EDITORS NOTE: This is the fifth in a series of fall color updates highlighting some of the best locations to enjoy Ohio's fall foliage. Updated reports are available from ODNR each Thursday through the end of October.
COLUMBUS, OH -- Ohio's forests and woodlands continue to show flashes of orange, red and yellow as the Halloween season nears. But throughout most of the state - with a few exceptions in the southern hills - leaves are falling rapidly and fall's most vibrant hues are fading fast, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).
"This weekend may present the last good fall foliage viewing opportunities of the year," said Bill Schultz, spokesman with ODNR's Division of Forestry. "Predictions are for crisp, autumn-like temperatures. It will be a great time to get out and savor the season."
Reports gathered by ODNR facilities across the northern and central parts of the state indicate colors are past peak or fading. In the southern hill country, Shawnee State Forest in Scioto County, Zaleski State Forest and Lake Hope State Park in Vinton County and Tar Hollow State Forest and Paint Creek State Park in Ross County continue to report peak color conditions.
"The approaching leaf drop does not signal an end to fall color," Schultz emphasized. "Rather, it merely means the season is moving into another phase."
Schultz said the color that enmeshed Ohio's forests just days ago is now a vibrant carpet on the woodland floor.
"There's never been a better time for a walk or a hike in the woods to see the colors up close and personal," Schultz said.
Peak conditions at Lake Hope promise to provide a colorful setting for the fifth annual Rural Ohio Appalachia Revisited (R.O.A.R.) Day on Saturday. R.O.A.R. is a celebration of southeastern Ohio culture and crafts. The event is set for 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
In addition, many state parks are planning Halloween activities this coming weekend (October 28-29). Special events are scheduled for Maumee Bay State Park in Lucas County, Dillon State Park in Muskingum County, Lake Alma State Park in Vinton County, Pike Lake State Park in Pike County, Hocking Hills State Park in Hocking County, East Fork State Park in Clermont County and Deer Creek State Park in Pickaway County.
To help Ohioans and out-of-state visitors make the most of this popular outdoor season, weekly updates are available from the best fall color viewing locations across the state by calling 1-800-BUCKEYE. Users can also find fall color information on the Internet at www.dnr.state.oh.us
Ohio's 73 state parks, 20 state forests and 123 state nature preserves provide excellent locations to sample fall foliage. Here are the most current reports from selected locations: