When Will The Leaves Change In Columbus?

Hey Columbus, are you ready for sweater weather? The countdown to cozy weekends, pumpkin spice everything, and those jaw-dropping fall colors is officially on.

Soon enough, our neighborhoods, parks, and favorite trails will be glowing in shades of red, orange, and gold — the kind of scenes that make you pull over just to snap a photo. But when will the leaves actually hit their peak around here, and why do they even change in the first place? Let’s break it down.

When to Expect Peak Fall Foliage in Columbus

Mark your calendars! Fall officially begins on September 22, 2025, but the real show starts a bit later. By the end of September, you’ll notice the first hints of fall as the leaves begin to change. At first, the changes will be subtle—just a splash of color here and there. But as we move into October, the magic really begins.

By the second week of October, you’ll see more patches of color dotting the landscape, with trees showing off a mix of green, orange, yellow, and red. However, the true peak of fall foliage in Central Ohio will arrive between October 27 and November 6. That’s when the trees will be at their most vibrant, painting the town in breathtaking autumn hues.

If you want to keep an eye on the changing leaves, check out the interactive fall foliage map. It’s like having a crystal ball for leaf-peeping!

The Science Behind the Season: Why Do Leaves Change Color?

You might be wondering, what’s the science behind all this autumnal beauty? It’s all about chemistry, baby! Two main factors determine when and how leaves change: daylight and temperature.

Daylight: As the days get shorter in the fall, trees stop producing chlorophyll—the green pigment that helps leaves absorb sunlight. Without chlorophyll, other pigments like anthocyanins (reds) and carotenoids (yellows and oranges) start to take center stage.

Temperature: Cooler temperatures, especially at night, also play a role in breaking down chlorophyll. That’s why a sudden cold snap can accelerate the color change, making the leaves burst into vibrant shades almost overnight.

The Best Places to Go Leaf Peeping Around Central Ohio

Now that you know when to expect the best colors, let’s talk about where to see them. Columbus and the surrounding areas are blessed with some gorgeous spots to take in the fall foliage. Whether you’re a hardcore hiker or just looking for a scenic drive, there’s something for everyone.

Highbanks Metro Park
Just a short drive from downtown Columbus, Highbanks is a prime spot for fall foliage. The park’s towering shale bluffs and dense forests come alive with color in October. Don’t forget to hike the Overlook Trail for some jaw-dropping views!

Clear Creek Metro Park
If you’re up for a bit of a drive, head to Clear Creek in Lancaster. The park boasts Ohio’s largest nature preserve and is home to an array of tree species that create a kaleidoscope of fall colors. The rugged trails here are perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in nature.

Hocking Hills
No list would be complete without mentioning Hocking Hills. This area is like the crown jewel of Ohio’s fall foliage scene. With its dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and wooded trails, Hocking Hills offers an unforgettable leaf-peeping experience. Old Man’s Cave and Ash Cave are particularly stunning in the fall.

Planning Your Fall Foliage Adventure

Timing your leaf-peeping trip can be a bit tricky since the peak can vary from year to year depending on the weather. Here are a few tips to help you plan the perfect autumn outing:

Use a Foliage Map: Checking out a real-time foliage map (like this one) can help you figure out the best time to see the colors at their peak.

Be Flexible: If possible, keep your plans flexible. Fall weather can be unpredictable, and a sudden cold front could change the timing of the leaves. If you can, wait until you’re about two weeks out to finalize your trip.

Avoid the Crowds: Popular spots can get crowded, especially on weekends. Try to visit early in the morning to beat the rush and catch the golden light of sunrise—it’s a magical time to be out in nature.

Plan Your Route: Whether you’re hiking, biking, or driving, map out a few scenic routes. You’ll want to soak in as much of the fall beauty as possible!

So there you have it—everything you need to know about when and where to catch the best fall foliage in Columbus this year. Grab your coziest sweater, a warm cup of cider, and get ready to enjoy the season in all its colorful glory!