As the dog days of summer slowly fade, the mountains adorn themselves in an amazing array of colors, marking the arrival of the autumn season in the Poconos! As one of the top Fall destinations in the northeast, you’ll find plenty to do and see. The Poconos are a treasure trove of autumn delights, offering a ton of great events and activities that will make your visit unforgettable.
Jim Thorpe Fall Foliage Festival
The Jim Thorpe Fall Foliage Festival is a can’t miss fall event. It takes place every weekend in October in the charming town of Jim Thorpe, which is known for its Victorian architecture and rich history. And you’ll enjoy the Lehigh Gorge as your backdrop, awash in all the fall colors. There is plenty to explore, as you’ll find artisans, crafters, and food vendors, creating a delightful atmosphere for strolling, shopping, and indulging in delicious treats. You’ll also enjoy live music, art exhibits, and various entertainment options for visitors of all ages. Be sure and bring your camera to capture the breathtaking foliage views that surround this charming town.
Lakeland Orchard Apple Harvest Festival
A visit to the Poconos in the fall is not complete without also enjoying the flavors of the season. The Lakeland Orchard Apple Harvest Festival is a great opportunity to experience those and runs from Aug 31 – Oct 29! This family-friendly festival is complete with apple picking, unlimited train rides on the Lakeland Express, live music, axe throwing, and tons of kids activities. Spoil yourself with mouthwatering apple treats, from traditional apple pies to caramel-dipped apples, as you relish the simple pleasures of the season.
The Great Pocono Pumpkin Festival at Country Junction
Explore the heart of the Pocono Mountains at Country Junction, where the Great Pocono Pumpkin Festival awaits with an abundance of pumpkin-themed delights. This festival runs from Sept 23 – Oct 29 and offers something fun for all ages. From a pumpkin patch to a gem mine, and even laser tag for some good-natured fun. Plus the kiddos can enjoy the hayrides, a petting zoo, pony rides, a paintball wagon, and more. The grounds are open 11am-5pm daily, and they even have a kids Costume Party on October 28-29.
Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway Autumn Leaf Trains
The Pocono Mountains are known far and wide for their scenic beauty, and there’s no better way to soak in the fall colors than aboard the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway. There are heated cars and restrooms, too. Climb aboard one of their Autumn Leaf Trains and embark on a picturesque journey through the region’s most stunning landscapes. As the vintage train chugs along the tracks, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of colorful hillsides, winding rivers, and forests. It’s truly an incredibly relaxing and immersive experience. Don’t forget to bring your camera to remember those breathtaking landscapes that you’ll encounter.
Pocono Foliage Express
Another railway excursion that offers a great opportunity to soak in the colors is the Stourbridge Line’s Pocono Foliage Express. This 1.5hr trip is one of the best ways to soak up all the majesty of the fall season and its amazing colors. They offer heated railcars for those chilly days, and restrooms are onboard as well. You’ll explore some amazing vistas on the route, and even have the chance to see some of the native wildlife!
The Pocono Mountains offer an autumn experience unlike any other. From the vibrant Jim Thorpe Fall Foliage Festival to the delightful apple-themed festivities at Lakeland Orchard and the Great Pocono Pumpkin Festival, there’s something for everyone. And for those seeking a more laid-back encounter with nature’s fall beauty, the railways provide a captivating journey through the colorful landscapes.
One of the most important pieces of the perfect Poconos autumn vacation is where you stay. After a day of festivities and sightseeing, there is nothing more memorable than settling in at one of our amazing vacation properties. Most are nestled into stunning landscapes and surrounded by an abundance of colorful fall views. From lakefront homes to cabins tucked deep into the forest, we’ve got the perfect accommodations for your crew. You can check out all of our properties at Pocono Mountain Rentals, where you can browse and pick your favorite!
