“Fall is our favorite time to paddle. You just can’t beat the migrations of birds combined with the foliage!” Photo: Jared Wickerham
To many, fall foliage is Pennsylvania’s apex for natural beauty, and, perhaps the most beautiful visage of the ephemeral display can be seen in the reflection of Lake Arthur at Moraine State Park. A short drive from Pittsburgh, the lake is surrounded by rolling hills in a historic moraine depression that seems to cradle the Autumn colors and amplify the experience. Here are three great ways to experience the foliage at the iconic Park.
1. Paddleboarding Eco Tours with SurfSUP Adventures
SurfSUP Adventures has been providing eco tours at Moraine State Park since 2011 and offers one of the most unique perspectives for experiencing the fall foliage. Their adventures are fully-guided and take you along limestone cliffs, around islands, and through a labyrinth of ferns and forest. All the tours include free photography so you can enjoy the moment and still have it captured to relive later. The water typically stays warm here through mid-October and SurfSUP provides complimentary wetsuits if needed. Learn more at: www.surfsupadventures.com.
SurfSUP provides an intimate experience with the fall foliage including going through tunnels of leaves on the water! Photo: Jared Wickerham
2. Boat Cruises with Moraine Preservation Fund
If you’d like to experience the lake from the water but want a more relaxed approach, take a ride on Preston's Pearl, a 50-passenger enclosed pontoon boat and Moraine State Park’s premier attraction, now featuring a second floor open-air deck. You will enjoy learning about the area’s natural history and osprey reintroduction, while appreciating the unique scenery and wildlife on these cruises around Lake Arthur. Boat tours operate on a regular schedule throughout the summer and fall. Tickets are required and can be purchased online or at the Owlet Gift Shop. Learn more at: https://morainepreservationfund.org/activities/boat-tours-cruises/
Preston’s Pearl has an upper viewing deck where you can get great perspectives of the lake and foliage.
3. Moraine State Park Bike Trail
A paved, seven-mile bicycle trail winds near the shoreline and offers great views of the lake and fall foliage at Moraine. The trail can be accessed at many places in the Lakeview Beach and Watts Bay Marina areas. You can bring your own bike to enjoy the trail, or rent one from Spoke House Bike Rentals. Learn more at: https://www.visitbutlercounty.com/what-to-do/attractions/spoke-house-bike-rentals
Lake Arthur provides a tough view to beat from the water! Photo: Jared Wickerham
