Best Places to hike in Cincinnati, Ohio
Are you looking for a great outdoor activity to get your heart rate up and your muscles working? Hiking is a great option, and Cincinnati has some fantastic trails to explore. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, there’s something for everyone in the Cincinnati area.
Cincinnati is known to have some hilly terrain, so there are plenty of trails with great views. If you’re looking for a challenge, check out Mt. Echo Park or Eden Park. Or, if you’re looking for a more leisurely hike, try one of the many trails at the Great Parks of Hamilton County. No matter what level of hiker you are, hiking is a great way to get some fresh air and exercise. So get out there and explore all that Cincinnati has to offer! Read on to find out more about the best hiking trails in the area.
Hiking Trails in or Near Cincinnati
Bender Mountain Loop Trail
Length: 3.7 km
Cost: None
Phone Number: (513) 921-9453
Location: Bender Rd & River Rd. Cincinnati, OH 45233
If you’re looking for a short but challenging hike near Cincinnati, Ohio, consider this 3.7-km loop trail. This popular trail is often considered to be a moderate challenge and takes approximately 1 hour and 6 minutes to complete. The surroundings are beautiful year-round, making it a great destination regardless of the season. Because this is a popular birding and hiking destination, you’ll almost certainly encounter other people while you are out exploring the area. You can bring your dog, but they must be on a leash at all times. This way, they won’t disturb the local wildlife or other hikers.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just getting started, this trail will provide an enjoyable and memorable experience. Make sure to take lots of photos and always clean as you go. This way, we can all enjoy these fantastic trails for years to come!
Mount Airy Forest Trails: Beechwood, Furnas, Ponderosa, and Red Oak Trail
Length: 6.6 km
Cost: None
Phone Number: +1-513-541-8176
Location: 5083 Colerain Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45223, United States
Mount Airy in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a favorite spot for many locals and visitors alike. This massive forest has plenty of trails to explore, making it the perfect place to spend a day hiking. The Beechwood, Furnas, Ponderosa, and Red Oak Trails are all great options and offer beautiful views year-round. These interconnected trails total just over six kilometers in length and can be completed in around two hours. Dogs are welcome on these trails as long as they are kept on a leash.
As you hike through Mount Airy, keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife. The forest is home to many different species of animals, so you might get lucky and spot one! Make sure to take plenty of water and snacks with you, as there are no facilities along the way. Please always clean as you go so we can keep these trails beautiful for years.
French Park
Length: 3.4 km
Cost: None
Phone Number: (513) 351-4777
Location: 3012 Section Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45237, United States
French Park in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a perfect place to spend an afternoon hiking. The park has many trails to choose from, all of which are well-marked and easy to follow. The playground and picnic area also make it the perfect spot for a family outing. French Park is open daily from dawn to dusk and is free to enter.
This trail will take 56 minutes to complete, which means you’ll have to bring your snacks and water. The hike is considered easy, with a few inclines and declines. However, the heat in the summer can make it feel more challenging. There are several places to stop along the way to take in the views or have a snack break.
The best time of year to hike French Park is from mid-April through October, when the weather is cooler. You can bring your dog, but make sure to keep them on a leash at all times. If you’re looking for a beautiful place to hike in Cincinnati, French Park is the perfect spot. With plenty of trails to choose from and stunning views, it’s a great place to spend an afternoon with family or friends!
Ault Forest Loop Trail
Length: 2.1 km
Cost: None
Phone Number: +1 513-357-2604
Location: 5090 Observatory Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45208, USA
If you’re looking for a quick and easy hike near Cincinnati, the Ault Forest Loop Trail is a great option. This short trail is only two kilometers long, making it perfect for a quick nature fix. Best of all, it’s free to hike!
As a moderately challenging trail, you would need about 34 minutes to complete the loop. You can walk, run, hike, and even take your dog on this trail as long as they are on a leash. The Ault Forest Loop Trail (located in the Observatory Park neighborhood) is accessible from the Observatory Avenue entrance. Parking is available on-site, making it easy to get to the trailhead.
Make sure to bring lots of water and maybe a snack for the hike, as there are no food or drink options once you start on the trail. Hiking shoes are also recommended as the terrain can be uneven in places. Plus, don’t forget your sunscreen! Once you’re all set, head out on the trail and enjoy the fresh air and nature. This is an excellent hike for anyone looking to escape the city for a little while.
California Woods Trail
Length: 4.0 km
Cost: None
Phone Number: +1 513-231-8678
Location: 5400 Kellogg Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45230
This is a great place to take the kids for a hike! The California Woods Trail is short, but it’s perfect for exploring the woods and getting some fresh air. This trail is also very peaceful and quiet, so it’s a great place to unwind after a long day.
Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on this trail. Therefore, you would have to hike without your furry friend. However, the California Woods Trail is open year-round, so you can hike it no matter when!
