The best places to see fall leaves in Ohio

Sometimes, it’s easy to feel like autumn is simply the mourning period for summer before the short, icy days and long, frosty nights of winter. The best cure for this? Getting out to see the brilliant leaves of the season! Whether you go out for a day hike or a weekend backpacking trip, here are some of the best places to see fall leaves in Ohio.

Hocking Hills

Hocking Hills State Park is a go-to for any outdoor adventure. This cool fall weather only makes for a better time! With kids in school, the weekdays will be much less crowded, and the waterfalls look brilliant when surrounded by the orange and red of fall leaves.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is indeed a national park for a reason. I’ve never been to an ugly section of it. Whether walking the boardwalk at Beaver Marsh, hiking along the Cuyahoga River, or going to visit some waterfalls, it’s a beautiful place to see the fall leaves.

My favorite hike in Cuyahoga takes you past a variety of scenery, giving you many ways to take in the fall colors. Start at Pine Lane trailhead in Peninsula and follow the Buckeye trail out to Blue Hen Falls. After you’ve admired the falls as much as you’d like (it’s a great place to pause for a snack or meal), loop back to Peninsula via the Towpath. At the Towpath parking lot in Peninsula (by the train station), follow the Buckeye Trail back up to your car at Pine Lane.

Mohican Memorial State Forest

Mohican has plenty of trails for you to explore the wonderful fall foliage. The best place in the park, however, to view these colors is the fire tower. Climb 125 feet into the sky for a clear view of the gently rolling hills and brightly adorned trees.

Shawnee State Forest

Shawnee State Forest is another wonderful place to see the fall colors. Located in the foothills of the Appalachians, it’s often called the “Little Smokies.” There are plenty of trails to explore the foliage, and if you want a longer trip, there are options for overnight backpacking as well.

Do note: since it’s further south, the leaves will change slightly later than parks in northern Ohio.

Right where you are

Wherever you are is a great place to admire the beauty of fall around you. Stop on your way home from work to feel the crunch beneath your feet. Pause to lift a fallen leaf and observe the way the veins run through the papery skin. Breathe in the crisp air before walking into work. Sit outside during lunch and feel the last warm rays of the sun before winter gets close.

No matter where you are, pause. Let the ordinary become unordinary. Breathe. Hold the breath in your lungs. Shake out your arms. Remember your summer. Warm your winter. Revel in the change surrounding you. Slowly, let your breath out and thank God for this season called autumn.