EDITORS NOTE: This is the fourth 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 first week of November.
COLUMBUS, OH -- Forests and fields across Ohio's northern and middle regions are at "peak" Fall Color this weekend, with woodlands in the south reporting "near peak" conditions, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).
"In some ways it has been a very 'non-typical' year," said Bill Schultz, Fall Color spokesman for the ODNR Division of Forestry. "The reds and russets - normally some of the last colors we see in the fall - came on early. We are just now starting to see some of the vibrant yellows and golds that are generally the first colors to appear."
Schultz noted that many oaks in the south have not yet started to show their autumn colors, meaning that the Fall Color viewing season will probably linger in that region into the first week of November.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a number of Fall Color activities across the state this weekend, including the annual Conkle's Hollow Fall Foliage Event in Hocking County. The event is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. this Saturday and Sunday, October 18-19. Dover, in Tuscarawas County, will host the annual Forest Heritage Festival this weekend. That event is sponsored, in part, by ODNR.
Additional Fall Color hikes and walks are scheduled at Maumee Bay State Park in Lucas County, Lake Hope State Park in Vinton County, Shawnee State Park in Scioto County, Mary Jane Thurston State Park in Wood County, Beaver Creek State Park in Columbiana County, Sycamore State Park in Montgomery County and Quail Hollow State Park in Stark 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 ohiodnr.com . Ohio's 74 state parks, 20 state forests and 125 state nature preserves provide excellent locations for viewing Fall Color up close. Here's a list of recommended areas: