Let’s go on a scenic drive today, Pittsburgh! Those rolling hills of Western Pennsylvania might become a huge nuisance once the snow and ice reappear on the landscape. But for now, however, those hills have transformed into an artist’s canvas, painted in the rich golds, reds, and oranges of autumn. That makes now the perfect time to set off on a leisurely one to two-hour drive through Western Pennsylvania to see the beautiful fall colors.

Roll down the windows;, turn up the tunes, and hit the road on a spectacular 68-mile journey along the Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway, which winds through Westmoreland and Fayette Counties.

Flickr/Jessica

The scenic byway follows PA Routes 711 and 381, starting at the West Virginia border near Fayette County. You’ll then travel through such picturesque areas as Jones Mills and Donegal, ending in Seward.

Flickr/Laura Pontiggia

Even if you just drive along the scenic byway without stopping, you’ll have an abundance of fall scenery to admire – from farms framed in the colors of autumn to the rolling hills dotted with colorful trees.

Flickr/jimmy thomas

However, if you want to explore some of the sites along the route, you’ll have plenty from which to choose, including Ohiopyle State Park.

Flickr/John Skodak

If you’re not up for hiking, you can still admire two waterfalls – Cucumber Falls and Ohiopyle Falls – surrounded by the vibrant fall foliage.

Flickr/Photo Phiend

In the mood for a meal surrounded by the fall colors? Consider a stop at Out of the Fire Café in Donegal, flanked by lush trees.

Flickr/Out of the Fire Café

Spend a morning or an afternoon in the charming small town of Ligonier, also along the Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway.

Flickr/Michelle Spomer In addition to its sensational fall foliage, downtown Ligonier features quaint streets dotted with charming restaurants and shops.

Click here for a map of the Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway.

Flickr/David Cornwall

Do you have a favorite fall drive through Western Pennsylvania? Tell us about it in the comments! If you’re on the hunt for a shorter scenic drive this autumn, you’ll find plenty of opportunities in and around Pittsburgh. Click here to read more.

Flickr/Jessica

Flickr/Laura Pontiggia

Flickr/jimmy thomas

Flickr/John Skodak

Flickr/Photo Phiend

Flickr/Out of the Fire Café

Flickr/Michelle Spomer

In addition to its sensational fall foliage, downtown Ligonier features quaint streets dotted with charming restaurants and shops.

Flickr/David Cornwall

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Address: Laurel Highlands, PA, USA