Explore McKean County
Explore McKean County
Allegheny National Forest Named One of the 12 Best National Forests in the U.S. for Fall Foliage
Leaf-Peeper Alert! The amazing colors of fall are starting to appear in the Allegheny National Forest and at the Kinzua Sky Walk, both located in northwestern Pennsylvania. Prime color is expected to be the first two weeks of October at the Kinzua Sky Walk, with full color around the Allegheny Reservoir expected to peak the last two weeks of October.
Outsideonline.com has put together a list of the 12 best national forests in the U.S. to see fall foliage. The Allegheny National Forest (ANF), in nearby Pennsylvania, made the list as one of the best 12 national forests for fall foliage viewing. According to their article, “Sure, you could soak up the seasonal splendor with other leaf peepers in a national park. But, given that thick woodlands provide the best fall foliage scenery - the more trees, the better - why not head to one of the U.S. Forest Services’ more than 150 national forests? As a bonus, skipping national parks could help you enjoy the autumn hues amid fewer crowds.”
They write, “More than 500,000 acres of crimson and gold hardwoods make Pennsylvania’s Allegheny National Forest a top leaf-peeping destination. Located in northwest Pennsylvania and open for free public access year-round, the forest contains 87 miles of the multi-state North Country Trail that runs from North Dakota to Vermont. It’s also a haven for paddlers and anglers, with smallmouth bass, catfish, and walleye in the 30-mile-long Allegheny Reservoir.”
To help plan for the best fall foliage scenic drives for viewing the rich reds, brilliant yellows, and vibrant orange leaves blanketing the hillsides in the ANF, the Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau has created the Scenic Driving Tours Map which highlights seven scenic drives in and around the Allegheny National Forest. This brochure may be downloaded at https://visitanf.com/wp-content/pdf/SDT_Sheets_2022.pdf or a free print copy may be ordered by calling 800-473-9370.
One of the best scenic drives in the Allegheny National Forest is the Longhouse National Scenic Byway. Drive Route 219 South past Bradford, exiting onto Route 59 west. Stop for information and maps at the ANF Bradford Ranger Station, then continue west. Watch for the Rimrock Overlook sign and drive this access road to the Rimrock Overlook recreation area. Here you will find a picnic area and a small hiking trail through massive rock formations, which leads to the overlook. This overlook offers views of the southern end of the Allegheny Reservoir, with the autumn colors reflected on the waters of the reservoir. Hikers can traverse through the rocks on a short trail to the shoreline of the reservoir. The trail does have serious elevation changes, so dress appropriately; hiking boots or sturdy shoes are recommended.
Back to the byway, continue west across Morrison Bridge to Kinzua Point. Here you will have a wonderful view of the colors of fall blanketing the hillsides around the reservoir. Returning to the byway, turn to drive south to Jakes Rocks. Jakes Rocks offers another view of the Allegheny Reservoir. Here the vista is of the western area of the reservoir and Kinzua Dam. The trailhead for the best mountain biking trail on the Allegheny National Forest is also located here.
Back to the byway, continue south. At the junction of Rt. 321 you can take a short side trip to Kane to dine at a locally owned restaurant, winery, brewery, or distillery. Or you can turn onto Rt. 321 and head north to drive the balance of the byway to the ranger station. At the ranger station, turn onto Rt. 59 east to Rt. 219 north. Plan a stop to explore Bradford’s National Historic District - shop Main Street, visit the Zippo/Case Museum, dine at a local restaurant, or enjoy a local brew at the Bradford Brew Station.
It's more fun if you stay over! Plan now to make your lodging reservations as fall weekends fill up fast. For the full list of where to stay, an attraction map, plus detailed food and beverage information, go to www.visitANF.com or call 800-473-9370 for personalized assistance.