Here in Ohio, hiking is one of the best ways to spend your summer. The little-known trails, boardwalks and swinging bridges lead to some really interesting places. (You might even stumble upon an abandoned castle or two.) The following are 11 of our favorite trails to hike in the Buckeye State. Consider this list an Ohio hiking guide for the summertime. (And if you're really adventurous, consider hiking The Buckeye Trail this summer, which spans the entire state.) Make a commitment to get outdoors, explore your home state and find out what's hiding in your own backyard.
The Boardwalk Trail is arguably the best trail to hike at Maumee Bay State Park. It's a 2.2-mile loop, so it's perfect for a short day hike when you only have a few hours to explore. What makes this trail especially unique is the fact that it traverses swamp and marsh wetlands. Address: 1400 State Park Road, Oregon, OH, 43616
Worden's Ledges Loop Trail in Hinckley Reservation is a true hidden gem to Ohio explorers and hiking enthusiasts. It's a 0.7-mile loop trail that features one-of-a-kind carvings from the 1940s. Stumbling upon this in the middle of the woods feels like you've uncovered a secret. Address: 908-856 County Highway 135, Hinckley, OH, 44233
One of the state’s most underrated hikes is hiding in Caesar Creek State Park in Waynesville, Ohio. Part of a larger trail, the trek to Horseshoe Falls is an easy, eventful journey that’s perfect for a short day hike. Along this 1.2-mile portion of the trail, you'll encounter gorgeous views, a swinging bridge and a waterfall. The Flat Fork Ridge Recreation Area, (where you'll find the trailhead), is located on Clarksville Road, close to the Caesar Creek Visitor’s Center. Address: 4020 North Clarksville Road, Waynesville, OH 45068
The preserve is home to more than 3 miles of trails, and the trek to the falls is a fairly easy hike. (There's also a small cave that's fun to find.) Because Charleston Falls' rock strata is the same as Niagara Falls, it's often called a "Miniature Niagara." Like any waterfall, it's best viewed after heavy rainfall. Address: 2535 Ross Road, Tipp City, OH, 45371
5. The Ledges Trail (Cuyahoga Valley National Park)
The Ledges Trail at this national park is a must-do. More than 400 million years ago, this area of the park was actually covered by an ancient sea. Melting glaciers helped to form what are now captivating ledges you can hike through. The Ledges Shelter and Trailhead is located at Truxell Road / Kendall Park Road, 1 mile west of Akron Cleveland Road, Peninsula 44264.
6. 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. Address: 2200 Gratiot Road Southeast, Heath, OH, 43056
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7. Hemlock Bridge and Whispering Cave Trail (Hocking Hills State Park)
With massive sandstone cliffs, a cave, a towering waterfall and a swinging bridge, the new Hemlock Bridge Trail to Whispering Cave at Hocking Hills State Park is an Ohio adventure you simply have to take. The Hemlock Bridge Trail is a 1.5-mile trail that leads to Whispering Cave, a 300 ft.-wide cavern many past visitors have yet to explore. Address: 20160 Sate Route 664 South, Logan, OH, 43138
8. Long Loop (Johnson Woods State Nature Preserve)
Tucked away in Wayne County, you'll find more than 200 acres of some of Ohio's oldest trees at Johnson Woods State Nature Preserve. According to the ODNR Division of Natural Areas and Preserves, some of the trees have grown to be 120 ft. tall with a diameter of 4 - 5 ft. Most of them are 400-years-old. The all boardwalk trail system makes the preserve easy to explore. You can either take the Short Loop or Long Loop. Address: 13240 Fox Lake Road, Marshallville, OH, 44645
The Rockbridge State Nature Preserve in the small town of Rockbridge features a natural bridge that stretches more than 100 ft. long – and it’s truly incredible. The Natural Bridge Loop Trail is less than two miles long, so it's perfect for a short day hike. Once you finally stumble upon the natural bridge, you'll feel like you've just discovered a beautiful secret. Address: 11475 Dalton Road, Rockbridge, OH, 43149
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10. North Shore Loop Trail (Kelleys Island State Park)
The North Shore Loop Trail within Kelleys Island State Park weaves through much of the the island's quarry history and ruins. It's a 1-mile trail with so much to see along the way. You'll find the trailhead near the boat ramp parking lot. Address: 920 Division Street, Kelleys Island, OH, 43438
Within this beautiful nature preserve, you'll find some of the most unique plants, animals, insects and landscapes in Ohio. The newly renovated boardwalk makes exploring the preserve almost effortless. Please note: There is a $5 per person entry fee to visit Cedar Bog Nature Preserve. The preserve is operated by the non-profit Cedar Bog Association and is owned by the Ohio History Connection. Address: 980 Woodburn Road, Urbana, OH, 43078
Have you ever hiked any of these trails before? What others would you add to the list? Share your thoughts, photos and experiences with us!
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!
