You might've noticed the leaves on trees are changing quickly. Reds, oranges, yellows and purples have emerged in full force in recent weeks.
But it may not last long, according to Great Parks of Hamilton County interpreter and photographer Paul Seevers. A solid wind or rainfall could change that at any time.
Ideal weather this fall has created some pretty spectacular views in Hamilton County, he said. Over the next week, foliage will be at its peak colors.
"All in all, it’s been a pretty good year," Seevers said. "With the weather this weekend, I think it’s going to be a pretty good time to go out."
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The West Side of Cincinnati offers a wide range of parks from city-centric sites to more rural areas near Indiana, there are plenty of options. Here are the best West Side parks to catch a fall vibe.
Mount Echo Park
A drive through the winding, hilly streets of East Price Hill is an easy way to view autumn foliage. But Cincinnati has a lot of city parks, including this one hidden in the historic neighborhood.
Mount Echo Park is 84 acres of natural beauty tucked away in the urban core. It's a mix of traditional park amenities, like paved trails, playgrounds, picnic tables and basketball courts, all with a wooded backdrop.
To the east is the Cincinnati skyline. To the south is the rolling hills of Northern Kentucky, where foliage is starting to change colors, too.
Mount Echo Park: 251 Mount Echo Park Drive, Cincinnati, 45205.
Shawnee Lookout
Shawnee Lookout might be a drive for many Greater Cincinnatians as it's about 30 minutes from the city center. But the foliage you'll see during a iverside drive on U.S. 50 is a decent preview of what's to come in the North Bend park.
A part of the Great Parks of Hamilton County, it's a hiker's paradise. It has views of the Ohio and Great Miami river valleys. Those sights can be reached on three nature trails between 1 1/2 and 2 miles.
It has some historical significance, too: An old schoolhouse and log cabin are on the grounds, as well as Native American archaeological earthworks. Be sure to bring the kiddos for a picnic and a romp on the playground, too.
Shawnee Lookout: 2008 Lawrenceburg Road, North Bend, 45052.
Delhi Park
Delhi Park might have fewer trees to view than other parks on the West Side, but the bright reds you'll see around the lake are photo-worthy. (Be sure to mind the geese.)
The township's flagship park is a good option to bring children of all ages. It offers an updated playground for the little ones, plus a small skatepark for big kids with a knack for rollerskating and skateboarding.
The park is also a hopping destination in the summer. It's the home of the annual Delhi Skirt Game fundraiser and offers kids' camps.
Delhi Park: 5125 Foley Road, Delhi Township, 45238.
Winton Woods
It's arguable whether this one is the West Side, but Winton Woods makes the list for its can't-miss foliage. The 2,555-acre park is worth the trip this time of year, Seevers said.
Nearly three miles total of walking trails will take you straight into the forest where you can catch the brilliant colors up close, plus an 18-hole disc golf course through the wooded areas. Playgrounds and other kid-friendly amenities mean the whole family can come along.
You can even catch the views from the lake itself this weekend, but it won't last long. Saturday is your last day to rent a kayak, motorboat or other nautical vehicle of choice for the rest of the season. The boathouse is closed until March after that.
Winton Woods: 10245 Winton Road, Cincinnati, 45231.
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