Leaf Peeping In & Around Cleveland - Cleveland Article

The peak of fall colors in Northeast Ohio happens around the second week of October, when Cleveland’s indigenous tree life changes from bright greens to fervent reds, bright oranges, golden yellows and autumn browns.

Want the best spot to scope the changing colors? Take a gander: 

CLEVELAND METROPARKS

The Cleveland Metroparks are a 21,000-acre park system that encircles the city and is affectionately known as Cleveland’s “Emerald Necklace.” While just about any of the 18 reservations make for excellent leaf peeping, there are some local favorites.

• The Rocky River Reservation – walk along the riverbank and through the tributaries; then stop at the nature center
• Whipps Ledges – one-of-a-kind exposed sandstone ledges and uncanny view
• South Chagrin Reservation – stunning overlook

CUYAHOGA VALLEY NATIONAL PARK

Few cities can boast a national park in their backyard. Cleveland, however, is uniquely situated within a 20-minute drive to the Cuyahoga Valley National Park where leaf-viewing activities are aplenty. Where to go once there?

• Brandywine Falls – natural waterfalls
• The Ledges Overlook – unbelievable view overlooking the Cuyahoga Valley
• Ohio & Erie Canalway Towpath – an 85-mile-long paved path
• Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad – vintage train ride through the national park

LAKE COUNTY’S HOLDEN ARBORETUM

More than 3,000 acres of unadulterated nature awaits you in one of the absolute gems of Lake County, Ohio (east of the city). Between the beautiful plant collections, spectacular gardens and canopy walks, you’ll be immersed in total fall color.

ASHTABULA COUNTY’S COVERED BRIDGES

The beauty that is Ashtabula County is both bucolic and historical. Just a 30-minute drive east of Cleveland, visitors can explore more than 18 historic covered bridges located in lush, rural settings, which are accessible through self-guided driving tours.

GEAUGA COUNTY’S AMISH COUNTRY

Amish Country feels exponentially more special during the autumn months when you’ll find yourself sharing the rural, farm roads with horse-drawn buggies—all with the backdrop of changing fall colors.  With the fourth largest Amish population in the world, Geauga County boasts Amish-made furniture stores, farmers markets, Dutch-style restaurants and general stores along its Amish back roads tour.