When Will Fall Color Peak in Ohio?

Updated Oct. 23, 2025

It may have taken a little longer than usual, but fall colors are nearing or at their peak across the state, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources’s weekly update on how autumn hues are progressing. 

“The colors of the autumn season are now evident across the state with ‘near peak’ and ‘peak’ conditions statewide,” said ODNR fall color forester David Parrott in the agency’s Oct. 23, 2025 report.

If you want to keep an eye on the areas where fall color is at peak, keep an eye on ODNR’s new-for-2025 Fall Color Tracker Map (below is a screenshot of what the map looked like on Oct. 17, 2025). 

Keep up with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ reports at the agency’s webpage dedicated to making the most of fall color.

Here are some ideas for how to take in the season as the leaves change from one end of the state to the other:

Take a Fall Color Tour of Ohio: Autumn is the most beautiful time of year here, so we asked photographers across the state to share a favorite image of the season and the story behind it.

Fall Color Tour: 16 Scenic Spots: From a lookout point high above Lancaster to a shot of the Milky Way across the treetops of the Hocking Hills, these 16 photographs show the Buckeye State at its most beautiful.

Ohio State Parks for Fall Hikes: Get up close and personal with fall leaves, one step at a time. These four state parks have colorful jaunts for hikers of every skill level. 

Fall Road Trips in Ohio: Explore more than 580 miles of autumn adventure with these five routes that offer plenty of history, hiking, family fun and more. 

For more Ohio travel inspiration, sign up for our Ohio Magazine newsletters. 

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