These 10 Gorgeous Waterfront Trails In Ohio Are Perfect For A Summer Day

When you want to embrace a warm day in Ohio, it's always better to do so near the water. (Like, these awesome waterfront restaurants, for example!) Fortunately, Ohio is home to several waterfront trails, both bike paths and walking courses, that feature beautiful views of waterways and even some fun stops along the way. Here are 10 gorgeous summer hikes in Ohio that are right along the river:

1. The Scioto Mile (Columbus)

This beloved riverfront park in Columbus features miles of recreational trails, a cultural arts center, water fountains, local food vendors and complimentary Wi-Fi. Be sure to check it out this summer if you haven't already. Have you visited The Scioto Mile in Columbus before?

2. Marietta River Trail

This gorgeous three-mile trail along the Muskingum River passes through Marietta’s quaint downtown and Harmar Railroad Bridge (pictured), which allows pedestrians to cross over the Muskingum River and into the historic Harmar Village. The beautiful Marietta River Trail really is one of the best summer hikes in Ohio!

3. Little Miami Scenic River Bike Trail (South Milford)

This 73-mile long trail stretches across five counties in Ohio, but the Milford area of the trail offers the most scenic views of the river. Along the way, you'll cross a 2,500-foot-long bridge that will carry you across the river toward Loveland. The Little Miami Trail really belongs on every Ohioan's bucket list!

4. The Ohio River Trail (Cincinnati)

Follow the sidewalks along the Ohio River in downtown Cincinnati and you'll stumble across more than just beautiful views of the river. Along the way, you'll come across Smale Riverfront Park, where you'll find exercise pipes, a giant foot piano, water fountains, swings and more. The Ohio River Trail will make you fall head-over-heels for the beautiful Buckeye State!

5. East Sandusky Bay Water Trail

If you'd rather actually be in the water than by the water, bring your own kayak, canoe or rowboat and tour the scenic views, cultural history and recreational opportunities of the Sandusky Bay area from a unique view along this 15-mile eco-tourist water trail. The East Sandusky Bay Water Trail is a really fun summer activity near Lake Erie!

6. The Great Miami River Recreational Trail (Troy)

With scenic views of the Great Miami River & Miami Shores Golf Course, this beautiful river trail features a total of 32 miles of bikeway in Miami County. (You can finding park for this trail at 901 Dye Mill Rd, Troy, OH, 45373.)

7. Cleveland Lakefront Bikeway

This 17-mile route features trails, bike lanes, wide sidewalks and road routes to connect several parks and attractions along Cleveland's north coast, including Edgewater Park, Cleveland Lakefront State Park, beaches and marinas. The Cleveland Lakefront Bikeway really is one of the absolute best bike trails in Cleveland!

Towpath Trail (Metroparks Toledo)

Part of the Buckeye Trail System, this 8.3-mile trail follows remains of the Miami and Erie Canal. Bikes are allowed on this trail. The Bend View Overlook to Providence Trailhead section of the trail is especially beautiful. The Towpath Trail is a must when in Cleveland!

9. 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 perfect for a leisurely day hike. There's even a footbridge you can cross on the East Cohasset Hike/Bike Trail!

10. Zane's Landing Trail (Zanesville)

Also known as the Zanesville Riverfront Bike Path, this trail pass through Riverside Park, downtown Zanesville and Landing Park. It features beautiful views of the Muskingum River.

Have you explored any of these spots before? What are some other great waterfront trails in Ohio?

If you're looking for some more trails off the beaten path, check out These 11 Trails In Ohio Will Lead You To Unforgettable Places. And if you're looking to see some beautiful water without a long walk, check out 9 Unbelievable Ohio Waterfalls Hiding In Plain Sight… No Hiking Required.