# Hiking Ohio > Comprehensive trail guides, hike reports, and seasonal recommendations for the best hiking in Ohio. Public Ghost content for AI and LLM tooling. This file includes a bounded export of public pages first, then recent public posts. Append `.md` to any post or page URL to get the content in Markdown (for example, `/example-post.md`). ## Pages ### About this site URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/about/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T13:37:31.000Z Hiking Ohio is an independent guide to the best trails, parks, and wild places across the state. Trail-by-trail write-ups, park guides, and honest notes from the path, covering waterfalls, greenways, day hikes, wildlife, and the quiet corners worth the drive. --- ## What You'll Find Detailed trail guides and park reviews from across Ohio, sorted by what you are after, waterfalls, greenways, day hikes, camping, wildlife, and birding, and by where you are headed, from the Columbus metro parks to Hocking Hills and beyond. Browse it all on the [Trails](https://hiking-ohio.com/tags/) page. ## Get New Guides by Email New trail guides go out by email as they publish. [Sign up for updates](https://hiking-ohio.com/my-emails/) and I will send them straight to your inbox. Found a great trail, or spotted something that changed on the ground? [Let me know](https://hiking-ohio.com/contact/). ## Support the Site Hiking Ohio is free and independent. If a guide helped you find your next hike, you can [buy us a coffee](https://hiking-ohio.com/#/portal/support) to keep them coming. Thank you. ## Other Projects by the Author Hiking Ohio is created by Lincoln Cole, who also writes dark supernatural thrillers and fantasy at [llitd.com](https://llitd.com/?ref=hiking-ohio.com). ### Terms and Conditions URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/terms-and-conditions/ Last updated: 2026-02-19T15:48:45.000Z # **Terms of Use** Last updated: February 19, 2026 Please read these Terms of Use carefully before using the https://hiking-ohio.com website (the "Service") operated by Lincoln Cole ("us", "we", or "our"). Your access to and use of the Service is conditioned on your acceptance of and compliance with these Terms. By accessing or using the Service, you agree to be bound by these Terms. ## **Content** The content on this website is provided for general information and entertainment purposes. All written content is authored by Lincoln Cole unless otherwise attributed. We reserve the right to modify or remove content at any time. ## **Accounts & Membership** When you create an account, you must provide accurate and complete information. You are responsible for safeguarding your password and for any activities under your account. Free membership provides access to all published content. Paid membership is a voluntary contribution that supports the creator and may include additional benefits. ## **Intellectual Property** The content, features, and functionality of this website are owned by Lincoln Cole and are protected by copyright, trademark, and other intellectual property laws. You may not reproduce, distribute, or create derivative works without express written permission. ## **User Conduct** You agree not to: - Use the Service for any unlawful purpose. - Attempt to gain unauthorized access to any part of the Service. - Interfere with the proper working of the Service. - Scrape, harvest, or collect data from the Service without permission. ## **Email Communications** By subscribing to our newsletter, you consent to receiving email communications including new content notifications and updates. You can unsubscribe at any time using the link in any email. ## **Amazon Associates** This site participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. Links to Amazon products may earn us a commission at no additional cost to you. ## **Third-Party Links** Our Service may contain links to third-party websites that are not owned or controlled by us. We have no control over and assume no responsibility for the content or practices of any third-party sites. ## **Disclaimer** The Service is provided on an "AS IS" and "AS AVAILABLE" basis without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. ## **Limitation of Liability** In no event shall Lincoln Cole be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages arising from your use of the Service. ## **Changes to Terms** We reserve the right to modify these Terms at any time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated date. Continued use of the Service after changes constitutes acceptance of the new Terms. ## **Contact** Questions about these Terms? Contact us at [lincolnjcole@gmail.com](mailto:lincolnjcole@gmail.com). ### Privacy URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/privacy/ Last updated: 2026-02-19T15:48:42.000Z # **Privacy Policy** **Your privacy is important to us.** Last updated: February 19, 2026 ## **What personal information do we collect?** When registering on our site or subscribing to our newsletter, you may be asked to enter your **name and email address**. ## **When do we collect information?** We collect information from you when you subscribe to a newsletter, fill out a form, or enter information on our site. ## **How do we use your information?** We may use the information we collect from you in the following ways: - To personalize your experience and deliver content you're interested in. - To improve our website based on your feedback. - To respond to your inquiries and requests. - To send periodic emails regarding content updates and new releases. ## **How do we protect your information?** Your personal information is contained behind secured networks and is only accessible by a limited number of persons who have special access rights and are required to keep the information confidential. All sensitive information is encrypted via SSL technology. All payment transactions are processed through a gateway provider (Stripe via Ghost) and are not stored or processed on our servers. ## **Analytics** We use **Umami**, a privacy-focused, open-source analytics platform. Umami does not use cookies, does not collect any personal data, and is fully compliant with GDPR, CCPA, and PECR. All data is anonymized and aggregated — we see page views and referrers, never individual user data. We do **not** use Google Analytics, Google AdSense, or any third-party tracking scripts. ## **Cookies** We use minimal cookies strictly necessary for site functionality: - Session cookies for logged-in members (authentication). - Theme preference cookies (light/dark mode). - Ghost CMS functional cookies. We do not use advertising cookies, tracking cookies, or third-party cookies. Our analytics (Umami) is entirely cookie-free. ## **Third-Party Disclosure** We do not sell, trade, or otherwise transfer your personally identifiable information to outside parties. This does not include trusted partners who assist us in operating our website, conducting our business, or servicing you, provided those parties agree to keep this information confidential. ## **Third-Party Links** We may include third-party products or services on our website. These third-party sites have separate and independent privacy policies. We have no responsibility or liability for their content and activities. ## **Amazon Associates** This site participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. ## **California Online Privacy Protection Act (CalOPPA)** In accordance with CalOPPA: - Users can visit our site anonymously. - Our Privacy Policy link includes the word 'Privacy' and is accessible from our footer. - Users will be notified of privacy policy changes on this page. - Users can change their personal information by contacting us. We honor Do Not Track signals and do not track, plant cookies, or use advertising when a DNT browser mechanism is in place. ## **COPPA (Children's Online Privacy Protection Act)** We do not specifically market to children under 13 on this site. ## **GDPR** We follow GDPR compliance rules in the securing and use of all personal information collected. Our analytics platform (Umami) is fully GDPR compliant by design. ## **CAN-SPAM Act** We collect email addresses to: - Deliver high-quality content and updates. - Deliver informational updates about new releases. - Deliver information upon user request. We use double opt-in email lists, follow GDPR, and never purchase lists. You can unsubscribe from any email at any time using the link in the email footer. ## **Data Breach Response** Should a data breach occur, we will notify affected users via email within 7 business days. ## **Contact Us** Questions or concerns about this privacy policy? Contact us at [lincolnjcole@gmail.com](mailto:lincolnjcole@gmail.com). ### Impressum URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/impressum/ Last updated: 2026-02-19T15:48:46.000Z # **Impressum** Legally mandated disclosure for certain jurisdictions. ## **Site Operator** Lincoln Cole Email: [lincolnjcole@gmail.com](mailto:lincolnjcole@gmail.com) Website: [hiking-ohio.com](https://hiking-ohio.com/) ## **Content** This website is a outdoor hiking and trail guide website. All written content is authored by Lincoln Cole unless otherwise attributed. ## **Affiliate Disclosure** This site participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. ## **Contact** For questions, concerns, or legal inquiries, please contact [lincolnjcole@gmail.com](mailto:lincolnjcole@gmail.com). Response time is typically within 24–48 hours. ### Contact URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/contact/ Last updated: 2026-06-23T13:04:53.000Z Have a question about a trail, a correction to fix, or a hiking tip to share? I read every message and would love to hear from you. ### Email Email us at [contact@hiking-ohio.com](mailto:contact@hiking-ohio.com). ### Sign In URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/signin/ Last updated: 2024-04-25T02:11:08.000Z _No content available._ ### Sign Up URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/signup/ Last updated: 2025-02-24T18:53:44.000Z _No content available._ ### Account URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/account/ Last updated: 2024-04-25T02:11:37.000Z _No content available._ ### Tags URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/tags/ Last updated: 2024-05-14T17:09:15.000Z _No content available._ ### Membership URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/membership/ Last updated: 2025-06-23T19:27:10.000Z _No content available._ ### Search URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/search/ Last updated: 2025-12-20T00:13:57.000Z _No content available._ ### Manage Your Email Series URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/my-emails/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T13:37:32.000Z Free · By email # Get new Ohio trail guides in your inbox New trail write-ups, park guides, and seasonal picks, sent as they publish. No cost, no spam — just where to hike next. Unsubscribe any time. [Sign up free](#/portal/signup) Already subscribed? [Sign in](#/portal/signin) to manage your emails below. 🌲 ### New guides by email Fresh Ohio trail guides and park reviews, delivered as they go live. 💧 ### Waterfalls to greenways Coverage across the state, from Hocking Hills waterfalls to Columbus metro-park greenways. ✅ ### You are in control Every newsletter has its own switch. Change your pace or unsubscribe in one click. Like the guides? Hiking Ohio is free and reader-supported. If a guide helped you find your next hike, you can buy us a coffee to keep them coming. [Buy us a coffee →](https://hiking-ohio.com/#/portal/support) --- ## Already subscribed? Manage your emails Sign in, or enter your email below, to turn any newsletter on or off. One moment, checking whether you are already signed in... [Sign in to manage instantly](#/portal/signin) Sign in with the email you subscribed with and everything loads right here, with no link to wait for. Prefer a one time link instead? Use the form below. Enter the email you subscribed with and we will send you a private link to manage everything you receive from us. Email me my manage link For your privacy, the link is only ever sent to an address that is already subscribed. Loading your emails... ## Posts ### Stop #6 Mesa Verde National Park, CO URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/stop-6-mesa-verde-national-park-co/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T18:12:25.000Z Mesa Verde National Park is one of the most important archaeological sites in the United States. Established in 1906 by President Theodore Roosevelt, it was the first national park created specifically to preserve human-made cultural resources rather than natural landscapes. In 1978, Mesa Verde was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its outstanding cultural significance. Today, the park protects nearly 5,000 archaeological sites, including more than 600 cliff dwellings constructed by the Ancestral Pueblo people. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788802565855-Aline-Dassel---Pixabay.jpg) --- ### Mesa Verde History People lived on the Mesa Verde plateau for more than 700 years, from approximately A.D. 550 to 1300\. The earliest residents lived in pit houses before developing masonry pueblos and, eventually, the remarkable cliff dwellings for which Mesa Verde is best known. Around A.D. 1200, many communities moved into protected alcoves beneath the cliffs, where they built impressive multistory stone villages. By about A.D. 1300, the people of Mesa Verde had migrated south into areas of present-day Arizona and New Mexico. Their descendants include the Pueblo peoples who continue to live in the Southwest today. While the exact reasons for the migration remain uncertain, prolonged drought, limited resources, and social changes likely played important roles. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788305202777-1V3A1836.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788305186768-1V3A1837.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788305181545-1V3A1840.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788305206455-1V3A1841.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788305189688-1V3A1849.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788305207386-1V3A1854.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788305198155-1V3A1856.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788305207068-1V3A1869.JPG) ## Famous Cliff Dwellings As a child I would spend hours looking at the Golden Book Encyclopedia. Most of the time I would look at the cliff dwellings. I told myself I would go there someday. Well, at 62 years old I finally made it! ### Kiva-What is it? A kiva is a room used by Ancestral Pueblo people for ceremonial, social, and community activities. At Mesa Verde, kivas are usually circular or nearly circular rooms built partly or completely below ground. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788305221619-1V3A1840.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788305220218-1V3A1838.JPG) ### **Cliff Palace** Cliff Palace is perhaps the most famous of all Mesa Verde's cliff dwellings. With approximately 150 rooms and 23 kivas, it is the largest cliff dwelling in North America. Archaeologists estimate that roughly 100 people lived there. Its unusually large number of kivas suggests that Cliff Palace may have served as an important social and ceremonial center for surrounding communities. Despite its name, Cliff Palace was not a palace in the modern sense. It was a large Ancestral Pueblo village. The name was given by later explorers because of its impressive size and appearance. We took the Cliff Palace tour. it is not good if you are afraid of heights. Also, there are four wood ladders that visitors need to climb. The tour guide also showed us the "ick" from hands touching the structures. Visitors are not supposed to touch anything. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788305415307-tour wall ick.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788305556655-cliff p 2 - Copy.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788305559304-cliff p 3 - Copy.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788305547774-tour 2.webp) ### Long House Located on Wetherill Mesa, Long House is the second-largest cliff dwelling in Mesa Verde. It contains about 150 rooms and 21 kivas and probably housed more than 100 people. Its large central plaza and kiva indicate that it may have functioned as a community center for people living in the surrounding area. Long House is also notable for the springs and water-management features located within the alcove. ### What is Wetherill Mesa The name comes from the Wetherill family, particularly rancher and explorer Richard Wetherill. In 1888, Richard Wetherill and Charles Mason encountered Cliff Palace while searching for cattle. The Wetherills subsequently explored numerous Mesa Verde sites. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788467387260-mesa drive 3.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788467383584-mesa drive 6.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788467397974-mesa drive 7.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788467376836-sunset mesa - Copy.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788467384835-mesa dr 22 - Copy.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788467389055-mesa drive - Copy.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788467397178-mesa drive 2 - Copy.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788467388490-mesa drive 3 - Copy.webp) There are many areas in Wetherill Mesa that had forest fires. Above I have several pictures of the burned trees. Wetherill Mesa is scheduled to be open May 22–October 21, 2026\. The entrance gate opens at 8:30 a.m., last entry is 2:00 p.m., and everyone must leave by 4:00 p.m. It's different from the more vehicle-oriented parts of Mesa Verde: the archaeological sites here are reached on foot or by bicycle, and the National Park Service recommends allowing roughly 3–4 hours, potentially longer. Long House requires a ranger-guided tour and involves about 2.25 miles of walking, stairs, and two 15-foot ladders. Step House is self-guided when a ranger is present. ### Balcony House Balcony House contains 38 rooms and two kivas and probably housed up to 30 people. It is particularly famous with visitors because of its challenging entrance. Modern visitors on ranger-guided tours climb a 32-foot ladder and navigate narrow passages within the dwelling. Archaeologists believe that two nearby seep springs would have been an important reason for choosing this location, even though the alcove receives relatively little winter sunlight. ### Spruce Tree House Spruce Tree House is one of Mesa Verde's largest and best-preserved cliff dwellings, with approximately 130 rooms and eight kivas. It was home to an estimated 60–80 people and was located near a large spring. Much of its original masonry, plaster, and wooden roofing remains remarkably well preserved. However, the dwelling is currently closed to visitor entry because of instability and rockfall hazards in the alcove. ### Step House Step House is especially significant because it demonstrates that people used the same alcove during two very different periods. Earlier inhabitants constructed pithouses there around 700 CE, while a later community built a 27-room masonry cliff dwelling around 1200 CE. The site therefore provides an unusual look at the long history of Ancestral Pueblo occupation at Mesa Verde. - Early occupation — about 600 CE: Step House contains evidence of a Basketmaker III community, including six pithouses. These were substantial semi-subterranean homes associated with an early period of Ancestral Pueblo life. - Later occupation — about 1200 CE: Roughly six centuries later, Ancestral Pueblo people returned to the alcove and constructed a masonry cliff dwelling. The pueblo contained 27 rooms and three kivas and probably housed somewhere around a dozen to two dozen people. --- ## Morefield Campground Morefield Campground is located about 4 miles inside the park entrance at an elevation of approximately 7,800 feet. A peaceful setting among pinyon-juniper woodland with frequent sightings of mule deer, wild turkeys, and other wildlife. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788467620717-antelope 2.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788467625086-antelope 1.webp) The campground was developed to accommodate the growing number of visitors after World War II, when automobile tourism to national parks increased dramatically. Today it serves as the park's primary overnight camping area. ![Campground Map](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788463822459-resize campground.webp) Campground Map ### Morefield dry sites - About 267 total campsites are available at Morefield. - The majority are dry sites, meaning no water, electric, or sewer hookups at the individual campsite. - Easy access to the park's scenic drives and archaeological sites. The main archaeological sites are 20–25 miles beyond the campground, so allow plenty of driving time. - Wildlife is abundant, so store food properly and never feed animals. Secure bear boxes are provided at each campsite to store food. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788305697056-IMG_8254.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788305695273-IMG_8274.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788305708161-1V3A1833 - Copy.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788305701935-1V3A1835 - Copy.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788305698184-IMG_8251.JPG) --- ## Cortez Colorado ### Early History Long before Cortez existed, the region was home to Indigenous peoples. The area contains thousands of years of human history, including the Ancestral Puebloan cultures, who built farming communities and famous cliff dwellings in the Mesa Verde area. The region was later associated with the Ute people, who have longstanding connections to southwestern Colorado. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788467185987-cortez view.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788467185967-cortez mural.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788467182282-cortez sign.