12 Easy Spring Hikes in Ohio With Beautiful Views

Although we aren't quite sure if winter is fully done and over with, we can say without a doubt that we're looking forward to getting back outside. The snow is melting, the cabin fever is real, and if you're ready to stretch your legs, come hit the trails. Read on to see our picks for the best spring hikes in Ohio.

This year, make it a point to get out in nature as much as you can and explore your home state. Ohio has some awesome hiking trails that are only a quick trip away - and you need to take advantage of them. With wildflowers in bloom and birds migrating back as the days get longer, spring is an extra special time to enjoy some of the best hikes in Ohio. Be aware of high water flow areas and spots that might be extra slippery if you choose one of the waterfall or creek destinations. Make sure to bring good shoes and plenty of water.

The following are 12 fairly easy-to-hike trails to enjoy spring in Ohio, many of which are shorter than three miles. Plus, they connect to larger systems so you can scope out any other trails you might want to try! See which ones you've yet to explore.

Confluence Trail - Three Creeks Metro Park

This one-mile dirt trail will lead you where the Blacklick, Big Walnut, and Alum Creeks merge into one. If you want to scope out some longer hikes for the future, this one is perfect. You'll enjoy the scenery along the way and at the end. Here is a trail map of the area.

Overlook Trail - Beaver Creek State Park

You don't always have to hike very far (or very strenuously) to get to a gorgeous view. The Overlook Trail at Beaver Creek State Park is just .3 miles long, and it's a fairly quick hike to the Dustin Huffman Memorial Overlook. It does start out a little steep, though, so be prepared!

Ghost Hedge Trail - Sycamore State Park

With nearly three miles of gorgeous scenery and wildlife along this southwest Ohio trail, you'll have a picture-perfect day in nature. Make sure to refer to it as the trails are easy to follow, but not as well-marked. You might even get to see trail riding from the intersecting horse-friendly trails.

Brandywine Falls - Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Walk down the wooden pathways and stairs to see the beautiful, easily accessible Brandywine Falls in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Near the falls, the 1.5-mile Brandywine Gorge Trail allows you to explore beyond the waterfall and see other views of the creek. Here is all the trail information.

Horseshoe Falls - Caesar Creek State Park

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.

You'll start your adventure at the Flat Fork Ridge Recreation Area on Clarksville Rd., just down the road from the Caesar Creek Visitor's Center. This is the trail map.

Hebron Trail - Ohio Canal Greenway

This recreational trail in Licking County is located on the old Penn Central Railroad right-of-way, just south of the village of Hebron. It is approximately 2.7 miles long and features farmland scenery and a charming covered bridge along the way. Plus, the trail is bordered by farm fields to the west.

Along the trail is the Hebron State Fish Hatchery with over 60 ponds and 25 acres of wetlands.

Piatt Park Gorge Trail - Woodsfield

This small county park is hiding a nature lover's secret. The hiking trail at Piatt Park features a stunning natural gorge, rock shelter and several small waterfalls. This is all the trail information you'll need.

The Blackhand Gorge Trail - Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve

The Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve features a four-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. With wildflowers and geological wonders, this is one you'll want to come back to. There are also some nearby biking trails if you'd like to explore the area at speed! Would you like to find out more about this trail?

Cascade Falls - Nelson Kennedy Ledges State Park

The .5-mile hike to Cascade Falls in Nelson Kennedy Ledges State Park is one of those short, sweet and special trails. It's particularly kid-friendly. The next time you’re in the northeast Ohio area and you need a quick break in nature, this quaint trail is one you’ll want to check out. You can find more information on AllTrails.

Jane Coates Wildflower Trail - Put-In-Bay

The Jane Coates Wildflower Trail on South Bass Island in Put-In-Bay, Ohio, is a hidden gem most people don’t know about. This half-mile loop trail features a gorgeous variety of wildflowers and even some migratory songbirds. Learn more about this trail on AllTrails.

Ash Cave Trails - Hocking Hills State Park

The Ash Cave Trails within Hocking Hills State Park feature a 0.25-mile-long Gorge Trail that is wheelchair accessible, making it family-friendly and perfect to enjoy with older relatives. Nearby is also the 0.5-mile-long Rim Trail. You can find this trail with these directions.

Rowe Woods Trails - Cincinnati Nature Center

Within the Cincinnati Nature Center, you can find this easy to hike loop trail in Rowe Woods, which features an abundance of wildlife and beautiful plants along the way. It is approximately 1.8 miles long. There’s a great map of the area on AllTrails.

We sure are lucky to have so many gorgeous trails in Ohio!

How many of these trails have you explored? Share this article with someone you want to tackle one (or all) of these spring hikes in Ohio with. Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.