When you decide to take on this trail, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water. There are also some great views of the Ohio River, so don’t forget your camera! If you’re looking for a short and easy hike near Cincinnati, the California Woods Trail is perfect for you.
Trout Lily Trail
Length: 2.7 km
Cost: None
Phone Number: +1 513-521-7275
Location: 7075 Five Mile Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45230, United States
It only takes about 37 minutes to complete this short but scenic hike near the Winton Woods Campground. You’ll cross over a few bridges and creeks, and you might even spot some wildlife along the way. If you’re looking for a quick and easy hike near Cincinnati, this is a great option.
You can bring your dog with you on this trail, but make sure that you keep them on a leash at all times. You will enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery on this hike. Make sure to take lots of great photos so that you will have memories of your fantastic hike in Cincinnati!
If you want, you can bring your friends and family along with you on this hike. It’s a great way to bond and spend time together while getting some exercise. Hiking is also a great way to relieve stress and clear your mind.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, be sure to add this hike to your list of things to do in Cincinnati! You won’t regret it.
Caldwell Nature Preserve Trail
Length: 1.4 km
Cost: None
Phone Number: +1 513-761-4313
Location: 430 W North Bend Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45216, United States
The Caldwell Nature Preserve trail is a relatively easy and short hike that is perfect for beginners. The trail is located in the Westwood neighborhood of Cincinnati and offers beautiful views of the city. The trail is free to use, and it is open year-round.
Since this trail only takes about 25 minutes to complete, you can bring kids or dogs along without having to worry about them getting too tired. The trail is also great for birdwatching, so keep your eyes peeled for some feathered friends! If you’re looking for a short and sweet hike in Cincinnati, the Caldwell Nature Preserve trail is perfect for you. However, you still have to bring your water and be aware of your surroundings, as there are no restrooms or trash cans along the way.
Glenwood Gardens
Length: 1.6 km
Cost: None
Phone Number: +1 513-771-8733
Location: 10397 Springfield Pike, Woodlawn, OH 45215, United States
The Glenwood Gardens trail is a great place to start your hiking journey in Cincinnati. This trail is short and easy, making it perfect for beginners. The trail is also dog-friendly so you can bring your furry friend along for the hike! There are plenty of scenic views to enjoy along the way, so be sure to take your camera with you on this hike.
You will see plenty of meadows and woods on this hike, as well as a few streams. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding your way. This is an excellent hike for families or groups of friends. Be sure to check out the Glenwood Gardens trail the next time you’re in Cincinnati! You will surely enjoy your time on this beautiful trail.
A Guide To Hiking near Cincinnati
Cincinnati is a beautiful city with many hills, valleys, and parks. In addition, there are over fifty miles of trails in the Greater Cincinnati area. Therefore, hiking in Cincinnati is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the beauty of the city.
Below are some essential tips for hiking in Cincinnati.
Wear Proper Footwear
Hiking boots or shoes with good traction are a must. The trails can be slippery and muddy, so you want to ensure you have the proper footwear to avoid injury. If you are not wearing proper footwear, you are more likely to slip and fall. Make sure to invest in a good pair of hiking boots or shoes before you go hiking in Cincinnati.
Bring Water and Snacks
It is essential to stay hydrated when you are hiking. Bring plenty of water with you, as well as some snacks. This will help you stay energized and focused on the hike. Always be prepared because most trails do not have vendors who sell food and water.
Wear Sunscreen and Insect Repellent
The sun can be intense, even on cloudy days. Make sure to wear sunscreen, even if you do not think you will need it. Hiking in Cincinnati can be a great workout, so you want to ensure you are protected from the sun. If you don’t bring sunscreen, you may get sunburn.
Insect repellent is also essential. There are ticks in the Cincinnati area that can carry Lyme disease. Be sure to wear insect repellent to avoid being bitten by a tick.
Carry a Map
It is always a good idea to carry a map with you, especially if you are hiking in an unfamiliar area. A map will help you stay on the trail and make sure you don’t get lost.
Follow the Rules
There are rules in place for a reason. Hiking can be dangerous if you do not follow the rules. Make sure to stay on the trails and avoid hiking alone. Hiking in groups is always safer than hiking alone.
Dress In Layers
The weather can be unpredictable in Cincinnati. It is always a good idea to dress in layers. This way, you can take off or add layers depending on the temperature. Wearing layers will also help you stay comfortable if it starts to rain.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a great place to hike in Cincinnati, you can’t go wrong with any of the trails on this list. Whether you’re looking for a challenge or a relaxing walk in nature, there’s something for everyone. So get out there and explore all that our city has to offer! This way, you can see some of the most amazing views in Cincinnati while getting some exercise. And who knows, you might find your new favorite trail.
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