Franklin County is approaching peak fall color as cooler temperatures accelerate the annual change across southcentral Pennsylvania, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ fall foliage report for Oct. 15-21.
Forestry staff at Buchanan State Forest, which serves Bedford, Fulton and Franklin counties, reported significant color change across the region last week. Visitors can expect a wide array of color throughout the ridges of southcentral Pennsylvania, the agency said.
Bright red is visible on red maples and black gum, while birch and hickory are producing yellow shades. Sassafras is showing brilliant orange, and sugar maples are displaying a golden hue.
Oaks remain largely green, but DCNR said the species showing color this week tend to lose their leaves earlier. Scarlet oaks are beginning to show red, chestnut oaks yellow and white oaks deep red as the region approaches peak color.
A few cold nights during the previous reporting period hastened color change across many Pennsylvania forests. Recent heavy rain has stripped some leaves, but the expected weekend cooldown is expected to rapidly intensify the transition to vibrant shades across the state.
DCNR classifies Franklin and Fulton counties as approaching peak. The agency said beautiful color is now present in all parts of Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania’s location between 40 and 42 degrees north latitude and its varied topography support 134 species of trees, along with many shrubs and vines that contribute to the state’s autumn display.
