Escape from the current decade and jump into the past. At Ault Park, you can walk to a historic railroad bridge that dates back to 1978. The vibrant vegetation, shaded pathways, and peaceful views will fill you with awe. Whether you're embarking on a relaxing solo adventure or taking a family outing, you're certain to have a magnificent time exploring the Valley Trail in Cincinnati.
Ault Park is a stunning destination in Cincinnati, Ohio.
The Queen City is filled with bustling neighborhoods, historic buildings, and towering skyscrapers, but there are also plenty of spots to get away and escape the city/suburban life, as you'll soon see with this list of the best hikes in Cincinnati. This list of trails within and around our city are all under three miles, are rated easy to moderate, and all of them provide a relaxing way to get some fresh air and enjoy the natural beauty of the Queen City. Take a look and see how many of these best hikes in Cincinnati you can cross off your hiking list!
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1. Ault Park Trails - Ault Park - 5090 Observatory Ave. Cincinnati, OH, 45208
Ault Park is known for its pavilion, spring cherry blossoms, and stunning views, but there are also exciting trails to explore! You'll stumble across many photo-ops, including an old railroad bridge. These trails are a surprising oasis in the middle of a bustling area of the city.
2. Fernbank Park - 50 Thornton Ave. Cincinnati, OH, 45233
Over on the West Side of Cincinnati, Fernbank Park offers two short hikes to meet everyone's needs. The 2.2-mile paved trail along the river is scenic and great for exercise. If you want to get into the woods, try the mile loop, Sycamore Trail, for a little more escape into nature.
The Cincinnati Nature Center has many wonderful hiking trails and these two connected hikes are a highlight. Both are a good balance of relaxation and exploration and are well-maintained. There is a fee to visit the center and trails, but better yet, become a member to support this natural gem in our city.
This 2.3-mile loop trail may be one of the more difficult hikes in Cincinnati on the list, but the view from the top is worth it. The trail is a bit wild, so if you're looking for an adventure close to the city, check this one out.
Miami Whitewater is known for its family-friendly Shaker Trace trail, but we suggest giving the Badlands Trail a try. This 1.7-mile loop will take you into the forest and up and down hills for the perfect amount of challenge.
6. Johnson Hills Park Trail - 7950 Bridle Rd. Cincinnati, OH, 45244
Johnson Hills Park in Anderson has a few trails that are great on their own or combined for more of a challenge. They offer the perfect opportunity to wind down and have a relaxing walk in the woods.
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7. Wood Duck Trail - Mitchell Memorial Forest - 5401 Zion Rd. Cleves, OH, 45002
Mitchell Memorial Forest in Cleves is a popular spot for mountain bikers, but there is also a lovely, mile-long loop trail that makes for the perfect family hike. You'll walk along a creek and eventually end up with a view of a small pond.
8. Caldwell Nature Preserve Trail - 430 W. North Bend Rd. Cincinnati, OH 45216
Caldwell Nature Preserve is a hidden gem with some of the most unique hiking opportunities. While parts of the trails are closed at times, there are still plenty of opportunities to explore this Mill Creek valley.
This 2.6-mile trail at California Woods Nature Preserve includes a variety of terrain and enough challenge to keep it interesting. The surrounding woods are beautiful and it's another quiet escape from the nearby city.
This 2.4-mile stretch of trail is actually a part of the much longer Little Miami Scenic Trail. It's a great section of this popular trail for both hiking and bike riding.
This 1.1-mile loop trail within Winton Woods makes you feel like you are in the middle of nowhere. You'll forget about the nearby neighborhoods and highways and focus on the peaceful surroundings.
This favorite trail within Sharon Woods is a 0.7-mile, gravel trail that takes you out and back, for a total of 1.4 miles. It's one of the most scenic trails on this list with wooded views, lake views, and even a stunning waterfall.
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13. Miami Fort Trail - Shawnee Lookout - 2008 Lawrenceburg Rd. North Bend, OH, 45052
Within French Park in Amberley Village, you'll find a 2.9-mile-long trail that provides a surprising amount of variety. Its location makes it a convenient stop for a quick hike and the scenery and creek will give you the natural escape you're seeking.