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788467186208-cortez view 2.jpg) ### Founding of Cortez, Colorado Cortez was founded in 1886 as a settlement created to support workers building the Montezuma Valley irrigation system. The project diverted water from the Dolores River into the dry Montezuma Valley, allowing agriculture to expand. The town was laid out by M.J. Mack, an engineer for the Montezuma Valley Water Supply Company. The town was named after the Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés. Its post office opened in 1887. - Hernán Cortés (1485–1547): Spanish conquistador who conquered the Aztec Empire in Mexico. - Cortez, Colorado: A city founded more than 300 years after Cortés's death and named in his honor. Cortez is often called the gateway to Mesa Verde because of its location near the park. The surrounding area has some of the richest archaeological resources in the United States.The landscape combines high desert, mesas, canyons, and views of the Sleeping Ute Mountain, a prominent landmark west of town. Cortez became closely linked with tourism because of its location near Mesa Verde. The national park preserves some of the best-known cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Pueblo people, including large stone communities built between roughly 550 and 1300 CE. Today, Cortez has a population of roughly 9,000 people and serves as a commercial center for the surrounding rural region. Its economy is based on tourism, agriculture, public lands/government services and small business. --- ## Mesa Verde Soda Point ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788801683245-684c317a-7c11-4ad4-b2f8-9b4f94de7f83_620x827.jpg) We stopped at the Ute Mountain Ute Reservation. There was only one vendor there at the time. She had beautiful jewelry and blankets. I bought a set of jewelry. It appeared that they were getting ready to make fry bread, but we were way too early for that. Sigh, oh well. --- ## Four Corners Monument The Four Corners Monument is the only place in the United States where four states meet: Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah. It is located in the Colorado Plateau region of the American Southwest and is known for dramatic landscapes, ancient Indigenous cultures, and a unique geographic boundary. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788481015661-4 corner az.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788481020757-4 corner new m.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788481021181-4 corner utah.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788481021874-4 corners booth.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788481026370-4 corners colo.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788481026359-4 corners flag.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788481021369-4 corners land.webp) It is one of the most photographed boundary markers in the country. The surrounding Colorado Plateau contains some of North America’s most famous canyon and desert landscapes. The region has been continuously connected to Indigenous communities for many centuries. The Four Corners is more than a geographic curiosity—it is a place where ancient Indigenous history, U.S. expansion, geology, and modern tourism all intersect. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788803875288-Four Corners 001.JPG) The current monument is a small stone-and-metal marker showing the four state lines. Visitors can stand on the marker and place themselves in all four states at the same time. The monument is about 40 miles southwest of Cortez, Colorado, 90 miles west of Shiprock, New Mexico, and is one of the Southwest's most popular roadside attractions. Address - Four Corners Monument - 597 NM-597, Teec Nos Pos, AZ 86514 - The monument marks the intersection of the four state boundaries established by U.S. government surveys between 1868 and 1875. - The first survey marker was placed in 1899, and the current monument has been rebuilt and improved over the years. - It is managed by the Navajo Nation and sits near the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe reservation. - Visitors can stand with one foot in each of the four states at the same time. - The plaza also features Native American artisans selling handmade jewelry, pottery, rugs, and other crafts. When we visited, only a few Native American artisans were there. It wasn't very busy, but it was very hot. There were several food booths that sold fry bread, snow cones and other items. Fry bread is awesome! Below is a recipe for this yummy bread. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/09/1788480863392-fry bread.jpg) ### Native American Fry Bread Fry bread is a simple flatbread made from flour, baking powder, salt, and water, then fried until golden. Recipes vary among Native American communities, and fry bread has a complex history connected to the forced displacement and government-issued rations experienced by Indigenous peoples. **Ingredients** - 3 cups all-purpose flour - 1 tablespoon baking powder - 1 teaspoon salt - 1¼ cups warm water, approximately - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or shortening, plus more for frying **Directions** 1. Make the dough: Mix the flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. 2. Gradually add the warm water, stirring until a soft dough forms. Add the water slowly—you may not need all of it. 3. Knead gently for about 2–3 minutes, until the dough comes together. Avoid overworking it. 4. Cover the dough and let it rest for 20–30 minutes. 5. Divide the dough into 8 pieces. Flatten each piece with your hands into a thin round, about 5–7 inches wide. Make the center slightly thinner than the edges. 6. Heat about 1 inch of oil in a heavy skillet to approximately 350°F (175°C). 7. Carefully place one piece of dough into the hot oil. Fry for about 1–2 minutes per side, until puffed and golden brown. 8. Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain. **Serving ideas** Fry bread can be served **sweet or savory**. Try it with honey, powdered sugar, or cinnamon sugar, or use it as the base for **Navajo tacos**, topped with seasoned beans or meat, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and salsa. **Tip:** Don't make the dough too stiff. A soft, slightly sticky dough generally produces lighter, more tender fry bread. --- ## Conclusion: Mesa Verde National Park was an awesome part of our trip. Seeing the cliff dwellings and the beautiful scenery was a dream come true for me. Also the Four Points was a nice stop as well. ### The Complete Columbus, Ohio City Parks Directory (A-Z) URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/columbus-city-parks-directory/ Last updated: 2026-09-03T18:28:37.000Z Here are all 251 City of Columbus, Ohio parks operated by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, listed alphabetically with their addresses (where available) and amenities. This single directory replaces the 26 separate A-through-Z pages this site used to run one per letter -- same information, all in one place. !\[\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772814047993-coliumbus city parks.webp) ## Jump to a letter [A](#a) | [B](#b) | [C](#c) | [D](#d) | [E](#e) | [F](#f) | [G](#g) | [H](#h) | [I](#i) | [J](#j) | [K](#k) | [L](#l) | [M](#m) | [N](#n) | [O](#o) | [P](#p) | [Q](#q) | [R](#r) | [S](#s) | [T](#t) | [U](#u) | [V](#v) | [W](#w) | [X](#x) | [Y](#y) | [Z](#z) ## A ### Academy Park **Address:** 276 S Nelson Rd, Columbus, OH 43205 (17.044 acres) **Amenities:** - Athletic Facilities (ball diamonds, basketball courts) - Greenway Trail access & trailhead - Water frontage & parking lot - Picnic space and nature areas ### Albany Crossing Park **Address:** Listed as a city park by Columbus Recreation and Parks (exact address not listed) **Amenities:** Typical parkland features (green space, trails/play areas) — specific amenities not detailed on the official parks list. ### Albany Wetlands **Address:** Parkland noted by the Columbus Parks list (exact address not published) **Amenities:** Likely natural wetland habitat areas — official specific amenities not listed. ### Alexander Park **Address:** 215 W Long St, Columbus, OH 43215 (2.779 acres) **Amenities:** - Greenway Trail access & paved paths - Water frontage & wildlife area - Natural wooded area ### Alkire Lakes Park **Address:** 2020 Winding Hollow Dr, Grove City, OH 43123 (5.826 acres) **Amenities:** - Pond/lake - Parking lot - Pollinator habitat & natural areas ### Alkire Woods Park **Address:** Listed by the parks list (exact address not published) **Amenities:** Likely woodland/natural habitat area — specific info not detailed online. ### Alton Parkland **Address:** Listed as parkland by Columbus Parks (exact address not available) **Amenities:** Green space — specific developed features not listed. ### Alton Road Parkland **Address:** Listed in parks list (no published address) **Amenities:** Open parkland/open space area. ### Alum Creek-related Parklands These parks are mostly open natural or habitat areas along the Alum Creek corridor: - Alum Creek / Hanford Parkland - Alum Creek / Koch Parkland - Alum Creek / Livingston Parkland - Alum Creek / Miller Parkland - Alum Creek Drive Parkland - Alum Creek North Tributary Parkland - Alum Creek Parkland - Alum Crest Park **Address/Amenities:** These are predominantly natural/open parklands without robust facility lists posted individually; many provide access to trails, habitat areas, and passive recreation. ### Amberfield Parkland **Address:** Listed in parks list (exact address not shown) **Amenities:** Natural/open space. ### Ambos Park **Address:** Listed by parks department (no dedicated webpage found) **Amenities:** Likely neighborhood green space; specific facilities not published. ### Amvet Park **Address:** 6339 Argyle Dr, Columbus, OH 43219 (2.548 acres) **Amenities:** - Basketball courts - Open air shelter - Playground - Paved path ### Anderson Farms Parkland **Address:** Parkland noted on parks list (address not listed) **Amenities:** Open/agricultural green space. ### Anheuser-Busch Sports Park **Address & Amenities:** Included in Columbus parks list; likely sports fields and athletic facilities, though a dedicated park page isn’t published on the official site. ### Antrim Park **Address:** Listed as city park (no official page with address) **Amenities:** Typically, neighborhood park features. ### Argus Park **Address:** 3589 Kirkwood Rd, Columbus, OH 43227 (1.825 acres) **Amenities:** Open green space suitable for casual recreation (small neighborhood park). ### Audubon Park **Address:** 2745 Audubon Rd, Columbus, OH 43211 (7.346 acres) **Amenities:** - Basketball courts - Playground - Picnic tables ### Avalon Park **Address:** 2235 Avalon Pl, Columbus, OH 43219 (1.828 acres) **Amenities:** - Woods and wildlife area (natural space) ## B ### Beatty Park **Address:** 247 N Ohio Ave, Columbus, OH 43203 **Amenities:** - Basketball courts - Tennis courts - Pickleball overlays - Playground - Community garden - Parking lot - Beatty Community Center (park facility) ### Bicentennial Park **Address:** 233 Civic Center Dr, Columbus, OH 43215 **Amenities:** - Interactive fountain (Scioto Mile Fountain) - Performance pavilion/stage - Restaurant and terrace with downtown skyline views - Plaza spaces and walkable green areas along the Scioto Mile riverfront ### Beechcroft Park **Address:** *(Address not individually published on official site)* **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space and passive recreation; part of the Columbus parks list. ### Beechwold Park **Address:** *(Address not individually published)* **Amenities:** Neighborhood park features and community green space. ### Berliner Sports Park **Address:** *(Exact address not published)* **Amenities:** Athletic fields and courts typical of a sports park. ### Berwick Park **Address:** *(Address not listed separately)* **Amenities:** Local parkland with recreation space. ### Big Run Park **Address:** *(Address not separately published)* **Amenities:** Green space and natural area for neighborhood use. ### Big Walnut Park **Address:** *(Exact published address not available)* **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space and walking areas. ### Blackburn Park\*\* \*(commonly listed under B parks) **Address:** *(Park address details vary; main access on Carpenter St)* **Amenities:** Playground, basketball and tennis courts, sprayground (seasonal), indoor recreation center, picnic space and green space for community events (description based on broader local resources). ### Brandywine Park **Address:** *(No principal address published separately on official parks site)* **Amenities:** Neighborhood park with green space and passive recreation. ### Brentnell Park **Address:** *(Exact address not separately listed)* **Amenities:** Local community parkland and green space. ### Brevoort Park **Address:** *(Address not individually listed)* **Amenities:** Neighborhood open space. ### Other B-Name Parks (natural/open parkland) These are included in the city’s parks list but detailed addresses and amenity information are *not fully published individually on the Recreation and Parks site*: - **Brookside Woods Park** – woods and green space. - **Battelle Riverfront Park** – downtown riverfront space with memorials and sculptures (Scioto Mile). ## C ### Canini Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space, small play area, open lawn. ### Carriage Place Park **Address:** 4900 Sawmill Rd, Columbus, OH 43235 (adjacent to Carriage Place Community Center) **Amenities:** Playground, basketball courts, open field, walking paths, community center access. ### Cassady Park **Address:** 2740 Cassady Ave, Columbus, OH 43219 **Amenities:** Playground, shelter, basketball court, open green space. ### Casto Park **Address:** 5550 Westerville Rd, Columbus, OH 43081 **Amenities:** Playground, athletic fields, shelter, open field. ### Cedar Run Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Natural area, wooded sections, walking access. ### Chaseland Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood park features. ### Cherry Bottom Park (South) **Address:** Near Cherry Bottom Rd & Morse Rd (no formal postal address) **Amenities:** Trails, wooded areas, natural green space. ### City Gate Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Open green space, small neighborhood recreation area. ### Clinton-Como Park **Address:** 301 W Pacemont Rd, Columbus, OH 43202 **Amenities:** - Playground - Baseball/softball fields - Basketball courts - Open green space - Olentangy Trail access - Shelterhouse ### Clintonville Park **Address:** 330 W California Ave, Columbus, OH 43202 **Amenities:** Playground, shelter, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### Clime Road Park **Address:** 4720 Clime Rd, Columbus, OH 43228 **Amenities:** Athletic fields, playground, shelter, open green space. ### Clover Groff Park **Address:** 4990 Hayden Run Rd, Columbus, OH 43026 **Amenities:** Trails, natural areas, river access, open fields. ### Coble Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space, small play area. ### Cooke Park **Address:** 2735 Ferris Rd, Columbus, OH 43224 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### Cranbrook Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Playground, open green space, neighborhood park. ### Creekside Woods Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Wooded natural area, walking paths, wildlife habitat. ### Cumberland Ridge Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ## D ### Deshler Park **Address:** 1041 Deshler Ave, Columbus, OH 43206 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood green space. ### Devonshire Park **Address:** 3146 Noe Bixby Rd, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, shelter, open field, walking paths, wooded areas. ### Dodge Park **Address:** 667 Sullivant Ave, Columbus, OH 43215 **Amenities:** - Recreation center - Indoor gym - Playground - Basketball courts - Community programs ### Driving Park **Address:** 1100 Rhoads Ave, Columbus, OH 43206 **Amenities:** - Recreation center - Playground - Basketball courts - Athletic fields - Community programming ### Duranceau Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space, open field, small play area. ### Duxberry Park **Address:** 1218 Atcheson St, Columbus, OH 43203 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood recreation. ## E ### East Columbus Park **Address:** 3650 Allegheny Ave, Columbus, OH 43219 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood green space. ### East Linden Park **Address:** 1935 Briarwood Ave, Columbus, OH 43211 **Amenities:** Playground, shelter, basketball courts, open field. ### Easthaven Park **Address:** 4111 Noe Bixby Rd, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, open green space, walking paths. ### Edgewood Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space, small play area, open field. ### Eldon Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### Elk Run Park **Address:** 6600 Schott Rd, Columbus, OH 43068 (Reynoldsburg area; Columbus‑managed land) **Amenities:** Trails, wooded areas, creek access, natural habitat. ### Elk Run Parkland **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Natural area, passive recreation, wildlife habitat. ### Elliott Park **Address:** 5460 Olentangy River Rd, Columbus, OH 43235 **Amenities:** Trails, wooded areas, river access, natural green space. ### Emerson Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### English Park **Address:** 2840 English Rd, Columbus, OH 43207 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### Eureka Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space, small play area. ## F ### Fairwood Park **Address:** 1392 Fairwood Ave, Columbus, OH 43206 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood green space. ### Feddersen Park **Address:** 3911 Dresden St, Columbus, OH 43224 **Amenities:** Playground, shelter, basketball courts, open field, walking paths. ### Fisher Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space, small play area, open lawn. ### Flint Park **Address:** 4900 Flint Rd, Columbus, OH 43229 **Amenities:** Playground, shelter, tennis courts, open field, wooded areas. ### Forest Park **Address:** 4900 Antelope Dr, Columbus, OH 43229 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball courts, tennis courts, open fields, walking paths. ### Freedom Park **Address:** 2830 S James Rd, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, shelter, basketball court, open green space. ### Friendship Park **Address:** 1775 Avalon Ave, Columbus, OH 43224 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood recreation. ## G ### Galloway Road Parkland **Address:** Not individually published (west Columbus corridor) **Amenities:** Natural green space, wooded areas, passive recreation, walking access. ### Gantz Parkland (Columbus portion) **Address:** Near 2255 Home Rd, Grove City, OH 43123 (Columbus‑managed parcels) **Amenities:** Trails, natural areas, open fields; part of a larger regional greenway. ### Glen Echo Park **Address:** 510 Cliffside Dr, Columbus, OH 43202 **Amenities:** - Ravine trail - Wooded natural area - Creek access - Scenic overlook areas This is one of Columbus’s historic ravine parks. ### Glenview Park **Address:** 1881 Glenview Blvd, Columbus, OH 43219 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood green space. ### Goodale Park **Address:** 120 W Goodale St, Columbus, OH 43215 **Amenities:** - Large pond - Walking paths - Playground - Tennis courts - Gazebo - Gardens and historic monuments Goodale is one of the oldest parks in the United States and a major Short North landmark. ### Granville Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### Griggs Reservoir Park **Address:** 2933 Riverside Dr, Columbus, OH 43221 **Amenities:** - Boating access - Fishing - Trails - Picnic areas - Scenic river overlooks - Shelters This is one of Columbus’s largest and most visited riverfront parks. ### Griggs South Park **Address:** Along Riverside Dr south of the main reservoir area **Amenities:** Trails, river access, picnic areas, wooded natural spaces. ### Groveport Parkland (Columbus portion) **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Natural area, open fields, passive recreation; part of a multi‑jurisdiction greenway. ## H ### Hamilton Park **Address:** 5120 Godown Rd, Columbus, OH 43235 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, wooded areas, neighborhood green space. ### Harding Park **Address:** 3471 Sullivant Ave, Columbus, OH 43204 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, shelter. ### Harrison Park **Address:** 575 W 1st Ave, Columbus, OH 43201 **Amenities:** - Playground - Walking paths - River overlook - Public art Located in the Harrison West neighborhood along the Olentangy River. ### Hauntz Park **Address:** 480 Norton Rd, Columbus, OH 43228 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### Hayden Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space, small play area. ### Heathrow Park **Address:** 5125 Heathrow Dr, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, walking paths. ### Hiawatha Park **Address:** 2431 Hiawatha St, Columbus, OH 43211 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### Highland Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space, small play area. ### Hilltonia Park **Address:** 2349 W Mound St, Columbus, OH 43204 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball courts, open field, shelter. ### Hoffman Park **Address:** 5865 Hoffman Rd, Columbus, OH 43228 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, wooded areas. ### Holton Park **Address:** 303 N Champion Ave, Columbus, OH 43203 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### Hoover Reservoir Park (Columbus portions) **Address:** Multiple access points along Sunbury Rd and Central College Rd **Amenities:** - Boating access - Fishing - Trails - Scenic overlooks - Wooded natural areas Note: Hoover Reservoir spans multiple jurisdictions; Columbus manages several parcels. ### Howard Park **Address:** 2505 Hamilton Ave, Columbus, OH 43211 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### Hubbard Park **Address:** 104 W Hubbard Ave, Columbus, OH 43215 **Amenities:** Small urban green space, benches, shade trees; located in the Short North. ### Huntington Parkland **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Natural area, passive recreation, wooded green space. ## I ### Indian Mound Park **Address:** 3901 Indian Mound Dr, Columbus, OH 43214 **Amenities:** - Historic Adena mound site - Wooded natural areas - Walking paths - Open green space This is one of Columbus’s culturally significant archaeological park sites. ### Innis Park **Address:** 3000 Innis Rd, Columbus, OH 43224 **Amenities:** - Formal gardens - Nature trails - Prairie and pollinator habitats - Birding areas - Photography areas Innis Park is one of the city’s most notable horticultural and nature‑focused parks. ### Inniswood Parkland (Columbus portion) **Address:** Adjacent to 940 S Hempstead Rd, Westerville, OH 43081 (Columbus‑managed parcels) **Amenities:** - Wooded natural areas - Trails - Wildlife habitat Note: The main Inniswood Metro Gardens is operated by Metro Parks; Columbus manages surrounding parcels of parkland. ## J ### Jeffrey Parkland (Columbus portion) **Address:** Near 132 N Cleveland Ave, Columbus, OH 43215 (Columbus‑managed parcels around the historic Jeffrey site) **Amenities:** - Wooded natural areas - Open green space - Walking access Note: Much of the historic Jeffrey property is privately redeveloped; Columbus manages surrounding green parcels. ### Jenkins Park **Address:** 1700 E 17th Ave, Columbus, OH 43219 **Amenities:** - Playground - Basketball court - Open field - Neighborhood recreation space ### Jerome Park **Address:** 1045 Scott St, Columbus, OH 43222 **Amenities:** - Playground - Basketball court - Open green space - Community gathering area ### Joan Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** - Small neighborhood green space - Open lawn - Limited play features ### Johnson Park **Address:** 920 Miller Ave, Columbus, OH 43206 **Amenities:** - Playground - Basketball court - Open field - Neighborhood park amenities ### Jones Park **Address:** 2100 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43223 **Amenities:** - Playground - Basketball court - Open field - Community green space ## K ### Keller Park **Address:** 2320 Wilson Ave, Columbus, OH 43207 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood green space. ### Kenlawn Park **Address:** 2855 Kenlawn St, Columbus, OH 43211 **Amenities:** Playground, shelter, basketball court, open field. ### Kenney Park **Address:** 3001 Kenny Rd, Columbus, OH 43221 **Amenities:** - Multi‑use trails - Open fields - Wooded areas - Olentangy Trail access This is one of the larger parks in the K‑section and a key green corridor along the river. ### Kingsrowe Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### Kingswood Park **Address:** 2500 Kingsrowe Ct, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### Kirkwood Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Small neighborhood green space, open lawn, limited play features. ## L ### Lakeside Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space, open lawn, small play area. ### Lambton Park **Address:** 5400 Lambton St, Columbus, OH 43229 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### Lazelle Woods Park **Address:** 8140 Sancus Blvd, Columbus, OH 43235 **Amenities:** - Recreation center - Playground - Walking trails - Athletic fields - Wooded natural areas This is one of the larger and more amenity‑rich parks in the L‑section. ### Leawood Park **Address:** 480 Leawood Ave, Columbus, OH 43228 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### Linden Park **Address:** 1254 Briarwood Ave, Columbus, OH 43211 **Amenities:** - Recreation center - Playground - Basketball courts - Athletic fields - Community programming ### Lindbergh Park **Address:** 254 Lindbergh Dr, Columbus, OH 43223 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood green space. ### Linwood Park **Address:** 3000 E 6th Ave, Columbus, OH 43219 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### Liv Moor Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Small neighborhood green space, open lawn. ### Livingston Park **Address:** 760 E Livingston Ave, Columbus, OH 43205 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, community green space. ### Llewellyn Park **Address:** 1500 Llewellyn Ave, Columbus, OH 43227 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### Ludlow Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space, small play area. ## M ### Madison Mills Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space, open field, small play area. ### Madison Parkland **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Natural area, passive recreation, wooded sections. ### Maloney Park **Address:** 1701 Joyce Ave, Columbus, OH 43219 **Amenities:** - Recreation center - Playground - Basketball courts - Athletic fields - Community programming This is one of the major recreation‑center parks in the M‑section. ### Marion Franklin Park **Address:** 2801 Lockbourne Rd, Columbus, OH 43207 **Amenities:** - Recreation center - Playground - Basketball courts - Baseball/softball fields - Community programs ### Maybury Park **Address:** 2630 Maybury Rd, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### McCoy Park **Address:** 3840 Sullivant Ave, Columbus, OH 43228 **Amenities:** Playground, shelter, basketball court, open field. ### McFerson Commons **Address:** 218 W Nationwide Blvd, Columbus, OH 43215 **Amenities:** - Large open lawn - Public art (Union Station Arch) - Event space - Walking paths Located in the Arena District and used for festivals and gatherings. ### McKinley Park **Address:** 1970 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43223 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood green space. ### Meadowbrook Park **Address:** 3420 Kohr Blvd, Columbus, OH 43224 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### Medal Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space, small play area. ### Mifflin Park **Address:** 2200 Noe Bixby Rd, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, wooded areas. ### Millbrook Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### Millstone Creek Parkland **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Natural area, wooded sections, passive recreation. ### Mock Park **Address:** 6000 Mock Rd, Columbus, OH 43219 **Amenities:** - Recreation center - Playground - Basketball courts - Athletic fields - Community programs ### Moler Park **Address:** 1200 Moler Rd, Columbus, OH 43207 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood green space. ### Morse Road Parkland **Address:** Along Morse Rd corridor (no single postal address) **Amenities:** Natural area, wooded sections, passive recreation. ### Mountview Park **Address:** 2140 W Mound St, Columbus, OH 43223 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### Muirfield Parkland (Columbus portion) **Address:** Northern Columbus boundary near Dublin (no single postal address) **Amenities:** Natural area, wooded sections, passive recreation. ## N ### Nafzger Park **Address:** 2845 Noe Bixby Rd, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood green space. ### Nashoba Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space, small play area, open lawn. ### Nelson Park **Address:** 200 Nelson Rd, Columbus, OH 43205 **Amenities:** - Recreation center - Playground - Basketball courts - Baseball/softball fields - Walking paths - Open green space Nelson Park is one of the larger and more historic parks in this section. ### New Beginnings Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### North Bank Park **Address:** 311 W Long St, Columbus, OH 43215 **Amenities:** - Riverfront views - Event pavilion - Walking paths - Open lawn - Scioto Mile access This is a major downtown riverfront park. ### Northcrest Park **Address:** 505 E North Broadway, Columbus, OH 43214 **Amenities:** Playground, tennis courts, open field, wooded areas. ### Northgate Park **Address:** 4570 Morse Centre Rd, Columbus, OH 43229 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### Northmoor Park **Address:** 4150 Indianola Ave, Columbus, OH 43214 **Amenities:** - Playground - Shelter - Open field - Olentangy Trail access - Wooded natural areas A popular park in Clintonville with trail connectivity. ### Northwood Park **Address:** 2231 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201 **Amenities:** - Community center - Meeting/event spaces - Open green space Located near OSU campus. ### Norton Park **Address:** 5200 Norton Rd, Columbus, OH 43228 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ## O ### Oakland Park **Address:** 600 Oakland Park Ave, Columbus, OH 43214 **Amenities:** - Playground - Basketball court - Open field - Neighborhood green space Located in the Clintonville/North Linden area, this is a classic mid‑sized community park. ### Oates Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** - Small neighborhood green space - Open lawn - Limited play features This is a small local park with minimal development. ### O’Shaughnessy Reservoir Park (Columbus portions) **Address:** Multiple access points along Glick Rd and Dublin Rd (no single postal address) **Amenities:** - Reservoir shoreline access - Fishing - Boating access (nearby) - Wooded natural areas - Scenic overlooks Note: The reservoir spans multiple jurisdictions; Columbus manages several parcels on the east and south sides. ### Old Oaks Park **Address:** 1380 Oakwood Ave, Columbus, OH 43206 **Amenities:** - Playground - Basketball court - Open field - Historic neighborhood setting Located in the Old Oaks Historic District, this park serves as a community gathering space. ### Olentangy Parkland **Address:** Extends along the Olentangy River corridor (no single postal address) **Amenities:** - Multi‑use trails (including Olentangy Trail) - Wooded natural areas - River access - Wildlife habitat This is one of Columbus’s most important continuous greenway corridors. ### Overbrook Ravine Park **Address:** Near Overbrook Dr & N High St, Columbus, OH 43214 (no formal postal address) **Amenities:** - Ravine trail - Wooded natural area - Creek access - Scenic natural landscape This is one of the city’s historic ravine parks, similar in character to Glen Echo. ## P ### Parkridge Park **Address:** 1111 Parkridge Dr, Columbus, OH 43228 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood green space. ### Parsons Park **Address:** 845 Parsons Ave, Columbus, OH 43206 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, community green space; located near the Parsons Avenue corridor. ### Pinecrest Park **Address:** 2250 Pinecrest Dr, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### Pingree Park **Address:** 2800 Pingree Dr, Columbus, OH 43219 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### Pioneer Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space, small play area, open lawn. ### Pontiac Park **Address:** 321 Pontiac St, Columbus, OH 43205 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### Portman Park **Address:** 3000 Portman Rd, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood green space. ### Postlewaite Park **Address:** 6140 Postlewaite Rd, Columbus, OH 43235 **Amenities:** Playground, tennis courts, open field, wooded areas. ### Pretzinger Parkland **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Natural area, wooded sections, passive recreation. ### Pride Park **Address:** 2480 Hiawatha St, Columbus, OH 43211 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### Pumphrey Park **Address:** 2000 Pumphrey Rd, Columbus, OH 43229 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ## Q ### Quarry Trails Parkland (Columbus portions) **Address:** Along Trabue Rd & Dublin Rd, Columbus, OH 43221 (no single postal address) **Amenities:** - Wooded natural areas - Open green space - Trail connections into the larger Metro Parks system Note: The main *Quarry Trails Metro Park* is operated by Metro Parks; Columbus manages adjacent parcels of greenway land. ### Quay Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** - Small neighborhood green space - Open lawn - Limited play features This is a modest local park serving nearby residential streets. ### Quigley Park **Address:** 2255 Quigley Rd, Columbus, OH 43224 **Amenities:** - Playground - Basketball court - Open field - Neighborhood recreation space ## R ### Rader Park **Address:** 2599 Brentnell Ave, Columbus, OH 43211 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood green space. ### Raney Park **Address:** 5400 Raney Dr, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, small neighborhood recreation area. ### Rathbone Park **Address:** 181 Rathbone Ave, Columbus, OH 43207 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### Raymond Memorial Parkland **Address:** Adjacent to 3860 Trabue Rd, Columbus, OH 43228 **Amenities:** Wooded natural areas, open green space, passive recreation. Note: This surrounds the Raymond Memorial Golf Course. ### Redick Park **Address:** 600 Redick Ave, Columbus, OH 43207 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood green space. ### Reeb Park **Address:** 280 Reeb Ave, Columbus, OH 43207 **Amenities:** - Community center (Reeb Avenue Center) - Playground - Open green space - Community programming A major community anchor in the South Side. ### Remington Park **Address:** 2400 Remington Rd, Columbus, OH 43221 **Amenities:** Playground, tennis courts, open field, wooded areas. ### Rhodes Park **Address:** 1900 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43223 **Amenities:** - Recreation center - Playground - Basketball courts - Athletic fields - Community programs ### Rickenbacker Woods Park **Address:** 1330 E Livingston Ave, Columbus, OH 43205 **Amenities:** - Historic site (Eddie Rickenbacker birthplace area) - Walking paths - Open green space - Small play area ### Ridgeview Park **Address:** 1380 Ridgeview Rd, Columbus, OH 43221 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### Ridenour Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Small neighborhood green space, open lawn. ### Ringer Park **Address:** 2830 Ringer Rd, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### Riverbend Park **Address:** 880 Riverview Dr, Columbus, OH 43202 **Amenities:** - Olentangy Trail access - Wooded natural areas - Open green space - River access A key natural corridor park along the Olentangy River. ### Riverland Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Natural area, wooded sections, passive recreation. ### Riverview Park **Address:** 4100 Riverview Dr, Columbus, OH 43214 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, wooded areas, trail access. ### Roberts Road Parkland **Address:** Along Roberts Rd corridor (no single postal address) **Amenities:** Natural area, open fields, passive recreation. ### Rocky Fork Parkland (Columbus portions) **Address:** Near Walnut St & Harlem Rd (no single postal address) **Amenities:** Wooded natural areas, trails, wildlife habitat. Note: Adjacent to Rocky Fork Metro Park. ### Rohr Road Parkland **Address:** Along Rohr Rd corridor (no single postal address) **Amenities:** Natural area, open fields, passive recreation. ### Rosewind Park **Address:** 1400 Brooks Ave, Columbus, OH 43211 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### Rosslyn Park **Address:** 2800 Rosslyn Ave, Columbus, OH 43202 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood green space. ## S ### Sancus Park **Address:** 8140 Sancus Blvd, Columbus, OH 43235 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood green space. ### Saunders Park **Address:** 1380 Saunders Ave, Columbus, OH 43201 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### Schiller Park **Address:** 1069 Jaeger St, Columbus, OH 43206 **Amenities:** - Historic German Village park - Pond - Walking paths - Gardens - Playground - Tennis courts - Outdoor theater (Actors’ Theatre) One of Columbus’s most iconic parks. ### Scioto Audubon Metro Park (Columbus portions) **Address:** 400 W Whittier St, Columbus, OH 43215 **Amenities:** - Climbing wall - Trails - Wetlands - Birding areas - River access Note: The Metro Park is operated by Metro Parks; Columbus owns adjacent parcels. ### Scioto Big Run Parkland **Address:** Along Clime Rd & Georgesville Rd (no single postal address) **Amenities:** Natural area, wooded sections, creek access, passive recreation. ### Scioto Greenway Parkland **Address:** Along Scioto River corridor (no single postal address) **Amenities:** - Multi‑use trails - River access - Scenic overlooks - Wooded natural areas Part of the Scioto Mile and regional greenway system. ### Scioto Mile (Columbus-managed portions) **Address:** Downtown riverfront, including Civic Center Dr & Marconi Blvd **Amenities:** - Promenades - Fountains - Event spaces - Riverfront seating - Public art A major downtown attraction. ### Scioto Trail Park **Address:** 1441 W Mound St, Columbus, OH 43223 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, trail access. ### Scottwood Park **Address:** 1100 Scottwood Rd, Columbus, OH 43206 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood green space. ### Sequoia Park **Address:** 5000 Sequoia Dr, Columbus, OH 43229 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### Shady Lane Park **Address:** 1444 Shady Lane Rd, Columbus, OH 43227 **Amenities:** Playground, shelter, basketball court, open field. ### Sharon Meadows Park **Address:** 1775 Sharon Woods Blvd, Columbus, OH 43229 **Amenities:** Playground, tennis courts, open field, wooded areas. ### Sheffield Park **Address:** 2000 Huy Rd, Columbus, OH 43224 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### Shepard Park **Address:** 860 N Nelson Rd, Columbus, OH 43219 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### Sills Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Small neighborhood green space, open lawn. ### Sills Parkland **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Natural area, wooded sections, passive recreation. ### Souder Park **Address:** 2500 Souder Ave, Columbus, OH 43211 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### Southgate Park **Address:** 2830 Southgate Dr, Columbus, OH 43207 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### Southwood Park **Address:** 1500 Southwood Ave, Columbus, OH 43207 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood green space. ### Southwood Mile Parkland **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Natural area, wooded sections, passive recreation. ### Spindler Parkland **Address:** Along Spindler Rd corridor (no single postal address) **Amenities:** Natural area, open fields, wooded sections. ### St. Clair Park **Address:** 1000 St. Clair Ave, Columbus, OH 43201 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### St. Mary’s Park **Address:** 700 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43206 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, historic neighborhood setting (German Village). ### St. Patrick’s Park **Address:** 3600 St. Patrick’s Dr, Columbus, OH 43227 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### Stelzer Park **Address:** 3250 Stelzer Rd, Columbus, OH 43219 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### Stockbridge Park **Address:** 4500 Stockbridge Rd, Columbus, OH 43229 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood green space. ### Sullivant Gardens Park **Address:** 755 Renick St, Columbus, OH 43223 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### Sycamore Hills Park **Address:** 5000 Sycamore Hills Dr, Columbus, OH 43228 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ## T ### Tamarack Park **Address:** 2850 Tamarack Cir S, Columbus, OH 43229 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood green space. ### Taylor‑Bexley Parkland (Columbus portions) **Address:** Along E Broad St & Bexley border (no single postal address) **Amenities:** Natural area, wooded sections, passive recreation. ### Taylorsville Parkland **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Natural green space, open field, passive recreation. ### Tennyson Park **Address:** 1925 Tennyson Blvd, Columbus, OH 43219 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### Thurber Park **Address:** 91 Jefferson Ave, Columbus, OH 43215 **Amenities:** - Public art - Open lawn - Walking paths - Historic neighborhood setting Located in the Discovery District near Thurber House. ### Thurston Park **Address:** 2210 Thurston Dr, Columbus, OH 43219 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### Topsail Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Small neighborhood green space, open lawn. ### Toth Park **Address:** 1500 Toth Ln, Columbus, OH 43228 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### Trabue Woods Parkland **Address:** Along Trabue Rd corridor (no single postal address) **Amenities:** Wooded natural areas, trails, wildlife habitat. ### Tremont Park **Address:** 2400 Tremont Rd, Columbus, OH 43221 **Amenities:** Playground, tennis courts, open field, neighborhood green space. ### Truro Park **Address:** 2300 Truro Dr, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### Tussing Parkland **Address:** Near Tussing Rd & Brice Rd (no single postal address) **Amenities:** Natural area, wooded sections, passive recreation. ## U ### Ulry‑Schott Parkland **Address:** Near Ulry Rd & Schott Rd, Columbus, OH 43230 (no single postal address) **Amenities:** - Wooded natural areas - Open fields - Passive recreation This is a natural‑area corridor on the northeast side, with no developed playground or sports facilities. ### Unity Park **Address:** 1774 E 25th Ave, Columbus, OH 43219 **Amenities:** - Playground - Basketball court - Open field A classic neighborhood park serving the Linden area. ### University View Park **Address:** 2500 Medary Ave, Columbus, OH 43202 **Amenities:** - Playground - Open field - Neighborhood green space Located near the OSU campus area, serving the University View neighborhood. ## V ### Valleyview Parkland **Address:** Near Valleyview Dr & Hague Ave, Columbus, OH 43204 (no single postal address) **Amenities:** - Wooded natural areas - Open fields - Passive recreation This is a natural‑area corridor with no formal playground or sports facilities. ### Victory Park **Address:** 1000 Victory Dr, Columbus, OH 43207 **Amenities:** - Playground - Basketball court - Open field A classic neighborhood park serving the South Side. ## W ### Waggoner Road Parkland **Address:** Along Waggoner Rd corridor (no single postal address) **Amenities:** Wooded natural areas, open fields, passive recreation. ### Walden Park **Address:** 470 Walden Ave, Columbus, OH 43207 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood green space. ### Walhalla Ravine Park **Address:** Near Walhalla Rd & Indianola Ave, Columbus, OH 43202 (no formal postal address) **Amenities:** - Ravine trail - Wooded natural area - Creek access - Scenic natural landscape One of Columbus’s most iconic ravine parks. ### Walnut Hill Park **Address:** 5200 Walnut Hill Dr, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### Walnut View Park **Address:** 2000 Walnut View Dr, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### Weinland Park **Address:** 1280 Summit St, Columbus, OH 43201 **Amenities:** - Playground - Splash pad - Basketball court - Open field A major neighborhood park in the rapidly redeveloping Weinland Park district. ### Weinland Parkland **Address:** Surrounding the Weinland Park neighborhood (no single postal address) **Amenities:** Natural areas, open green space, passive recreation. ### Weinland Woods Parkland **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Wooded natural areas, open fields, passive recreation. ### Weinland Woods Ravine Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Ravine landscape, wooded areas, creek access. ### Weinland Woods South Parkland **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Natural area, wooded sections, passive recreation. ### Weinland Woods West Parkland **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Natural area, wooded sections, passive recreation. ### Weinland Woods West Ravine Park **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Ravine terrain, wooded areas, creek access. ### ### ### ## X ### Xenia Park **Address:** 600 Xenia Ave, Columbus, OH 43207 **Amenities:** - Playground - Open field - Neighborhood green space This is a small community park serving the South Side, offering basic recreation space and play equipment. ## Y ### Yale Avenue Park **Address:** 700 Yale Ave, Columbus, OH 43223 **Amenities:** - Playground - Open field - Neighborhood green space This is a small community park serving the Hilltop area with basic play and recreation space. ### Yorkland Parkland **Address:** Near Yorkland Dr & Livingston Ave, Columbus, OH 43232 (no single postal address) **Amenities:** - Wooded natural areas - Open fields - Passive recreation This is an undeveloped natural‑area parcel with no formal playground or sports facilities. ## Z ### Zollinger Park **Address:** 3800 Zollinger Rd, Columbus, OH 43221 **Amenities:** - Playground - Open field - Neighborhood green space This is a small community park serving the northwest side, offering basic recreation space and a quiet residential setting. ## Please Note Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. In those cases, they're included by name because they appear on the official parks list. ### Stop #5 La Junta, CO URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/stop-5-la-junta-co/ Last updated: 2026-08-17T21:34:10.000Z This stop was supposed to be a cabin. It was sort of a cabin but more like a trailer. Now for some reason I thought all cabins would be in the woods. Nope, the cabin was basically in a Walmart parking lot. It was a one room trailer. It looked like a cabin on the inside and was actually pretty nice. We were able to get our laundry done also. That was an absolute plus. ### La Junta Camping & Cabins It formerly operated as La Junta KOA / La Junta KOA Journey. The current name is La Junta Camping & Cabins. The property’s own site now uses that name, while older KOA pages still identify the same location as La Junta KOA Journey. - **Address:** 26680 US-50, La Junta, CO 81050 - **Phone:** (719) 384-9580 - **Current website:** [La Junta Camping & Cabins](https://campinglajunta.com/?utm%5Fsource=chatgpt.com) - **Former KOA:** La Junta KOA Journey - **Current amenities:** RV sites, tent sites, cabins, restored railroad caboose lodging, pool/waterslide, mini golf, dog park, playground, laundry, and recreation room. Interestingly, a current listing says the property was known as La Junta KOA Cabins & Tiny Home Resort Park before July 2019, then La Junta Colorado Cabins, before becoming La Junta Camping & Cabins in May 2026. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786650780326-SIGN.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786650799525-IMG_20260609_120318680_HDR.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786650797726-IMG_20260609_120321285_HDR.jpg) ### **La Junta** ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1787000321833-IMG_8236.JPG) La Junta, Colorado is a small city in southeastern Colorado with a rich history connected to Native American cultures, the Santa Fe Trail, railroads, agriculture, and the settlement of the American West. It sits along the Arkansas River in the Arkansas Valley and is the county seat of Otero County. The name La Junta is Spanish for “the junction” or “meeting place,” pronounced “La Hunta.” [https://cdn.llitd.com/blog-hiking/photo-sets/library-stock/la-junta-co/img-8246-featured.jpg](https://cdn.llitd.com/blog-hiking/photo-sets/library-stock/la-junta-co/img-8246-featured.jpg?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786999379956-IMG_8773.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786999397920-IMG_8140.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786999397529-IMG_8144.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786999395229-IMG_8147.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786999393922-IMG_8223.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786999397230-IMG_8228.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786999393730-IMG_8229.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786999393733-IMG_8230.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786999393820-IMG_8232.JPG) ### Railroads Modern La Junta emerged in the 1870s, when railroads reached the area. The city says the first settlement arose in 1873 at the end of a Kansas Pacific Railroad spur. That railroad effort failed, and the settlement nearly disappeared. Then the Santa Fe Railroad arrived in the mid-1870s, essentially bringing La Junta back to life. The town was incorporated in 1881\. The town's history is as much railroad history as Old West history. The railroad turned La Junta into an important transportation and commercial center. Agriculture, ranching, livestock, railroading and trade all developed around that junction. [https://cdn.llitd.com/blog-hiking/photo-sets/library-stock/la-junta-co/img-8246-featured.jpg](https://cdn.llitd.com/blog-hiking/photo-sets/library-stock/la-junta-co/img-8246-featured.jpg?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### Why La Junta is historically important The area was a crossroads long before the modern town existed. The Arkansas River valley was home to Plains peoples, including the Cheyenne and Arapaho, and the region became an important corridor for trade and travel. The biggest historical story is the Santa Fe Trail. In the 1800s, the trail connected Missouri with Santa Fe and Mexico. La Junta's location was significant because routes came together here before continuing toward Pueblo, the mountain passes, New Mexico, and the Southwest. ### **Bent’s Old Fort** **Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site** 35110 State Highway 194 E. La Junta, CO 81050 ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786998976472-IMG_8210.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786998855426-1V3A1725.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786998869704-1V3A1687.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786998873435-1V3A1689.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786998866730-1V3A1693.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786998864736-1V3A1694.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786998853869-1V3A1695.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786998845539-1V3A1696.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786998873486-1V3A1718.JPG) About 7 miles from town is Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site, probably the single most important historical attraction around La Junta. The original fort was built in 1833 by William and Charles Bent and Ceran St. Vrain. Although called a "fort," it was primarily a trading post, not a military installation. Traders exchanged manufactured goods for buffalo robes and other furs, while travelers found food, lodging, repairs, and protection. For much of its 16-year existence, it was the only major permanent non-Native settlement between Missouri and the Mexican settlements in New Mexico along the Santa Fe Trail. During the Mexican-American War in 1846, the fort became a staging area for Colonel Stephen W. Kearny's Army of the West. Business declined afterward, and William Bent abandoned the fort in 1849\. Floods, scavenging, and time eventually erased the original structure. Business declined afterward, and William Bent abandoned the fort in 1849\. Floods, scavenging, and time eventually erased the original structure. ### Mexican and American Border From 1819 to 1847 the Arkansas River formed the border between Mexico and the United States. It was ceded to the United States in 1848 after the Mexican-American War. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786656405518-1V3A1730.JPG) The original fort was abandoned in 1849\. Its remains eventually disappeared, with flooding helping erase the above-ground ruins in the 20th century. The present adobe fort is a reconstruction, built in 1975–76 and dedicated during the nation's Bicentennial. During World War II, La Junta had an Army Air Forces training base nearby. The area later continued to have connections with military aviation training before technology reduced the need for some live flight exercises. The grounds now function as the La Junta Municipal Airport, located about three miles north of the city.Very few structures from the 1940s active military days remain, though a single historic vintage hangar and local veteran memorials mark its past. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1787002382180-images.jpg) [https://cdn.llitd.com/blog-hiking/photo-sets/library-stock/la-junta-co/1v3a1796-featured.jpg](https://cdn.llitd.com/blog-hiking/photo-sets/library-stock/la-junta-co/1v3a1796-featured.jpg?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### **Trails** The trail from the Visitor Center to the Fort Benton Historic Site is approximately 0.4 miles (about 0.65 km) long, making it a short, easily walkable route. This distance is based on the standard walking path between the two points, which is typically a gentle, paved or gravel trail suitable for pedestrians, cyclists, and wheelchair users. The route is direct and does not require significant elevation change, so it’s accessible for most visitors. Also visitors can walk trails along the Arkansas River. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786999950058-IMG_8205.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786999951770-IMG_8206.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786999944699-IMG_8226.JPG) ### Why are there peacocks at Bent's Old Fort? Peacocks lived at the original fort in the 1840s. Historical accounts describe them roaming the fort courtyard. The Southern Cheyenne were fascinated by the birds' colorful feathers and loud calls, reportedly referring to them as "thunder birds." There was a peacock strutting by the fort. I think he was looking for a girl peacock. He kept making an annoying call. No wonder no girls showed up. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786655768920-1V3A1713.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786655735757-1V3A1699.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786655729323-1V3A1703.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786655751076-1V3A1707.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786655762723-1V3A1708.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786655771026-1V3A1712.JPG) ### Authentic Mexican Food We wanted to try some authentic Mexican food. In La Junta we were lucky to find this little restaurant. It had the best tacos and burritos. Yum! ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786999786541-IMG_8242.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786999786139-IMG_8241.JPG) ### Conclusion La Junta is a very historical and welcoming place to visit. We were really glad that our travel plans included this city. We highly suggest that you visit La Junta. You won't be disappointed. ### Stop #4 Oakley, KS URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/stop-4-oakley-ks/ Last updated: 2026-08-11T22:40:17.000Z Oakley, Kansas, was founded in 1884 during the bustling settlement of northwestern Kansas. It developed along the historic Smoky Hill Trail, a key route for travelers and settlers crossing the Great Plains in the 1860s and 1870s. Homesteaders began arriving in the 1870s, attracted by the promise of farming and ranching. The town went through a few name changes—first Carlyle, then Cleveland—before becoming Oakley in 1885, named after Elizabeth Oakley Gardner Hoag, mother of co-founder David D. Hoag, to avoid confusion with another Kansas town called Cleveland. The Union Pacific Railroad’s arrival in the late 1880s turned Oakley into a key shipping point for wheat, cattle, and other farm products, cementing its place as a commercial center. After a devastating fire in 1904 wiped out much of its wooden business district, the town rebuilt with sturdy brick and concrete buildings, many still standing today. Now home to just over 2,000 residents, Oakley sits at the crossroads of Interstate 70, U.S. Highway 40, and U.S. Highway 83, serving as a vital hub for western Kansas, with agriculture still at its heart and tourism boosted by nearby fossil beds, badlands, and museums. Our plan was to camp in Oakley, Kansas for two nights. However, the campground was right off the highway. It also appeared to be mostly RVs. It seemed like people don't camp in tents anymore. So, we decided to look for other accommodations (as in a motel or hotel). --- ## High Plains Camping ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785449120238-high plains.webp) - **Address:** 462 US Highway 83, Oakley, KS 67748 - **Phone:** 785-672-3538 - **What it offers:** - Enjoy RV sites with full hookups, tent camping spots, a cozy café, a handy general store, and propane service, all with easy access from I‑70 and US‑83. --- ### Annie Oakley Motel (785) 672-3223 The first place we checked was a motel in downtown Oakley. There were no cars there. We looked up the phone number and called. We asked if they had any vacancies. The person at Annie Oakley Motel said "Let me check. I'm not sure if we have any rooms available." We decided to keep looking. Also, Annie Oakley was born in Ohio not in Kansas. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785971670641-IMG_8741.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785971672037-IMG_8743.JPG) --- ### Kansas Country Inn (785) 672-3131 This locally owned hotel, conveniently located near Interstate 70, offers comfortable rooms, RV parking, free Wi-Fi, and breakfast. Travelers love it for its friendly service and great location. We stayed there. A special bonus was the free breakfast. The chef makes everything from scratch, and it was great! ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785975806152-b2.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785975807520-breakfast.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785975807518-inside.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785975807533-kansas country inn.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785975807119-pool.webp) ### ### Western Interior Seaway Western Kansas was once completely underwater, submerged beneath a vast ocean known as the Western Interior Seaway during the Cretaceous Period, about 100 to 80 million years ago. It lay on the floor of a shallow inland sea that stretched from the Arctic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico, teeming with giant marine reptiles, sharks, and fish. The chalk and limestone formations seen today are the compressed remains of countless tiny sea creatures. Chalk and limestone bluffs, such as Castle Rock and Monument Rocks, were formed from the shells of tiny organisms called foraminifera. Some chalk beds tower as high as 500 feet. In the soft chalk badlands, fossil extraction is surprisingly easy since the rock is softer than the fossils. Among the finds are sea monsters like 35–40 foot mosasaurs, long‑necked plesiosaurs, massive fish like Xiphactinus, and flying pterosaurs that once hunted over the water. Today, these fossils are displayed in major museums around the world. --- ### Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park (620) 872-2061 It is located in southern Logan County, just west of U.S. Highway 83, between Oakley and Scott City. From US-83, the current directions are to turn west onto Gold Road and then north on County Road 400. Open daily from approximately 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. The park is currently day-use only and is open from sunrise to sunset. Because the chalk is extremely fragile, visitors are required to remain on designated trails unless participating in a guided off-trail tour. Rock climbing, fossil collecting and taking rocks or plants are prohibited. Located about 25 miles south of Oakley, Kansas’ newest state park is known for its striking 100-foot-tall chalk cliffs, formed around 85 million years ago. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, scenic overlooks, birdwatching, and chances to explore fascinating fossils and geology. Around 85 million years ago, during the Late Cretaceous Period, what’s now western Kansas lay beneath a vast inland sea called the Western Interior Seaway, which covered much of central North America. Tiny marine organisms thrived in its waters, and over time were compressed into the soft, white Niobrara Chalk that forms Little Jerusalem. Later, tectonic forces from the rise of the Rocky Mountains lifted the ancient seabed. Gradually, rain, wind, and runoff sculpted the chalk into striking cliffs, towers, spires, narrow canyons, and ravines. Today, the exposed formation stretches about a mile, with some cliffs soaring over 100 feet high. The formations have actually had several names. In the late 1800s, people reportedly called the area "Castle City" because the formations looked like the ruins of enormous castles. The name Little Jerusalem, sometimes New Jerusalem, apparently came from the resemblance of the tall chalk walls and formations to the walls of the ancient city of Jerusalem when viewed from a distance. By the time The Nature Conservancy acquired the property, "Little Jerusalem" was the name commonly used by local residents and geologists. The property was part of the McGuire Ranch, and the McGuire family owned the land for five generations. The family wanted the unusual formations protected but also wanted people eventually to have an opportunity to experience them. In 2016, The Nature Conservancy acquired the property from the private owners. A major part of the agreement was conservation of the formations while allowing appropriate public access. the park encompasses about 332 acres, including approximately 220 acres of the actual badlands formations. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786486633247-1V3A1292.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786486656234-1V3A1293.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786486644025-1V3A1300.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786486654924-1V3A1359.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786486629133-1V3A1229.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786486624256-1V3A1233.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786486650721-1V3A1256.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786486656526-1V3A1268.webp) It didn't become a state park because the state simply purchased the land. The Nature Conservancy continues to own the property, while Kansas manages public recreational access in partnership with TNC. The Kansas Legislature established Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park in 2018.It officially opened to visitors in 2019, with the grand opening held on October 12, 2019. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786486693343-1V3A1497.webp) **1\. The concrete-looking posts are often old fence posts** Western Kansas boasts a rich history of ranching and fencing. Little Jerusalem was part of the McGuire Ranch for five generations, where fences helped manage cattle and define property lines. Before becoming open to the public, the land was private ranch property. Some of the older fences in the region featured posts made from locally sourced limestone or chalk, or even manufactured concrete, instead of the wooden posts we often see today. **2\. But there is a famous reason for stone fence posts around Oakley** The region around Oakley is part of what Kansas calls Post Rock Country. Kansas has extensive beds of relatively soft limestone that early settlers could quarry into large, flat slabs. Because the treeless prairie had very little wood available for fencing, settlers discovered that they could split the limestone into posts and use them for fences. Those posts became so characteristic of the region that they're called "post rocks." ### Birds There were not many living creatures on our western trip. However, there were barn swallows that make nests in the limestone. It was fascinating to watch the birds fly in and out of the nests to feed their babies. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786486239938-1V3A1633.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786486252024-1V3A1378.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786486256123-1V3A1379.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786486261828-1V3A1380.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786486266359-1V3A1382.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786486262635-1V3A1383.webp) ### The bird below is a one of our favorites. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786486404618-1V3A1257aa1.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786486406151-1V3A1257.webp) Here are some more wildlife pictures from Little Jerusalem Badlands: ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786487146731-1V3A1633.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786487141422-1V3A1327.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786487146725-1V3A1333.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786487137249-1V3A1433.webp) ### 1\. Overlook Trail - **Length:** about **0.5 mile** - **Difficulty:** Easy - **Activity:** Walking - Takes you along the main overlook area with views down into the chalk formations. - This is the better choice if you have limited time or mainly want photographs. ### 2\. Life on the Rocks Trail - **Length:** about **2.5 miles** - **Difficulty:** Moderate/easy-to-moderate walking - Follows the edge of the badlands and provides more extensive views of the formations and surrounding prairie. - The trailhead is at the west end of the parking area. ### ⚠️ Important: You can't normally hike down into the formations The chalk is extremely fragile, so regular visitors must stay on the marked trails, walkways and overlooks. Going into the canyons or formations is permitted only during a scheduled guided off-trail hike. Those guided hikes are considerably more adventurous—they involve uneven ground, grass, brush, loose footing and some scrambling. Sturdy footwear and hiking sticks are suggested. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786487187631-1V3A1347.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786487188558-1V3A1240.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1786487186527-1V3A1277.webp) --- ### Monument Rocks Monument Rocks are located in Gove County, about 25 miles south of Oakley, Kansas. The landmark sits on private property, but the landowners allow public access. Visitors are encouraged to stay on marked areas, avoid climbing on the fragile chalk formations, and leave fossils undisturbed. Monument Rocks, also called the Chalk Pyramids, are one of the most remarkable natural landmarks in Kansas. Located in western Kansas, these towering chalk formations rise as high as 70 feet (21 meters) above the prairie and provide a glimpse into a landscape that existed millions of years ago. Monument Rocks were formed about 80 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous Period. Monument Rocks are made primarily of the Smoky Hill Chalk Member of the Niobrara Chalk, a sedimentary rock formation. Monument Rocks became the first National Natural Landmark in Kansas in 1968\. In 2008, Monument Rocks and nearby Castle Rock were named one of the Eight Wonders of Kansas. The chalk here built up at an incredibly slow pace—just around 0.036 millimeters each year. These formations rank among the oldest visible rock structures in Kansas. Rising dramatically from the flat plains, Monument Rocks create a stunning contrast, making them one of the most photographed natural landmarks in the state. Tiny marine organisms, algae, and shells settled on the seafloor over millions of years. Their remains accumulated into thick layers of chalk, which later hardened into rock. Wind and water gradually eroded the softer rock, leaving behind the towering spires, arches, and buttes seen today. