Best Things to Do in Cook Forest This Fall: Gateway Lodge’s Guide to the Perfect Autumn Getaway
Fall in Cook Forest is one of Pennsylvania’s most magical seasonal escapes. Crisp mornings, fiery leaves, and the scent of pine and campfire make it perfect for leaf-peeping hikes, elk bugling, small-town festivals, or a cozy cabin retreat. At its heart, Gateway Lodge offers a family-owned retreat with fireside evenings, slow mornings, and farm-to-table dining. Here’s your guide to the best things to do in and around Cook Forest this fall.
Ride the Rail 66 Country Trail
Just 11 minutes from Gateway Lodge, the Rail 66 Country Trail is one of Pennsylvania’s most scenic bike paths to enjoy fall in Cook Forest. This paved, family-friendly trail winds through farmland and forest, offering a leisurely way to experience fall color on two wheels. Park across from Car Mate Trailers in Leeper, PA, and ride past blazing maples and golden oaks this fall. Directions from Gateway Lodge here.
Fall Views That Take Your Breath Away: Kinzua Skywalk & Cook Forest Fire Tower
After exploring the trails and bike paths, another way to savor fall in Cook Forest is by taking in these spectacular viewpoints. Visit the Kinzua Skywalk and walk 300 feet above Kinzua Gorge, enjoying panoramic fall views of Pennsylvania’s vibrant valleys. Near Gateway Lodge, climb the Cook Forest Fire Tower #9 , a 1929 landmark offering 360-degree views. From there, stroll to Seneca Point Overlook to gaze across the Clarion River Valley framed in stunning fall colors.
Witness the Elk Rut in Benezette
Fall is elk season in Pennsylvania. Just over an hour from Gateway Lodge, Elk Country Visitor Center in Benezette hosts the largest wild elk herd. Visit at dawn or dusk for the best viewing. If you’re lucky, you may hear bulls bugling during the rut. From September through October, book a horse-drawn wagon ride at the visitor center to see elk up close. Get directions from Gateway here.
Hike Among Ancient Giants
Step into the Forest Cathedral, Cook Forest’s old-growth wonder where 450-year-old hemlocks and pines tower overhead. Experience fall in Cook Forest along trails like Longfellow and Seneca, with must-see stops at Seneca Point Overlook and the park’s iconic Swinging Bridge. It’s one of the best fall hikes in Pennsylvania.
Paddle the Wild & Scenic Clarion River
After soaking in the fiery foliage from the ground, experience it from the water along the Clarion River. Nothing says fall in Cook Forest like floating down the Clarion River, surrounded by old-growth hemlocks and fiery fall leaves. Rent a kayak, canoe, or inner tube from Pale Whale Canoe Fleet inside the state park, or try GoPaddlePA in Clarion for flexible kayak and paddle board rentals. Whether you want a peaceful morning paddle or a lively float with friends, the Clarion is one of the most beautiful rivers in Pennsylvania.
Take a Fall Foliage Train Ride in Titusville
Step back in time aboard the Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad for a 3-hour fall foliage excursion through Oil Creek State Park. Running October 1–16, these nostalgic rides showcase Pennsylvania’s autumn beauty from the comfort of a historic train car. It’s an especially magical experience for families or train enthusiasts staying at Gateway Lodge. Directions from Gateway here.
Family Fun at Coolspring Corn Maze & Market
For families with kids, the Coolspring Corn Maze is a fall tradition. With its sprawling corn maze, pumpkin patch, wagon rides, and kid-friendly games, it’s the ultimate autumn playground. Don’t forget to bring home a pumpkin or two for carving back at the cabin. Directions from Gateway here.
Celebrate the Season at Local Fall Festivals
Autumn in Northwestern Pennsylvania is festival season. A few of our favorites include:
- Cook Forest Gingerbread Tour: More than a shopping experience, this festival lets you experience fall in Cook Forest as the village transforms into a cozy, holiday-inspired wonderland. Local artisans and shops showcase handmade gifts, unique crafts, and festive décor, perfect for finding one-of-a-kind treasures while enjoying the crisp autumn air.
- Clarion Autumn Leaf Festival: A nine-day celebration steeped in community tradition, the festival features lively parades, craft fairs, live music, and an array of food vendors. Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture, sample seasonal treats, and enjoy family-friendly activities against a backdrop of stunning fall foliage.
- Franklin Applefest: Drawing thousands each year, Applefest is a true celebration of the harvest. From fresh apple cider and warm pies to artisan crafts and live entertainment, the festival captures the taste, sights, and sounds of fall in Pennsylvania, making it a must-visit for families and food lovers alike.
Taste the Flavors of Fall at Local Breweries
Fall calls for craft brews, and the Cook Forest region is home to a growing brewery scene. It’s another way to savor fall in Cook Forest after hiking or paddling. Stop by Lost in the Wilds Brewing for creative seasonal pours, sample small-batch ales at Mechanistic Brewing Co., or try a classic at Clarion River Brewing Company. Afterward, return to Gateway Lodge’s cozy suites to unwind by the fire — the perfect end to a crisp autumn day.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fall in Cook Forest
When is peak fall foliage in Cook Forest?
Peak fall colors typically arrive in mid-October, with vibrant reds, oranges, and golds lasting into late October. Staying at Gateway Lodge puts you just minutes from the best leaf-peeping trails and overlooks.
What are the best fall hikes in Cook Forest?
Top fall hikes include the Longfellow Trail through the Forest Cathedral, Seneca Trail to Seneca Point Overlook, and the family-friendly Swinging Bridge Trail. These trails showcase 450-year-old hemlocks and pines, making them some of the best fall hikes in Pennsylvania.
Where can I see the best views of fall leaves in Cook Forest?
For breathtaking panoramic views, climb the Fire Tower or hike to Seneca Point Overlook. The vibrant colors along the Forest Cathedral trails and Clarion River Valley are not to be missed.
Does Cook Forest have cabins for fall getaways?
Yes. Gateway Lodge offers cozy cabins, Fireside Suites, and Gallery Rooms — perfect for romantic fall getaways, family trips, or a peaceful digital detox in Pennsylvania’s autumn woods.
Can you kayak or canoe the Clarion River in autumn?
Absolutely. Fall paddling on the Clarion River is stunning, with fiery leaves reflecting on the water. Rentals are available from Pale Whale Canoe Fleet in Cook Forest or self-service through GoPaddlePA in Clarion.
How far is Cook Forest from Pittsburgh?
Cook Forest is just under two hours from Pittsburgh, making it an ideal weekend getaway for leaf-peeping, hiking, and fall adventures. Staying at Gateway Lodge gives you a convenient, comfortable base.
Book your fall stay at Gateway Lodge and discover why this hidden gem is one of the best fall getaways in Pennsylvania.