Pittsburgh’s leaves are beginning to change color for the season, and one of the best places in the nation to see fall foliage is just an hour’s drive away.
Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands were chosen as one of the country’s best destinations for fall colors in USA TODAY’s 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards for 2026.
The mountainous region spans 3,000 square miles across southwestern Pennsylvania, stretching over Fayette, Somerset and Westmoreland counties. Its fall colors are expected to brighten in October.
Laurel Highlands Ranks No. 6 for Fall Foliage
A little more than an hour east of Pittsburgh, Laurel Highlands ranked No. 6 nationally for fall colors. The awards describe a region where autumn colors typically peak around mid-October, with hiking and biking trails, a portion of the Great Allegheny Passage, and several fall festivals.
The region has two scenic driving routes — a northern loop and a southern loop — that take visitors along winding roads past small towns, state parks and overlooks. Both routes have dozens of stops where drivers can hike and view fall colors, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
Pennsylvania to Share Weekly Fall Foliage Reports
Beginning Oct. 1, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources will publish weekly fall foliage reports every Thursday. The reports will include information for each county, updated photos and tips on the best places to see changing leaves.
When Will Fall Foliage Peak in Pittsburgh?
Pennsylvania’s fall foliage typically peaks in October, according to the state department. Last year, Allegheny County saw peak fall colors the week of Oct. 23-29. A forecast map from SmokyMountain.com predicts Pittsburgh will reach its peak around Oct. 20 this year.
Why Do Leaves Change Color in the Fall?
Leaf pigments, the length of nights and weather all affect autumn colors, according to the state department. Longer nights are the primary influence on when leaves change and fall. As nights lengthen, chlorophyll production slows and stops, allowing carotenoids and anthocyanins — pigments that create fall colors — to show.
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