Foliage in Ohio usually starts changing in mid-September, but October is the month when Ohio's fall colors are at their peak. The first two weeks in October are when northern Ohio's colors are in their peak, and the third and fourth weeks in October are when the central and southern parts of Ohio will generally have the best color of fall foliage.
There are a variety of trees in Ohio that change colors in the fall. Cherry, oak, dogwood and sumac trees turn red, while beech, hickory, ash and cottonwood trees turns shades of yellow and gold. Sassafras, sweetgum, buckeye and maple trees display mixed shades of reds, oranges and yellows.
While brilliant colors can be seen all across the state, there are specific places in Ohio that are well-known for their vibrant fall colors and are worth a tour for those looking to see the season in all its splendor. Delaware State Park in central Ohio, the Monroe Lake Wildlife Area in southeast Ohio, Lake Milton State Park in northeast Ohio, and Mary Jane Thurston State Park in northwestern Ohio are a few protected areas that are known for their presentation of fall colors.
People looking to see the fall colors in Ohio can take a road trip across the state, or they can stay close to home and hike or camp among the colors of the season.
