Ohioans know how beautiful our state is, but there's still some places we go that surprise even the most knowledgable Buckeye. California Woods Nature Preserve is one of those rare hidden gems. Did you know there’s a California, Ohio? (We bet you didn't!) California is one of the 52 neighborhoods that make up the city of Cincinnati; it’s a small river community located at the confluence of the Little Miami and Ohio Rivers, between Lunken Airport and the now-shuttered Coney Island. Its eponymous nature preserve is nestled in the center of the community, and it's utterly breathtaking. The California Woods Trail in Ohio will show you a completely new side of the state—one you never knew existed.
Sometimes you stumble upon a new-to-you place, and you immediately know it's special.
There are streams and bridges, and an abundance of wildlife. In fact, California Woods features 53 species of trees, more than 200 species of herbaceous plants, and is adjacent to the Magrish Preserve, a designated Important Birding Area. Lick Run Creek passes through this preserve, and is home to kingfishers, snapping turtles, small fish, myriad invertebrates and the occasional visit from grebes, mallards, wood ducks, and beavers.
There are six hiking trails, ranging from the .16-mile Twin Oaks Trail to the 2.5-mile California Woods Trail, so there are options for hikers of all abilities.
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Families will enjoy the Trillium Trail, a half-mile loop that takes you deep into the forest.
More experienced hikers, meanwhile can tackle the California Woods Trail, the preserve's longest and most challenging trail that leads deep into the wilderness.
Regardless of which trail you choose, you'll be treated to one of the most scenic hikes in Ohio.
At the summit of the California Woods Trail, you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking, 360-degree panorama of California Woods. It’s so quiet and peaceful, you’ll forget that you’re just minutes away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
It's reminiscent of one of the state's most well-known treasures: Hocking Hills.
The Trillium Trail starts off with a series of steps that my kids eagerly attack, Rocky Balboa–style. While the climb is a bit challenging for little (and big!) legs, it’s well worth the effort. When you finally make it to the top of Trillium Trail, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking, 360-degree panorama of California Woods. It’s so quiet and peaceful, you’ll forget that you’re just minutes away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The California Woods Trail in Ohio is one of those places that truly takes you by surprise, and leaves you completely awestruck at the state's natural beauty. But that's pretty much Ohio for you! If you need further proof, these 15 beautiful hikes in Ohio will convince you.
The best way to bask in the natural beauty of Ohio is to get out there on one of our hiking trails. For a beautiful, easy trail that takes you to a pretty waterfall, lace up your hiking boots and head to Caesar Creek State Park in Waynesville. Here you’ll find the Horseshoe Falls Trail. Witness a swinging bridge, water views, wildlife, wildflowers, and more as you trek the Horseshoe Falls Trail in Ohio. We guarantee that you’ll love this hike that leads to the most unforgettable destination. Though this trail is short, we encourage you to download AllTrails to make sure you have access to turn by turn directions.
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You'll find Caesar Creek State Park in the southwestern corner of the state, near Waynesville. The park encompasses 3,741 acres, and includes a beautiful lake, creek, nature center, and pioneer village.
The Horseshoe Falls Trail is located in the Wellman Area of the park. This pretty trail makes a 1.8-mile loop, and it's considered easy, so it's perfect for hikers of all ages and abilities.
Horseshoe Falls isn't big, but what it lacks in size it makes up in beauty. The pretty waterfall cascades down into the creek with a pleasant gurgle; sit here for awhile and bask in the beauty of this peaceful spot before continuing on.
The Caesar Creek Swinging Bridge stretches 109 feet across the creek. You'll definitely want to cross it before heading back toward your car. Either retrace your steps along the Horseshoe Falls Trail, or hook up with the Perimeter Trail and take it back to the parking lot.
Ohio offers a range of top-rated hiking trails perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. From scenic waterfalls and lush forests to stunning overlooks and serene lakes, these 18 best hikes in Ohio promise fun hiking trips for all skill levels. Whether you prefer leisurely strolls or more challenging treks, the state's landscapes and trails allow you to connect with nature and discover hidden gems throughout the region. Lace up your hiking boots and get ready to embark on the best hikes in Ohio.
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Best Hikes in Ohio
Set out on a quest with the best hikes in Ohio: Cuyahoga Valley Ledges Trail, Brandywine Gorge Trail, and Old Man's Cave and Naturalist Cabin Loop. Witness the great outdoors as you encounter magnificent ledges, enchanting waterfalls, and captivating rock formations.
FYI: Popular year-round trail for hiking and running. Expect company. Leashed dogs welcome.
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Hike the Cuyahoga Valley Ledges Trail, accessible through a connector trail behind the bulletin board. The route is well marked, leading to breathtaking rock formations on the plateau. Wear sturdy shoes and bring hiking poles for the rocky terrain. Enjoy the adventure and the stunning views.
