BETHLEHEM, Pa. — Fall foliage in the Lehigh Valley is “just starting” to change — a little earlier than usual, state officials said Thursday.
“Cool nights during late August and early September jumpstarted noticeable color changes throughout Penn’s Woods,” according to the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
"Fall foliage viewers should expect vivid colors that arrive sooner, but a shorter season overall.”State Department of Conservation and Natural Resources
“The long period of dry weather that accompanied the late summer cooldown has accelerated the transition to fall color across the commonwealth.
"Fall foliage viewers should expect vivid colors that arrive sooner, but a shorter season overall.”
State officials have released the first fall foliage forecast of the year, an annual effort that maps the state’s six-week leaf-peeping season.
The forecast, updated this year to increase accessibility, shows the majority of the state in the same phase at the Valley.
Counties in the "just starting" phase could see peak in two to three weeks, according to forecasters.
Tioga County, which borders New York, is the only county to already reach peak color, according to the forecast.
Neighboring counties including Potter, McKean, Bradford, Susquehanna, Wayne and Pike, all are listed as “approaching peak color."
Counties closer to the Valley, such as Monroe and Carbon, are similarly categorized.
‘Some early autumn tones’
Foresters serving southeastern parts of the state, where Lehigh and Northampton counties are located, reported that most foliage is still dark green and unchanged in the region, according to the forecast.
"In Northampton County, black gum, birch, and some maples have begun to change color."Pennsylvania DCNR
“Some species, like tulip poplars and maples, are showing some signs of drought stress. In Northampton County, black gum, birch and some maples have begun to change color,” officials said.
“At French Creek State Park, black gum and water-stressed maples are showing similar coloration.”
“For a look at some early autumn tones, fall foliage enthusiasts should visit the Goat Hill Serpentine Barrens in Chester County.”
Residents across the Valley earlier this month reported brown, crunchy leaves falling in neighborhoods and parks. That early leaf drop was attributed to dry, cool weather.
In the northwestern part of the state, “color has recently ‘exploded’ on the landscape,” according to the forecast.
“Dryer areas along roads and highways are showing the most color currently,” officials said. “A mix of yellows, reds, browns, and greens provide a glimpse of the colorful fall foliage season that will be developing over the next month.
“Some trees have started to drop leaves, providing a carpet of color on the ground. Sumac, red maple, aspen and dogwood are all displaying some early shades.
"Begin to make your plans now to enjoy this beautiful fall season in Penn’s Woods!”
‘One of the best times’
The redesigned weekly report includes a different map key, as well as detailed information by region — an effort to help boost fall tourism.
While the categories used are similar to those in past years, some have been given new titles.
The “no change” category has carried over, but “starting to change” from previous forecasts has been updated to “just starting.”
Similarly, “approaching best color” and “best color” now are “approaching peak color” and “peak color.”
Instead of “starting to fade” and “past peak,” the new forecasts have categories such as “still nice, but declining” and “season over.”
Tourism during the fall months is a major economic driver in the commonwealth, generating $83.9 billion in economic impact, supporting more than 514,000 jobs, and drawing in 201.6 million visitors in 2024, according to Pennsylvania Tourism Office.
“Whether you’re camping in one of Pennsylvania’s 124 state parks, hiking through our 2.2 million acres of state forests, or taking a scenic drive, fall is one of the best times to experience the outdoors."DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn
“Whether you’re camping in one of Pennsylvania’s 124 state parks, hiking through our 2.2 million acres of state forests, or taking a scenic drive, fall is one of the best times to experience the outdoors,” DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn said in a news release.
“This new report will give people the tools they need to plan trips and discover new activities across the Commonwealth.”
Pennsylvania’s foliage season generally runs from late September to early November.
The majority of the commonwealth reaches peak fall foliage in October, with the Valley generally seeing the best colors midway through the month.
Last year’s peak in the Valley was forecast to begin Oct. 17, after a rash of cool days, and even colder nights.
Looking for the best leaf-peeping spots in the Valley? In 2023, we collected reader suggestions to create a fall foliage tour.
