Autumn Leaves in Lancaster County

Autumn Leaves in Lancaster County

For many, the sight of leaves changing color in the fall is enchanting. Although the enchantment may wear off when the time to rake arrives, it is a small price to pay for the natural beauty the hues of autumn provide. But why do the leaves change colors?

Leaves in Lancaster County

The truth is, they don’t. In fact, leaves are red and yellow all year round. No, it is not an optical illusion; it is just that in the spring and summer the red and yellow pigments are “outshined” by the green pigment chlorophyll, which is responsible for capturing energy from the sun in order to feed plants. However, plants are a model of efficiency. As autumn and winter approach, the need for leaves begins to fade, and receptors within the leaf signal a need to conserve water within the tree, which causes the chlorophyll to degenerate quickly. Consequently, the red and yellow pigments can shine through, which causes the beautiful colors that are emblematic of the autumn season.

 

Autumn in Strasburg, PA

Here in Lancaster County, we are blessed to have many great opportunities for fall foliage viewing. The idyllic countryside and preserved forests combine to provide a breathtaking glimpse of the natural beauty of the earth that is enhanced by the gorgeous colors of fall. From parks to covered bridges to back roads, there are a million great places for fall foliage viewing. Some of our favorites are below.

Lancaster County Park

 

Lancaster County Park Fall FoliageAmong the greatest joys of the area is having access to such an abundance of preserved natural spaces, and nowhere is that more evident than at the County Park. Many easy hikes and some more challenging ones all offer the opportunity to see leaves amidst their color “change”. Yellow is especially prevalent when the sun peeks through the canopy, which facilitates an almost celestial aura when peering through the woods. It’s one of those things you truly have to see to believe.

 

Back Roads

Pennsylvania backroad fall foliage

 

The coalescence of the countryside and canopy on back roads throughout the county provide more views that are stunning. It really doesn’t matter which direction you drive – you will eventually find a bastion of beauty, augmented by autumn leaves. The Millersville University campus has some nice spots, including the image of the pond at the bottom of the page. Again, we are so blessed to be around such beauty!

 

Driving Through Strasburg

 

 Strasburg fall foliageReally, you don’t even need to leave town and find a park or a back road – there is striking fall foliage right along Miller Street in Strasburg. The Borough of Strasburg has a Shade Tree Commission that gives homeowners trees to plant in their yards; no two trees are alike, and the beneficiary is all of us who love leaves, as we get the full autumn rainbow!

God’s creation here in and around Strasburg is truly glorious, and the fall colors only enhance that. Make sure to spend some time this fall enjoying the serenity of autumn.

 

 

Lancaster County Park Fall Foliage

Unique Christmas Gift Ideas

Unique Christmas Gift Ideas

Gift-giving can be a challenge. Some people are just naturally intuitive and always know what their friends and family want to receive. For the rest of us, picking the perfect gift isn’t so easy. Use this list to guide you in your gift-giving goals this holiday season!

New Years: Five Resolutions Worth Keeping

New Years: Five Resolutions Worth Keeping

New year’s resolutions are great. We should all try to improve with each passing year. But, some resolutions can be unrealistic, self-punishing, or just plain depressing. Stick with some or all of the aforementioned life changes and level up this year.

Ten New Years Pursuits

Ten New Years Pursuits

New Year’s Resolutions are great, but they can also cause a lot of pressure and sabotage our efforts if taken too seriously. Instead, here’s a list of “pursuits” you can aspire to in the coming months:

Interesting Christmas Song Facts

Interesting Christmas Song Facts

Several of the more popular Christmas tunes that we all enjoy (or that drive us crazy after hearing them a thousand times) actually have very interesting origins. Let’s delve down into the history of some of the classics.

The Origins of Christmas Traditions

The Origins of Christmas Traditions

Have you ever wondered what the origins of our most commonplace holiday traditions are? Perhaps a little insight into some of these rituals will give them further meaning and poignancy to you and your family!

Join the Strasburg Fan Club!

Join the Strasburg Fan Club to receive coupons and specials, as well as the latest news about happenings in and around Strasburg.

You have Successfully Subscribed!