Scenic Byways in Pennsylvania: The Beauty of the Drive

Pennsylvania's scenic byways showcase the Keystone State's fall foliage.

Pennsylvania's scenic byways are more than just breathtaking vistas. These meandering highways — now swathed in the rich colors of autumn — twist and turn and tell the story of the heart and soul of the Keystone State.

Start with the Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway and a whitewater rafting excursion down the Youghiogheny River before heading to the ultimate in waterfall architecture: Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater masterpiece.

Head east and partake in a history lesson along the National Road, offering a glimpse of the French and Indian War and Fort Necessity National Battlefield.

Enjoy the Grand View Scenic Byway atop Pittsburgh's Mount Washington, or from the Monongahela or Duquesne inclines, and you'll have an unobstructed and undeniably beautiful view of Pittsburgh, voted by ForbesTraveler.com as having one of the world's most stunning skylines.

Up toward the Allegheny Ridge between Snow Shoe and Renovo, the High Plateau gives way to picture-worthy opportunities in the Sproul State Forest, scenic vistas and mountain bogs to explore.

Catch the end of prime fall foliage viewing at the newly-opened Kinzua Sky Walk along the Kinzua Byway connecting to Route 6. Walk the tracks across the sky and look down through reinforced glass at the valley below. Don't miss the world-famous Zippo/Case Visitor Center in the nearby town of Bradford. The hardwood forests of the Allegheny National Forest, the waters of the Allegheny Reservoir and the blazing colors of autumn combine to make the Longhouse National Scenic Byway vast and awe-inspiring.

Wind southwest to Crawford County and journey across Route 6 and the Crawford Lakelands Scenic Byway for views of Pymatuning Lake, Pymatuning Spillway, "where the ducks walk on the fish," and Conneaut Lake Park, a 120-year-old lakefront amuseument park with a wooden roller coaster, lakefront hotel and nightclub.

For additional information on byway length, recommended time to allow for travel and other attractions, go to visitPA.com/scenic-byways.

 

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