Autumn in Pennsylvania promises some of the best and most beautiful hiking. We’re past the hot and humid summer days and settling in with cooler temperatures, allowing for a more comfortable experience. But what makes fall stand out is the changing trees as the brilliant shades of green slowly transition to gold, orange, and red hues before the leaves start tumbling to the ground, crunching beneath our feet as we walk. This pretty hiking trail in Pennsylvania is simply gorgeous during autumn, making it a must-add to your fall itinerary.

Nestled in the Western Pennsylvania town of Derry, Keystone State Park earned a pretty impressive title in 2023 when readers of "USA Today" named it the best destination for fall foliage in the United States. The spectacular canvas of colors doesn’t disappoint either as I discovered during a mid-October visit last year. Even if you’re limited on time or don’t feel like hiking, pull into the parking lot by the sandy beach to admire the colors or drive along the winding road that leads to and through the park.

However, if you have the time, the two-mile Keystone Lake Loop Trail is an ideal and easy way to admire the vibrant landscape. Because it’s flat, the trail is ADA-accessible and stroller-friendly, so everyone can enjoy a relaxing autumn stroll. Leashed dogs are also allowed on the pretty path that circles the 78-acre Keystone Lake.

If the leaves have already started to fall, listen as they crinkle beneath your feet on this tree-lined trail that can get pretty busy. Stroll past the lakeside campground, which features several waterfront yurts and cabins, and get glimpses of the water, the sandy beach, and colorful trees in the distance. You might even spot local wildlife – deer peeking through trees and ducks floating on the lake. Chilly fall temperatures usually mean the absence of bugs, making an already pleasant walk even more enjoyable.

You’ll need around 40 minutes to complete the trail and, if you’re not in a hurry, consider bringing something to eat and enjoying a relaxing picnic near the water. My daughter and I strolled along the beach, which was empty except for a few others, and watched the ducks. Everywhere we looked were trees painted in fall colors. There really are no bad views of the fall foliage at Keystone State Park, making it easy to see why it earned a nod as the best autumn destination in the U.S.

Learn more on the official website of Keystone State Park, or stop by the Facebook page of this popular Western Pennsylvania state park.

Have you gone leaf-peeping on this scenic hiking trail in Pennsylvania? What did you think? Let us know in the comments! Then add these breathtaking fall destinations in Pennsylvania to your autumn bucket list, or follow another of the best hiking trails in Pennsylvania to view the fall foliage.