NEWBURY, Ohio — It’s fall in Ohio, and trees throughout the state are showing their vibrant colors to mark the changing seasons.

People who haven’t had a chance to take in a tour of the fall foliage, may not want to wait much longer.

The Buckeye State has its roots firmly planted in nature.

“We have over 125 different types of tree species which shows a spectrum of color in the fall,” said Jamie Regula, a forester with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

Each species shows off a different shade.

“The maple trees have really stolen the show,” said Regula. They tend to have the variety of colors from red to yellow to orange, and that’s just because of the color pigments.”

Luckily for Ohioans, a more vibrant color palette than was seen in recent years is occurring thanks to recent weather.

“Bright sunny days, cool but not freezing nights, and a moderate amount of rainfall,” said Regula.

But, the rain falling lately is not knocking the leaves off the trees.

We’re past peak of transition across the state, with at least 80 percent of trees showing shades other than green.

This “wardrobe change” for the leaves is triggered by shortened daylight to prepare the tree for harsh winter weather.

“The leaf is a soft tissue and so it can’t survive the cold temperatures,” said Regula. “It would freeze and cause cell damage, and that eventually would cause major damage to the tree.”

Even though Ohio is past peak, there are still pockets of color in forests and parks, like Punderson State Park, or just outside a window.

“Taking a walk around your neighborhood, they’ll still be holding on there for a little bit, but I wouldn’t wait much longer,” said Regula.

The leaves are one reason Ohio native Brian Galaska looks forward to autumn every year.

“The fall foliage is just a beautiful time of year in Ohio,” he said. “It’s very scenic. It’s campfires and family time, so it’s wonderful.”

Despite all the leaves being outside, it doesn’t mean that someone has to be outside to enjoy all the beautiful fall colors.

“It’s a great thing to do social distancing, you know?” said Regula. “You can either do it outside or in your car, so it’s really a safe activity that Ohioans can do and still enjoy the outside.”

The changes allow folks to enjoy the present while falling into the future.

“Fall color and fall in general is a time of transition,” said Regula. “You, yourself, are preparing for winter and so, it’s a great time for reflection.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources tracks where fall color is still available on its website.