Ohio is probably not the first place most people think of when they think of great hiking trails.
The truth is, great hiking opportunities are everywhere.
So don’t let your preconceptions fool you, there are a number of good hiking trails in Ohio. You just need to know where they are so that you can get out there, soak up some sunshine, enjoy nature, and take advantage of the other awesome benefits of hiking.
If you’re planning a trip to the buckeye state anytime soon, be sure to check out these great destinations.
Old Man’s Cave, Hocking Hills State Park
Set in one of Ohio’s most popular parks–Hocking Hills State Park–this trail takes hikers through a beautiful gorge area. Hikers will also see a cavern that was home to an eighteenth-century hermit.
The trail system in this state park is extensive and heavily trafficked, so plan your trip accordingly.
The Marie Hickey Trail, Blackhand Gorge Nature Preserve
Located in the Blackhand Gorge Nature Preserve, the Marie Hickey Trail transports visitors through a series of meadows and thickets. Hikers will also find a few streams, a waterfall, and even a bluff overlooking the Licking River.
Cedar Falls, Hocking Hills State Park
Also located in Hocking Hills State Park, this trail leads to a small waterfall flowing from an impressive rock formation.
From the falls, hikers can move on to other popular trails, such as Old Man’s Cave.
Lamping Homestead, Wayne National Forest
Nestled in Wayne National Forest, Lamping Homestead offers visitors a bevy of outdoor recreation options. One of those options is a 4.5-mile trail beginning at a lake and traversing the hilly terrain comprising the area.
John Bryan State Park Is One of the Best Hiking Trails in Ohio
This state park provides hikers with nearly 20 miles of hiking and multi-use trails. In addition to the park’s trail system, visitors also have access to the Little Miami River and a variety of other recreational options.
If that’s not enough, the park’s trail system also connects to the trails of neighboring Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve.
Lake Trail, Clear Creek Metropark
Located in Rockbridge, the Lake Trail offers hikers a challenging mix of terrain in a beautiful setting. Though the trail itself is only about a mile long it’s not an easy stroll.
Gorge Trail Metropark, Cuyahoga Falls
This 1.8-mile trail leads hikers to a rushing waterfall. The hike is brisk and refreshing and provides plenty of opportunities to view wildlife.
Mohican State Park
With over 1,100 acres of land, Mohican State Park provides visitors with many recreational activities.
The Butler to Mansfield bike trail located in the park gives hikers 18.6 of trails to explore.
Burr Oak State Park
Burr Oak State Park offers visitors over 30 miles of trails. Many of the trails connect, offering hikers the ability to hike a variety of distances.
From hills to meadows, this state park offers visitors a wide range of terrain.
Conkles Hollow Rim Trail
Conkles Hollow is a popular nature preserve that offers hikers several options.
At 2.5 miles The Rim Trail provides many scenic vistas to hikers as it skirts the gorge rim.
Now that you’ve got a list of trails, it’s time to get out there and start hiking.
Did we miss anything? If you’ve spent any time hiking in the mid-west, you’ve probably got a few favorites. Let us know in the comments which hiking trails in Ohio are your favorites.
