This month’s Ten to Explore from the Cleveland Metroparks is designed just for moment — the time when peak leaf peeping season is upon us. Don’t hesitate and wait, however, because you’ve only got about two or three weeks to really enjoy the colors before they’re all on the ground.

Woodpecker Way Trail, Acacia Reservation: “This autumn, embark on an accessible adventure amid resplendent fall foliage. Traverse the gently undulating trails of this former golf course and you are rewarded with expansive vistas of vibrant fall colors. Acacia provides a diverse and continuously changing park experience for guests that revisit throughout the seasons.” Credit: Cleveland Metroparks
Lower Fern Hill Picnic Area, Big Creek Reservation: “Park at the Lower Fern Hill Picnic Area and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the all-purpose trail. Beginning with a scenic bridge crossing, the trail will guide you along the floodplains of Big Creek Reservation where you will enjoy the fall colors of many tree species such as oaks, maples, sycamores, cottonwoods and more!” Credit: Cleveland Metroparks
Bradley Woods Reservation: “Enter the majesty of this unique swamp forest to view the beautiful autumn color palette. Take in the breathtaking combination trees including the oranges of the swamp white oaks, the yellow American beech trees, and the evergreen of the fascinating ancient clubmosses that cover the forest floor.” Credit: Cleveland Metroparks
Eastern Ledge Trail, Euclid Creek Reservation : “Embark on the newly unveiled Eastern Ledge Trail and experience Euclid Creek Reservation like never before. This delightful one-mile loop offers sweeping panoramas via a meticulously crafted timber staircase. Discover the enchanting beauty of fall foliage from an elevated perspective, as you ascend 130 feet above Euclid Creek.” Credit: Cleveland Metroparks
Fort Hill Loop Trail, Rocky River Reservation: “Located 90 feet above the Rocky River, this loop trail provides breathtaking views of the valley below. Climb the 155 stairs behind the nature center to reach the top or take one of the less strenuous routes that can be accessed from the Wildlife Management Trail.” Credit: Cleveland Metroparks
Henry Church, Jr., Rock Picnic Area, South Chagrin Reservation: “As you make your way down the north stairs, the rush of cascading water intensifies along with the colors of autumn. “Double Decker Falls” is a gracefully tiered, crescent-shaped waterfall providing an immersive encounter with fall colors deep into the leaf-peeping season. Waterfalls shape a special microclimate with constant waterflow, releasing moisture into the air — extending leaf retention for trees and shrubs.” Credit: Cleveland Metroparks
Top O’Ledges, Hinckley Reservation : “Enjoy brilliant fall color as you traverse the trails through Whipp’s Ledges. This one-mile trail will wind you down into the ledges and through the rocky terrain with trees towering over you. Be sure to stop at some of the points along the trail that offer great views of the lower areas of Hinckley Reservation.” Credit: Cleveland Metroparks
Scenic Loop, North Chagrin Reservation: “Immerse yourself in the beauty of the autumn season by traveling over rolling hills that give way to breath taking views of the valley floor. Take a break to breathe in the fresh air of the fall season. The magic of the forest awaits!” Credit: Cleveland Metroparks
Sylvan Loop, North Chagrin Reservation: “Majestic trees create picturesque scenes of the Chagrin River Valley along this half-mile loop. Make your way to the marsh overlook and you will be rewarded with one of the most scenic autumn views in North Chagrin Reservation. Bonus trip: Just a short distance away, Squire’s Castle sits amidst hills adorned with vibrant hues of fall foliage — showcasing the full spectrum of autumn colors.” Credit: Cleveland Metroparks
Tinker’s Creek Overlook, Bedford Reservation: “This National Natural Landmark is worth a visit several times throughout the month to note the color change week by week. Standing on the overlook you will have a spectacular view 200 feet down into Tinker’s Creek Gorge.” Credit: Cleveland Metroparks

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