Fall Foliage Starting to Change in Northwestern Pa., across State

Pennsylvania's Department of Conservation and Natural Resources says fall foliage is starting to change in northwestern Pennsylvania and much of the state in its weekly report.

Following several dry spells during the growing season, summer and early fall rains provided much-needed moisture, preventing premature leaf drop and keeping forest canopies green, according to the DCNR. Cold nights, combined with continued dry conditions in late August and early September, triggered noticeable color changes across Penn's Woods. The DCNR said fall foliage enthusiasts can anticipate a vibrant season that will begin earlier and last slightly less time compared to recent years.

The district manager for Cornplanter State Forest, which covers Erie, Crawford and Warren counties, said the changing colors in northwestern Pennsylvania seem to coincide with the first day of fall, according to the report from the DCNR. Early colors are primarily red and light yellow, with red maple trees standing out due to their bright red hues, alongside the darker reds of bush dogwoods. Many fall wildflowers, particularly goldenrods and asters, are contributing early color. The most visible fall colors are currently in the understory, along roads and in fields, the DCNR said.