Some of the best days you can have in Cincinnati are those spent outdoors and that is easy to do with so many wonderful parks and hiking trails throughout our area. Great Parks of Hamilton County alone is filled with trails that will lead you deep into the woods, or right along the banks of a lake or river. Those challenging hikes are fun and we’ve featured some of them previously here, but sometimes you want something short and sweet. Fernbank Park is a hidden gem on the west side of Cincinnati that is located right along the Ohio River. This park has a quaint little trail that is the shortest and sweetest hike in Cincinnati and is perfect for when you just want a taste of the outdoors in the Queen City.

Fernbank Park has more than a mile of riverfront on the west side of Cincinnati and a number of features that attract visitors to this hidden gem.
Google Maps
Google/Alana Jenkins
The park's riverfront location makes it unique and you can take full advantage of it with the 1.2-mile paved trail that's ideal for a number of activities. As the path winds along the river, it's an easy hike that you can take by foot and it's also a great spot for little ones to gain more confidence on bikes and scooters.
The views along the paved trail are some of the best in the park system and you can enjoy them during your walk, or take a break and relax on one of many benches.
Google/Alana Jenkins
Google/Lisa Cox
The path is mostly out in the sun, but since it's rather short, it is still a great spot on a hot or cold day. When you need some relaxation, fresh air, and a little exercise, this quaint trail is a destination you should keep in mind.

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And connected to the paved trail is an extension to this pathway with the Sycamore Nature Trail.
Google/David Billiter
Google/David Billiter
This 1.0-mile easy trail takes you into the shaded woods and provides an escape into nature that you may not expect to find right next to the river. The canopy of trees will keep you cool and the scenery, plant life, and wildlife all provide entertainment along the way. Both the paved trail and this nature trail are perfect on their own or done together, and are appropriate for all ages and abilities.
Fernbank Park also offers a wonderful playground that's a fun reward after a hike along the river and through the woods. There are also places where you can fish in the Ohio River and pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the shelters.
Google/Alana Jenkins
Google/Matt Maxey
The quaint little trail at Fernbank Park is a lovely spot to get outside, enjoy the views and take in some fresh air any time of year. This riverfront hike is the shortest and sweetest in Cincinnati and a west side gem that's worth checking out.

The trail and pathway at Fernbank park are ideal for all ages and really any day of the year. This short and sweet hike provides beautiful river views, the solitude of the forest, and enough relaxation to leave feeling refreshed. Have you walked along the paths at Fernbank Park? What is your favorite short and sweet hike in Cincinnati? Let us know in the comments!

Fernbank Park is located at 50 Thornton Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45233 and is open daily from dawn until dusk. For more information, visit the park’s website here.

And for more trails around Cincinnati — both hiking and food-related — check out our previous articles here.

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