COLUMBUS – While most of the state is still seeing mostly green conditions, some hints of color are beginning to emerge as the Buckeye State starts its fall color transformation, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

“Fall color is just beginning, and it will improve when we experience cool, crisp night temperatures and bright sunny days,” said ODNR Fall Color Forester Greg Smith. “The colors will soon be noticeable in walnut, ash and maple trees in open areas, as well as with Virginia creeper and poison ivy vines. Right now, we are still seeing mostly green conditions across the state.”

One of Ohio’s popular pastimes this time of year, fall archery deer hunting season, is underway and will go until Feb. 3, 2019. For more information on deer hunting, go to wildohio.gov.

People interested in finding out where to find most eye-catching leaves throughout the upcoming fall color season should check out fallcolor.ohiodnr.gov, Ohio’s official guide to the changing colors. This website includes:

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

• Weekly videos from ODNR naturalists highlighting fall color hot spots around the state.

• Links to fall activities, scenic road trips, unique overnight accommodations at Ohio State Parks and more.

Fall is a distinctive season in Ohio with an identifiable color palette of reds, oranges and yellows; cooler temperatures; and aromas and tastes of autumn’s harvest from apples to pumpkins. It’s such a fun, vibrant few months to enjoy time with those closest to you that it feels like a holiday — or perhaps a Falliday! To help visitors find those special autumn activities in Ohio, the Office of TourismOhio has created a new landing page, ohio.org/fallidays.

ODNR and TourismOhio encourage people to take fall color photos and upload them to social media using the hashtag #OhioFall18 and #FallidaysinOhio. Follow @ohiodnr and @OhioFindItHere on Twitter, Ohio Department of Natural Resources and Ohio. Find it Here. on Facebook and @ohiodnr, @ohstateparks and @ohiogram on Instagram to see more fall color photos.

Ohio State Parks is also having a photo contest this fall. Help us highlight the best of the great outdoors in a variety of categories for a chance to win great prizes! Enter today at ohiostateparksphotocontest.com.