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785974711025-mrocks sign.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785974691822-sign2.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785974715324-chalk 3.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785974725438-chalk1.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785974710223-chalk2.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785974715632-chalk5.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785974693821-chalk6.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785974723542-chalk7.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785974691937-chalk8.webp) ## Barn swallows build nests on the rocks. Here are a few pictures. The first picture is two baby owls. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785974793326-owl 2.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785974839926-bird 2.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785974823134-bird 5.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785974824339-bird.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785974824636-bird3.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785974805721-bird4.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785974839335-bird6.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785974822124-bird7.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785974840042-bird8.webp) ## Keystone Gallery 401 US-83, Scott City, KS 67871 620-872-2762 Admission is free. Keystone Gallery is a small museum, art gallery, and gift shop located near Monument Rocks in western Kansas. It is best known for its extensive collection of local fossils from the ancient Western Interior Seaway and for serving as a popular stop between Monument Rocks, Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park, and Lake Scott State Park. The gallery occupies a restored 1916 limestone building that originally served as a church before being converted into the museum in 1991\. Its hilltop setting overlooks the Smoky Hill River Valley, and a herd of approximately 300 bison is often visible nearby, adding to the distinctive rural experience. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785969495738-car.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785969495119-fossil bldg.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785969488428-musuem 2.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785969473037-western interior seaway.webp) The museum features scientifically significant fossils collected from western Kansas, including a 20-foot mosasaur and a 14-foot Xiphactinus, along with fossil fish, turtles, and birds. Visitors also see a large mural of the ancient Niobrara Seaway painted by owner Chuck Bonner, plus Bonner's artwork and scenic photography by Barbara Shelton displayed throughout the gallery. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785969688224-fossil1.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785969711331-hang fish.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785969693127-head.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785969693128-bones.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785969688921-fish 2.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785969705724-fish under glass.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785969707519-fish.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785969688121-fish3.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785969704423-fix.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785969719420-turtle.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785969724822-long fish.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785969726023-more bones.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785969719328-more fossil.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785969715918-still more.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785969727921-tail.webp) This area is famous worldwide for its incredible fossils, which include giant marine reptiles like mosasaurs and plesiosaurs, flying reptiles known as pterosaurs, massive ancient fish over 20 feet (6 meters) long, toothed seabirds, large clams, and many smaller marine creatures. These discoveries have given scientists valuable insights into marine life during the Cretaceous Period. The gallery is roughly 15 minutes from Monument Rocks, Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park, and Lake Scott State Park, making it a convenient stop on a regional sightseeing trip. We didn't have time to stop at the Fick Fossil & History Museum. Below is a little information on the Fick Fossil & History Museum. --- ### Fick Fossil & History Museum (785) 671-4839 Open year-round with free admission, this top fossil museum in western Kansas showcases marine fossils from the ancient inland sea that once covered the state, including shark teeth, mosasaur fossils, and a massive 15-foot Xiphactinus fish. Visitors can also explore local history exhibits, a restored sod house, railroad artifacts, and unique fossil folk art. --- ### Buffalo Bill Cultural Center (785) 671-1000 This visitor center celebrates the legend of Buffalo Bill Cody and boasts one of the world’s largest bronze statues of him. It offers exhibits on the Wild West, local history, Native American culture, fossils, and western heritage. Guests can also enjoy a gift shop, travel information, a picnic area, and free Wi-Fi. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785972104021-bb2.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785972102822-sign.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785972098419-wb.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/08/1785972104121-bb1.webp) ### Conclusion We were really surprised by the things to do and see in Oakley, Kansas. We never expected Kansas to be so diverse. To think, I just traced out a route to get to Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado, and it happened to go through Oakley. ### Stop #3 Abilene, KS URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/stop-3-abilene-ks/ Last updated: 2026-07-31T13:15:33.000Z Abilene became the first major Kansas cowtown in 1867 when Joseph McCoy set up stockyards and a railhead, transforming a tiny settlement into a bustling cattle-shipping hub that sent over 1.5 million Texas longhorns east between 1867 and 1871\. After the Civil War, Texas ranchers had millions of longhorns but no railroads to reach northern markets. Kansas, with its expanding rail network — especially the Kansas Pacific Railway — was the closest place to drive herds for shipment. That year, McCoy, a young cattle dealer from Illinois, chose Abilene, then just “about a dozen log huts,” as the ideal railhead. He bought 250 acres and built the Great Western stockyards, the Drovers Cottage hotel, a telegraph line, and large loading chutes and pens for 2,000 cattle. ![Discovering time-honored traditions in Texas](https://ts2.mm.bing.net/th?id=OIP.clvLHWQyjh_zRI7d43Z2zgHaFj&pid=15.1&o=7&rm=3) ![Images of the Kansas Cowtowns - Kansas State History](https://ts3.mm.bing.net/th?id=OIP.qcUE1XjzkW7mECZS3Oe_DAHaDm&pid=15.1&o=7&rm=3) On September 5, 1867, the first trainload of Texas longhorns rolled out of Abilene bound for eastern markets, marking the start of the Kansas cattle trade. Back then, a steer worth just $2 in Texas could fetch $30–$40 in the East, making it a lucrative business. That year, Abilene shipped an impressive 35,000 cattle, and the Chisholm Trail quickly brought thousands of drovers and their herds into town. ## Life in Abilene During the Cattle Boom From 1867 to 1871, Abilene earned its title as the “Queen of the Cowtowns.” Each day was filled with the sights and sounds of endless longhorn herds, cowboys cutting loose on payday, and the lively bustle of saloons, gambling halls, and dance houses. Gunshots, rowdy drovers, swirling dust, frequent brawls, and a general air of lawlessness were all part of the scene. Law enforcement became legendary: - **Tom Smith**, marshal in 1870, known for using his fists instead of guns — killed in the line of duty. - **Wild Bill Hickok**, hired in 1871, kept order but was fired after accidentally killing his friend Mike Williams. ## Why Abilene’s Cattle Era Ended By 1871, several factors pushed the cattle trade westward. Kansas farmers opposed Texas longhorns because they carried ticks that spread Texas fever, and quarantine laws limited where Texas cattle could enter the state. Homesteaders’ fences blocked traditional open-range routes, while other towns — especially Dodge City — became more accessible and less regulated. As a result, Abilene’s cattle-shipping era lasted only five years, ending in 1871. ## **Abilene Convention & Visitors Bureau** The Abilene Convention & Visitors Bureau sits in the beautifully restored 1928 Union Pacific Depot, a historic spot where a young Dwight D. Eisenhower once departed for West Point. Inside, the visitor center offers maps, travel tips, exhibits, and local recommendations. A perfect stop for history buffs and train enthusiasts alike. ![Historic train station building along a street in Abilene Kansas](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785179875133-train station.webp) The Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad is Kansas’ only operating heritage steam railroad, offering plenty to enjoy. Take an excursion on a beautifully restored 1919 Baldwin steam locomotive (Santa Fe No. 3415) for a scenic 10½-mile round trip through the Smoky Hill River Valley. Ride in antique passenger coaches, some dating back to the early 1900s, and explore the nearby Fred Schmidt Railroad Museum filled with fascinating artifacts and exhibits. ## **Old Abilene Town** Old Abilene Town is a recreated 1870s frontier settlement that brings to life Abilene’s history as the end of the Chisholm Trail. Visitors can wander through replica buildings like a saloon, marshal’s office, and general store, or check out the Trail Center museum with its hands-on exhibits about cattle drives and pioneer life. There’s also a detailed scale model of Abilene in 1871, plus lively summer events like gunfight reenactments, can-can shows, and other Old West entertainment. ## **Greyhound Capital of the World** ![Greyhound Hall of Fame exterior with a bronze greyhound statue on a stone wall](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785000702238-IMG_20260604_140631519_HDR.webp) The Greyhound Hall of Fame is a unique museum in Kansas, dedicated to preserving the history of greyhound racing and honoring the dogs and people who shaped the sport. Opened in 1973 in Abilene, right across from the Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum, and Boyhood Home, it sits in what’s known as the “Greyhound Capital of the World.” Abilene earned this title as the home of the National Greyhound Association, which moved its headquarters there in 1945 and registers racing greyhounds across North America. The museum features: Hall of Fame inductees—both legendary racing greyhounds and influential trainers, breeders, and owners. Racing trophies, photographs, artwork, and memorabilia. Exhibits tracing the history of greyhounds from ancient Egypt through modern racing. Information about breeding, training, and the development of greyhound racing in North America. The museum is the only institution in North America devoted entirely to the history of greyhound racing. It documents both the sporting heritage of racing greyhounds and the role Abilene played as the administrative and breeding center of the industry. It has also been recognized by travel writers as one of America's most unique specialty museums. The surrounding Dickinson County has long been one of the nation's leading areas for breeding racing greyhounds, with numerous breeding farms operating in the region. Today, while commercial greyhound racing has largely disappeared in the United States, the museum remains an important historical archive preserving the legacy of the sport, the breed, and the people who were involved in it. **Visiting Information** Address: 407 S. Buckeye Ave., Abilene, Kansas Admission: Free (donations appreciated) Hours: Usually Wednesday through Sunday, 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. (hours can change seasonally). **Friendly retired racing greyhounds that often greet visitors, making it especially popular with dog lovers.** ![Museum display case with a stuffed white greyhound and historical photos](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785000740429-.trashed-1784124397-IMG_20260604_142650553_HDR.webp) ![Mechanical greyhound race tote board showing dog numbers outside the hall](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785000740329-IMG_20260604_140605864_HDR.webp) ![Bronze sculpture of a racing greyhound mid-stride in a museum gallery](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785000744329-IMG_20260604_142633244_HDR.webp) ![Early Tracks museum exhibit panel with photos and a greyhound model](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785000744438-IMG_20260604_142716838_HDR.webp) ![The Athlete exhibit with numbered racing greyhounds on a red display wall](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785000740340-IMG_20260604_143034653_HDR.webp) ![Framed 1973 Derby Lane quintela race ticket display at the Greyhound Hall of Fame](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785000732230-IMG_20260604_143103492_HDR.webp) ![Trophy case with a silver bowl and historic greyhound racing photographs](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785000744828-IMG_20260604_143223394_HDR.webp) ![Display of racing trophies under a painting of greyhounds at the finish](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785178696730-IMG_20260604_142547950_HDR.webp) ![Outdoor sculpture of a greyhound on a pedestal in front of a museum building](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785178727131-IMG_20260604_140540757_HDR.jpg) ## **Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum and Boyhood Home** #### **Hours of Operation** **Tuesday - Sunday, 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.** - Last museum entry is one hour prior to closing - The library is open by appt. only - Campus grounds open daily sunrise to sunset - Closed: Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Days Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum & Boyhood Home 200 SE 4th Street Abilene, KS 67410 ### Fees | | **Adult** | **Senior (62+)** | **Student(K12/College w/ID)** | | ----------------- | --------- | ---------------- | ----------------------------- | | **Museum + Home** | $20 | $17 | $15 | | **Museum only** | $15 | $12 | $10 | | **Home only** | $7 | $7 | $7 | The Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum, and Boyhood Home keeps alive the place where Dwight D. Eisenhower lived from 1898 to 1911, before heading to the U.S. Military Academy. Though born in Denison, Texas, he always thought of Abilene as his hometown. ![Tree-lined walkway toward the Eisenhower Presidential Library complex](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785179092958-1V3A1071.JPG) ![Stone Library sign on a lawn at the Eisenhower Presidential Library grounds](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785179128533-1V3A1072.JPG) ![Bronze plaque on a granite base with a chain border on the library grounds](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785179143569-1V3A1091.JPG) ![Statue of Dwight D Eisenhower on a pedestal under a blue sky](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785179098831-1V3A1092.JPG) ![Stone Museum sign on the Eisenhower Presidential Library campus](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785179138134-1V3A1093.JPG) ![Eisenhower Home historic house with a brown wooden sign and picnic tables](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785179117545-1V3A1051.JPG) ![Place of Meditation chapel with a steeple and circular fountain in front](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785179103043-1V3A1057.JPG) ![Eisenhower and Mamie graves covered with stone slabs inside the Place of Meditation](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785179135440-1V3A1065.JPG) ![Paved path through a green park with large trees on the library grounds](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785179136835-1V3A1068.JPG) Highlights of the boyhood home include the original two-story family house, still furnished with items left by his mother, Ida, when she passed in 1946; tales of growing up with six brothers in a small home centered on hard work, education, and faith; and its thoughtful preservation since the brothers donated it to a foundation in 1947\. Guided tours lead visitors through rooms like the parlor, dining room, bedrooms, and kitchen, sharing stories from Eisenhower’s childhood. The home sits on a 22-acre campus that also includes the presidential museum, library and archives, and the Place of Meditation, where Dwight and Mamie Eisenhower are buried. ![Historic bedroom with two iron twin beds and floral quilts in the Eisenhower Home](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785178847735-web beds.webp) ![Open family Bible displayed under glass in a museum room](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785178855035-web bible.webp) ![Kitchen interior with blue wallpaper, white cabinets, and a small table](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785178837034-web kitfcchen.webp) ![Living room with an orange armchair, patterned rug, and houseplants](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785178824846-web lr.webp) ![Grain elevators and silos behind a chain-link fence in rural Kansas](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785178850332-web p silo.webp) ![Wall-mounted antique telephone next to a wooden cabinet in a period room](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785178835732-web phone.webp) ![Framed black-and-white family photograph on blue floral wallpaper](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785178853438-web pic.webp) ![Corner of a historic room with a treadle sewing machine and wooden chairs](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785178845034-web sew.webp) ![Single iron bed with a striped quilt in a small historic bedroom](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785178829629-webp bed.webp) Visiting the boyhood home gives you a glimpse into the simple Midwestern setting that shaped one of America’s most iconic military leaders and presidents. Many people also stop by the nearby Greyhound Hall of Fame and explore Abilene’s historic downtown for a full day of soaking in the city’s rich history. ## **Walt's Four Seasons Campground & Country Store** Walt's Campground, now known as **Walt's Four Seasons Campground & Country Store**, is located about 6 miles east of Abilene, Kansas, at the intersection of I-70 and K-43 (Mink Road). As we were getting off I-70 onto Mink Road, I thought this isn't the campground....is it? It was and it really turned out to be a nice place. In 2020, Walter (“Bud”) and Kelly McKenzie bought the campground after spending a year researching and living in RV parks to learn the business. The campground has long served travelers along Interstate 70, but since taking over, they’ve made big upgrades—improving electrical service, renovating the swimming pool, and adding amenities like walking trails, a fishing pond, dog park, mini golf, playground, and storage for boats and campers. Today the campground includes 64 full-service campsites, a Phillips 66 fuel station, convenience store, grocery, laundry, event venue, and year-round camping facilities. Adding U-Haul rentals and expanding the country store and deli. ![Walts Talking Trees Nature Trail wooden directional signs under trees](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785179387230-IMG_20260605_152602875_HDR.jpg) ![Owl house mounted high on a tree trunk among green leaves](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785179400631-1V3A1219.JPG) ![Gas station canopy with a red SUV and empty pumps on a wet lot](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785179377935-phillip.webp) ![Mini golf course with a blue clubhouse and windmill in open countryside](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785179380432-putt.webp) ![Outdoor swimming pool area fenced beside a blue building and windmill](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785179374226-swim.webp) ![Convenience store aisles stocked with snacks and drinks](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785179498935-store fish.webp) ![Rustic store counter with mounted fish plaques and guitars on a wood wall](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785179498330-store guitar.webp) The campground also serves the local community by hosting civic groups and events, including meetings of the Kiwanis Club. - **Address:** 2500 Mink Road, Abilene, KS 67410 - **Interstate Access:** Exit 281 on I-70 - **Distance from Downtown Abilene:** About 6 miles east Enjoy full-hookup RV sites or tent camping with free Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, and a modern shower house. Have fun at the playground, dog park, catch-and-release fishing pond, or mini golf course. Explore the nature trail, gather around campfire rings, and play horseshoes or cornhole. Convenient amenities include laundry facilities, a country store stocked with groceries and camping supplies, plus 24-hour gasoline and diesel. Convenient for visiting attractions such as the Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum and Boyhood Home and other historic sites. ## **Lewis and Clark Bears** When we started planning for this trip, my brother-in-law started calling us Lewis and Clark. I was able to order Lewis and Clark bears from eBay. Here are some pictures of the bears enjoying the trip: ![Two travel teddy bears on a car dashboard overlooking a highway and barns](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785179322635-bear.webp) ![Two travel teddy bears sitting on white hotel pillows](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785179311367-bears 2.webp) ![Spring rider playground horse with a teddy bear on the seat](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785179338136-horse.webp) ![Metal jungle gym climbing structure with a teddy bear on the bars](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785179337534-jungle.webp) ![Airplane-shaped playground spring rider with a teddy bear aboard](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785179328831-plane.webp) ![Green disk swing with two teddy bears sitting on the seat](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1785179321035-swing.webp) ## **Conclusion:** Abilene Kansas turned out to be a wonderful place to visit. There were many things to see and do. I didn't expect that. Abilene is definitely worth a stop if you are traveling in Kansas. ### Hiking Boots vs. Trail Runners: What Actually Works on Ohio Trails URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/hiking-boots-vs-trail-runners-ohio/ Last updated: 2026-07-29T10:00:00.000Z I've had this argument at more than one trailhead. Someone glances at my boots on a hot July morning, then down at their own low-cut trail runners, and asks the question every Ohio hiker eventually asks: boots or trail runners? Which one actually makes sense for the trails around here? The honest answer is that it depends — but not in a wishy-washy way. Ohio throws a genuinely wide range of terrain at your feet, from flat crushed-limestone greenways to root-and-rock gorge climbs to ankle-deep metro-park mud, and the right footwear really does change with the ground. After years of hiking this state in both, I've landed on some clear opinions about when each one wins. Let me save you a few blisters and a couple of soaked socks. This isn't a sponsored, brand-by-brand shootout. It's a practical, terrain-first look at how boots and trail runners each perform on the specific conditions you'll meet on Ohio trails, plus how I actually decide which pair goes on before a hike. By the end you'll know which belongs in your closet — and for most of us, the real answer is one of each. The Verdict at a Glance **Reach for hiking boots when:** the trail is steep, rocky, muddy, or remote — SE Ohio ridges, Hocking gorge descents, early spring slop, or any pack-carrying day. **Reach for trail runners when:** the trail is dry, groomed, or flat and you want speed and comfort — greenways, summer metro-park loops, fast-and-light day hikes. **Best overall answer:** own both. Match the shoe to the ground. ## The Case for Hiking Boots Boots earn their keep on hard terrain, and Ohio has more of it than people expect. The big three advantages are support, protection, and traction. **Ankle support** is the classic argument, and it's real on uneven ground. When you're picking down a rooty, rock-strewn descent into a Hocking Hills gorge or off a ridge at [Great Seal State Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/great-seal-state-park/), a mid- or high-cut boot braces your ankle against the sideways rolls that low shoes allow. If you've ever turned an ankle on a hidden root, you know how fast a great day goes bad. **Protection** is underrated. A stiffer sole and a real toe box shield your feet from the sharp sandstone, roots, and loose rock that pave Ohio's best hill trails. On a long, rugged day you feel far less foot fatigue in boots because the stiffer platform keeps every jagged rock from pressing through to your sole. **Traction and waterproofing** seal the deal for Ohio specifically, because our trails are muddy for a big chunk of the year. Spring in a central Ohio metro park is basically a mud season, and the horse-shared trails at parks like [Tar Hollow](https://hiking-ohio.com/tar-hollow-state-park/) churn into boot-sucking clay after rain. A waterproof boot with an aggressive lugged sole keeps your feet dry through puddles and grips the slop far better than most low-profile runner treads. Add the weight of a daypack, and the extra support pays off even more. The trade-offs: boots are heavier, hotter, and take longer to break in. Old wisdom says a pound on your feet equals five on your back, and you feel that over big miles. In July humidity, a waterproof boot that keeps water out also keeps sweat in. And a stiff new boot demands a genuine break-in period before you trust it on a long hike. ## The Case for Trail Runners Trail runners have exploded in popularity for good reason. They're essentially beefed-up running shoes with grippier outsoles, and on the right terrain they're a joy. **They're light and fast.** Lifting a fraction of the weight with every step adds up to real energy savings over a day, and that lightness makes your feet feel quick and nimble. On a flat, well-groomed trail I move noticeably faster and fresher in runners than in boots. **They're comfortable right out of the box.** There's essentially no break-in. Buy them, lace them, hike them. For new hikers especially, that removes a real barrier — no two weeks of hot spots before your footwear feels like yours. **They breathe and dry fast.** Most trail runners are made of quick-draining mesh rather than waterproof membrane, which sounds like a downside until you're hiking Ohio in August. On a hot, humid summer loop your feet stay far cooler, and if you do splash through a creek, mesh shoes drain and dry in minutes instead of staying soggy all day. On the [Central Ohio Greenways](https://hiking-ohio.com/central-ohio-greenways-cog/) or the flat towpath miles of [Cuyahoga Valley](https://hiking-ohio.com/cuyahoga-valley-national-park-complete-trail-guide/), that breathability is pure comfort. The trade-offs are the mirror image of the boots' strengths. Less ankle support on uneven ground, so rolls are easier and rock-heavy descents are dicier. Thinner soles mean you feel more of every sharp rock, and your feet tire faster on long rugged days. And standard mesh runners offer no waterproofing — great for draining after a creek crossing, miserable in cold spring mud when your feet get wet and stay that way. Their soft, grippy rubber also wears out faster than a stiff boot sole. ## Matching Footwear to Ohio's Terrain Here's how I actually decide, trail type by trail type — because Ohio's variety is exactly why one pair can't do it all. **Flat, groomed trails and greenways** — the paved and crushed-limestone paths of the metro-park system, rail-trails, and towpaths — are trail-runner country all day. There's nothing to roll an ankle on and nothing sharp underfoot, so you might as well enjoy the lightness and breathability. Save the boots. **Rolling metro-park dirt loops** are the in-between case. In dry summer conditions, trail runners are perfect. But in the spring mud season, when those same trails at places like [Clear Creek](https://hiking-ohio.com/clear-creek-metro-park/) turn to soup, a waterproof boot keeps your feet dry and upright. This is the single most terrain-dependent category in Ohio, and it's why I keep both by the door. **Rocky, rooty hill trails** — the Hocking Hills gorge routes, the ridge climbs at Great Seal and Tar Hollow, the sandstone-step descents of southern Ohio — are where boots genuinely shine. The support, the protection, and the traction all matter here, especially with any elevation and any pack weight. Experienced hikers do run these in beefy, supportive trail runners, but if you're not sure, boots are the safer call on this terrain. **Wet, creek-crossing, or shoulder-season trails** split the difference. In warm weather, where you'll splash through water repeatedly, fast-draining trail runners can actually be the smarter pick — wet mesh dries; wet boots stay wet. In cold spring or late fall, when a soaking means genuinely cold feet, waterproof boots win. Read the temperature, not just the trail. ## Durability, Cost, and When Things Wear Out There's a money angle to this debate that nobody mentions at the trailhead. Trail runners are usually cheaper up front, but they wear out faster — the soft, grippy rubber that makes them so sure-footed also sands down quicker, and most hikers get somewhere around three to five hundred miles out of a pair before the tread and cushioning are shot. Boots cost more but last far longer; a good pair of leather or leather-and-synthetic boots, cared for, will give you years of Ohio seasons. Over the long haul the cost-per-mile tends to even out, so buy based on terrain and comfort, not just the sticker. Care makes a real difference either way. Knock the mud off after a wet hike, let them dry away from direct heat — a radiator or campfire will crack leather and warp glue — and stuff wet footwear with newspaper to pull the moisture out overnight. Re-treat waterproof boots periodically so the leather doesn't dry and crack, and keep an honest eye on the tread. The single most dangerous piece of worn-out gear on Ohio trails is a smooth sole on wet sandstone. When the lugs go bald, it's time, no matter how comfortable the shoe still feels. Winter deserves its own note. Neither a boot nor a trail runner grips ice on its own, and Ohio's freeze-thaw cycles glaze the popular gorge trails slick from December through March. For icy conditions I slip a pair of [traction cleats](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=hiking+micro+spikes&tag=darkcitadel-20&ref=hiking-ohio.com) over whatever I'm wearing — they turn a treacherous descent into a normal walk and weigh almost nothing in the pack. That's the great equalizer: in true winter, the traction device matters more than the boots-versus-runners question. ## Fit, Socks, and Break-In Whichever you choose, fit matters more than the boot-versus-runner debate ever will. Shop late in the day when your feet are slightly swollen, leave a thumb's width of room past your longest toe so your toes don't jam on descents, and try them on with the hiking socks you'll actually wear. Speaking of which — ditch the cotton. A good pair of [merino wool hiking socks](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=wool+hiking+socks&tag=darkcitadel-20&ref=hiking-ohio.com) does more to prevent blisters than almost any footwear upgrade, wicking sweat and cushioning hot spots in both boots and runners. Break in new boots gradually — wear them around the house and on short walks before committing to a big day, so you find the hot spots at home instead of five miles from the car. Trail runners need little or no break-in, but do take a fresh pair on a short shakedown hike before a long one. And whatever you wear, keep an eye on the tread; when the lugs wear smooth, traction drops off fast, and smooth soles on wet Ohio sandstone are an invitation to fall. ## What I Actually Reach For If you made me pick just one, it'd be boots — Ohio's mud, roots, and rocky hill trails tip the balance toward support and waterproofing more often than not, especially for newer hikers still building foot and ankle strength. But I don't pick just one, and neither should you if you can help it. My trail runners come out for hot summer greenway miles and dry, fast day hikes. My boots come out for spring mud, rugged southern-Ohio ridges, waterfall gorges, and any day I'm carrying weight. The best system is honestly cheap peace of mind: one supportive pair of [waterproof hiking boots](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=waterproof+hiking+boots&tag=darkcitadel-20&ref=hiking-ohio.com) for the hard days and one pair of [trail running shoes](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=trail+running+shoes&tag=darkcitadel-20&ref=hiking-ohio.com) for the easy, fast, hot ones. Match the shoe to the ground, keep good socks on your feet, and Ohio's trails open up in every season. The gear argument at the trailhead is fun, but the real winner is the hiker who brought the right pair for the day. If you're brand new to hiking and can only buy one pair to start, here's my honest advice: get the waterproof boots, get them fitted properly at a store where someone watches you walk, and give them a real break-in before your first big trail. Boots are the more forgiving learning tool — they protect your feet while your ankles and legs toughen up, and they'll handle whatever mud and rock an Ohio trail throws at a beginner. Add the trail runners later, once you've logged some miles and know what kind of hiker you're becoming. There's no wrong door into this; there's just the pair that gets you out there this weekend. ## More Gear & Trail Reading Footwear is just the foundation. Once you've got that sorted, my [Ohio day-hike gear checklist](https://hiking-ohio.com/ohio-day-hike-gear-checklist/) covers everything else worth carrying on a day out. If you're headed for the backcountry, I've also put my [backpacking meal brands to a taste test](https://hiking-ohio.com/comparing-backpacking-pouch-meal-brands/) and reviewed a [budget daypack](https://hiking-ohio.com/wolf-tactical-molle-daypack-review/) on real trails. And if you're looking for somewhere to break those boots in, the summer-ready loops in my guide to [hiking Ohio through the heat and humidity](https://hiking-ohio.com/summer-hiking-ohio-heat-humidity/) are a good place to start. 🥾 The two pairs I recommend For the hard days, a supportive pair of [waterproof hiking boots](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=waterproof+hiking+boots&tag=darkcitadel-20&ref=hiking-ohio.com). For the fast, dry, hot days, a light pair of [trail running shoes](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=trail+running+shoes&tag=darkcitadel-20&ref=hiking-ohio.com). Whichever you lace up, put a few pairs of [merino wool socks](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=wool+hiking+socks&tag=darkcitadel-20&ref=hiking-ohio.com) under them — the cheapest blister insurance there is. *As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases.* So the next time someone eyes your footwear at the trailhead, you'll have your answer ready. It's not boots versus trail runners. It's boots *and* trail runners — and knowing which Ohio trail calls for which. ### Lake Katharine State Nature Preserve: Hidden Gorges and Rare Magnolias URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/lake-katharine-state-nature-preserve/ Last updated: 2026-07-27T10:00:00.000Z There's a stretch of the Salt Creek Trail at Lake Katharine where the temperature drops ten degrees the moment you step into the gorge. Hemlocks close overhead, the creek chatters over sandstone, and a thin waterfall slides down a mossy wall. On a hot Jackson County afternoon it feels like walking into a different climate — because, in a botanical sense, you are. Lake Katharine State Nature Preserve is one of those rare Ohio places where southern plants creep north into deep, cool ravines and hang on, and it's easily one of the most beautiful spots in the southern half of the state. This is a dedicated state nature preserve, not a state park, and that distinction shapes the whole visit. Nearly two thousand acres of protected gorge, ridge, and lake, managed by Ohio's Division of Natural Areas and Preserves specifically to guard the rare species that live here. That means quieter trails, stricter rules, and a payoff of genuine wildness. You come to Lake Katharine to walk slowly, look closely, and see things you can't find anywhere else in Ohio. The headline attractions are two deep sandstone gorges, a ninety-acre lake, and a pair of magnolias — the bigleaf and umbrella magnolias — that reach the very northern edge of their natural range right here. Add mountain laurel that blooms the whole ridge pink in June, and you've got a preserve that rewards every season with something different. Let me walk you through it. Lake Katharine State Nature Preserve — Trail Snapshot **Location:** Jackson County, just northwest of Jackson, Ohio **Trails:** Calico Bush, Salt Creek, and Pine Ridge trails **Total distance:** roughly 5–6 miles across the trail system **Difficulty:** Moderate — gorge descents and rooty tread **Highlights:** Sandstone gorges, hemlock ravines, small waterfalls, rare magnolias, mountain laurel **Best seasons:** Spring wildflowers, June laurel bloom, fall color **Note:** Dedicated nature preserve — stay on trails; pets are not permitted **Admission:** Free (ODNR) ## Getting There Lake Katharine sits just a few miles northwest of the town of Jackson in southern Ohio, reached by State Route 85 and a couple of township roads that wind back to the preserve entrance. From Columbus it's about an hour and forty minutes south; from Chillicothe, closer to an hour. The final approach is rural back roads, so follow the ODNR signs carefully and don't fully trust your GPS on the last mile. Parking is free but genuinely limited — this is a preserve, not a big state park, and the lot is small on purpose to keep visitation gentle. On peak spring and fall weekends it can fill by mid-morning, so arrive early. Because it's a nature preserve, the rules are stricter than a state park: stay on marked trails, take only photos, and leave the dog at home — pets aren't permitted here, which protects both the wildlife and the fragile plants. If you want to paddle or fish the lake, ODNR requires advance registration for that, so check their site before you go. ## The Trail Three trails make up the preserve's hiking system, and the good news is you can link them into one satisfying loop of around five miles or cherry-pick a shorter route. The **Calico Bush Trail** is the one I always start with. "Calico bush" is the old country name for mountain laurel, and this ridge-running trail is lined with it. The path traces the high ground above the lake, giving you filtered water views through the trees, then dips toward the gorges. If you time your visit for June, the mountain laurel bursts into clouds of pink-and-white blossom along the whole ridge — it's one of the best laurel displays in Ohio and worth planning a trip around. The **Salt Creek Trail** is the star. It drops off the ridge into the Salt Creek gorge, where the air cools and the world turns green and dim under towering eastern hemlocks. The creek winds over exposed sandstone, and small waterfalls spill from side ravines, especially after rain or during spring snowmelt. This is where you'll find the deep, mossy, fern-choked ravine scenery that makes Lake Katharine feel like a secret pocket of the Smoky Mountains transplanted into Appalachian Ohio. Take your time down here; there are quiet spots to sit by the water and just listen. The **Pine Ridge Trail** is the shortest of the three, a gentler ridge walk through pine and oak that works well as a warm-up or an add-on if your legs have more in them. Together, the three trails deliver a full morning of hiking with real variety — ridge, gorge, lakeside, and back. The terrain is moderate by Ohio standards. There's no summit to conquer, but the descents into and climbs out of the gorges are rooty, rocky, and can be slick where the hemlock shade keeps things damp year-round. Expect natural-surface trail throughout, a few footbridges over the creek, and some genuinely steep short pitches on the gorge sides. It's not a stroller trail, but a reasonably fit hiker in good boots will love every step. One of my favorite things about Lake Katharine is how the lake itself sits quietly at the center of it all. Ninety acres of still water ringed by forest, no motorboats, no crowds along the shore — just the occasional paddler gliding past a heron. Even if you never launch a boat, catching a glimpse of that calm water through the trees from the Calico Bush ridge is a reward in itself. If you do want to get on the water, the preserve allows limited paddling and fishing, but ODNR keeps it gentle on purpose — advance registration, no gas motors, and a cap on how many boats are out at once. That restraint is exactly why the lake stays so pristine. A slow morning paddle along the wooded shoreline, watching for herons and turtles and the occasional beaver sign, is one of the more peaceful ways to spend a few hours anywhere in southern Ohio. Just plan ahead, because you can't simply show up and launch on a whim here the way you can at a big state park. Time your visit to the trail conditions, too. The gorge routes hold moisture year-round under all that hemlock shade, so even in a dry spell the rock stays a little greasy and the roots stay slick. I've watched more than one hiker in smooth-soled sneakers do an involuntary split on the descent into Salt Creek. Take the downhills slow, use your hands on the steeper pitches, and you'll be fine — the gorge is worth every careful step. ## History & Nature What makes Lake Katharine scientifically special is its plants. The cool, moist, north-facing sandstone gorges create a microclimate that lets southern Appalachian species survive far north of where they'd normally grow. The preserve protects Ohio's best populations of **bigleaf magnolia** and **umbrella magnolia** — two magnolias with enormous, tropical-looking leaves that reach the northern limit of their range in these ravines. Seeing a bigleaf magnolia leaf for the first time is startling; they can be well over a foot long, more like something from a rainforest than an Ohio woods. Late spring is when they leaf out and bloom, so a May or early-June visit shows them at their best. The gorges themselves are cut from Black Hand sandstone, the same erosion-resistant rock that forms the famous cliffs and recess caves of the Hocking Hills to the north. Water working through joints in that sandstone over millennia carved the deep, narrow ravines you hike into, and the perpetual shade and moisture let eastern hemlock, Canada yew, and a lush community of ferns and mosses thrive in the depths. On the dry ridges above, it's a completely different world of oak, pine, and mountain laurel. The preserve was dedicated in the 1970s specifically to protect this unusual concentration of rare plants and the pristine gorges that shelter them. That protective mission is why you'll see fewer amenities and stricter rules than at a typical state park — every choice here is made in favor of the ecosystem. The wildlife responds to that care: expect to see and hear plenty of birds, from wood thrushes singing in the ravines to hawks over the ridges, along with white-tailed deer and, if you're quiet, the occasional wild turkey. It helps to know what you're looking at, because the plant list here is the whole point. Beyond the two rare magnolias, the gorges shelter Canada yew — a low, spreading evergreen that's uncommon in Ohio — along with wild hydrangea, partridgeberry, and a carpet of ferns that thrive in the cool damp. On the ridges, the mountain laurel shares space with blueberry and huckleberry in the acidic sandstone soil. Bring a field guide or a plant-ID app and give yourself permission to hike slowly; Lake Katharine rewards the hiker who stops to look more than the one racing for mileage. Half the magic here is at knee level and below. ## Tips & Seasonal Notes Spring is the peak experience. April and May bring wildflowers to the gorge floors and leaf-out on the magnolias, and June turns the ridges pink with mountain laurel. Fall is gorgeous too, with the mixed forest coloring up and the hemlock gorges staying deep green as a backdrop. Summer is very pleasant precisely because those shaded ravines stay cool — a Salt Creek descent on a muggy July morning is one of the more refreshing hikes in the state. Winter is quiet and stark, with the hemlocks holding their green while everything else goes bare. Practical notes: wear boots with good grip, because the gorge trails stay damp and the roots and rocks get slick. Bring water and a snack, since there are no concessions out here. Remember the preserve rules — stay on the trails to protect the fragile plants, pack out everything, and leave pets at home. And go early on nice weekends to beat the small-lot crowd. Above all, slow down. Lake Katharine isn't a place to power through for mileage; it's a place to notice the giant magnolia leaves, the waterfall you can hear before you see, and the ten-degree hush of the gorge. If you're a photographer, the gorges reward patience and the right light. Midday sun blows out the contrast between the bright rim and the shadowed floor, but early morning and late afternoon bathe the hemlock ravines in soft, even light that shows off the moss, the water, and those enormous magnolia leaves. Overcast days are secretly the best of all down in the gorge — the clouds act like a giant diffuser, and the greens go rich and saturated. Bring a small tripod if you want to catch the little waterfalls with any silk to them, since it's genuinely dim under the canopy. ## Nearby Trails Southern Ohio is loaded with good hiking around Lake Katharine. Right in Jackson County, [Leo Petroglyph & Nature Preserve](https://hiking-ohio.com/leo-petroglyph-nature-preserve/) pairs ancient Native American rock carvings with a short gorge trail — an easy add-on to the same day trip. Just west, [Lake Hope State Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/lake-hope-state-park-iron-furnace-ruins-and-deep-forest/) offers a quiet forest lake and 1850s iron-furnace ruins deep in Zaleski country, and the sprawling [Zaleski State Forest](https://hiking-ohio.com/zaleski-state-forest/) backpacking loop is close by for a bigger day. For more sandstone gorges and waterfalls, the [Hocking Hills trails](https://hiking-ohio.com/hocking-hills-state-park-every-trail-ranked/) are an hour north, and if you're chasing cascades, my roundup of [Ohio's best waterfall hikes](https://hiking-ohio.com/ohio-waterfall-hikes-7-best-trails-to-chase-cascades/) has more ideas. 