Whereas Pittsburgh is lovely at any time of year, fall is probably the most bewildering season to visit the City of Bridges. In sprawling public parks and recreational areas, you'll find countless hiking trails with picture-perfect views. Fall cruises and fall foliage train rides make the period even more attractive.
Best time for fall colors in Pittsburgh
The vibes of yellow, orange and red appear in early October. Yet, the Pittsburgh fall foliage peak is usually expected towards the middle of the month. Leaf peepers can take in the fiery display of colors until early November or even later.
Best places for fall foliage in Pittsburgh
You can observe quite a scene without leaving the downtown. Head to Point State Park, which overlooks gorgeous South Shore, or hop on one of historical funiculars to delight in unparalleled views of the Pittsburgh Skyline. Emerald View Park, bordering Mount Washington, boasts some of the best panoramas. As you descend back to the river bank, consider taking a fall cruise by the Gateway Clipper Fleet. But if you feel like walking, visit Schenley Park, Riverview Park, or Frick Park, famous for Frick Park Trail Loop.
Fall foliage near Pittsburgh
More adventures await beyond the city. Check out brilliant fall colors at various wooded trails of Hartwood Acres Park, nestled north of Pittsburgh. It is home to Hartwood Acres Sculpture Garden, the exhibition space for public art of the 1980s. Further north in Butler County, you'll find Moraine State Park, offering hiking, boating, and fishing activities among fall colors. Raccoon Creek State Park sits some 30 mi (50 km) west of the city and is one of Pennsylvania's most visited state parks with 700 species of plants. But if you can afford more time, check out the magnificent fall scenery in Laurel Highlands—drive the Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway and drop by picturesque Ohiopyle State Park.
Fall foliage train rides near Pittsburgh
Fall foliage train rides with historical Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad offer an exceptional experience. You'll need a little over 2 hours to get to Perry Street Station, but the fabulous 3-hour round-trip is worth the effort. The seasonal excursions usually run from early to mid- or late October.
Have you made up your mind for a fall foliage getaway in Pittsburgh? If so, plan ahead and book a stay nearby. See the Pittsburgh fall foliage map below.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Pittsburgh for fall foliage views?
Experience Pittsburgh's autumn colors starting from early October with peak for the fiery display of color tantalizing mid-month. Fall foliage views will be expected throughout early November, making October to early November the best time to visit Pittsburgh for this jaw-dropping attraction. Show more
Where are the best places to see fall colors in Pittsburgh?
Visitors targeting downtown should make a date with Point State Park and Funicular offering impressive panoramic views. A visit to Emerald View Park on Mount Washington would also be well worth it for the scenic vista. Schenley Park, Riverview Park, and Frick Park are additional parks that offer prime hiking spots in the midst of the golden leaves. Show more
What are some outdoor activities to do while enjoying fall foliage in Hartwood Acres Park?
Hartwood Acres Park provides ample opportunity to explore among the autumn leaves and try out many outdoor recreational activities. Outdoor music festival, the Fall Fest, and memorable visits to the Hartwood Acres Mansion, are a few highlights. The park's 18 or more miles of wooded and open field trails offer a pack of outdoor activities such as horseback riding, biking, and hiking for visitors to explore fall foliage in depth. Show more
Where can I go for fall foliage viewing near Pittsburgh but outside of the city?
Take advantage of the various locations outside Pittsburgh for fall foliage viewing options. Visitors looking to capture the forest's beauty should visit Raccoon Creek State Park located west of the city. Raccoon Creek State Park offers numerous outdoor activities. Additionally, visiting Ohiopyle State Park located in the Laurel Highlands would be sure to make for a remarkable and unforgettable experience! Moraine State Park, about an hour north of Pittsburgh, is another perfect haunt for hiking, fishing, and boating excursions amongst the fall foliage. Show more
When do fall foliage train rides with Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad take place and how long do they last?
To have a color-filled memory of fall foliage, visitors may take part in the Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad's unforgettable three-hour train ride adventure. Notably, the ride takes place in early to mid- or late October. The starting point for the ride is the Perry Street Station location, and from there on, explorers are surrounded by the natural beauty of the Oil Creek Valley and its rich history. Show more
