There is nothing quite like that first crisp morning in Ohio when the leaves start to change; turning the horizon into a riot of reds, golds and burnt oranges.
Daytonians craving fall in full display are in luck. The city works hard to maintain local parks that anyone can enjoy. Be sure to bring a camera, lace up some comfortable walking shoes and experience every color fall has to offer.
Cox Arboretum & Gardens MetroPark
Tucked away quietly just south of Dayton is the Cox Arboretum. A wonderland of trees, gardens and hidden trails.
With over 189 acres there resides more than 500 species of trees and shrubs, tranquil water gardens, a butterfly house and a 46-foot tree tower that gives panoramic views over all the scenery. The mix of manicured gardens and wild woodlands means visitors get both gentle beauty and untamed autumn charm.
Englewood MetroPark
Englewood delivers woods, wetlands, open meadows and trail variety all in one place. With over a dozen trails winding through shaded forest and across boardwalks; this park captures that full spectrum fall color.
Wetland areas in particular turn especially vivid. Explorers can find reflections of trees mirrored in quiet water that will undoubtedly make for some magical moments.
Sugarcreek MetroPark
Sugarcreek feels like a slower, gentler autumn day. Think ancient white oaks which turn into living tunnels formed by their arching branches, winding prairie strips and serene meadows.
With some fully handicap accessible trails, it is peaceful, photogenic and perfect for easy walks to soak up the colors without a lot of hiking. Plus, that golden glow through the tall grasses and old trees is almost cinematic.
Carriage Hill MetroPark
Carriage Hill in Huber Heights blends forests, prairies, meadows and a living historical farm. In fall, it is not just trees changing color, it is a whole landscape of shifting texture: Fields turning gold, woods turning crimson and rustic barns framed by an autumn sky. Historic buildings, farm animals and heritage gardens add extra charm.
Hills & Dales MetroPark
Located in Kettering, Hills & Dales is arguably the best of all of Dayton’s wooded areas wrapped up in one park. Deep hardwood forests, gentle ravines, small wetlands and pockets of dense undergrowth make for beautiful contrasts when leaves change. Light filtering through trees, pond reflections and quiet trails make it ideal for a contemplative autumn walk.
When visitors wander through one of these Dayton parks in fall, it is like stepping into a story straight out of a book. The trees blaze, the air smells like earth and possibility, and for just a little while, everything slows. Autumn is not just the end of something; it is a reminder that change has it’s own kind of magic.
Maliya Ayambire, staff writer
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