October Leaf Peeping in the Mid-Atlantic

October is the month to revel in the brilliant fall colors in the Mid-Atlantic states, where trees are still dressed in autumn finery. While the colors last, make leaf peeping in the region part of your family travels; these destinations are known for their beautiful fall scenery.

Lancaster County, Pennsylvania

Fall colors in beautiful Pennsylvania Dutch Country last through early November, and you can combine a driving tour with shopping for pumpkins and apples at local farms. Take a covered bridge tour or cruise the quiet country roads on bicycles. You’ll want to stop at one of the many farm stands or restaurants for a taste of the famous shoo-fly pie.

Brandywine Valley, Delaware   

Travel Brandywine Valley National Scenic Byway through the rolling countryside of northern Delaware, where broad fields of picturesque farms provide a contrast to the hilly roads almost entirely enclosed by forests. Stop to tour the extensive grounds of Winterthur Museum, planted with an arboretum of different tree species, and to admire the glorious display of chrysanthemums at Longworth Gardens in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania.

Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania

The fall foliage is spectacular throughout the Poconos, and at Big Pocono State Park in Tannersville you can drive or hike to the top of Camelback Mountain for an even wider panorama. The scenic overlook at the summit reveals breathtaking views of Pennsylvania, New York and New Jersey.

The Nanticoke Heritage Byway, Delaware

Fall colors add variety to the green vistas of gently rolling farms, with tree-lined fields alongside the Nanticoke Heritage Byway. Between the farms, thick forests and rural towns vary the landscape, and at Trap Pond State Park, you can see the beautiful coppery red colors of the changing bald cypress foliage.