One of the many reasons that I could never leave the Midwest includes the beautiful transformation the city experiences as summer morphs into fall. The changing leaves, the pumpkin flavors and cool days are enough to make me forget about the fact that winter lurks close behind.
This week and weekend are the absolute prime time to get out and see the fall colors before it’s too late. A week or two from now the leaves will fall for good and you’ll have to wait another year to take in the beautiful colors of the season. So leave work early, put off those chores for another day or two and grab a pumpkin spice latte and head out into the city and surrounding suburbs.
Here are just a few options available for checking out the fall colors around town!
- Downtown: You’d be surprised as you wander past the Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame to see shades of golden yellow on all of the surrounding trees. Or head down to The Flats where you can find changing colors and gorgeous wildflowers along the new Scranton Towpath Trail. Nothing like getting a dose of fall along with the industrial landscape of the city.
- Cuyahoga Valley National Park Bike Aboard: Last week I parked at Rockside Road, got on my bike and rode a little over 27 miles to Akron via the Towpath. The route was stunning, it took about three hours to complete and at the end I was treated to Luigi’s Pizza and a nice cold beer. Plus to make it even better, I didn’t have to ride back. I paid $3 and took the Cuyahoga Valley National Train back to Rockside. Note: Trains don’t run on Monday or Tuesday and this great offer ends at the end of the October.
- Mapleside Farms: Looking for a little less action? Head to Mapleside Farms in Brunswick, Ohio for some apple picking, hot cider or corn maze. Or you can swing by their restaurant and enjoy a glass of wine or beer and enjoy the vista from inside. No matter where you are at Mapleside you can view the fall foliage for miles and miles as you gaze out over the valley.
- Coe Lake: I honestly never knew this area of Berea existed until I started running the Monster Mutt Dash each fall. Located behind the city’s library, you’ll find a stunning lake that reflects the colorful trees that surround it. Spend the afternoon or evening exploring the trails and paths as you immerse yourself in nature. After you’re done, treat yourself to a coffee in their quaint little town.
- Rocky River Metroparks: Only a short 15 minute ride from downtown guides you to the picturesque Metroparks where you can get lost in the maze of trails and paths. And let’s be honest. Pretty much any of the reservations are going to be beautiful this time of year – this one just happens to be one of the closest to downtown.
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