Overview: The Chautauqua-Allegheny region is a total delight for leaf viewing and located in extreme Western New York and Pennsylvania. I can't avoid splitting the two states to include both Lake Chautauqua and Allegany State Park in New York with the Allegheny National Forest in Pennsylvania.
This area between Buffalo, New York and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is all but forgotten by travelers during fall. Maybe not any more.
The oak, cherry, yellow poplar, ash and maple trees of the Allegheny National Forest are perfectly displayed via the Longhouse Scenic Byway. This 29 mile route was designated a National Scenic Byway in 1990 with fantastic views of the Kinzua Dam and the Allegheny Reservoir.
Just to the north and in New York state is the Allegany State Park (note change of spelling). This state park is the largest in New York with major hikes to enjoy. The entire area, Chautauqua Lake to Allegany State Park has great leaf viewing.
Viewing Dates: Good viewing usually begins the last week in September in the higher elevations. The fall viewing season usually peaks the second week in October.
Trees of Show: Maple, beech, birch and oak, hickory
Vote for your favorite leaf viewing vacation: The Poll
