Autumn Itinerary for Southeast Pennsylvania

Last year we visited beautiful Hawk Mountain Sanctuary. It’s the perfect place to go leaf-peeping and get in a good hike. Here are some other nearby attractions to build the perfect autumn itinerary for the surrounding area in Southeast Pennsylvania.

Autumn Itinerary Stop #1: Reading Pagoda

Finding this type of Asian architecture in Pennsylvania is unusual, and fun! The Reading Pagoda was built in 1908 and is now on the National Registry of Historic Places. While it was first created as a luxury resort, it now functions as a public observatory. It provides panoramic views of Reading and the surrounding area. In the fall, it provides lovely views of the autumn foliage. Currently, you can’t enter the building, but you can park and walk around its balconies and take in the view.

Southeast Pennsylvania Itinerary Stop #2: Hawk Mountain Sanctuary

Along with stunning views of fall foliage, visitors to Hawk Mountain Sanctuary also have the chance to see raptors and many other types of birds on their fall migration over Pennsylvania. You will also almost certainly see chipmunks scurrying here, there, and everywhere.

The cost of admission is about $11 per person, and parking is free and ample. Admission gives you access to the Visitor’s Center and trails, where you can take to some truly breathtaking lookouts that can be accessed pretty easily from the parking lot.

The South Overlook is the first stop along any trail. From here, you can continue on to reach the north overlook that can be accessed by continuing up the mountain.  We opted instead to turn right on the River of Rocks trail and head around the outer loop.  This trail is challenging. The River of Rocks trail is itself very rocky. There was lots of stepping over, on, and around big rocks.  The trail loops around an immense boulder field, which is interesting to look at.  You can loop around a second boulder field if you choose, or you can head up the mountain on the Golden Eagle Trail. This was very steep with an 800 foot elevation. So, take your time or skip it if you have any health challenges that might make it unsafe.

Once you reach the top of the Golden Eagle Trail, take the Skyline Trail across the ridge of the mountain. Here you will find some optional rock scrambles that are high and challenging. Again, decide carefully if you want to proceed along the rock scrambles, or stay to the regular path. If you take the Skyline Trail all the way to the North Lookout, you will find yourself climbing straight up the rocks to the lookout at the end. This makes a challenging but fun hike!  Alternatively, you can take the connector trail, skip the rock scramble, and wind up with beautiful views either way. Bring plenty of water and some trail snacks, but make sure to carry out everything you carry in.

Stop #3: Yuengling Brewery

To make a day of it, you may also want to drive about 20 minutes West to check out the oldest brewery in the USA – Yuengling Brewery, located in Pottsville, PA. We chose to go here first, since the Museum and Gift Shop are generally only open till 5. You can take a free tour of the brewery which lasts about an hour. Taking the tour is the only way to sample the product afterwards. Tours occur every hour Monday to Friday from 10 to 3, with the museum and gift shop open till 5. We enjoyed the museum but chose to skip the tour for lack of time. There are also a number of local options in Pottsville to get a meal as well, such as the Crimson House or the Eagle Tavern. Enjoy!

Autumn Itinerary Stop #4: Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway

Autumn is a great time to go for a scenic train ride through the mountains of Pennsylvania. About 45 minutes North of Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, you’ll find the charming town of Jim Thorp, the gateway to the Poconos. The public parking lot sits next to the train station. The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway is a popular route for good reason. It is a beautiful ride, especially during October.

General coach tickets cost around $23 per adult, with discounted tickets for children, and various options for upgraded experiences and seating. You can find the schedule here.

If you have time, head into the town afterwards to visit the unique shops and dining options along the cobblestone streets of this enchanting mountain town. Many of these businesses are located in Victorian mansions that were ones residences. The town is named after Jim Thorpe (obviously!), who was an amazing, versatile athlete and the first Native American to win Olympic gold.

If you’re looking for more to do in Pennsylvania, check out this comprehensive post for things to do in different regions of the state.

For other spots to see fall foliage, check out our page on fun seasonal things to do in the Mid-Atlantic USA.