We’ve curated 5 ways to see fall foliage near Hershey and Harrisburg, PA. Central Pennsylvania is a nature-lovers paradise, but during the fall months, everywhere you look is a piece of art.
Imagine thousands upon thousands of trees gradually changing to shades of gold, amber, burnt orange, crimson, and auburn. Moreover, our winding county roads, rolling hills, rivers, streams, and state parks create the perfect backdrop for fall foliage. Make it a fall getaway with a stay at Westwynd Farm, a destination in itself.
#1 – HIKING
If you prefer to see fall foliage up close and personal on two feet, you’ll be happy to know there are plenty of hiking trails and scenic paths. From state and city parks to preserves and conservation areas, the sky’s the limit. Here are 14 hiking trails to trek to enjoy the color.
Additional Places to Stroll & Hike
#2 – KAYAKING
Kayaking down our beautiful creeks and rivers offers a chance to see fall foliage that would typically be out of sight. Kayaking provides an opportunity to enjoy nature’s bounty and fall’s glory in a quiet, leisurely way. Rent a kayak from Cocoa Kayak Rentals, or bring your own and row at your own pace. Kayaking the Susquehanna River or Swatara Creek Water Trail offers miles of scenic beauty.
If you like being on the water but don’t want to do the work, reserve a seat on the Susquehanna River Boat.
#3 – BICYCLING
For those who prefer seeing fall foliage on two wheels, pack up your bicycle and hit the road. Bicycle trails are as abundant as hiking trails. The nice thing about biking is that you can travel many more miles and enjoy many more views. Here are four biking trails to get you started. For more tips, check out this biking guide.
#4 – DRIVING
If you’d rather see the sights from the comfort of your car, you’re in for a treat. You’ll discover miles and miles of scenic highways, county roads, and Dutch country roads. Here are a few scenic drives to try:
- Amish Scenic Drive in nearby Lancaster
- Take Hwy 325 east from Dauphin to Tower City through impressive and varied forests.
- Drive Hwy 322 from Duncannon to Clearfield across several mountain ranges that display fall foliage increasingly to the north. Take advantage of the many overlooks.
- Follow Hwy 15 from Camp Hill to Lewisburg, and take Rte. 192 to Rte. 477 to Rte. 64 to Mill Hall. Then follow Rte. 150 to Lock Haven and take Rte. 120 to Renovo. You’ll ascend and descend several mountains via winding roads along scenic rivers.
- Drive along Hwy 147, which follows the Susquehanna River north from near Duncannon to Montandon, where Rte. 405 continues northbound to Rte. 220 and then to Rte. 154 to World’s End State Park with its Loyalsock Canyon Vista.
- Head south along Hwy 233, west on Pine Road, and then south on Kings Gap Road. This route will take you to the mansion balcony overlooking Kings Gap State Park for some incredible views!
#5 – WESTWYND FARM
Another great way to enjoy fall foliage near Hershey and Harrisburg, PA, is with a stay at our Inn at Westwynd Farm in Hummelstown. We are happily situated on a charming equestrian farm with acres of gently rolling, grassy pastures and plenty of deciduous trees. You’ll have a front-row seat to autumn’s bounty and our many furry friends grazing in the pasture.
Take a stroll around the property, sip a warm beverage in a rocking chair on the patio, or enjoy the view from your cozy and luxurious guest room or suite. Plan a long weekend getaway, or take some time off midweek, where you’ll find fewer crowds and better rates. Spend all your time here at the Farm taking advantage of our many amenities, or get out and see the sights. Check availability or contact us for more information.
Which one of our 5 ways to see fall foliage near Hershey and Harrisbug, PA, will you choose? We’d love to hear your stories and see your photos.
Updated August 2023