Hiking in the winter might sound challenging—but with the right trail, it can be downright magical.

Fortunately, Ohio is full of several beautiful hiking trails that transform into a winter wonderland once the snow falls. The best winter hikes in Ohio will treat you to frozen waterfalls, snow-covered trails, and sparkling trees that are stunning sights to see. So bundle up, grab your camera, and consider taking these 10 picturesque trails in Ohio that are perfect for winter hiking.

1. Old Man's Cave Loop (Hocking Hills State Park)

This hiking trail is stunning no matter what season, but during the colder months it transforms into a real-life winter wonderland you have to see to believe. There is even an annual Hocking Hills Winter Hike that takes place in January. It's a 6-mile group hike from Old Man's Cave to Ash Cave.

Let's go hiking in winter in Ohio to Old Man's Cave in this video from Trailhead Adventures:

2. Horseshoe Falls Trail (Ceasar Creek State Park)

Take this southwest Ohio park's First Day Hike in January to hike 3 miles and see a frozen Horseshow Falls and the park's snow-covered swinging bridge.

3. South Chagrin Reservation Trails (Cleveland Metroparks)

A key feature of the South Chagrin Reservation trail is the Henry Church Rock, which honors a local artist from the 1800s.

4. The Buckeye Trail (Cuyahoga Valley National Park)

The Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a stunning spot for snowshoe hikes. The Buckeye Trail is three miles long through a picturesque setting. A stop at Brandywine Falls is definitely a must.

5. East Cohasset Hike/Bike Trail (Mill Creek Park)

Youngstown's metro park features some beautiful scenery and landmarks. The 1.5-mile asphalt surface East Cohasset Hike/Bike Trail features a scenic route above Lake Cohasset. It's downright magical in the winter months.

Mill Creek Park in Youngstown, Ohio is absolutely beautiful in the winter. Learn more about the hike in this video from Hiking Ty:

6. Clear Creek Metropark Trails (Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks)

The Clear Creek Metro Park has over 5,300 acres of land to explore with ten hiking trails that will treat you to a wonderful winter hike.

7. Bedford Reservation Trails (Cleveland Metroparks)

The Bedford Reservation trails in northeast Ohio are gorgeous year-round, but in the winter they are absolutely stunning. Snowshoe on the 7.6-mile All Purpose Trail surrounded by a wintery forest can be pretty magical.

8. Towpath Trail (Cuyahoga Valley National Park)

For a less challenging (but equally scenic) winter hike, consider taking a full moon hike at Cuyahoga Valley National Park. There is an easy, 3.5-mile hike along the Towpath Trail that's downright magical in the wintertime.

9. Possum Creek Metropark Trails (Five Rivers Metroparks)

Take this easy 5-mile hike through a southwest Ohio winter wonderland at Possum Creek Metropark.

10. Clifton Gorge Trails (John Bryan State Park)

Although it can be challenging, exploring Clifton Gorge and other areas of this beautiful state park in the winter makes for a downright magical hiking experience.

Enjoy some footage and photos of the Clifton Gorge Trail in Ohio in this video from Wander Dano:

Have you hiked any of these trails in the winter before? What is your favorite trail to hike in Ohio during the winter? Share your experiences, thoughts, and photos of the best winter hikes in Ohio that you've taken! Be sure to check out AllTrails+ for the latest trail info and maps.

And for more winter fun in Ohio, be sure to check out these 11 winter festivals in Ohio that are simply unforgettable.