1. Cities & Towns

Discuss in my forum

Fall Foliage Drives in Western Pennsylvania

By , About.com Guide

6 of 6

Longhouse National Scenic Byway
Fall Foliage, Allegheny River, Allegheny National Forest, Pennsylvania

Brilliant fall foliage in the Allegheny National Forest

Photo by Commonwealth Media Services
Arguably one of the most scenic roads in Pennsylvania, the Longhouse National Scenic Byway (FR 262) in northwest PA is a meandering 55-mile loop through the heart of the Allegheny National Forest with plenty of breathtaking overlooks for great fall photos. The fall foliage drive begins in Warren, PA via US 6 East. Just out of town, turn left on SR 59 which follows the Allegheny River to the Kinzua Dam where you will turn right onto the Longhouse Scenic Drive.

Along the route you will pass the Jakes Rock Overlook and Kiasutha Recreation Area, each with beautiful picnic areas and stunning fall foliage.

At this point you have two choices:

1) Shorter Loop - Just past Kiasutha make a left-hand turn onto scenic SR321 and follow to the Bradford District Ranger office where you will find yourself back on SR 59. Turn left to return to Warren. Along the way, the Rimrock Overlook offers a picnic area and stunning fall foliage and views.

2) Longer Loop - Turn right onto SR321 and follow it to Kane where you pick up US 6 East to Mt. Jewett. Turn left to Kinzua Bridge State Park where the Kinzua Viaduct, the centerpiece of the park rises 301 feet from the valley floor, offering views of over 15 miles on a clear day and breathtaking autumn views. Resume your trip by heading north out of the park to SR 59 where you'll turn left and return to Warren. If you have time, the Rimrock Overlook offers a picnic area and more beautiful fall foliage.

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.