Glimpses of fall color are becoming more common around the state, a telltale sign that autumn has begun, and Ohio’s trees are about to begin their colorful transformation. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) will offer updates throughout October to help people plan their fall color viewing excursions.

“The weather is settling in nicely with bright, sunny days and cool evenings, which will provide the vibrant colors of fall in Ohio,” said ODNR Fall Color Forester Casey Burdick. “Honeylocusts are showing golden and yellow shades while maples, especially along the edges of woods and in urban areas, are showing some early blushes of red.”

Ohioans are encouraged to get outside and enjoy the season at Ohio’s state parks, forests, nature preserves and wildlife areas where entry is always free. Hiking, biking, running and paddling provide excellent opportunities to take in the colorful woodland scenes while getting great exercise. Rounds of golf, including disc golf, can be played on beautiful, award-winning courses at several state parks and offer another chance to appreciate the season. And don’t forget this is the time of year for collecting buckeyes as the trees are dropping their pods full of buckeye nuts. Plus, Ohio’s native fruit, paw paws, are also dropping to the ground.

People interested in finding the most eye-catching leaves throughout the fall color season should check fallcolor.ohiodnr.gov, Ohio’s official guide to the changing colors. This website includes:

* Weekly color updates and information to help plan a fall color adventure.

* Weekly videos from Burdick highlighting fall color hot spots around the state.

* Links to fall activities, scenic road trips, unique overnight accommodations at Ohio State Parks and more.

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Staff report