The hints of color that are beginning to highlight the canopies of Ohio’s woodlands, along with the cooler temperatures, are sure signs that autumn is beginning to take hold. These are also the tell-tale signs that the fall color season is upon us here in the Buckeye State, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).

“Many maple and ash trees are welcoming us into this year’s fall color season,” said ODNR Fall Color Forester Casey Burdick. “The white ash trees are showing dark purples while the green ash trees glow with vibrant yellows and golden oranges. Various maples, especially along the edges of woods and in urban areas, are showing some early color; dogwoods are also showing some awesome dark reds.”

Ohioans are encouraged to get outside and take advantage of the beauty of this season. The brilliance of fall color adds to the enjoyment of any outdoor activity. Hiking, biking, running or paddling all provide excellent opportunities for people to take in the wonderful colors of fall while getting a little exercise. Rounds of disc golf and golf can be played on beautiful, award-winning courses at several state parks and offer another chance to appreciate the season.

People interested in finding out where the most captivating leaves will be throughout the fall color season should check out fallcolor.ohiodnr.gov, ODNR’s premier guide to Ohio’s fall color season. This website includes:

• Weekly color updates and information to help plan a fall color adventure.

• Weekly videos from Burdick highlighting color hot spots around the state.

• Links for fall activities and overnight accommodations at Ohio State Parks.

Looking for some great fall getaway ideas? TourismOhio has numerous itinerary ideas and a list of attractions at discoverohio.com under Autumn Adventures.

ODNR and TourismOhio encourage people to take fall color photos and upload them to social media using the hashtag, #ohiofall14. Follow @ohiodnr, @OhioStateParks and @DiscoverOhio on Twitter and Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Ohio State Parks and Discover Ohio on Facebook to see more fall color photos.

New this year, ODNR is offering a Best of Ohio Fall 14 Photo Contest on Ohio State Parks’ Instagram (@OHstateparks). Post your photos to Instagram using the hashtag #ohiofall14 and automatically be entered into the contest. Prizes include a four-person tent from REI, a Hocking Hills Canopy Tours Zip Line Adventure and overnight stays at many of our state park lodges.

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.