Sometimes, you want just the right amount of adventure—but not too much. Fortunately, Ohio is home to a variety of hiking trails and parks that feature beautiful views, waterfalls, caves, wildflowers and other aspects of nature that will inspire you. The easiest, best hikes in Ohio prove that you don't have to hike very far (or very strenuously) to get to an amazing view or destination. See how many you've conquered before:
1. Overlook Trail (Beaver Creek State Park)
You don't always have to hike very far, or very strenuously, to get to a gorgeous overlook view. The Overlook Trail at Beaver Creek State Park is just .3 miles long and it's a fairly easy hike to the Dustin Huffman Memorial Overlook. Be sure to check out the rest of the park, as it's one of the best state parks in Ohio.
2. Brandywine Falls (Cuyahoga Valley National Park)
Walk down the wooden pathways and stairs to see the beautiful, easily accessible Brandywine Falls in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Near the falls, the 1.5-mile Brandywine Gorge Trail allows you to explore beyond the waterfall and see other views of the creek. This is one incredible waterfall hike in Ohio you can't miss.
3. Mount Jeez (Monroe Township)
Within the Mohican Hills in Monroe Township, you’ll find one of Ohio’s most stunning summits. At 1,310 ft. tall, Mount Jeez offers a wide open, beautiful view of Ohio’s countryside. You can find the path for Mount Jeez Overlook off of Pleasant Valley Road. This is an awe-inspiring view in Ohio you won't find anywhere else in the state.
4. Ash Cave Trails (Hocking Hills State Park)
The Ash Cave Trails within Hocking Hills State Park feature a 0.25-mile-long Gorge Trail that is wheelchair accessible, as well as a 0.5-mile-long Rim Trail. Take this short waterfall hike in Ohio next time you're feeling adventurous.
5. Jane Coates Wildflower Trail (Put-In-Bay)
The Jane Coates Wildflower Trail on South Bass Island in Put-In-Bay, Ohio is a hidden gem most people don’t know about. This half-mile loop trail features a gorgeous variety of wildflowers and even some migratory songbirds. If you're craving a good wildflower trail in Ohio, this is the place to be.
6. Cascade Falls (Nelson Kennedy Ledges State Park)
The .5-mile trek to Cascade Falls in Nelson Kennedy Ledges State Park is one of those short, sweet and special trails. The next time you’re in the northeast Ohio area and you need a quick break in nature, this quaint trail is one you’ll want to check out. Take this short and sweet hike in Ohio for some of the best views our state has to offer.
7. The Blackhand Gorge Trail (Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve)
The Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve features a 4-mile-long sandstone formation that the Licking River flows through. It's truly incredible to see. The trail is the only paved bike path in the Ohio nature preserve system, making it an easy hike for those who prefer to walk and explore. This adventure trail in Ohio is a true gem.
8. Rowe Woods Edge Trail (Cincinnati Nature Center)
With just .66 miles to explore, this easy trail features gorgeous views of Powel Crosley Lake. It makes the day hike when you don't have a lot of time to explore, but you need to get out and take in some nature. This doubles as one of the best fall hikes in Ohio.
Have you hiked any of these trails before? What others would you add to this list? Share your experiences (and photos) with us!
For more incredible hikes in Ohio, check out our previous article: 14 Incredible Hikes Under 5 Miles Everyone In Ohio Should Take.
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