Wondering when the color of fall leaves will peak in 2022 near Bethlehem and where best to see them?
David Angotti can tell you. He is a statistical expert and the co-founder of the site SmokyMountains.com. His love for weather, travel, technology, and the autumn season led him to begin developing a nationwide fall leaf map in 2013 after one Smoky Mountains visitor too many inquired with him when the leaves would be at their fall best.
What started as a fun side-project quickly became the most respected nationwide fall leaf map and one of the best fall resources in the country. Now, tens of millions of people use his map each year to plan everything from photography trips to weddings. But the most common users are simply people wondering when the leaves will peak near them, just like you're wondering when leaves will be at their best fall color in Bethlehem!
While not an exact science, the predictive map uses a complex algorithm that carefully analyzes several million data points and outputs approximately 50,000 predictive data pieces to determine when leaves will peak in each part of the country.
Check out the map below to see when the leaves will peak near Bethlehem or another part of the country. Simply move the slider along the bottom to see when leaves are expected to reach peak color in Bethlehem.
Where to go leaf peeping in The Lehigh Valley
While at Macaroni KID Bethlehem we don't use scientific data to determine the best place to go in The Lehigh Valley to see fall leaves, we think we have pretty good intel!
Here are my family's top five places near Allentown to go leaf-peeping:
 Elena Photo via Canva |
Wildlands Conservancy
3701 Orchid Place
Emmaus, PA 18049
The Wildlands is one of my family's favorite places to visit all-year-round, but fall is definitely our favorite! There are a variety of trails, and most of them are easy for little feet to keep up on. Our favorite trail is wood-covered and feels like you're walking on a boardwalk along the river.
 Ikostudio via Canva |
Jacobsburg Education Environmental Center
400 Belfast Rd, Nazareth, PA 18064
Jacobsburg Education Environmental Center is another excellent location if you're looking for a variety of trails. There are some challenging hikes, for older children and adults, and also flatter options along the water. Plus, there are old log cabins that I have convinced by daughter that Sleeping Beauty and her fairies live in.
 Gratisography from Pexels |
Lehigh Parkway
Lehigh Parkway E, Allentown, PA 18103
Lehigh Parkway is a beloved spot for any runner in the Lehigh Valley, but it's also a great place to enjoy fall foliage. It does have some hills, but for the most part it is flat and scenic. Start at the Trout Hatchery and feed some fishies (for only a dollar!) before you begin your nature walk. Bonus: The covered bridge makes for beautiful fall photos!
 Ikostudio via Canva |
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary
1700 Hawk Mountain Rd., Kempton, PA 19529
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary is probably one of the most advanced hiking spots on this list. It's great for older children, teens, or even a great way to spend a date-day with your significant other. The hike may be challenging, but the views are phenomenal! You won't find a better spot in the area to enjoy the beautiful leaves!
 Laura Reed from Pexels |
Trexler Nature Preserve
4935 Orchard Rd, Schnecksville, PA 18078
The Trexler Nature Preserve is huge! It's over 1,100 acres, and has a variety of trails for any level of hiker. For smaller children, I like to park by the river at the exit of the zoo and walk along the water. We've seen people horseback riding, a variety of fun wildlife, and no one complains about their feet being tired! There are also great spots at the top of the mountain looking over the zoo. Bring a picnic lunch and take advantage of one of the many picnic benches scattered throughout the park.
