CLEVELAND, Ohio — As autumn settles over Northeast Ohio, the landscape transforms into a vibrant canvas of red, orange, and gold.
While the first official day of fall is Sunday (Sept. 22), Alexandra Faidiga, a plant recorder with Holden Forests & Gardens, explained to cleveland.com that predicting the peak time for fall foliage can be tricky. She noted that early fall heat and dry conditions can affect both the timing and duration of the seasonal colors.
“Cool wet falls are ideal for vibrant and long-lasting fall color, but unfortunately much of Ohio is experiencing a drought right now,” Faidiga said. “Although we’ve had a dry fall in Northeast Ohio, the southeastern part of the state is seeing the worst of it, and Lake County is actually the only county in the state that is not experiencing abnormally dry conditions or worse. This means we are likely to have a longer-lasting fall color season than some of the areas of the state that have been severely affected by drought.”
Faidiga added that the Holden Arboretum has already seen some early signs of fall color, partially due to stress from the dry, warm weather. Still, she said, Northeast Ohio is likely to experience an average fall foliage season this year.
“The last two weeks of October are a safe bet for viewing fall color before winter really starts to set in,” she said.
Whether you’re a nature lover or simply seeking a scenic escape, here are some of the top spots across Northeast Ohio to take in the beauty of autumn foliage.
Upper Edgewater Park – Cleveland
Nestled along Lake Erie, Upper Edgewater Park offers stunning views of the city skyline and the lake, framed by brilliant fall colors. Visitors can stroll along the water and enjoy a picnic by the beach while admiring the colorful leaves. The blend of urban and natural beauty makes this a must-see during the fall season.
Holden Arboretum – Kirtland
With over 3,500 acres of natural beauty, the Holden Arboretum is a fall foliage paradise. Its diverse collection of plants and trees offers a wide array of autumn colors, from deep reds to bright yellows. For a unique perspective, visitors can climb the 120-foot Kalberer Emergent Tower, which provides a bird’s-eye view of the treetops and the surrounding area, making it an ideal spot for photographers.
Brandywine Falls – Sagamore Hills Township
Located in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Brandywine Falls is a breathtaking 65-foot waterfall that becomes even more picturesque when surrounded by autumn’s vibrant colors. A wooden boardwalk offers easy access to the falls, while nearby trails invite visitors to explore the beauty of the changing leaves.
Rocky River Reservation – North Olmsted
This Cleveland Metroparks gem offers a serene escape with its winding river, towering cliffs, and expansive forests. The Rocky River Reservation’s scenic byways and hiking trails are perfect for those looking to explore fall foliage up close. With an abundance of maples, oaks, and hickories, the reservation is a prime spot for leaf peeping.
Chagrin Falls Waterfall – Chagrin Falls
The village of Chagrin Falls, known for its small-town charm, becomes even more enchanting in the fall. The waterfall, located in the heart of town, is framed by vibrant autumn hues, making it a perfect destination for a scenic stroll through the quaint village.
Bonus Locations
For those looking to experience even more of Northeast Ohio’s fall splendor, these additional destinations are not to be missed: Squire’s Castle in Willoughby Hills provides a striking contrast as its stone facade is framed by vibrant autumn colors. Punderson Manor in Newbury Township offers peaceful lakeside views with a stunning display of surrounding foliage, while Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens in Akron blends history and seasonal beauty with its meticulously maintained grounds and dazzling fall displays.
Faidiga suggested a few more hidden gems worth visiting.
“One of my favorite spots that I visit every fall is just a short drive from the arboretum, Lake Metroparks’ Chapin Forest in Kirtland,” Faidiga told cleveland.com. “There is a steep but short trek up to an overlook that gives you an amazing view all the way to the lake. I also like the Euclid Creek Reservation’s Eastern Ledge Trail.”
