Ohio’s Fall Foliage to Provide Spectacular Backdrop of Colors: Fall Color Photo Contest

COLUMBUS, OH – As shorter days and cooler nights signal the onset of autumn, Ohio’s forest canopies begin their color transformation. Seeking that first glimpse of fall color – the leaves changing to strong reds, vivid yellows and bold oranges – is a favorite fall activity for many that live in or visit the Buckeye State. Throughout the fall color season, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), in partnership with TourismOhio, will help people find the best locations to view and enjoy the beautiful colors that accompany the onset of fall in Ohio.

“Autumn is a great time to explore the outdoors and experience everything that Ohio has to offer,” said ODNR Director James Zehringer. “Fall provides the perfect opportunity for everyone to explore our beautiful state while enjoying the colors of the season.”

Ohio is expected to provide those that crave fall color a spectacular season. Currently, ODNR Fall Color Forester Casey Burdick expects the fall colors to run close to traditional timing with peaks in northern Ohio being the second week of October, peaks in central Ohio at the end of the third week of October and southern Ohio peaking in late October. The current forecast, along with other videos, are available at fallcolor.ohiodnr.gov.

“Fall foliage colors in Ohio are absolutely amazing,” said Mary Cusick, director of TourismOhio. “Plan to take a break from your schedule and take a hike or ride a bike – pick apples – or get lost in a corn maze. The Ohio color and cool temperatures make it irresistible to be outdoors.”

People interested in finding out where the most captivating leaves will be throughout the upcoming fall color season should check out fallcolor.ohiodnr.gov, ODNR’s premier guide to Ohio’s fall color season. This website includes:

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

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

-Links for fall activities, scenic road trips and more, including unique overnight accommodations at Ohio State Parks.

Looking for some great fall getaway ideas? TourismOhio has numerous itinerary ideas and a list of attractions at discoverohio.com under Autumn Adventures.

ODNR and TourismOhio encourage people to take fall color photos and upload them to social media using the hashtag, #ohiofall14. Follow @ohiodnr, @OhioStateParks and @DiscoverOhio on Twitter and Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Ohio State Parks and Discover Ohio on Facebook to see more fall color photos. People should also be on the lookout for an exciting fall color photo contest with prizes from Ohio State Parks and Lodges, REI, Hocking Hills Canopy Tours and others. Keep looking for more information to be announced soon.