Updated with current information for 2022
Everybody eventually hits their study wall. You can’t spend every day with your eyes glued to a book or numbed by the glare of a computer screen. One of the best distractions in Southeast Ohio are the amazing fall colors. In late fall or early October they hit their peak. And since you live in Athens and Ohio University, some of the best places to catch the most spectacular foliage is right outside your apartment.
This brief list is only a starting guide, as the intensity of the colors and their timing varies year to year, according to rainfall and other weather conditions. Ohio Magazine carries a handy Fall Color Report for updated conditions. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources also features a regularly updated fall foliage report.
Lake Hope and the Zaleski Forest
With over 17 miles of hiking trails and 4 miles of mountain biking, Lake Hope in the Zaleski Forest offers some of the best foliage in the state. If you’re adventurous, take a weekend to explore its 23 mile backpacking trail to truly immerse yourself in the season. You can also rent a canoe or kayak on Lake Hope. It’s a unique opportunity to see the rolling hills in all their splendor.
Burr Oak
Featuring seven hiking trails and three bridle trails, Burr Oak offers several ways to take in all the fall colors- on foot, hoof or boat. The backpack trail winds along the lake, providing picturesque views of the foliage with a lake backdrop. Local horse and mule rentals are also available.
Strouds Run and the Ridges
You don’t have to travel far to hit some country forest that features Ohio fall foliage in all its glory. In fact, Strouds Run is within easy biking distance of your Court Street apartment. And the Ridges is practically neighbors to several Ohio University rentals. Both offer a good escape from the books and are practically right around the corner.
On campus
If you live close to campus, all you need to do is just walk to the College Green and enjoy! The green is dotted with trees native to Ohio and the campus as a whole was recently designated as “Tree Campus USA.”
Here’s a tree tour of campus to help you see the best foliage possible:
Your window
Sometimes you just don’t feel like leaving home, we’ve all been there.
If your apartment has a nice view, odds are you can see a decent amount of incredible foliage from home. Consider buying a tree identification guide to help you maximize the foliage observation experience!Fall in Athens is a truly beautiful time, so whether you live uptown or far from campus, there’s many opportunities to see incredible fall foilage!