FYI: Popular hiking and running area, expect crowds. Best time to visit: April-October. Leashed dogs allowed.
Experience the beauty of Brandywine Gorge Trail with its waterfall, creek, and colorful forest, especially in the fall. Enjoy lovely views along the route, which includes fine gravel, broken-up asphalt, and dirt sections. Going clockwise means descending and then ascending. This trail is also part of the Stanford House to Brandywine Falls Loop. Get ready for a short but rewarding hike in this picturesque landscape.
FYI: Popular hiking and walking area with crowds. Best time to visit: April-October. Leashed dogs allowed. Note: Some trails are one-way in Hocking Hills State Park.
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Explore the Old Man's Cave and Naturalist Cabin Loop, a 0.6-mile easy out-and-back trail in South Bloomingville, Ohio. Kid-friendly and packed with sights at every turn. Enjoy cool bridges, numerous waterfalls, and towering rock walls. It's a fantastic route offering a delightful nature experience.
Best Short & Easy Hikes in Ohio
Ohio's best short and easy hikes include Broken Rock Falls Loop, Conkle's Hollow Gorge Trail, and Horseshoe Falls. These trails offer waterfalls, gorges, and picturesque landscapes, perfect for a quick and enjoyable outdoor adventure. Whether you're a beginner hiker or simply looking for a relaxing escape, these trails promise just that.
FYI: Ideal for hiking and walking. Best time to visit: April-October. Leashed dogs allowed. Note: Some trails are one-way in Hocking Hills State Park.
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Try the Broken Rock Falls Loop, a 1.0-mile easy loop trail in South Bloomingville, Ohio. It's beautiful, with lots of waterfalls and well-groomed paths. Expect some elevation gain, but it's totally worth the effort. Be prepared for crowds during weekends as it's a popular spot. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and the abundance of waterfalls along the trail.
FYI: Popular area for birding, hiking, and running with crowds. Best time to visit: April-November. No dogs allowed on this trail.
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Discover the beauty of Conkle's Hollow Gorge Trail, a scenic path with paved sections leading to a waterfall. Enjoy breathtaking views of high cliffs, rock walls, and lush greenery as you progress along the trail.
FYI: Popular hiking area, expect crowds. Best time to visit: April-October. Leashed dogs allowed.
Experience Horseshoe Falls, a 1.7-mile easy out-and-back trail in Waynesville, Ohio. Kid-friendly and perfect for beginners. Enjoy a simple hike with cool falls and a bouncy bridge to cross. Venture a bit further for an excellent view of the falls. It's an active and fun-filled trail for the whole family.
Hardest Hikes in Ohio
Take on the challenge of the hardest hikes in Ohio with Shawnee State Park North Loop, Zaleski North Loop Trail, and Lake Vesuvius Backpack Trail. These rugged and demanding trails offer adventurous hikers stellar scenery, diverse landscapes, and a true backcountry experience. Test your limits as you navigate through challenging terrain and steep inclines, rewarded with the unmatched beauty of Ohio's outdoors.
FYI: Ideal for backpacking, camping, and hiking with fewer crowds. Dogs allowed, some areas off-leash. Enjoy your adventure in peace and with your furry friend by your side.
Take on the Shawnee State Park North Loop, a challenging 19.7-mile loop trail in West Portsmouth, Ohio. Enjoy spectacular views and rugged terrain, providing a true backpacking adventure. The trail is reasonably marked, making it a great experience for hiking enthusiasts seeking a thrilling challenge with lots of hills.
FYI: Popular trail for backpacking, birding, and camping. Enjoy solitude during quieter times. Best time to visit: March-October. Leashed dogs allowed.
Check out the Zaleski North Loop Trail. It's a challenging 19.5-mile loop in McArthur, Ohio, and a hit for backpacking, birding, and camping. For the best experience, go in early spring or late fall to avoid overgrowth. If you brave the trail in late spring or summer, be prepared for lots of it. Get ready for a challenging adventure in the wild.
FYI: Popular trail for backpacking, birding, and camping. Enjoy solitude during quieter times. Open year-round, beautiful anytime. Leashed dogs allowed.
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Take a journey along the Lake Vesuvius Backpack Trail, an 18.1-mile challenging loop near Pedro, Ohio. Customize your backpacking adventure with countless great campsites along the trek as you circle the scenic Lake Vesuvius.
Best Waterfront Hikes in Ohio
Did you know that Ohio has some of the best hiking trails by the water? You have to check out the Covered Bridge and Lyons Falls via Pleasant Hill and Lyons Falls Loop, Sharon Woods Lake Trail to Gorge Trail Loop, and Whispering Cave - Cedar Falls Loop. Whether you're a pro or just want to take it easy, there's something for everyone on these trails.
