The Best Ways to Catch Peak Foliage in the Poconos
Leaf Peeping Season in the Poconos
Fall color is beginning to ramp up across the Poconos, with peak foliage arriving at different times throughout the region. Here in Tannersville and the Central Pocono Mountains, the current forecast calls for peak color around October 10–17.
Whether you’re visiting for a relaxed weekend or an action-packed family trip, here are some of the top ways to take in the views:
1. Ride the Rails
Hop aboard the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway in Jim Thorpe. Its Autumn Leaf train excursions are a popular way to experience the season and see the vibrant reds and golds without anyone having to keep their eyes on the road. The 2026 Autumn Leaf schedule runs through November 15.
2. High-Speed Thrills in Tannersville
For families with older kids or teens looking for an adrenaline rush, catch the vibrant canopy at full speed right here in Tannersville! Camelback Resort features an incredible Mountain Coaster that weaves directly through the golden trees, alongside their 4,000-foot tandem zipline with panoramic mountain views.
3. Scenic Chairlift Rides & Pumpkin Picking
For sweeping, panoramic views of the entire valley, take a leisurely ride up the Comet Quad Chairlift at Blue Mountain Resort. At the summit, you can grab a bite to eat, relax around outdoor fire pits, or pick the perfect pumpkin right from the mountain-top patch.
4. Take a Walk Through Big Pocono State Park
Located right in our backyard atop Camelback Mountain, Big Pocono State Park offers paved scenic drives and scenic hiking trails with breathtaking vistas overlooking Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York simultaneously—a must-do spot for sunset photos.
A Few Tips Before You Go
Check the foliage forecast before you leave. The Poconos covers a large area, and the timing of peak color varies from one part of the region to another. The official Pocono Mountains Fall Foliage Forecast is updated every Thursday throughout the season, making it a great resource for planning your trip.
Consider a weekday visit. Popular foliage spots can get busy on October weekends, especially when peak color arrives. If your schedule allows, a midweek visit can give you a little more breathing room to enjoy the scenery.
And don't worry if everything isn't at peak color at once. The Poconos has three distinct foliage zones, which means you can follow the changing colors across the region and enjoy fall for several weeks.
Plan Your Leaf-Peeping Trip
Since fall foliage doesn't peak everywhere in the Poconos at the same time, a little planning can make a big difference. Before you head out, check the latest foliage update on where the colors are changing and where peak foliage is expected next.
If you're planning a full fall getaway, check out our Poconos Fall Guide for more seasonal ideas and things to do. And if you're already looking ahead to winter, our guide to the change from fall foliage to ski season shows how quickly the Poconos shifts from colorful mountains to snow-covered slopes.
Wherever you go, bring your camera, leave a little extra time for scenic stops, and enjoy one of the best times of year in the Poconos.