It's picnic season in Cincinnati and also a great time to explore all of the amazing hiking trails in our area. When the forecast calls for a beautiful spring day (here are some of our other favorite springtime activities), you want to be prepared and know where to head with your picnic basket and hiking shoes. Thanks to a plethora of incredible parks in our area, Cincinnati is the ideal city for a picnic hike. Check out nine of the best hikes in Cincinnati where you can enjoy a perfect picnic romp that will make your spring complete.
The Cincinnati Nature Center in Milford is perfect for a lovely spring day. There are numerous trails to choose from and there is something for everyone. There is a small fee to enter the property if you are not a member, but it's well worth it. Visit the Nature Center first and then seek out your favorite trail! When it comes time to enjoy your picnic lunch, either spread out a blanket near a pond or if you head to the Playscape, there is a large, covered shelter with tables and restrooms.
Miami Whitewater Forest on the west side of town is filled with natural beauty in the spring. Choose a wooded trail or stay on the paved loop that takes you past wildflowers and a variety of scenery. You can choose to picnic along a trail, at one of many shelters, or our personal favorite spot - on the lake, where you can end up after walking or biking the trail.
3. French Park
French Park is one of the largest of the Cincinnati Parks and also one of the most unique. Despite its suburban location, the wooded trails will make you feel miles away. The park also has views of Cincinnati and plenty of wide open space, perfect for a spring picnic.
4. Ault Park
The lawn at Ault Park is practically picnic-perfect and the hiking trails with this east side gem are just as ideal. While the park is known for its pavilion, city views, and events, be sure to check out the several hiking trails that can be found right off this main area. The most popular trail even includes a scenic train track!
A hike through this riverfront park may be a bit more urban than the others, but it's just as scenic and there's no better spot for a picnic than a relaxing swing, overlooking the Ohio River. There's also plenty of space for a picnic blanket. Take this paved walk all the way along the riverfront and experience spectacular views and interesting Cincinnati history.
6.
Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve
Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve is a surprising little park that offers an escape into nature, right in the heart of Colerain. The 0.6-mile Pin Oak Trail is a lovely little walk through the woods and past a pond and the entire park is beautifully serene. Pack a picnic to enjoy at a picnic table or on a blanket near the nature center.
7. Parky's Farm
Parky's Farm is known as a destination for kids to visit adorable farm animals, but there's so much more to it! You can go with no agenda, walk around the farm and feel as if you're relaxing in the country. There is actually a wooded trail on the back of the property beyond the pond and there are countless spots for a picnic. Our favorite is the picnic table next to the pond that overlooks the riding arena. Here, you can enjoy your lunch, while hopefully catching some horses and riders in action.
Woodland Mound Park in Anderson Township is truly the ultimate outdoor experience in our city. The park offers everything from a splash pad to a campground, golf course, and more. It is definitely an ideal spot for a picnic hike. Choose one of many diverse trails within the park and then head to the shelter that overlooks the Ohio River. It's the picture-perfect place for a picnic on a warm, spring day.
9. Devou Park
Devou Park is situated in the hills of Covington and is known for its unmatched views of the Cincinnati skyline. There are plenty of picnic tables and grassy spots for an outdoor meal that includes this view, but the park is also filled with both easy and adventurous trails. Try out a mountain bike or nature trail, or stick to a paved hike that takes you through this unique park.
There's no better reward for an adventurous hike than the perfect picnic spot, and these nine Cincinnati parks have both! Do you enjoy hiking and picnicking in Cincinnati? Any other favorite spots we should know about? Let us know in the comments!
If you are ready for more outdoor adventures, take a look at even more incredible hikes around Cincinnati.
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