7 Best Fall Things to Do in the Poconos Near Arrowhead Lake (2026)
Published October 23, 2026 | Updated for the October 24–25 weekend
Fall is one of the most beautiful times to visit Pennsylvania's Pocono Mountains. Colorful forests, crisp mountain air, pumpkin festivals, and scenic hiking trails make October an excellent month for a weekend getaway.
If you're staying in Arrowhead Lake in Pocono Lake, PA, you'll find plenty of autumn activities throughout the surrounding region.
Whether you're planning a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a relaxing weekend with friends, here are seven fall experiences worth adding to your Pocono itinerary.
1. Enjoy Fall Foliage at Big Pocono State Park
One of the best ways to experience autumn in the Poconos is to visit Big Pocono State Park.
Located on Camelback Mountain, the park offers sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Visitors can enjoy a 1.4-mile scenic drive along the summit area, with several overlooks offering excellent photography opportunities.
Fall foliage update for October 23, 2026: According to the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau, southern Monroe and Carbon counties are experiencing peak fall colors this week, with vibrant oak and hickory foliage expected to continue through approximately October 28.
Northern areas of the Poconos have already passed peak color, making the southern region particularly appealing for late-October sightseeing. Poconos
Local tip: Visit earlier in the day for fewer crowds and better opportunities to stop at scenic overlooks.
The park typically closes for winter in early December, so fall is an excellent time to explore.
2. Walk Around Tobyhanna Lake
For visitors staying in Arrowhead Lake, Tobyhanna State Park is a wonderful destination for a peaceful autumn outing.
The park features a 5.1-mile Lakeside Trail that circles Tobyhanna Lake, offering opportunities for wildlife watching, photography, and enjoying the changing seasons.
You don't have to complete the entire loop. Even a shorter walk along the lakeshore provides beautiful woodland scenery.
The park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset, although individual facilities and seasonal activities may have different schedules. Pennsylvania Government
Best for: Couples, families, nature lovers, and visitors looking for a relaxing outdoor activity.
Local tip: Bring comfortable walking shoes and an extra layer. Temperatures near the lake can feel noticeably cooler than in surrounding towns.
3. Discover Boulder Field at Hickory Run State Park
Looking for something unusual?
Visit Hickory Run State Park, home to one of Pennsylvania's most remarkable natural landmarks.
Boulder Field is an enormous, nearly flat expanse of rocks measuring approximately 400 feet wide and 1,800 feet long.
The field was formed by natural geological processes thousands of years ago and is designated a National Natural Landmark.
Visitors can also explore hiking trails, wooded scenery, and waterfalls throughout the park.
The 25-foot Hawk Falls is another popular attraction, although the trail can become slippery during wet weather. Pennsylvania Government
Local tip: Wear sturdy shoes when visiting Boulder Field. Some rocks are unstable, and walking across them requires care.
This is a particularly interesting stop for families with older children and anyone who enjoys discovering unusual natural landscapes.
4. Celebrate Fall at Yenser's Tree Farm
For a traditional autumn experience, visit Yenser's Tree Farm in Lehighton.
The farm's annual Fall Fest features pumpkin picking, hayrides, a corn maze, seasonal food, and activities for children.
The final weekend of the 2026 Fall Fest is October 24–25.
According to the farm's official website:
Hours: Saturday and Sunday, 11 AM–6 PM
Admission and parking: Free
Hayrides: Free
Activity ticket: $13 per person
Children ages 2 and under: Free activity admission
Pumpkins: $0.60 per pound
The activity ticket includes attractions such as the corn maze, corn cannon, Reindeer Train, and Farm Fun Zone. Yenser's Tree Farm
This is an excellent choice for families who want to experience classic fall activities without spending the entire day traveling between attractions.
Check the Yenser's Tree Farm official website before visiting.
5. Visit the Great Pocono Pumpkin Festival
Another family-friendly autumn destination is the Great Pocono Pumpkin Festival at Country Junction.
The festival features hayrides, a corn maze, pumpkin activities, carnival attractions, live entertainment, and seasonal treats.
October 24–25, 2026, is the festival's final weekend.
The organizer lists weekend hours of 11 AM–6 PM, with general admission priced at $15 per person. Children ages 2 and under enter free. Certain additional attractions cost extra.
