Looking forward to warm days and cool evenings? As the weather gets colder and the leaves begin to change colors it is time for a getaway in Northeast PA. Consider a rail trail bike ride to take in the colorful scenery. Nestled between White Haven and Jim Thorpe, the Lehigh Gorge Rail Trail offers scenic views, nature sightings, and smooth trails for a relaxing day out. Local fall foliage festivals in the Poconos offer a variety of options for things to do during your stay.

The changing colors begin to appear in late September and the peak of fall foliage in the Poconos is typically early- to mid-October.

Fall Rail Trail Ride

The Lehigh Gorge State Park Rail Trail provides 22.5 miles of scenic river views, waterfalls, and historic sites. There are various bike rental and shuttle options available. Different access points to the trail allow you to choose from a 9 mile, 13.5 mile or 22.5 mile long ride. The access points include White Haven, Rockport and Jim Thorpe. You can bring your own bike or conveniently rent a bike for your fall foliage bike ride. Cooler air in autumn makes a full day bike ride enjoyable and relaxing. Stop along the trail at one of many picnic areas to take a break to enjoy a lunch.

Scenic Fall Foliage Photo Opportunities

Bring the family along for a fall bike ride, but also don’t forget the camera. The Lehigh River is rich in history and there are historic remains all along the trail. Old stone walls from fallen industry. Locks and dams along the river that once allowed for transportation of coal and timber down the Lehigh River. Both active and abandoned railroad tunnels, bridges and tracks are also prevalent along the trail. You may even get a glimpse of a train traveling the tracks on your fall foliage bike ride.

Fall Foliage Festivals & Outdoor Festivals

Fall Foliage Festival in Jim Thorpe is held each year in the downtown historic district. This is a popular destination for locals and tourists who want to spend time at local restaurants, bars, art galleries, and historic sites.

Fall Camping in the Poconos

To top off your fall foliage bike ride and Pocono Mountain getaway book tent camping. Nothing beats sitting around a campfire with friends and family on a crisp autumn evening. Bundle up under your favorite blanket and roast some marshmallows over that toasty campfire.

According to the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Pennsylvania is the meeting ground of northern trees that flourish only on mountain tops farther south and southern species that are at the northern limits of their range. Pennsylvania straddles two climate zones so a variety of tree species. These include birch, maple, oak, elm, ash, dogwood, beech, walnut, sassafras, hickory, aspen and so many more. The wide array of species is what creates the wide range of colors that are so spectacular each fall.

Whitewater Challengers, in the Southern Pocono Mountains, is the perfect place for a getaway in the autumn. Fall foliage bike rides in the Lehigh Gorge State Park are one of the most enjoyable fall activities in the Poconos. Call 800-443-8554 or book online to reserve a bike rental and/or shuttle with Whitewater Challengers.