A Westmoreland County state park was picked by USA Today readers as the top fall foliage spot in the United States.
Keystone State Park, which sits a few miles south of New Alexandria, beat out the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and White Mountain National Forest, among others as the nation’s top spot for Autumn leaf lovers, the Gannett newspaper noted in its “10 Best” list.
It cited the Lakeside Loop trail’s pristine forest as a major reason why.
“Kayaking, wildlife watching, and hiking are all popular activities around Keystone State Park, a sprawling preserve that’s perfect for discovering the abundant beauty of Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands,” USA Today reported.
Go Laurel Highlands, which serves as a tourism-minded visitors bureau for the region west of Johnstown, applauded the announcement.
“We are beyond thrilled that Keystone State Park, right here in the Laurel Highlands, was named Best Fall Foliage Destination by USA TODAY,” Go Laurel Highlands wrote.
The announcement was made as leaves are beginning to show their colors across Western Pennsylvania.
Somerset County is expected to reach peak foliage the second week of October 9 this year, while most of Cambria County will likely see peak color the week of October 23, according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac.