While we’re rapidly sliding into winter weather, there is still plenty of time to participate in one of Ohioans’ favorite fall traditions — leaf-peeping.
We’ve gathered some of our favorite foliage-filled trips within easy driving distance of Cleveland. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or an afternoon adventure to take in the last of the season’s colors, this guide is for you.
Half-Day Adventures: Cleveland Metroparks
You don’t have to drive far to see fall in all its jewel-toned glory. Cleveland and the surrounding area are home to more than 25,000 acres of natural space divided into 18 Metroparks. Here are some of the best parks to check out this fall:
For a top-down view of the changing leaves, walk the mile-long Eastern Ledge Trail at Euclid Creek Reserve. The suspension bridge over Euclid Creek leads to an overlook 130 feet above the creek with views of the valley below.
Other local favorites for fall colors include the North Chagrin and Rocky River reservations. Both boast extensive trail systems with views of beech and maple trees and willow, sycamore and cottonwood trees, respectively.
Day Trip: Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Just 30 miles south of Cleveland is the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Hop in the car and drive southeast on I-77 to connect with I-480. The 33,000-acre park is home to sugar and red maples, dogwoods, tulip trees and bigtooth aspen, to name a few. The combination creates a virtual painter’s palette of red, brown, gold and orange.
For a late October or early November visit, look for late-turning oaks on the Ledges area trails. The overlook is a great place to catch a glimpse of all the colors Cuyahoga Valley has to offer.
Or, instead of walking trails, take a self-guided driving tour and see the colors from the comfort of your car. Park officials have mapped out two loops, one of the central park and one that covers the southern portion.
Weekend Getaway: Marietta, Ohio
Drive two and a half hours south of Cleveland, and you’ll run into Marietta, Ohio’s oldest town. Here you’ll find easy access to one of Ohio’s most beautiful stretches of highway, the Wayne National Forest Covered Bridge Scenic Byway (State Route 26). You can drive along the byway and experience the changing leaves, then pull off to camp along the Ohio River. Take advantage of horse, mountain bike and hiking trails, as well as river access near Leith Run Recreation Area.
Road Trip: Appalachian Byway of Ohio
While you’re in the southeastern Ohio neighborhood, link up with the Appalachian Byway of Ohio. The state byway stretches 105 miles from Clarington on the banks of the Ohio River to Nelsonville. The route also takes a northern jog up SR 78 along SR 83 to The Wilds in Muskingum County before heading south again along SR 284 to link back up with the byway.
In addition to the fall leaves, the byway highlights include the Ohio Valley River Museum in Clarington, Burr Oak State Park and the Wolf Creek Wildlife Area.
Preparing Your Vehicle for the Trip
Nothing spoils an over-the-road adventure faster than car trouble. Whether you’re heading out for the afternoon or plan to make a week of it, make sure your car is up to the task. Follow our fall maintenance checklist to ensure your vehicle is ready for the road.
Checklist: Fall Car Care Tips
- Change the oil. Check your manual for guidance on how often to get your oil changed. If it’s been 5,000 or so miles since your last change, add it to your maintenance visit.
- Top off fluid. In addition to oil, ensure all your car’s other fluids — windshield wiper, coolant and transmission fluid — are filled up and ready to go.
- Check tire pressure and wheel alignment. For the best traction and fuel efficiency, make sure your wheels are aligned and tires are filled.
- Heating and cooling check. This being Ohio, you might need heat and A/C in the same fall trip. Ensure both systems are working well.
- Brake inspection. Worn brake pads and rotors can lead to stopping issues. Not a great combo on winding roads filled with fellow leaf peepers.
- Computer diagnostic report. Catch any underlying issues affecting your vehicle’s performance — including engine, transmission or electrical system problems — before you hit the road.
Autumn in Ohio is a great time to get out on the road. And even though you may not have to deal with snow quite yet (knock on wood), it’s important to stay vigilant and practice safe driving, especially in crowded areas where other fall color enthusiasts may be distracted by the scenery.
As you make your plans for leaf-peeping adventures this fall, stop into your nearest Rainbow Muffler & Brake to get a full vehicle safety check. Our team will ensure your car is ready for the road ahead, so you can enjoy your trip with peace of mind.
