15 Incredible Trails You Have To Hike In Ohio Before You Die
Here in Ohio, we have several trails that take you to some really beautiful places. There’s simply so much more to see in the Buckeye State than most people realize. From adventurous, rugged hikes to gorgeous waterfront trails, here are 15 of the best hiking trails in Ohio that we think you should take before you die.
1. Old Man’s Cave Loop, Hocking Hills State Park
April Dray/Only In Your State
What is arguably one of the most beautiful places in Ohio, its scenic hiking trail is approximately one mile long and can be completed in about one hour. In addition to Old Man's Cave, you'll encounter the Devil's Bathtub, Sphinx Head, A-Frame Bridge, and the Upper and Lower Falls. Learn more about the Old Man's Cave Loop on the webpage.
2. The Ledges Trail, Cuyahoga Valley National Park
The Ledges Trail at this national park is a must-do. More than 400 million years ago, this area of the park was actually covered by an ancient sea. Melting glaciers helped to form what are now captivating ledges you can hike through. It's truly one of the most beautiful places in Ohio.
3. Rockbridge State Nature Preserve Loop, Rockbridge
April Dray/Only In Your State
The Rockbridge State Nature Preserve in the small town of Rockbridge features a looped trail that takes you to a natural bridge that stretches more than 100 ft. long – and it’s truly incredible. (After steady rainfall, the water trickling down into the ravine increases and forms what locals call "Rockbridge Falls" beneath the bridge.)
Best seen after a good rain, this waterfall can be found in Charleston Falls Preserve in Miami County. The trail system within the park loops around and consists of about four miles total.
Part of the Buckeye Trail System, this trail is 8.3-mile one way and follows the 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. Visit the Metroparks Toledo website for more information.
6. Cascade Falls Trail, Nelson Kennedy Ledges State Park
This short 0.5-mile trail leads to an impressive waterfall, complete with a short boardwalk and observation deck below the falls. Visit our previous coverage to learn more.
7. Wilderness Trail, The Edge of Appalachia Preserve
The Edge of Appalachia Preserve in Adams County is best known for its biological diversity, steep cliffs and the Wilderness Trail, and has a 2 1/2-mile loop that's perfect for a one-day hike. Visit the website to learn more.
This 1.7-mile long moderate trail takes you to the Kennedy Stone House, which is a hidden gem listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visit the AllTrails webpage to learn more.
9. Conkle’s Hollow Rim Trail, Hocking Hills State Park
This rugged, rocky gorge 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.
10. Brandywine Falls and Stanford Trail, Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Start this 3.9-mile hike at Stanford House toward the breathtaking falls (from either direction) and loop back around the other way to the Stanford House. Visit the AllTrails webpage to learn more.
11. Scioto Trail State Forest Loop, Scioto Trail State Forest
Trace an old Shawnee trail along this 11.2 mile loop of wooded hollows, quiet foothills, and peaceful streams. Visit the state forest's webpage for more information.
12. Hemlock Gorge to Lyons Falls, Mohican State Park
Go chasing waterfalls along this 9.3-mile out-and-back trail, which features a 300-foot deep sandstone gorge and two beautiful waterfalls. Visit the AllTrails webpage to learn more.
13. North and South Zaleski Loop, Zaleski State Forest
For the advanced hiker who can backpack through the woods overnight, Zaleski State Forest trails are a must-do. Along the way, the trails feature some must-see places in Ohio like vacant farms, abandoned mines, beautiful views, Indian ceremonial grounds, and an old mining town. The Zaleski North Loop Trail is approximately 19.5 miles, and the Zaleski South Loop Trail is approximately 11.3 miles.
14. The Rock House Trail, Hocking Hills State Park
Also located in the Hocking Hills State Park, the 0.9-mile Rock House Trail is a moderate hike that takes you to an incredible cave with a 25 ft. high ceiling and window-like openings. Visit the AllTrails webpage for more information.
15. Clifton Gorge Trail, Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve
Last but not least on our best hiking trails in Ohio list and coming in at just about five miles, this local favorite day-hike features the calm waters of the Little Miami River and a deep limestone chasm. Visit the webpage for more information.
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Address: Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio, USA
Address: 11475 Dalton Rd, Rockbridge, OH 43149, USA
Address: 2535 Ross Rd, Tipp City, OH 45371, USA
Address: Toledo, OH, USA
Address: 12440 OH-282, Garrettsville, OH 44231, USA
Address: 4274 Waggoner Riffle Rd, West Union, OH 45693, USA
Address: 14755 Cadiz Rd, Lore City, OH 43755, USA
Address: 24858 Big Pine Rd, Rockbridge, OH 43149, USA
Address: 8176 Brandywine Rd, Northfield, OH 44067, USA
Address: 2731 Stoney Creek Rd, Chillicothe, OH 45601, USA
Address: Mohican State Park, 3116 OH-3, Loudonville, OH 44842, USA
Address: OH-278, Zaleski, OH, USA
Address: 19852 OH-664, Logan, OH 43138, USA
Address: Logan, OH 43138, USA
Address: 2381 OH-343, Yellow Springs, OH 45387, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Hiking Trails In Ohio
May 19, 2021
Melissa M
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April is the Ohio staff writer for Only in Your State. She is an Ohio native with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism from E.W. Scripps School of Journalism. With more than 10 years of writing experience and a background in news reporting for Ohio newspapers, she's published pieces in multiple print and online publications. When she's not on deadline or chasing after her toddler, she's hunting for hidden gems in Ohio or getting lost in a good book.
