Hike Through A Stunning Tunnel Of Trees At Sugarcreek MetroPark In Ohio
Contrary to what you might think, Ohio is full of natural wonders just waiting to be explored. From hidden waterfalls to glacial grooves, there’s always something new to discover in The Buckeye State. There is much to see when it comes to natural wonders, from sandstone ledges to a tunnel of trees in OH.
Most people are surprised to find out that Ohio also has a tunnel of trees you can hike through—and it’s simply stunning. Sugarcreek MetroPark in Bellbrook, Ohio features the Osage Orange Tunnel, and it’s a magical place you need to experience for yourself. Check it out:
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Known for its unique trees, this metropark in the Dayton area is home to some really, really old trees. (Be sure to check out the 550-year-old Three Sisters while you're here as well.)
The trio of historic trees are just one incredible feature in this magical landscape. This Ohio park also features wetlands, a prairie, and loads of history.
The Osage Orange Tunnel is one of the park's most unique hidden gems. It's an unbelievably beautiful place to stop and think on a quiet evening or sunny day.
This park in Sugarcreek MetroPark features all sorts of trails amidst its 618 acres, but this one is a fan favorite. It's reminiscent of romantic roadways in the southern countryside, almost surreal in its beauty.
To find the tunnel, hike the 1.3-mile Orange Trail.
Got your hiking boots and bug spray handy? You're going to need them! Click here for a map of the park's trails.
The tunnel was formed by large arching branches of old Osage orange trees, which were purposefully planted in rows in the late 1800s to serve as a farm fence.
Also known as prairie apple or prairie hedge, this thorny tree is somewhat reminiscent of barbed wire. It is native to places like Texas and Oklahoma, and is actually a species that's not native to Ohio.
No matter the season, the tunnel is a fascinating sight to behold (even when the leaves are long gone).
Osage orange trees reach upwards of 35 to 60 feet, and without leaves you will be able to admire the massive size of these living antiques.
If you're craving a bit of time in the great outdoors, this is one park you shouldn't pass up. This tunnel of trees in Ohio is straight out of a fairy tale.
Bring a camera! This is one trip you'll want to document.
Sugarcreek MetroPark is located at 4178 Conference Rd., Bellbrook, OH 45305. Have you ever walked through this incredible tunnel of trees in Ohio? If so, please share your experiences and photos with us in the comments!
Address: 4178 Conference Rd, Bellbrook, OH 45305, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Tunnel Of Trees In OH
May 17, 2020
Nikki Rhoades
Does Ohio have any natural wonders?
Believe it or not, there is a great abundance of natural wonders in Ohio. Our magical state may seem to be largely composed of farmland, but we have some surprising spots in nature. Take, for example, the incredible glacial grooves up on Kelleys Island. We also have caves, waterfalls, old growth forests, and more!
Which hikes in Ohio are short and sweet?
Hikes in The Buckeye State don’t have to be long to be impressive! Some of the best hikes in Ohio are short and sweet. And many, you’ll find, have amazing payoffs.
What are the top trails in Ohio to add to my bucket list?
There is so much reward in building a bucket list of Ohio attractions. There are so many things to do in Ohio that it could take a lifetime to accomplish them all! Maumee Bay Trail is an incredible boardwalk hike that will knock your socks off, and Ledges Trail in Cuyahoga Valley National Park is irresistible in terms of its beauty. Ohio is full of splendor – ask around if you’re not quite sure which local hike is best for you. Locals are friendly and are a treasure trove of information!
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.
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