Colors along Route 507 in Wayne County (file)

POCONO MOUNTAINS - The Pocono Mountains of northeastern Pennsylvania will usher in the stunning colors of autumn with their annual Fall Foliage Hotline, an array of value-added packages featuring activities from scenic train rides to photography workshops, and a bevy of fall-themed festivals designed for leaf-peepers. 

A short drive from most major northeast metropolitan areas, visitors to the four-county region will find the Pocono Mountains more convenient than New England and equally awash in color; before traveling, they can call the 24-hour Fall Foliage Hotline (570-421-5565) or go online to www.800poconos.com to learn exactly when and where to catch peak foliage colors.  Reports include the percentage of full color, the estimated time leaves will be at their peak, the percentage of leaves on the trees and a description of native tree species at their peak.