The Perfect Fall Getaway: Leaf Peeping and Luxury at Nemacolin

Autumn Awaits in the Laurel Highlands

For unforgettable autumn escapes, the Laurel Highlands is where the season truly comes to life as the lush greens of summer surrender to autumn’s fiery canvas of gold, crimson, and amber. Crisp mountain air dances through the trees, and a quiet hush settles over rolling hills and forested trails. At the heart of it all is Nemacolin, setting the standard for luxury fall retreats and offering an immersive experience for travelers seeking the finest fall foliage in Pennsylvania.

The Art of Leaf Peeping: Nemacolin’s Natural Show

Pennsylvania boasts a longer and more varied fall foliage season than anywhere else in the world, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Among the finest displays of fall foliage in Pennsylvania, is the Laurel Highlands, a destination beloved for fall mountain getaways. Here, dramatic elevation and exceptional biodiversity converge to create a breathtaking autumnal canvas starring cool-climate species such as quaking aspen and more temperate varieties like scarlet oak.

Autumn’s grand spectacle typically unfolds from late September through mid-October, though for the most accurate forecast, guests are encouraged to consult the Pennsylvania Fall Foliage Map. At Nemacolin, guests enjoy a true front-row experience. Take a look at this flyover video of Nemacolin’s fall scenery, then read onward to discover on-property locations offering some of the best views of the phenomenal fall foliage: 

The Peak

More than just Nemacolin’s hub for year-round adventure, The Peak becomes a spectacular vantage point in the fall. Whether you’re viewing the colorful canopy from up high on the Zip Line and High Ropes Challenge Course or unwinding in the hot tub, autumn’s vibrant colors elevate every moment.

Shepherd’s Rock and Mystic Rock Golf Courses

Set amid the rolling contours of the Allegheny Mountains, the Pete Dye-designed Shepherd’s Rock is framed by some of the most vibrant fall foliage in Pennsylvania, offering sweeping views as the fairways climb hills and plunge into valleys bursting with seasonal color. Mystic Rock, another masterful Dye creation at Nemacolin with exceptional foliage views, was recently named one of  “America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses” by Golf Digest.

Nemacolin’s Trails

Immerse in the spectacular fall colors, and breathe in the crisp highland air as you walk or cycle along Nemacolin’s winding trails. Pause to admire rustling woodlands and golden meadows, or weave through the Wildlife Habitats among more than 2,200 acres across the resort. For art lovers, the private Outdoor Sculpture Tour highlights 25 of Nemacolin’s most striking installations alongside scenic vistas. A standout stop: panoramic views of the Laurel Highlands from the Heart Sculpture at Falling Rock.

Meditation Garden

One of Nemacolin’s most serene and visually striking outdoor spaces, the Meditation Garden offers a peaceful setting for introspection, particularly in autumn, when vibrant fall foliage surrounds tranquil sculptures and quiet pathways. Within the garden, you’ll find the Labyrinth, created by former Artist in Residence Dorit Brauer, designed to inspire release, reception, and reflection. Nearby, the Chapel provides a quiet sanctuary amid the hush of turning leaves.

Reflections

Found at one of the resort’s highest and most scenic elevations, Reflections offers panoramic, glass-walled views of the surrounding mountainside awash in a riot of rich color. On a clear day, the mountains of West Virginia and Maryland join the Pennsylvania views. These horizons provide steep competition to the gallery’s acclaimed collection of contemporary art by renowned artists such as Dustin Yellin, Mia Tarducci, and Danny Perkins. 

Scenic Drives Through the Highlands: Where Every Turn is a Postcard

Autumn escapes in the Laurel Highlands just aren’t complete without winding through the region’s picturesque roadways. Below are some of the most unforgettable scenic drives Pennsylvania has to offer.

Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway: Routes 711 & 381

Stretching through rolling hills, forested ridges, and historic towns, the 68-mile Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway along Routes 711 and 381 easily ranks among the top scenic drives Pennsylvania leaf-peepers love most. The drive is dotted with opportunities to hike, bike, or paddle and includes two of Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural gems: the iconic Fallingwater, made even more impressive when framed by colorful fall leaves, and Kentuck Knob, found at a 2,000-foot elevation, providing sweeping vistas.

National Road: Route 40 from Brownsville to Addison

A drive along the National Road, America’s first federally funded highway, delivers a scenic journey rich with history and vibrant autumn color. In Brownsville, take a guided fall tour of Nemacolin Castle, a beautifully preserved 18th-century mansion overlooking the Monongahela River. Further along the route, make a stop at the Christian W. Klay Winery, the highest mountaintop vineyard east of the Rockies, where you can sip estate wines while taking in panoramic views of the Laurel Highlands awash in autumn brilliance. 

Ohiopyle Loop

Located just minutes from Nemacolin, the Ohiopyle Loop unfolds in autumn into golden yellows, burnt oranges, and rich crimson reds. With winding driving, biking, and hiking routes among the most celebrated in Pennsylvania, you’ll venture through Ohiopyle State Park and its breathtaking sites such as Cucumber Falls, the Natural Water Slides, and the Ohiopyle Falls overlook.

Flight 93 National Memorial

From Nemacolin, the drive to the Flight 93 National Memorial winds northward, tracing a portion of the old Lincoln Highway and opening onto sweeping farmland. Created in 2011, to honor the forty passengers and crew members of United Flight 93, the memorial is a place of profound remembrance in every season, yet visiting in autumn adds extra poignancy.

Mount Davis in Forbes State Forest

As the highest point in Pennsylvania, the 3,213-foot-tall Mount Davis offers fall foliage views from its observation tower that are nothing short of extraordinary. Although it’s a 40-minute drive from Nemacolin along US-40 East/National Pike, reaching the summit is an easy two-mile round-trip hike via the High Point Trail from the main parking area.

