October 02, 2023

Pick a Bushel of Fun in Cumberland Valley this Fall

By Cumberland Valley Visitors Bureau

Limited - Cumberland Valley - Waggoners Gap Hawk Watch

Courtesy/Cumberland Valley Visitors Bureau

Waggoners Gap Hawk Watch, Carlisle

Each season in Cumberland Valley promises an endless array of experiences for the ultimate weekend getaway, but it’s during the fall that this region truly comes alive. Now is the perfect time to plan a vibrant escape brimming with festivals, food, fun, and more.

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Whether you are seeking out a breathtaking view, looking to recharge along a quiet path, meander through a corn maze, find dazzling fall foliage, or savor craft beverages, enjoy a weekend getaway amid the quiet beauty of south-central Pennsylvania, just a short two-hour drive from Philadelphia. Your weekend is calling.

Outdoor Recreation

Limited - Cumberland Valley - Yellow Breeches

Courtesy/Cumberland Valley Visitors Bureau

Yellow Breeches Creek

Whether you are an experienced hiker or novice, 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. Sweater weather makes hiking even better. Seek solitude and serenity as you meander along trails glowing with dazzling fall foliage colors or try a more challenging hike where you will be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of 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 featuring some of the world’s most sought-after fly-fishing hotspots including the Yellow Breeches Creek, LeTort Spring Run, and Big Spring Creek Greenway. 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.

Fall Fun

Limited - Cumberland Valley - Meadowbrooke Gourds 2

Courtesy/Cumberland Valley Visitors Bureau

Meadowbrooke Gourds, Carlisle

Cumberland Valley’s fall festivals and events celebrate the season’s bounty 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 the Valley's local parks or attractions will put you in the center of festivals focused on pumpkins, apples, and sunflowers. Traveling on a budget? See our guide to Inexpensive Things to do this Fall.

Sign Up for a Free Passport

Limited - Cumberland Valley - Lovedrafts

Courtesy/Cumberland Valley Visitors Bureau

Lovedrafts Brewing Co, Mechanicsburg

Sign up for the new Cumberland Valley Farm Fresh Trail and use your passport to travel picturesque back roads to farm markets filled with the bounty of the fall season. Load up on u-pick pumpkins or apples, roam around a corn maze, or enjoy the beauty of the season on a relaxing hayride. Check in at over 15 locations and earn points towards prizes. As you cruise the quiet country lanes, roll down the windows and soak in a serene and stunning landscape brimming with beautiful fall colors.

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 over 30 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.

Places to Stay

Cumberland Valley’s hotels fit every style and budget. From luxurious lodging, to comfortable and conveniently located brand hotels, to intimate and unique bed and breakfasts, your accommodations promise a perfect home base for your getaway.

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 at the Cumberland Valley Visitors Center.

What are you waiting for? With so many choices, you’re sure to find just the right mix of relaxation and fun during your weekend escape. Your weekend is calling. The hardest part is returning home.

Cumberland Valley Visitors Bureau