10. Covered Bridge and Lyons Falls via Pleasant Hill and Lyons Falls Loop
FYI: Popular area for birding, hiking, and running, expect crowds. Best time to visit: April-November. Leashed dogs allowed.
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Don't miss the Covered Bridge and Lyons Falls hike via the Pleasant Hill and Lyons Falls Loop. Start at the covered bridge - the hike will lead to waterfalls, a dam, and a scenic river. Wear good hiking or running shoes, as it might get muddy depending on the season. Bring water and snacks for an enjoyable hike with plenty of shade from trees.
FYI: Popular area for birding, road biking, and running, expect crowds. Best time to visit: April-October. Leashed dogs allowed. Note: Parking fee at Sharon Woods.
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Take the Sharon Woods Lake Trail to Gorge Trail Loop, an easy and beautiful route that takes about an hour and a half to complete. Enjoy mostly paved paths, with a small portion on the Gorge Trail made of light gravel. Stay shaded throughout the trail for a pleasant and scenic hike.
FYI: Popular area for hiking and walking, expect crowds.
Embark on the Whispering Cave - Cedar Falls Loop for a moderate, fun hike. Discover fascinating rock formations, challenging rock climbs, and a double cave and waterfall. While some parts can be difficult to traverse, the enjoyable experience is well worth it.
Best Winter Hikes in Ohio
Ohio has some amazing winter hiking trails, including the Holler Collar and Doanville School Trail, Sampson Trail, and Chapin Forest Trail. Each of these hikes offers unique views and challenges, making them perfect for those looking to get outside and explore during the colder months.
FYI: Perfect for hiking, running, and walking with fewer crowds.
Starting where Tipple Top Trail ends, this easy trail offers rolling dips and climbing turns for an exciting ride. Counterclockwise, it connects with Bullfrog Loop at Utah Ridge Pond. To continue on Holler Collar, cross Utah Ridge Road. The trail then follows the top of Doanville holler and intersects with Doanville School Trail. Expect a short climb back to Utah Ridge Road and the loop's start. From the Doanville-York Trailhead, Doanville School Trail climbs via a switchback through white pine-dominated woods, offering scenic views of Doanville. Access the Holler Collar Trail for a great intermediate-level workout.
FYI: Popular trail for hiking, running, and walking. Enjoy solitude during quieter times. Best time to visit: March-November.
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You've got to check out the hidden gem of Sampson Trail at the Forrest Nature Preserve. It's an easy 0.8-mile out-and-back trail near Tiffin, Ohio, and only takes around 19 minutes to complete. Perfect for hiking, running, and walking, with different paths that offer amazing views. Just a heads up, there's a steep part of the trail that leads to the road near the parking lot, so be aware of that.
FYI: Popular area for birding, camping, and cross-country skiing, expect crowds. Best time to visit: April-September. Leashed dogs allowed.
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The outlook along the Chapin Forest Trail offers a fantastic view, making the entire trail worthwhile. Enjoy the vistas of Lake Erie and the distant Cleveland skyline. The route is wide and well-marked. Avoid the steep connector trail and stick to the regular trails for a pleasant hike.
Best Hikes Near Columbus
Columbus offers some great hiking options, especially if you're looking for a quick getaway from the city. The Blendon Woods Loop, Hayden Run Falls, and Scioto Trail North Bank are all fantastic options for those seeking a little adventure.
FYI: Popular trail for hiking, running, and walking. Enjoy solitude during quieter times. No dogs allowed on this trail.
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Check out the Blendon Woods Loop – well-maintained with paved and unpaved trails. Spot abundant wildlife, including wild turkeys, black squirrels, and colorful birds. Enjoy the beautiful, shady trail with some small, easy inclines around a ravine. A nature lover's dream in Columbus!
FYI: Popular trail for hiking and walking, offering solitude during quieter times. Open year-round, beautiful anytime. Leashed dogs allowed.
Hayden Run Falls is an easy 0.3-mile out-and-back trail near Columbus, Ohio. It's just a quick stroll along stairways and boardwalks leading to the falls. While parking may be limited, the short walk is well worth the magnificent view. Don't miss this gem if you're in the area.
FYI: Popular mountain biking trail with moments of solitude. Best time to visit: February-November.
Grab your bike and ride along the Scioto Trail North Bank, an easy 1.8-mile out-and-back trail near Columbus, Ohio. It's popular for mountain biking and has great views of downtown Columbus.
Have you taken any of these hiking trails in the state of Ohio? Think they are some of the best hiking trails in Ohio? Which do you think are the best places for hiking in Ohio? Let us know – we’d love to hear from you!
Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a day hike, our Ohio Hiking series below covers everything you’ll need, and be sure to Try AllTrails+ For Free!
