Each season in Cumberland Valley promises an endless variety of experiences for the ideal Weekend Easy getaway but this region really shines in the fall when you can plan a colorful weekend escape filled with outdoor adventure, spectacular fall foliage, food, festivals, and more. Whether you are traveling as a couple or with family or friends, you can dine, play, explore and discover the perfect place to get away from it all. So, grab your jacket, put on your walking shoes, and enjoy the warm days and comfortably cool nights in the quiet, natural beauty of south-central Pennsylvania. Your weekend is waiting for you.
Outdoor Recreation
Whether you are an experienced hiker or biker or just starting out, discover and explore Cumberland Valley’s more than 200 miles of scenic trails, including the 13-mile Cumberland Valley Rail Trail and 46 miles of the iconic Appalachian Trail. Seek out solitude and serenity as you meander along trails glowing with dazzling fall foliage colors or try a more challenging hike that rewards you with spectacular panoramic views of the Cumberland Valley. Combine hiking, scenic vistas, and bird watching with a visit to Waggoner’s Gap Hawk Watch which is one of the best sites in PA to watch the fall hawk migration.
Cumberland Valley is also a flyfisher’s paradise with some of the world’s most sought-after fly-fishing hotspots. Flyfishers from all over travel to fish at the Yellow Breeches Creek, LeTort Spring Run, and Big Spring Creek Greenway. Be sure to include a visit to the Pennsylvania Fly Fishing Museum, which preserves the history and rich fly-fishing heritage of the state. Stay at Allenberry Resort, one of only three Orvis-certified fly-fishing lodges in Pennsylvania. Nearby, TCO Outdoors has all your hiking and fly-fishing needs
Whatever trail you choose, you will be whisked away from buzzing electronics and mundane to-do lists and into wide-open spaces that will elicit plenty of “oohs” and “aahs.”
Cumberland Valley Beer Trail
After an unforgettable day of outdoor adventure, reinvigorate your taste buds and experience the unique flavors of locally-crafted beers, wines, ciders, and spirits at more than 20 locations along the Cumberland Valley Beer Trail. Sign up for a free digital passport, check-in at participating locations, and start earning prizes. You will be impressed with the year-round seasonal releases, but for many, fall is the best time to enjoy some fantastic pours.
This weekend is about you, so choose your locations based on your tastes and preferences: dine inside or outdoors; try a new beer style or order distilled spirits instead; listen to live music or find a quiet, intimate location for two; or enjoy a Sunday brunch or a post-hike happy hour.
Fall Fun
Cumberland Valley’s fall festivals and events celebrate the bounty of the season mixed with food, drinks, entertainment, and fine arts. As you stroll around charming downtowns filled with boutique shops and the palate-pleasing cuisine of local restaurants, you might find a juried craft festival or a Halloween-themed celebration. A visit to some of our local parks or attractions will put you in the center of festivals focused on pumpkins, apples, and sunflowers.
Mid-to-late October is the perfect time of year to experience the dazzling fall foliage in Cumberland Valley with a driving tour of Instagram-worthy locations that covers 102 miles of picturesque country roads brimming with beautiful colors. As you cruise the quiet back roads, roll down the windows and take in the natural beauty of a serene and stunning landscape. Along the way, you’ll see evidence of Cumberland Valley’s strong agricultural tradition. Stop at roadside stands for seasonal fresh-picked produce or head to a farm market where you can pick your own apples or pumpkins, take a hayride, and roam through a corn maze.
Places to Stay
Cumberland Valley’s hotels fit every style and budget—from luxurious lodging or comfortable brand hotels to intimate and unique bed and breakfasts. And, don’t forget Cumberland Valley’s award-winning campgrounds, some of which also offer cabin and trailer rentals for a slightly less rustic camping adventure. Whatever your choice, all of Cumberland Valley’s lodging is conveniently located—with outdoor exploration and downtown excursions just a stone’s throw away.
Appalachian Trail 
Children’s Lake
Plan Your Trip
Order a copy of the free Cumberland Valley Visitors Guide to help you plan your trip. Once you arrive, pick up free brochures, maps, and guides, or get suggestions from the friendly and knowledgeable staff at the Cumberland Valley Visitors Center.
What are you waiting for? Your Weekend Easy adventure awaits. The hardest part is returning home.
All photos courtesy of Cumberland Valley
