This fall, Ohioans were treated to one of the best fall color seasons in recent memory as the weather cooperated just long enough to allow for vibrant hues of reds, oranges and yellows to overtake most of the state, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).

“This has been one of the best fall color seasons that I can remember,” said ODNR Fall Color Forester Casey Burdick. “Northern and central Ohio peaked in the middle of October while southern Ohio waited until the end of the month, but the weather was ideal for everyone to have an opportunity to go out and enjoy the season.”

Even though the leaves are falling, don’t forget there are still plenty of ways to spend time enjoying the outdoors. Our state parks, forests and nature preserves are open year round, and Ohio is one of seven states in the nation where admission is free.

With winter right around the corner, there are a number of recreational opportunities available in our state parks, including snowmobiling, cross country skiing, sledding and hiking. Check out ohiodnr.gov/winter for lots of fun things to do and places to stay, as well as some of the most popular events of the year, including the winter hikes.

People interested in discovering 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.

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.