8 Beautiful And Colorful Trails You’ll Want To Hike In Ohio This Fall
There’s nothing like a hike on a beautiful fall day. The air is crisp, the temperature is just right and the views are stunning. Here in Ohio, we have several must-hikes that belong on your bucket list. The following are 8 of our favorite trails in the Buckeye State to explore in the fall. They’re particularly scenic during the enchanting months of autumn.
During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
The 0.5-mile hike to Blue Hen Falls in Cuyahoga Valley National Park is short and sweet—but the scenery is unbelievably beautiful. The 15-foot waterfall is beautiful any time of year, but it's best viewed in the fall months. (Note: Parking at the Blue Hen Falls Trailhead is limited. You'll find additional parking at the Boston Store Visitor Center, which is a 1.5-mile hike from the falls.)
This rugged, rocky gorge in the scenic Hocking Hills is often considered one of the deepest in Ohio, according to the state park's website. The Rim Trail at the top of the 200 ft. cliffs features breathtaking views. The trail can be fairly strenuous in some parts, but the colorful autumn views are worth the effort.
Coming in at just about 5 miles, this beloved hike in John Bryan State Park features the calm waters of the Little Miami River and a limestone chasm. The waters of the deep green gorge contrast beautifully with the vibrant, changing leaves.
Tucked away in one of the Cleveland Metro Parks, you'll find this fairytale-like landmark. It's unexpected and really neat to explore. Within the North Chagrin Reservation, you can take a 2.2-mile loop trail that leads right to Squire's Castle. In the autumn months, it's particularly magical.
With just .66 miles to explore, this easy trail at the Cincinnati Nature Center features gorgeous views of Powel Crosley Lake. It makes the perfect fall day hike when you don't have a lot of time to explore, but you need to get out and take in the autumn foliage.
The Beech Ridge Loop Trail and Wildcat Trail connect to make a 1.8-mile trail in the Hell Hollow Wilderness Area. In the fall time, the deep green ravine glows gold. The views from the 360-million-year-old Chagrin Shale cliff are simply magical.
Paine Falls Park in Leroy Township is an underrated metro park with a gorgeous waterfall that’s easily accessible. If you want a beautiful view of a waterfall framed by some stunning fall foliage without having to take much of a trek to see it, this is the hike for you. You can view the falls from an observation deck that's just a short 0.12-mile walk from the parking lot.
Coming in at around 5 and a half miles within Shawnee State Park, the Knighton Nature Trail features stunning lake views, a good climb and breathtaking fall foliage in the autumn months. Just follow the red triangle blazes and enjoy the journey.
Have you hiked any of these trails before during the fall season? What others would you add to this list? Share your experiences, photos and recommendations with us!
Address: Blue Hen Falls Trailhead, 2001 Boston Mills Rd, Brecksville, OH 44141, USA
Address: 24858 Big Pine Rd, Rockbridge, OH 43149, USA
Address: John Bryan State Park, 3790 Ohio 370, Yellow Springs, OH 45387, USA
Address: River Rd, Willoughby, OH 44094, USA
Address: 4949 Tealtown Rd, Milford, OH 45150, USA
Address: 14437 Leroy Center Rd, Thompson, OH 44086, USA
Address: Paine Falls Park, 5570 Paine Rd, Painesville, OH 44077, USA
Address: Shawnee State Park, 4404 OH-125, West Portsmouth, OH 45663, USA
