Nature's colorful transformation has made an appearance a little earlier than expected this fall.

Casey Burdick with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources says sunny days, cool evenings and moderate rainfall has been the perfect recipe for vibrant colors in October.

"We're seeing a lot of color because we had a hot and dry summer and some of the trees are stressed out which is causing them to change a little earlier," Burdick said.

Credit: The Ohio Department of Natural Resources

Start marking your calendars. Burdick says the best days to view the fall colors are quickly approaching.

"The second and third weekends, full weekends, in October are really going to be a great time to get out," Burdick said. "Northern Ohio usually peaks first and then it fades to Southern Ohio towards the end of October."

ODNR is keeping up with the fall season this year through blogs and updates on their website. They have even provided a link with a list of the best driving routes for viewing the fall season.

Click here to view ODNR's fall website.

Click here to view the best driving routes in Ohio.

View Northeast Ohio Fall Foliage Driving Tours in a larger map