Times Observer photo by Josh Cotton Warren County might be on the far side of the foliage season but there’s still some good color out there. This photo was taken Monday at Washington Park.

Fall foliage might be on the decline for the season but the Warren County Visitors Bureau is highlighting a survey that claims Longhouse Scenic Byway is one of the top fall foliage drives in the country.

The state’s most recent foliage report indicates that Warren is one of several counties in the northern tier – including Erie, Crawford, McKean, Elk, Cameron and Potter that are listed as “starting to fade.”

According to the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, that means there is “still some nice color” but that color “won’t last more than a few more days.”

Many counties south and west of Warren are in “best color” while the southeast portion of the state is “approaching best color.”

“The pattern of chilly nights has continued, coaxing many forest canopies comprising Penn’s Woods to a brilliant crescendo,” the report details. “Vivid fall color is now widespread throughout the Commonwealth.

“Awesome autumn hues can be found from the Poconos to the central and southern Appalachians west through the Allegheny Plateau. Fall foliage enthusiasts can expect impressive color just about anywhere in the Keystone State throughout the forecast period.”

Specifically in the northwest region, DCNR says that colors are “beginning to fade.

“Oaks continue to display their brownish-red hues and hickories are also sporting bright golden leaves. Many other species (e.g. maples) have already displayed their best coloration and are shedding leaves.”

A local route has been highlighted as among the best in the nation, as well.

“Longhouse National Scenic Byway was just ranked #3 in the United States for beautiful fall foliage drives,” the WCVB posted on Facebook. “But who’s surprised?!?”

That ranking comes from a Sept. 2023 poll of 3,000 drivers by a Volkswagen dealer in Florida.

“The Allegheny Scenic Drive in Pennsylvania is a notable route for observing fall foliage primarily because it traverses the expansive Allegheny National Forest,” the report detailed. This area contains a significant concentration of deciduous trees, which, during the fall season, undergo a transformation, displaying a range of red, orange, and yellow hues.

“The topography of the region, characterized by its hills, lakes, and dense woodlands, enhances the viewing experience by offering diverse vantage points. Additionally, the drive features multiple overlooks and pull-offs, facilitating easy stops for observation and photography. The combination of natural biodiversity and the region’s geographical features make it a prime location for fall foliage enthusiasts.”