Autumn in the PA Great Outdoors region is a special time of the year.  The air is cool and crisp and our forests are dancing with bright orange, yellow and red leaves blowing in the breeze.  If you go on a leaf drive, Mother Nature’s crazy quilt of colors can be enjoyed around almost every bend in the road wherever you go. We have put together several recommended routes with a number of our favorite stops along the way.  This is first of four driving tours that will be posted to this blog on upcoming Saturdays.

Cook Forest Loop

(40 Miles, 1 Hour)

Within its 7,000 acres of woodlands, Cook Forest has one the finest stands of primeval white pines and hemlocks in the eastern U.S.  In fact, these huge ancient trees are as much as 350 years old. But if you’re looking for fall color there are plenty of maple, birch, beech, black cherry, and ash trees to provide those lovely autumn hues.  River Road, which is a part of this drive, follows the course of the Wild & Scenic Clarion River and is a beautiful stretch of highway any time of the year.  Along the route, you will find the Cook Forest Fire Tower and Seneca Point (A), offering the best panoramic view of the fall leaves from the top of the 87-foot tower. Cooksburg Dry Goods (B) is a great stop for a snack for the road or a souvenir from your trip.  As you round the loop, you’ll come to the town of Leeper. Here you can sample wine and relax on the patio at the R** Bandana Winery (C) and stop for a delicious “sawdust burger” at the Sawmill Restaurant (D).

For more information on fall events in the region and fall foliage driving tours, go to VisitPAGO.com/scenic-drives/ or call the PA Great Outdoors Visitors Bureau at (814) 849-5197.