The trails at Woodland Mounds (a popular playground in Cincinnati, too!) take you through the woods, as well as along paved walkways with sweeping views of the river. This gem of a park offers many activities; the hike is just one of several ways to enjoy Cincinnati's natural beauty.
How many of these Cincy hikes have you tried? Did we miss any of your favorites? What are your picks for the best hikes in Cincinnati? Share with us in the comments so we know what to check out next!
It's picnic season in Cincinnati and also a great time to explore all of the amazing hiking trails in our area. When the forecast calls for a beautiful spring day (here are some of our other favorite springtime activities), you want to be prepared and know where to head with your picnic basket and hiking shoes. Thanks to a plethora of incredible parks in our area, Cincinnati is the ideal city for a picnic hike. Check out nine of the best hikes in Cincinnati where you can enjoy a perfect picnic romp that will make your spring complete.
The Cincinnati Nature Center in Milford is perfect for a lovely spring day. There are numerous trails to choose from and there is something for everyone. There is a small fee to enter the property if you are not a member, but it's well worth it. Visit the Nature Center first and then seek out your favorite trail! When it comes time to enjoy your picnic lunch, either spread out a blanket near a pond or if you head to the Playscape, there is a large, covered shelter with tables and restrooms.
Miami Whitewater Forest on the west side of town is filled with natural beauty in the spring. Choose a wooded trail or stay on the paved loop that takes you past wildflowers and a variety of scenery. You can choose to picnic along a trail, at one of many shelters, or our personal favorite spot - on the lake, where you can end up after walking or biking the trail.
French Park is one of the largest of the Cincinnati Parks and also one of the most unique. Despite its suburban location, the wooded trails will make you feel miles away. The park also has views of Cincinnati and plenty of wide open space, perfect for a spring picnic.
The lawn at Ault Park is practically picnic-perfect and the hiking trails with this east side gem are just as ideal. While the park is known for its pavilion, city views, and events, be sure to check out the several hiking trails that can be found right off this main area. The most popular trail even includes a scenic train track!
A hike through this riverfront park may be a bit more urban than the others, but it's just as scenic and there's no better spot for a picnic than a relaxing swing, overlooking the Ohio River. There's also plenty of space for a picnic blanket. Take this paved walk all the way along the riverfront and experience spectacular views and interesting Cincinnati history.
Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve is a surprising little park that offers an escape into nature, right in the heart of Colerain. The 0.6-mile Pin Oak Trail is a lovely little walk through the woods and past a pond and the entire park is beautifully serene. Pack a picnic to enjoy at a picnic table or on a blanket near the nature center.
Parky's Farm is known as a destination for kids to visit adorable farm animals, but there's so much more to it! You can go with no agenda, walk around the farm and feel as if you're relaxing in the country. There is actually a wooded trail on the back of the property beyond the pond and there are countless spots for a picnic. Our favorite is the picnic table next to the pond that overlooks the riding arena. Here, you can enjoy your lunch, while hopefully catching some horses and riders in action.
Woodland Mound Park in Anderson Township is truly the ultimate outdoor experience in our city. The park offers everything from a splash pad to a campground, golf course, and more. It is definitely an ideal spot for a picnic hike. Choose one of many diverse trails within the park and then head to the shelter that overlooks the Ohio River. It's the picture-perfect place for a picnic on a warm, spring day.
Devou Park is situated in the hills of Covington and is known for its unmatched views of the Cincinnati skyline. There are plenty of picnic tables and grassy spots for an outdoor meal that includes this view, but the park is also filled with both easy and adventurous trails. Try out a mountain bike or nature trail, or stick to a paved hike that takes you through this unique park.
There's no better reward for an adventurous hike than the perfect picnic spot, and these nine Cincinnati parks have both! Do you enjoy hiking and picnicking in Cincinnati? Any other favorite spots we should know about? Let us know in the comments!
If you are ready for more outdoor adventures, take a look at even more incredible hikes around Cincinnati.
