Beaver Valley's fall foliage: Best time to see the changes, photos from around the area

Garret Roberts, Beaver County Times
·2 min read

As the cold weather slowly creeps into southwestern Pennsylvania, fans of the fall season won't have to wait much longer for the colorful foliage to arrive.

According to the National Weather Service, the week of Oct. 17 will be the peak time to view the autumn colors around southwestern Pennsylvania. As the green starts to slip away, those looking to take walks or hikes through the autumn leaves will find the best views throughout Beaver Valley communities during this period.

A mix of fall colors are sprinkled among the headstones at the Beaver Cemetery, making it a nice place for a quiet walk among the leaves.
A mix of fall colors are sprinkled among the headstones at the Beaver Cemetery, making it a nice place for a quiet walk among the leaves.

"We're just getting ready to head into the peak here in the week of Oct. 10," said Lee Hendricks, a meteorologist with NWS Pittsburgh. "the next two weeks will be the best time to go [look at the leaves]. It looks like the majority of the southwest area is going to be in the peak that week of Oct. 17."

Home to over 190 types of trees, western Pennsylvania is a popular destination for those looking to see the changing colors of the fall season each year. Stunning sights can be found all across the region, whether taking long drives on the highway or walking along the twists and turns of rural roads.

One area full of fall foliage is Hopewell Community Park, which offers visitors plenty of up-close interactions with nature during the changing season.
One area full of fall foliage is Hopewell Community Park, which offers visitors plenty of up-close interactions with nature during the changing season.

Some of the best places in Beaver County remain the numerous community parks, which can offer a more intimate experience with nature.

"Beaver County’s parks provide an incredible backdrop with its varieties of maples, oak, cherry, birch, walnut and other species of trees," Visit Beaver County recently said on its website. "Brush Creek Park is the perfect spot to take fall photos. Home to the only covered bridge in the county, this picturesque park is a nature lover's dream."

While there may be a few days of sun left, those enjoying the leaves this season may want to bring a jacket as temperatures are expected to be chilly this season.
While there may be a few days of sun left, those enjoying the leaves this season may want to bring a jacket as temperatures are expected to be chilly this season.

Throughout the week of Oct. 17, early forecasts are calling for temperatures to dip below 60 degrees. Those observing the changes to fall may want to dress warm or bring a light jacket with them, especially if plans last into the evening. During the night, temperatures are expected to fall below 30 degrees and continue to fall as the weekend approaches.

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This article originally appeared on Beaver County Times: Now is peak time for fall foliage in Beaver Valley