Best places in Warren County to view fall colors

Several Warren County adventures offer stunning views of fall foliage.


Where to enjoy fall colors locally

Ozone Zipline Adventures, 5291 Ohio 350 in Turtlecreek Twp.

Bella Balloons, 598 Dorothy Drive, Lebanon

Gentle Breeze Hot Air Balloon Company, 2460 Greentree Road, Turtlecreek Twp.

Little Miami Scenic River and Bike Trail, access in several communities

Canoeing available in several spots at River's Edge Outfitters, Morgan's Canoe Livery or Little Miami Canoe Rental

Source: Warren County Convention and Visitors Bureau

TURTLECREEK TWP. — After enjoying a tour in August on the Ozone Zipline Adventures at Camp Kern, Donna Darrin and three friends promised to return in the fall when the valley would dazzle with color.

The group’s four-hour tour Monday did not disappoint.

“The view was absolutely beautiful,” Darrin, of Lebanon, said after landing from the 10th and final zipline ride. “You get to be up high and float through the air ... With the warmer temperatures now, it’s wonderful.”

As the leaves turn red, orange, yellow and other colors, weekends are busy this month at the Ozone, said director and guide Chris Addison. Revenue from the tours helps the YMCA keep costs down for outdoor programs for schools at the camp, Addison said.

Warren County has some other high-flying destinations that provide excellent opportunities to see the changing of the season, said Jennifer Burns of the Warren County Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Burns said residents can “soar high above the vibrant landscape” in an airplane or glider at the Red Stewart Airfield in Wayne Twp., or book a hot air balloon ride with Bella Balloons of Lebanon or Gentle Breeze Hot Air Balloon Company at the Warren County Airport in Turtlecreek Twp.

The color of the leaves may not be “as spectacular” this year because the region is experiencing a draught, said Michael Vincent, botany professor at Miami University.

“I don’t know if intensities will change, but many trees are turning brown and leaves are falling off without that splash of color,” Vincent said.

Vincent said various colors are exposed in the fall because chlorophyll, the green substance in leaves needed for photosynthesis, breaks down as the days get shorter. Ia draught year, trees will shed leaves early as a way to conserve water, Vincent said.

“Fall leaf coloration may happen in a shorter window (this year), but certain trees are brighter than others,” he said. “Sugar maples are bright reds and oranges. Ashes are pale yellow, some are a deep purple.”

Contact this reporter at (513) 696-4542 or rwilson@coxohio.com.

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