YoCo Twist Blog
Autumn is upon us, which means we're being treated to a landscape bursting with the orange, red, and yellow colors of fall.
The fall foliage season should peak from mid- to late October in York County, home to plenty of leaf-peeping spots.
Here are just a few of our favorite spots to soak in the season. We'd also love to hear from you. Where are your favorite spots to see the changing leaves? Let us know at marketing@yorkpa.org, and we'll share some of the top suggestions!
York County Heritage Rail Trail
Immerse yourself in fall foliage along the York County Heritage Rail Trail, where you can walk, hike or bike along a nearly 30-mile route stretching from the Mason-Dixon Line to Downtown York and then north to John C. Rudy County Park.
For a truly unique leaf-peeping experience, hop aboard a Northern Central Railway of York train that runs along the same rails that President Lincoln rode on his way to deliver the Gettysburg Address. Based in New Freedom, Pennsylvania, the train follows the York County Heritage Rail Trail north to Hanover Junction.
Rocky Ridge County Park
An oak forest takes up the majority of the 750-acre Rocky Ridge County Park. which sits on a rocky hilltop overlooking the scenic Susquehanna Valley.
It's the perfect place to enjoy a picnic and take a hike but fall foliage enthusiasts will want to head directly to the scenic overlook on the park's northern end for a stunning view of the land below.
Codorus State Park
Pack the car for a drive along state Route 216, which takes you through Codorus State Park. Lake Marburg is the focal point of the park, and 26 miles of tree-dotted shoreline offers plenty of photo opportunities.
Bring the kayaks for a serene fall paddle. Boat rentals are also available on weekends through October.
The park also offers a campground for anyone looking to extend their stay. Coming in 2026 to Codorus State Park: Glamping!
Wrightsville
The charming river town of Wrightsville offers picturesque views of the majestic Susquehanna River. Trek to the Highpoint Scenic Vista or Samuel S. Lewis State Park for unbeatable views of the river. Or just stay in the car and cruise down Route 624 to take in the grandeur of autumn.
While you're in the neighborhood, check out the Zimmerman Center for Heritage, a Susquehanna National Heritage Area and a Visitor Contact Station for the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail. The trailhead at Native Lands County Park sits right behind the center. Book a ride on the Chief Uncas for a leisurely cruise along the Susquehanna River. Enjoy a bite to eat at John Wright Restaurant or indulge in some gourmet popcorn from River Rock Provisions.
Also, in the Wrightsville area, one of Pennsylvania's newest state parks, Susquehanna Riverlands State Park, features multiple rock outcrop vistas over the river and nearly a mile of riverfront along the Susquehanna with 1.5 miles along Codorus Creek.
We'd also love to hear from you
Where are your favorite spots to see the changing leaves? Let us know at marketing@yorkpa.org, or tag @ExploreYorkPA in your social media posts and we just might share some of the top suggestions!
With its rich history, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant culture, York County, PA, is the perfect destination for your next adventure all year long.
Request a York County Travel Guide to start planning your getaway today. For additional travel inspiration delivered to your inbox twice a month, sign up for Explore York’s Getaway Guide emails, where there is also a chance to win a prize in every issue. We hope you’ll visit soon!
