rocks. Rimrock Overlook offers a picnic area and access to the Rimrock Trail, a 1.3-mile hike that descends to the reservoir shoreline and provides stunning vistas. Kinzua Point, located west of Rimrock Overlook, provides a developed viewpoint with panoramic views of the colorful shoreline reflected in the reservoir. Jakes Rocks, accessible via Forest Road 492, offers a short hike and is known for its mountain biking trails. The overlook here provides expansive views of Jackson Bay and Kinzua Dam, with an interesting array of trees growing through and on boulders.
The region’s autumn offerings extend beyond the Kinzua Bridge Fall Festival. On September 21st from 11:00am-10:00pm, Flickerwood Wine Cellars & Cocktail Lounge hosts its Fall Festival & Tailgate Cook-Off. This event features live music, local artisans, and an outdoor bar serving sangrias and other beverages. Start your day with a fall-themed wine glass painting class led by Sarah Aiello and join in on the Pong competition for some added fun.
Another notable event is the 14th Annual Pumpkin Fest, taking place on September 28th from noon-5:00pm in Historic Downtown Bradford. This family-friendly festival transforms Main Street into a pumpkin paradise with fun rides, great entertainment, and a variety of food and vendor options. The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford’s Kids Zone offers activities for children, and the scarecrow contest adds a creative touch to the festivities.
On the same day, September 28th, the 6th Annual Art on the Island will be held at Hamlin Lake in Smethport from 10:00am-5:00pm. This event celebrates local talent with a day filled with arts, crafts, and culinary delights. Browse through a wide selection of handcrafted items and artworks, enjoy food from local trucks, and check out the car show. The anvil shoot adds a unique and exciting element to the festival.
Looking ahead, Evergreen Park in Kane will host its Pumpkin Walk on October 11th and 12th from 5:00-9:00pm. This charming event features hundreds of illuminated carved pumpkins and scarecrow displays. Enjoy festive food options and engaging games, and remember to dress appropriately for the weather, as the event takes place rain or shine. Admission is $3 per person, $10 for a group of four, and free for children under five. Please note that pets are not permitted.
With a range of festivals and outdoor activities, the Allegheny National Forest region is the perfect destination for autumn enthusiasts. Whether you’re exploring the rich history and stunning landscapes of Kinzua Bridge State Park, enjoying local crafts and music at Flickerwood Wine Cellars, or participating in family-friendly events like Pumpkinfest and Art on the Island, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Dress in layers, wear comfortable shoes, and make sure to check event details for any last-minute changes. Embrace the beauty of fall and create lasting memories in one of Pennsylvania’s most picturesque regions.
For more information on the Allegheny National Forest Region's fall festivals in McKean County, PA, go online to www.VisitANF.com or call 800-473-9370.