Luxury Fall Retreats Begin With Comfort

With five distinct lodging options, Nemacolin offers the perfect setting for luxury fall retreats, tailored to every type of stay.

Falling Rock

Rooms and suites at the Art Deco-inspired Falling Rock feature cozy fireplaces and private balconies overlooking color-drenched ridgelines, ideal for romantic fall mountain getaways. An added bonus: champagne service and light hors d’oeuvres during golden hour.

The Chateau

With sumptuously reimagined interiors and floor-to-ceiling windows that frame panoramic views of some of the most vibrant fall foliage in Pennsylvania, The Chateau offers an immersive seasonal experience. Dedicated butlers attend to every detail, allowing guests to fully relax into their highland escape.

The Grand Lodge

Blending woodsy charm with high-end luxury, The Grand Lodge is ideal for families or friends seeking fall mountain getaways with flexibility and style. All-suite accommodations, private balconies, and connecting suites make it easy to settle in and stretch out, all while being surrounded by the colors of the season.

The Homes

Tucked into a wooded enclave, The Homes are designed for families and small groups looking to experience luxury fall retreats in complete privacy. The newest addition, Case Brown Cottage, offers a true sportsman’s escape. It combines a secluded streamside setting with two fireplaces, a private firepit, expert guides, and bespoke butler service for an experience that embraces both luxury and adventure.

The Estates

The Estates provide expansive lodging for large groups and celebration-worthy gatherings. At Dogwood, guests enjoy rustic sophistication with panoramic views of the fall foliage-lined Shepherd’s Rock, LED fireplaces, a hot tub, and fire-warmed patios. With several home and estate rentals at the resort, a fall getaway has every amenity at your fingertips.

Wellness and Warmth: Fall Spa Experiences

Nemacolin’s Woodlands Spa and Holistic Healing Center blend mountain tranquility, expert therapies, and seasonal offerings, making them a must for luxury fall retreats. Indulge in the Holistic Healing Center’s Warm Spiced Mud Wrap, a full-body ritual featuring dry brush exfoliation and a detoxifying spice-infused wrap. For deep relaxation, the Woodlands Spa’s Hot Stone Massage uses warm basalt stones, which makes for a soothing complement to the crisp mountain air outside. After your treatment, retreat to the fireside lounge and let the golden quiet of fall settle in. 

Autumn Adventures: Outdoor Excursions Worth Bundling Up For

Whether you’re seeking quality time with family or a cozy, adventure-filled escape for two, Nemacolin offers a wide variety of experiences that capture the essence of fall mountain getaways.

Backwoods Trail Rides

Immerse in the scenic beauty of the Laurel Highlands on horseback. Backwoods Trail Rides begin at Nemacolin’s Equestrian Center, leading guests through two miles of wooded trails lined with towering oaks, sugar maples, and black gum trees for a vivid kaleidoscope of fall’s best colors.

Sporting Clays

Nestled within 150 wooded acres of the Laurel Highlands, the Rod & Range Club is home to one of the nation’s top sporting clay facilities. Experience the thrill as clay targets mimic wild game birds in flight, soaring across a colorful autumn landscape.

Plein Air Painting

One of Nemacolin’s most popular artistic experiences, Plein Air Painting becomes even more captivating against a backdrop of some of the most beautiful fall foliage in Pennsylvania. Once dry, paintings can be packaged and mailed home, offering a vibrant reminder of autumn in the Laurel Highlands.

Seasonal Dining & Fireside Moments

Autumn at Nemacolin brings with it locally inspired dishes, fireside cocktails, and al fresco dining amidst the changing landscape. 

Fawn & Fable

At Fawn & Fable, the farm‑to‑table heart of Nemacolin, local growers supply everything from pasture-raised duck and pheasant to goat’s milk cheddar and gouda, ensuring every dish is a true reflection of the land and season.

Gusto!

One of the most scenic places to dine outdoors at Nemacolin, Gusto! pairs wood-fired pizzas, handmade pastas, and Italian wines with panoramic views of the resort’s grounds.

Amber Bar at Falling Rock

As soft autumn light spills across the landscape, Amber Bar’s elegant terrace at Falling Rock is a prime perch for enjoying autumn’s display. Settle in for a leisurely lunch or a sunset cocktail like the autumn-inspired Amber Apple 75, an inspired twist on a whiskey sour and a French 75.

The Hardy Room

Cozy fireside nightcaps don’t get any better than at The Hardy Room, Nemacolin’s refined smoking lounge, where a curated selection of fine bourbons, cognacs, and world-class cigars awaits both aficionados and the merely curious. With a fireplace inside and seating under the stars just outside in The Chateau Gardens along the resort’s airstrip, this is an ambient nightspot for lingering conversations, quiet contemplation, savoring life’s finer moments, and enjoying the warmth of a slow, luxurious pause.

Lobby Bar

Savor a cocktail from the Lobby Bar and sink into the inviting warmth of the wood firepit on Lafayette Square, located just outside The Chateau.

Circle Bar

Curl up beside the flickering gas firepits on the terrace outside The Grand Lodge with a favorite drink from the Circle Bar.

Why Nemacolin is the Ultimate Fall Getaway

Nemacolin in autumn is defined by cozy fireside moments, crisp mountain air, and some of the most striking fall foliage in Pennsylvania — setting the gold standard for luxury fall retreats. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape or a family adventure, this is where fall mountain getaways become something extraordinary. Reserve early at 877.783.5964 with a Resort Reservations Specialist to ensure the best availability. For personalized guidance and itinerary planning, contact the Experience Team at 855.421.1405.