Cincinnati rates among the top cities in the nation for parks and recreation ““ that includes our amazing hiking trails.
Hiking is the perfect activity for family bonding time ““ and it comes with added health benefits. A hike that gets your heart rate up will lower your risk of heart disease, improve your blood pressure and blood sugar levels, build strength in your muscles and core, improve balance, and help control weight.
Here are a few must-see trails in Greater Cincinnati:
Ault Park
Cincinnati’s fourth largest park has beautiful gardens, scenic overlooks, well-manicured lawns and ““ of course ““ amazing hiking trails. With more than 200 acres to explore, you can find trails to match any ability level. Turn your trip into a lesson about the Queen City’s native trees with park’s tree trail guide.
Cincinnati Nature Center Rowe Woods
Located in Milford, Rowe Woods also offers trails to match any hiker’s ability level. Close to two dozen trails wind through the 1,025-acre forest. If you can complete the Hike for Your Health Challenge ““ hiking 15 trails at Rowe Woods and Long Branch Farm and Trail ““ you’ll get a special Trailblazer prize!
Don’t forget to bring your wallet ““ Rowe Woods charges an $8 admission fee for adults and a $3 fee for children ages four to twelve.
California Woods
Bird lovers will enjoy the 113-acre California Woods park. Look for the hummingbird garden at the front of the Nature Center.
All trails are all less than two-miles long and have gradual hills. Fido will have to stay at home, though, no dogs are allowed in this park.
Devou Park
Nestled in Covington, Devou Park has more than 700 acres of land with breathtaking views of the river and downtown Cincinnati. Choose from eight fun trails““ including the one-mile “Incinerator” and the half mile “Pig’s Tail.”
Little Miami State Park
The Little Miami State Park has more than 50 miles of groomed trails where visitors can bike, hike, cross-country ski and roller blade. If you need a break, hop off the trail in Loveland, Morrow or Corwin to access restrooms, shops and more.
Mt. Airy Forest
With close to 1,500 acres of hiking trails, is the perfect spot for beginners and expert hikers. Don’t know where to start? Join the Cincinnati Hiking Club in the spring and the fall to explore the park and meet new friends.
Don’t miss the wheelchair-accessible treehouse ““ it’s one of five handicap-accessible treehouses in the U.S.
Shawnee Lookout
Hop in your car and drive to North Bend to hike the Shawnee Lookout trails. Known for the historic Springhouse School, log cabin and Native American archaeological earthworks this park has more than 1,500 acres you can explore.