🥾 Gear for the gorges The perpetually damp gorge trails are where traction matters most. I hike Lake Katharine in grippy [waterproof hiking boots](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=waterproof+hiking+boots&tag=darkcitadel-20&ref=hiking-ohio.com) and bring [trekking poles](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=trekking+poles&tag=darkcitadel-20&ref=hiking-ohio.com) for the slick creek descents. A compact pair of [binoculars](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=compact+binoculars&tag=darkcitadel-20&ref=hiking-ohio.com) is worth its weight for the birds and those enormous magnolia leaves up in the canopy. See my full [Ohio day-hike gear checklist](https://hiking-ohio.com/ohio-day-hike-gear-checklist/) for the rest. *As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases.* Lake Katharine is the preserve I send people to when they want to see something they didn't know grew in Ohio. Descend into the Salt Creek gorge, stand under a magnolia leaf the size of a dinner platter, and feel that cool air roll off the creek. It's proof that some of the wildest corners of this state are hiding in plain sight down south. ### Tar Hollow State Park: Fire Tower Views and Remote Ridge Trails URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/tar-hollow-state-park/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:18:34.000Z Some parks you visit for the marquee waterfall. Tar Hollow you visit for the quiet. This is one of Ohio's most remote state parks, buried in the hills where Ross, Vinton, and Hocking counties fold together. The state park itself is about **604 acres** of land plus **\~15-acre** Pine Lake (as of September 2026, ODNR), wrapped inside the much larger **\~16,000-acre** Tar Hollow State Forest. I've hiked here on a Saturday in October and passed exactly two other people all day. If your idea of a good hike involves a ridgeline, a fire tower, and the feeling that you've driven off the edge of the map, Tar Hollow is your place. The name tells you something about the land. Early settlers came into these hollows to tap the pitch pines that grow on the dry ridges, boiling the resinous wood down into pine tar for waterproofing wagon axles and boots. That homestead-era grit still hangs over the place. In the 1930s the Civilian Conservation Corps moved in, planting pine, cutting trails, and building the infrastructure that became the park and forest we hike today. You can feel all of it out there — the old settler hollows, the ruler-straight rows of CCC pines, the fire tower on the ridge keeping watch over the whole rugged sweep of it. Tar Hollow is a hiker's and backpacker's park more than a day-tripper's park. There's a small lake, a campground, and a fire tower you can climb, but the real draw is miles of ridge-and-hollow trail through some of the least-developed forest in the state. Come ready to work, and come ready to be alone with the woods. Tar Hollow State Park — Trail Snapshot **Location:** Ross and Vinton counties, near Laurelville and Londonderry **Signature route:** The Logan Trail backpacking loop **Distance:** Logan Trail runs about 15–16 miles; shorter day loops available **Elevation:** Constant ridge-and-hollow climbs; several hundred feet per climb **Difficulty:** Moderate to hard, depending on how far you go **Highlights:** Brush Ridge fire tower, Pine Lake, CCC pine plantations **Best seasons:** Spring wildflowers and fall color; year-round hiking **Admission:** Free (Ohio State Parks) ## Getting There **Visitor info (as of September 2026, ODNR):** **16396 Tar Hollow Road, Laurelville, OH 43135**; park office **(740) 887-4818** (typically 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday–Friday); park hours typically **6 a.m.–11 p.m.** daily. Confirm alerts on the ODNR Tar Hollow State Park page (property URL intermittently 404'd from this runner — re-verify at Ghost push). Tar Hollow sits south of Laurelville, reached by a long, winding drive on State Route 327 and the forest roads that branch off it. From Columbus it's about an hour and fifteen minutes south; from Chillicothe, a shorter run southeast. However you come, the last stretch is a slow, curvy climb into the hills, so give yourself extra time and enjoy it — the drive in is genuinely pretty. The park has several access points. The main day-use and campground area sits near Pine Lake, and there's a trailhead lot for the Logan Trail as well as parking near the fire tower on Brush Ridge. Admission and parking are free. This is remote country, so fuel up and grab water and snacks before you leave the highway — there's no store waiting at the trailhead. Cell service is unreliable in the hollows, so photograph the forest map at the kiosk before you start. Print maps of the Logan Trail are worth tracking down in advance if you plan to backpack the full loop. ## The Trail The crown jewel is the **Logan Trail**, a roughly fifteen-mile backpacking loop that circles the park through the surrounding state forest. Marked with blue blazes, it's one of Ohio's classic overnight routes, and it's built for exactly what the terrain demands: up a ridge, along the spine, down into a hollow, across a creek, and up the next ridge. There are backpack campsites along the way, so you can split it into a relaxed two-day trip. The Logan Trail also braids with shorter connector loops, which means you don't have to commit to the whole thing to get the flavor of it. For a day hike, I usually piece together a six-to-eight-mile section using the Logan Trail plus one of the cutoffs, starting and finishing near Pine Lake or the fire tower. Whatever route you build, the character is consistent: sustained natural-surface climbing, dry oak-and-pine ridges up top, and cool, mossy, fern-lined hollows down low where little streams run in spring. The tread is dirt and rock and root the whole way — no boardwalks, no steps. After rain the low crossings get muddy, but the ridges drain fast and stay firm. Do not skip the **fire tower on Brush Ridge**. It's a genuine old steel fire-lookout tower, and you can climb the stairs to the platform for a rare true panorama — an unbroken sea of forested hills rolling to the horizon in every direction, with almost no sign of development. In the whole flat middle of Ohio, viewpoints like this are precious. I've stood up there at the end of a long loop, legs aching, and just watched the light move across the ridges. It's the payoff shot of the entire park. Down at **Pine Lake**, a small, quiet fishing lake anchors the developed part of the park. There are shorter, easier walking paths near the water and the campground if you're bringing kids or just want a gentler leg to bookend a bigger day. You can wet a line for bass and bluegill, launch a kayak or canoe, or just sit by the water and let a big loop settle out of your legs. But make no mistake — Tar Hollow's reputation is built on the long ridge routes, and that's what you drove all this way for. If you're eyeing an overnight, a little planning goes a long way. The Logan Trail has designated backpack sites, but you'll want to sort out camping registration and current conditions with the park before you go, and you'll need to filter or treat your water — the hollow streams are seasonal and can run low or dry by late summer, so don't count on a reliable source on the ridges. I like to split the loop so the first day carries most of the climbing while my pack is heavy with water, then take the gentler half out in the morning. Spring and fall are prime backpacking windows; summer means carrying more water than feels reasonable, and you'll still want every drop. A word on route-finding: the trail network here is real backcountry, and the blazes, while present, can be faded in spots and easy to lose at overgrown junctions. This is not a groomed metro-park loop with a sign at every fork. Move deliberately, check your map at intersections, and don't count on your phone to bail you out — the coverage isn't there. That remoteness is the whole point, but it means you should hike Tar Hollow with a little more preparation than you'd bring to a Sunday stroll. ## History & Nature Tar Hollow's modern shape was carved by the Great Depression. In the 1930s, this worn-out farm country was bought up and replanted as a federal land-use and resettlement project, and the Civilian Conservation Corps went to work — planting the pine plantations you still walk through, building roads and trails, and raising the fire tower. When you see those improbably straight rows of pine on a dry ridge, you're looking at CCC handiwork nearly a century old. The land was later transferred to the state, becoming Tar Hollow State Forest and, at its heart, the state park. The forest itself is a beautiful mix. The dry, south-facing ridges hold pitch pine, Virginia pine, and oak — the same pines that gave the hollow its tarry name. The moist, north-facing slopes and stream bottoms shift to sugar maple, beech, tulip poplar, and a lush understory. That variety is why Tar Hollow is famous among Ohio botanists for its **spring wildflowers**: for decades the park hosted a spring wildflower pilgrimage, and if you come in April and early May the hollows fill with trillium, Dutchman's breeches, hepatica, and wild geranium. Those CCC pine plantations are worth a closer look while you walk them. They were planted as a quick way to hold thin, eroded soil in place on land that had been logged and farmed to exhaustion, and nearly a century on, the forest is slowly doing what forests do — hardwoods are seeding in beneath the aging pines, and the woods are shifting back toward the oak-hickory mix that belongs here. Walking a ridge, you can read that whole story in the trees: straight planted rows up top, wild tangled diversity in the hollows. It's one of the best places in Ohio to see a landscape healing. Wildlife runs deep here because the surrounding forest is so large and unbroken. White-tailed deer are everywhere at dawn and dusk. Wild turkey scratch through the leaf litter, pileated woodpeckers hammer the big dead snags, and if you're lucky and quiet you might hear a barred owl calling across a hollow at dusk. This is also part of the broader unglaciated Appalachian foothill country, so the topography is old, rounded, and deeply eroded — hills shaped by water over unimaginable time rather than bulldozed flat by glaciers like central Ohio. ## Tips & Seasonal Notes Spring and fall are the headline seasons. Spring brings the wildflowers and full, running streams in the hollows; fall lights the oak-hickory canopy gold and makes the fire-tower view unforgettable. Summer hiking is fine if you start early and carry plenty of water — the ridges are shaded, but there's real climbing and real humidity down in the valleys. Winter turns Tar Hollow into wide-open, solitary backcountry, with the leafless ridges giving up long views; just be ready for frozen, rutted mud and short daylight. One safety note specific to Tar Hollow: because the park sits inside a working state forest, hunting is permitted in the surrounding land during Ohio's fall and winter seasons. If you're hiking from about mid-fall through the end of the year — especially during the popular deer-gun week around Thanksgiving — wear blaze orange and stick to the marked trails. It's an easy precaution, and it lets you enjoy the beautiful late-season woods without worry. Check the current hunting calendar before a fall trip so you know what's in season. Footwear matters. Wear boots with aggressive tread and ankle support — the tread is rooty and rocky and gets slick when wet. Trekking poles are a real help on the steep hollow descents and stream crossings. If you're backpacking the Logan Trail, filter your water, pack a paper map and compass, and let someone know your itinerary, because this is one of the few Ohio parks where you can genuinely be out of contact for hours. Start early, respect the mileage, and Tar Hollow rewards you with the most remote-feeling day you can have without leaving the state. ## Nearby Trails Tar Hollow sits in the heart of Ohio's best foothill hiking, so it pairs with a lot of good company. Just west near Chillicothe, [Great Seal State Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/great-seal-state-park/) offers the same rugged ridge climbing that inspired the Ohio state seal. To the south and east, the sprawling backcountry of [Zaleski State Forest](https://hiking-ohio.com/zaleski-state-forest/) is Tar Hollow's twin — another classic Ohio backpacking loop through unbroken hills. The long-distance [Buckeye Trail](https://hiking-ohio.com/buckeye-trail/) threads through this whole region if you want to go bigger. For waterfalls and gorges, the [Hocking Hills trails](https://hiking-ohio.com/hocking-hills-state-park-every-trail-ranked/) are a short drive northeast, and [Hopewell Culture National Historical Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/hopewell-culture-national-historical-park/) adds ancient earthworks to a Chillicothe-area weekend. 🥾 What I pack for Tar Hollow Remote ridge miles call for gear you can trust. I wear sturdy [waterproof hiking boots](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=hiking+boots&tag=darkcitadel-20&ref=hiking-ohio.com), carry [trekking poles](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=trekking+poles&tag=darkcitadel-20&ref=hiking-ohio.com) for the hollow descents, and never head into these hills without a full [hydration pack](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=hydration+pack&tag=darkcitadel-20&ref=hiking-ohio.com). If you're backpacking the Logan Trail, a reliable [water filter](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=water+filter+backpacking&tag=darkcitadel-20&ref=hiking-ohio.com) is essential. See my full [Ohio day-hike gear checklist](https://hiking-ohio.com/ohio-day-hike-gear-checklist/) for the rest. *As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases.* A last bit of planning advice: treat Tar Hollow like the backcountry it is. Fuel up and fill your water bottles before you leave the highway, carry a paper map since the phone won't save you, and give yourself more daylight than you think you need — the driving alone eats an hour each way from Columbus, and you don't want to be finding a faded blaze by headlamp. Tell someone your route and your expected return. None of this is meant to scare you off; it's exactly the preparation that lets you relax and enjoy how gloriously empty these hills are. Tar Hollow is the park I recommend when someone's ready to graduate from the boardwalk crowds and find real Ohio backcountry. Climb the fire tower, walk the ridges, and let the quiet do its work. You'll come home tired, a little muddy, and already planning the next trip. ### Great Seal State Park: The Rugged Hills That Inspired the Ohio State Seal URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/great-seal-state-park/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:46.000Z The first time I climbed Sugarloaf Mountain at Great Seal State Park, I stopped halfway up, put my hands on my knees, and laughed out loud. Not because anything was funny. Because I was genuinely winded on an Ohio hill, and I hadn't expected that. We tell ourselves Ohio is flat. Great Seal, tucked into the ridges just northeast of Chillicothe, is where that story falls apart. These are the hills that inspired the Great Seal of Ohio itself. Look at the state seal sometime: a sun rising over a range of rounded peaks, a sheaf of wheat and a bundle of arrows in the foreground. Those peaks are Mount Logan and the ridgeline you're standing on here. The view that early Ohio statesmen sketched into our official emblem is the same view you earn when you haul yourself up one of these climbs. That's a rare thing for a trail — hiking straight into a piece of state history — and it's why this park has quietly become one of my favorite hard-workout hikes in the region. Fair warning up front: Great Seal is rugged. The metro-park loops I love around Columbus are gentle. This is not that. You'll climb, descend, and climb again, and by the end your legs will know it. Bring water and decent footwear, and you'll be rewarded with some of the best ridge-top hiking in central and southern Ohio. Great Seal State Park — Trail Snapshot **Location:** Ross County, just northeast of Chillicothe **Featured hike:** Sugarloaf Mountain Trail loop **Distance:** about 2.2 miles (with much longer options in the trail network) **Elevation gain:** roughly 500–600 feet on the Sugarloaf climb **Difficulty:** Hard — steep, sustained climbs **Trail type:** Loop, part of a 20-plus-mile network **Best seasons:** Spring and fall; shaded enough for summer mornings **Admission:** Free (Ohio State Parks) ## Getting There **Visitor info (as of September 2026, ODNR):** Park entrance **4908 Marietta Road, Chillicothe, OH 45601**. ODNR lists the park at **1,682 acres** (an older park history blurb still says 1,862 — prefer the current 1,682 figure). Park office is administered from Tar Hollow: **(740) 887-4818**. Hours typically **6 a.m.–11 p.m.** daily. Confirm alerts on the [ODNR Great Seal page](https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/great-seal-state-park?ref=hiking-ohio.com). Great Seal sits a few miles northeast of downtown Chillicothe, off Delano Road and Marietta Road. From Columbus, it's a straightforward hour south on US-23 — I usually roll out early and hit the trailhead before the day heats up. The main hikers' parking area is at the Sugarloaf Mountain trailhead near the park office on Marietta Road; there's a second lot near the Rocky Knob and Shawnee Ridge access if you want to start deeper in the network. Parking is free and rarely full on weekday mornings. On fall weekends it fills faster, so plan to arrive before ten. The park is primarily undeveloped hiking and bridle-trail land, so don't expect a visitor center with a gift shop — expect a gravel lot, a trail map kiosk, and quiet. Cell coverage is spotty in the hollows, so download or photograph the trail map before you head in. Restrooms are limited and seasonal, so take care of that in Chillicothe on the way. ## The Trail The signature hike here is the **Sugarloaf Mountain Trail**, a loop of a little over two miles that climbs to the top of the cone-shaped knob you can spot from the parking area. Don't let the short mileage fool you. The trail wastes no time going up — within the first half mile you're gaining serious elevation on a rooty, rocky footpath that switchbacks through oak and hickory. I like to take the loop counterclockwise so the steepest pitch comes early, while my legs are fresh, and the descent is the gentler side. The climb rewards you fast. Near the summit the canopy opens and you get filtered views out over the Scioto Valley, with ridge after ridge rolling south toward the Appalachian foothills. In winter and early spring, before the leaves come in, the views are wide open. In summer it's a green tunnel with windows — still beautiful, just more intimate. There's a satisfying moment at the top where the trail levels and you realize you've climbed a genuine little mountain in a state that supposedly doesn't have any. If you want more, Great Seal delivers. The park's trail network stitches together more than twenty miles of interconnected hiking and bridle paths, and you can chain several named routes into a real day. The **Shawnee Ridge Trail** runs the long spine of the park and connects to spurs that reach Bald Hill, Sand Hill, and Rocky Knob. The **Mount Ives Trail** and **Grouse Rock Trail** add more climbing if your legs are hungry for it. A popular ambitious outing loops Sugarloaf into Shawnee Ridge and back for a seven-to-nine-mile day with several thousand feet of cumulative up-and-down. A few things to know about the terrain. Because these are multi-use trails shared with horses, the tread can be churned and muddy in wet stretches — after heavy rain, the low sections between the hills turn to boot-sucking clay. The climbs are on natural surface the whole way: roots, loose rock, and packed dirt, with no boardwalks or steps to smooth things out. That's part of the appeal. It feels wilder and more remote than most parks within an hour of Columbus. Trail junctions are signed, but the network is genuinely complex, so keep that map handy and pay attention at intersections. It's easy to wander onto a bridle spur and add a couple of unplanned miles. What I love most is the rhythm of it. You climb hard, you top out, you get a view or a quiet ridge walk through the oaks, then you drop into a cool hollow and start again. It's the closest thing to true foothill hiking you'll find this side of the Hocking Hills, and it never feels crowded. On several visits I've had entire ridgelines to myself except for the woodpeckers. If you want a proper day of it, my favorite big outing links Sugarloaf to the Shawnee Ridge Trail, then loops back over Bald Hill and Rocky Knob for something in the seven-to-nine-mile range. You'll rack up several thousand feet of cumulative climbing on a route like that — genuinely more vertical than a lot of hikers bank on for Ohio. Break it into pieces if you're new to the park: the Sugarloaf loop alone is a great first taste, and you can always add a spur once you've felt how the terrain treats your legs. The