Live musical entertainment is also scheduled for the final weekend. Country Junction
This attraction is particularly appealing to families with younger children, although visitors of all ages can enjoy the festive atmosphere.
For tickets and current information, visit the Great Pocono Pumpkin Festival website.
6. Explore Historic Jim Thorpe in Autumn
Often called the Switzerland of America, Jim Thorpe is one of the Poconos' most picturesque towns.
Its historic architecture, mountain scenery, small shops, and cafés make it a popular destination for fall day trips.
Visitors can explore downtown streets, browse local shops, or investigate scenic railway excursions through the surrounding Lehigh Gorge.
Although the town's main 2026 Fall Foliage Festival concluded on October 18, Jim Thorpe remains an attractive place to visit later in October.
The local visitors center has announced extended hours of 8 AM–6 PM for October 24–25. Poconos
Local tip: Downtown parking can fill quickly during fall weekends. Arrive early, especially if you have train tickets or other scheduled activities.
7. Experience a Halloween Pumpkin Light Display
If you're looking for an evening activity, consider the Electrifying Jack-O-Lantern Experience at the West End Fairgrounds.
The 2026 event runs on select evenings from October 9 through November 1.
Visitors can enjoy displays featuring thousands of illuminated, hand-carved pumpkins, creating a memorable Halloween atmosphere.
The Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau lists operating hours of 7–9 PM on scheduled evenings, including October 24–25.
Advance online ticket purchases are required. Confirm the current schedule and ticket availability before traveling. Poconos
It's an appealing way to finish a fall day after exploring hiking trails, local towns, or pumpkin festivals.
Where to Stay for a Fall Getaway in the Poconos
After spending the day exploring autumn attractions, returning to a comfortable mountain vacation home can make the experience even better.
Poconos Vacations offers professionally managed vacation rentals in Arrowhead Lake, a private gated community in Pocono Lake, Pennsylvania.
Depending on the property, guests can enjoy private hot tubs, fireplaces, game rooms, outdoor fire pits, wooded surroundings, and spacious accommodations for families or groups.
Whether you're planning a romantic weekend or a family fall getaway, you can browse available homes, compare amenities, and book directly.
Explore Arrowhead Lake vacation rentals and check availability
Please note that Arrowhead Lake requires advance guest registration and mandatory community fees. Outdoor pools and certain recreational amenities operate seasonally.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fall in the Poconos
When is peak fall foliage in the Poconos?
Peak fall colors vary by elevation and location. In 2026, northern areas reached peak earlier in October, while parts of southern Monroe and Carbon counties are experiencing peak color during October 22–28. Check the Pocono Mountains Fall Foliage Forecast for updates.
What are the best fall activities for families in the Poconos?
Popular options include pumpkin festivals, scenic train excursions, state park visits, hayrides, and exploring local towns. Activities such as corn mazes and pumpkin picking are particularly popular in October.
Is Arrowhead Lake a good place to stay in the fall?
Yes. Arrowhead Lake offers a peaceful wooded setting and access to attractions throughout the Pocono Mountains. Private vacation homes can be especially appealing for guests who enjoy outdoor relaxation, fireplaces, and hot tubs.
Are there free things to do in the Poconos during fall?
Yes. Visitors can explore state parks, enjoy scenic drives, and walk through historic towns. Some fall festivals also offer free admission, although individual activities may require tickets.
Can I book a Pocono cabin with a private hot tub?
Yes. Several Arrowhead Lake vacation rentals feature private hot tubs, making them popular choices for cooler fall weekends. Browse available options at Poconos Vacations.
Plan Your Pocono Fall Adventure
From colorful mountain overlooks and peaceful lakeside walks to pumpkin festivals and historic towns, the Pocono Mountains offer plenty of reasons to visit during autumn.
Whether you're planning a day trip or an extended mountain getaway, late October is an excellent time to explore the region.
For a relaxing place to stay, browse Pocono vacation homes at Poconos.Vacations and find the right property for your next adventure.
Event information and fall foliage conditions were verified October 23, 2026. Dates, operating hours, prices, and seasonal conditions may change. Always check official attraction websites before visiting.