Fall Foliage Report: When’s the Peak?

Written by Lucy Bennett

Fall is here and that means the leaf show we know as fall foliage can’t be too far away.

So, when’s the best time to see the leaves? It all depends on whom you ask, because these are forecasts and the changing of the colors is dependent on the conditions. Learn more about why leaves change color from weather.com.

The details of the differing forecasts are below, but it’s safe to say, mid to late October is probably the best time for fall foliage viewing in our area:

LeafPeepers.com says peak time will be October 8-14 in Central Pennsylvania and October 22-28 in Southern Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania Visitors Network says our peak time will be from October 29 through November 5 for southeastern Pennsylvania.

The Farmers’ Almanac lumps the entire state together and gives the range of October 5-21 for the peak.

October 12-18 is when Pennsylvania typically reaches full color, according to About.com, which also lumps together the entire state.

Rather than give a forecasted time, VisitPA.com, the state’s tourism website, describes what you can expect during peak fall foliage:

“Autumn hues usually last longer in this region, with shades of scarlet and subtle yellows holding on throughout some of Pennsylvania’s most beautiful landscapes, including Bucks County and the Brandywine Valley. Don't miss the Amish Country, King's Gap State Park, Bedford or the tree-lined neighborhoods of Philadelphia.”