10-06-2026 12:17am

Fall Color Off to a Slow Start as Temperatures Begin to Cool

Beth Callahan Editor

Story and photo courtesy of ODNR

COLUMBUS, Ohio – The calendar has flipped to the month of October which means the colors of the season will show themselves soon. Even though fall color in the Buckeye State seems to be off to a slow start, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) believes we are still on tap for a great fall color season.

“For the first time in numerous years, we are entering autumn with a potentially typical fall season,” said ODNR Fall Color Forester David Parrott. “Some colors are starting to dot the tree canopies, and we seem to be on track for a great fall color season.”

To watch the first fall color update video, head to ODNR’s YouTube channel.

Current early changers include buckeyes and dogwoods, as well as poison ivy and sumacs showing their vibrant reds. Fall color reporters are seeing “mostly green” and “changing” conditions statewide.

Looking for a fun day trip this fall with your family? Check out Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park: a small but fascinating park in northeast Ohio just southeast of Cleveland. With its rugged cliffs, waterfalls, and natural landscape, Nelson-Kennedy Ledges provides a thrilling experience for visitors of all ages. The park’s spectacular rock formations are among the few in northern Ohio still exposed to view.

Hikers will enjoy trails that take them to formations like Devil’s Icebox, Goldhunters Cave, and Old Maid’s Kitchen. The Falls Edge Glass Walkway, a 137-foot walkway over Sylvan Creek Gorge, opened in spring 2025 and offers stunning views of the gorge below and rocky landscape. And this scenic spot is an ideal location to enjoy the fall colors.

Those interested in finding the most eye-catching leaves throughout the season should check out ODNR’s Fall Color website, the official guide to the changing colors. The website includes:

Weekly color updates and information to help plan a fall color adventure;
Overnight accommodations at Ohio State Parks;
Fun and informational fall color videos; and
Family-friendly events happening around the state.

ODNR encourages people to share fall color photos using #OhioFall26, #OhioTheHeartofitAll and #FallinOhio. For more fall color photos, follow ODNR, Ohio State Parks and Ohio The Heart of It All. On Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at @OhioDNR, @OHStateParks, @odnrforestry and @OhioTheHeartofitAll.

The Ohio Division of Forestry promotes the wise use and sustainable management of Ohio’s public and private woodlands. To learn more about Ohio’s woodlands, visit forestry.ohiodnr.gov. Follow us on Facebook and on Instagram @odnrforestry.

ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.