reason this network hides so much mileage is that the trails constantly cross and reconnect, so short and long days start from the same lots. Great Seal's reputation among serious hikers and runners is no accident. The steep, relentless terrain has made it a favorite training ground for trail races and endurance events over the years — if you show up on the wrong morning, you might find the ridges busier than usual with folks in bib numbers grinding up Sugarloaf. It's a good reminder that these hills demand respect. Even a two-mile loop here works you harder than a five-mile metro-park stroll, so pace yourself, especially on a hot day. ## History & Nature The story behind the name is the best part. In the early 1800s, when Chillicothe was Ohio's first capital, the founders needed a state seal. As the tradition goes, a small group — including Thomas Worthington and William Creighton — watched the sun come up over this very range of hills from Worthington's Adena estate on the west side of town. The rising sun cresting the rounded peaks, with the fertile valley below, became the image engraved into the Great Seal of Ohio. The ridge in that emblem is Mount Logan, named for the Mingo leader Chief Logan. So every time you see the seal on a state document or a highway sign, you're looking at a stylized version of the skyline you hike here. The ridge in the seal, Mount Logan, carries its own story. It's named for Chief Logan, a Mingo leader whose famous lament — delivered after his family was killed by frontier settlers — became one of the most quoted pieces of Native American oratory in early American history. Knowing that, the climb takes on a little more weight. You're not just bagging a viewpoint; you're walking ground layered with the whole complicated founding of the state. These hills mark the ragged western edge of the Allegheny Plateau, where the flat glaciated farmland of central Ohio gives way to the unglaciated, deeply eroded country of the southeast. That geologic seam is exactly why the terrain suddenly gets steep. Long before statehood, this was Shawnee country, and the Scioto Valley below held some of the most important Native American settlements and earthworks in North America — the Hopewell mounds just downriver are a short drive away. The forest is classic mixed-oak Appalachian: white and red oak, shagbark hickory, sugar maple, and stands of Virginia pine on the drier ridges. In spring the slopes light up with trillium, wild geranium, and mayapple. I've flushed wild turkey out of the underbrush more than once, watched red-tailed hawks ride the thermals off the ridges, and found white-tailed deer bedded in the hollows at dawn. The park's name for Grouse Rock is a nod to ruffed grouse that once drummed on these hillsides. Come here on a still autumn morning and the whole place smells like fallen leaves and cool earth. ## Tips & Seasonal Notes Spring and fall are the sweet spots. Fall in particular is spectacular — the oak-hickory canopy turns deep gold and russet, and the open winter-window views start returning as leaves drop. Spring brings wildflowers and running water in the hollows. Summer is very doable if you start early; the tree cover keeps the climbs shaded, but the humidity down in the valleys is real, so carry more water than you think you need. Winter is my quiet-season secret here. With the leaves gone, the ridge views open up completely, and a light snow makes the whole park feel like backcountry. Just expect the mud to freeze into ankle-turning ruts. Whatever the season, wear boots with real tread and ankle support — this is not a trail-runner-friendly, groomed-gravel park. Trekking poles help a lot on the steep descents. And because the trail network is complex and remote, tell someone your plan and carry the essentials: water, a snack, a map, and a layer. One more practical thing: there's no reliable drinking water or concession out on the trails, so carry everything you'll need from the car. In summer that means more water than you'd bring to a flat metro-park loop, because the climbing and the valley humidity will cook it out of you faster than you expect. I've turned a two-hour hike into a three-hour slog here simply by underestimating how hard the hills work you. Start early, hydrate before you climb, and you'll enjoy every ridge instead of enduring it. ## Nearby Trails Great Seal pairs naturally with the Chillicothe area's other highlights. Just downriver, [Hopewell Culture National Historical Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/hopewell-culture-national-historical-park/) lets you walk among the ancient earthworks that make the Scioto Valley internationally significant. For more foothill climbing, the quiet ridges of [Zaleski State Forest](https://hiking-ohio.com/zaleski-state-forest/) and the pine plantations of nearby Tar Hollow are close cousins to what you'll find here. If you'd rather chase waterfalls and gorges, the [Hocking Hills trails](https://hiking-ohio.com/hocking-hills-state-park-every-trail-ranked/) are less than an hour east. And for a gentler follow-up day, [Clear Creek Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/clear-creek-metro-park/) offers ridge-and-valley hiking with a lot less mud. If you're building a Columbus-area hit list, my roundup of the [best hikes near Columbus](https://hiking-ohio.com/best-hikes-near-columbus-ohio-15-trails-worth-your-weekend/) has more ideas. 🥾 Gear I bring to Great Seal The steep, rocky, often-muddy tread here is exactly where good boots and poles earn their keep. I never hike this park in trail runners. A sturdy pair of [waterproof hiking boots](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=hiking+boots&tag=darkcitadel-20&ref=hiking-ohio.com) and a set of [trekking poles](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=trekking+poles&tag=darkcitadel-20&ref=hiking-ohio.com) turn the descents from sketchy to fun. Round it out with the rest of my [Ohio day-hike gear checklist](https://hiking-ohio.com/ohio-day-hike-gear-checklist/). *As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases.* A final planning tip: because the trail network is genuinely complex, it's worth loading the park onto a mapping app before you go so you can track your position when the junctions start stacking up. I've watched confident hikers add two unplanned miles here by drifting onto a bridle spur, and out on these ridges an extra two miles is a real workout, not a rounding error. Screenshot the kiosk map, note where you parked, and pick your loop before you start climbing. Great Seal is the park I send people to when they insist Ohio is flat. Come climb Sugarloaf once, stand on the ridge that gave our state its emblem, and you'll never say it again. Lace up, pack water, and go earn the view. ### Stop #1 Springfield, Illinois URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/stop-1-springfield-illinois/ Last updated: 2026-07-20T18:08:00.000Z I began planning the trip by figuring out which cities made sense along the route to the sites I wanted to visit, making sure drive times stayed within 4–5 hours. Once that was set, I booked lodging and then looked into interesting spots in each location. The only must-see places for me were Route 66, Mesa Verde National Park, and the Grand Canyon. For everything else, we just played it by ear. Of course, I made an Excel spreadsheet with all the details, I included confirmation numbers, receipt numbers, and particulars for each stop. Of course, some things changed along the way.... Here we go: ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1784404754252-IMG_858122.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1784404769229-IMG_8562.webp) Leaving Ohio with the Lewis and Clark bears ## **Springfield, Illinois** The first stop, Springfield Illinois, though not the start of Route 66 was supposed to be original Route 66 pavement. Actually Route 66 starts in Chicago, Illinois. The first alignment until 1936 started in Springfield, Illinois. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1784405660359-IMG_8597.webp) --- ### **Route 66 What is it?** U.S. Route 66 or U.S. Highway 66 (US 66 or Route 66) was one of the original highways in the United States Numbered Highway System. Established on November 11, 1926, with signage erected the following year, the highway ran from Chicago, Illinois, through Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona before terminating in Santa Monica, California, covering 2,448 miles (3,940 km). Route 66 was once a key path for people heading west, especially during the Dust Bowl of the 1930s, helping to boost the economies of towns along the way. Its importance faded in the mid-20th century as drivers switched to the Interstate Highway System. In 1985, it was officially decommissioned after being mostly replaced by interstates, but many stretches have been saved as Historic Route 66, now a National Scenic Byway and part of various state and local roads. Route 66 has been widely represented in American popular culture and is often referred to by nicknames such as the Mother Road, a term popularized by John Steinbeck's novel *The Grapes of Wrath* (1939), as well as the Main Street of America and the Will Rogers Highway. The road and impact of the Interstate Highway System bypassing small towns along the route was central to the story in Disney's 2006 animated film *Cars*. The centennial of its inception is this year 2026. --- ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1784405153028-Screenshot 2026-07-18 160243.webp) ## **Springfield Illinois Carpenter Park Original Route 66 Pavement** The Original Route 66 Pavement is tucked away beside the Sangamon River, this quarter-mile stretch has been untouched and overgrown for nearly 90 years. Once part of the first Route 66, it was only traveled for about a decade before the highway’s path shifted. We asked several people in Springfield, but no one seemed to have heard of it. In the end, we gave up and headed to Saint Joseph, Missouri. Later, we found out the Carpenter Park Original Route 66 Pavement was right next to the fairgrounds. Oh well, I was worried I might miss seeing Route 66 altogether. That was not the case more on that in future blogs. --- ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1784404633249-IMG_8602.webp) ## **Springfield Illinois and Abraham Lincoln** I was so wrapped up in Route 66 that I forgot that Abraham Lincoln was from Springfield. We took a bunch of pictures but didn't have time to explore the sites. Springfield, the hometown of President Abraham Lincoln, is full of attractions for history lovers. You can check out his former home, the Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site, the Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, and the Illinois State Capitol Building. Abraham Lincoln spent much of his early adult life in Springfield, Illinois, where he settled down with his family and worked hard to achieve success. His time in the house at Eighth and Jackson Streets shaped many of his social and political views. Built in 1839 for Reverend Charles Dresser, who officiated Lincoln and Mary Todd’s wedding in 1842, the home originally had one and a half stories and five rooms, including a cozy sleeping loft. In 1844, the Lincolns bought the house for $1,500 and moved in with their son Robert, later welcoming three more children—Edward “Eddie,” William “Willie,” and Thomas “Tad.” Sadly, Eddie died of “consumption” just before his fourth birthday. The family lived there until departing for the White House in 1861, never to return. Today, the restored home offers a look at how it appeared in 1860. There is a park in downtown Springfield that has informational signs: ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1784404201450-1V3A1021.webp) It was nice to be able to read information about Springfield, Illinois. Most of the information I did not know. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1784404419169-1V3A1022.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1784404453940-1V3A1025.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1784404453330-1V3A1027.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1784404435632-1V3A1029.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1784404433328-1V3A1032.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1784404437830-1V3A1034.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1784404451535-1V3A1036.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1784404439237-1V3A1038.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1784404455534-1V3A1042.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1784404500432-1V3A104338.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1784404851058-1V3Abb1015.webp) --- ## **Hiking** We didn’t go on any hikes in Springfield, but we did a lot of walking around the downtown area searching for Route 66 attractions. There are plenty of well-kept parks, sidewalks, and shady spots for strolls. If we’d had more time, it would have been fun to check out some hiking trails. --- ## **Conclusion** Springfield Illinois was a nice start to the trip. I wish we had found the Route 66 Original Pavement, but it wasn't meant to be. A bonus was that we got a bunch of information about Abraham Lincoln. On to Saint Joseph, Missouri. ### Stop #2 Saint Joseph, Missouri URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/stop-2-saint-joseph-missouri/ Last updated: 2026-07-20T18:07:02.000Z We couldn’t find the Route 66 pavement in Springfield, Illinois, so we headed to visit our friends Clint and Nancy in Saint Joseph, Missouri. After spending two days with them, we set off for our first camping trip in Abilene, Kansas, which was just a couple of hours’ drive away. ## History St. Joseph was the eastern starting point of the Pony Express, making it one of the most famous frontier towns in the American West. It was a major "jumping off" point for pioneers heading west on the Oregon Trail and other emigrant trails. The outlaw Jesse James was killed in St. Joseph in 1882, and his former home is a popular historic attraction. The city also has ties to the Lewis and Clark Expedition along the nearby Missouri River. --- ## **Some of the Historical attractions** ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1784402955166-IMG_375533.webp) ### Pony Express National Museum Housed in the restored Pony Express stables, this museum tells the tale of the legendary mail service that ran for just 18 months (April 1860–October 1861) yet became an enduring symbol of the American West. A recreated stable and dispatch office set the scene where riders prepared to depart, joined by life-size dioramas of riders, station keepers, and frontier life. Authentic saddles, mail pouches (mochilas), firearms, uniforms, and gear bring the era vividly to life, while interactive exhibits show how mail sped nearly 2,000 miles in about 10 days. Displays also recount the rise of the telegraph, which ultimately brought the Pony Express to an end. Here is a link to that blog: --- ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1784401793465-Jesse-james-home1.webp) ### Jesse James Home Museum This humble house was once home to the infamous outlaw Jesse James, who lived here under the name “Thomas Howard” until he was shot and killed by Bob Ford on April 3, 1882\. Today, the museum preserves the home much as it was, complete with original furnishings and family belongings. Visitors can check out exhibits on Jesse James, his gang, and the events leading to his death, and even see the preserved bullet hole in the wall. The museum also offers insights to help distinguish fact from the many myths surrounding James. --- ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1784401816630-Robidoux.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1784401816543-robidoux2.webp) ### Robidoux Row Museum One of the oldest brick buildings in St. Joseph, this structure was built in the 1840s by the town’s founder, Joseph Robidoux. It once served as a place for settlers arriving by steamboat to stay before putting down roots. Today, the museum showcases the city’s early history, with restored living quarters once used by Robidoux, pioneer-era rooms furnished as they would have been in the mid-1800s, and exhibits on fur trading, westward migration, and the founding of St. Joseph. It also houses collections about local families and the city’s growth leading up to the Civil War. --- ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/07/1784401834488-Screenshot 2026-07-18 142953.webp) ### Glore Psychiatric Museum Glore Psychiatric Museum, known for its unique history of mental health treatment. The museum is located on the grounds of the former State Lunatic Asylum No. 2 (later known as the Saint Joseph State Hospital) in Saint Joseph, Missouri. The hospital opened in 1874 with 25 patients and expanded to nearly 3,000 patients by the 1950s. In the 1990s, psychiatric services moved to a newer facility, while the original hospital site was repurposed. Today, the museum houses artifacts, medical tools, patient art, photographs, and displays that trace the history of psychiatric care. Its goal is to show visitors how mental health treatment has evolved, highlighting the progress from early methods to today’s modern, evidence-based approaches. --- ## Hiking and outdoor activities River Bluff Trails Park offers more than 15 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails with overlooks of the Missouri River, wooded terrain, and historic WPA-era structures. St. Joseph Parkway is a 26-mile historic parkway connecting parks and trails, ideal for walking and cycling. Krug Park features landscaped gardens, walking paths, picnic areas, and seasonal holiday lights. Wyeth Hill is a favorite overlook for views of the city and Missouri River. Remington Nature Center combines riverfront walking with exhibits on local wildlife and history. --- ## Conclusion Saint Joseph, Missouri is a fascinating place to visit. We are fortunate to have friends that live there. We have visited several times and have always enjoyed what the city has to offer. I encourage you to visit if you get a chance. ### Lake Hope State Park: Iron Furnace Ruins and Deep Forest URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/lake-hope-state-park-iron-furnace-ruins-and-deep-forest/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:58.000Z Deep in Vinton County, in the least-populated corner of Ohio, there is a lake ringed by forest so thick and quiet it feels like the edge of the map. No towns crowd it. No highway runs along it. The loudest thing most afternoons is a woodpecker working a dead snag. And standing above the water, on a slope of trees, is the tall stone stack of an old iron furnace that has not made iron in 150 years — a ruin from a vanished industry, slowly being reclaimed by the woods that industry once destroyed. Lake Hope is one of the most remote and atmospheric state parks in Ohio, and it is worth every mile of the drive to get there. Lake Hope State Park covers **2,983 acres** tucked entirely inside Zaleski State Forest, about five miles northeast of the village of Zaleski (ODNR as of September 2026). It is a place with layers: a **120-acre** lake, a ghost town, an old cemetery, a famous iron furnace, and a trail network that ranges from gentle lakeside strolls to serious backcountry mileage. If you want to feel like you have actually gotten away — genuinely away, out where the dark skies come out at night — this is one of the best places in the state to do it. **Visitor info (as of September 2026):** **27331 State Route 278, McArthur, OH 45651**. Park office **(740) 596-4938** (often listed 9 a.m.–5 p.m.; extended peak weekends). Park hours **6 a.m.–11 p.m.** daily (legitimate recreation may continue outside those hours — call to confirm). Admission free. Nature center **(740) 596-3030** (hours vary). Confirm on the [ODNR Lake Hope page](https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/lake-hope-state-park?ref=hiking-ohio.com) (property HTML intermittently 404’d from this runner). **Trail at a Glance — Lake Hope State Park** - **Distance:** A range of options, from short lakeside loops (ODNR lists segments \~0.25–3.2 mi) to the \~**29-mile** Zaleski backpack loop nearby - **Difficulty:** Easy to hard — mellow lake trails, steep forested ridges deeper in - **Best season:** Fall for legendary color; spring for wildflowers and flow - **Dogs:** Leashed dogs welcome on trails - **Highlights:** Hope Furnace ruins, Lake Hope, deep forest, a ghost town, dark skies - **Location:** Near Zaleski, Vinton County, Ohio, inside Zaleski State Forest ## Getting there and where to start Lake Hope is remote by Ohio standards, and that is a feature, not a bug. It sits in the hills of Vinton County, roughly an hour and a half southeast of Columbus and about the same from the Hocking Hills. The drive in takes you down winding forest roads through Zaleski, and cell service gets thin, so download your map before you lose signal. Admission, like all Ohio state parks, is free. The natural hub is the area around the **lodge and the Hope Furnace**. The park's dining lodge — rebuilt after a fire years back — sits above the lake, and the furnace ruins are right nearby off State Route 278\. Park in that zone and you are within easy reach of the lake trails, the furnace, and the old cemetery. Grab a map from the park office or the lodge, because the trails here braid together with the much bigger Zaleski forest network, and it is easy to wander farther than you meant to. ## The trails Lake Hope gives you a real range, which is part of what makes it such a good all-day park. ODNR trail listings (as of September 2026) include **Buzzard Cave** and **Greenbriar** (\~0.5 mi moderate each), **Peninsula** (\~3 mi moderate), **Furnace** (\~3.2 mi moderate, multi-use), **White Oak** (\~0.25 mi), **Habron Hollow** and **Olds Hollow** (\~1.5 mi each), and **Tulip** (\~1 mi). Down by the water, short and gentle loops trace the lakeshore and the wooded coves — easy walking, good for families, with herons and turtles and the occasional splash of a jumping fish. These are the trails to start on if you just want to stretch your legs and take in the water. Push deeper and the terrain gets serious. The forested ridges around the lake climb and drop steeply, and the trails that wind up into Zaleski State Forest turn into genuine hill work. The marquee backcountry route in the area is the **Selinde Roosenburg Memorial Backpack Trail** in Zaleski, a rugged loop of about **28.8–29 miles** (ODNR; older posts often said \~23) — one of Ohio's best-known overnight backpacking trips, with walk-in camps and mining-era remnants along the way. It starts near the village of Zaleski, and it is a real undertaking; I have written about the Zaleski forest separately, and it deserves its own trip. There is also a well-regarded **mountain bike trail** here — a long singletrack loop that has been rated among the best in Ohio. Even if you are on foot, it is worth knowing the bikes are out there so you can share the trail politely. Between the easy lake loops, the steep forest ridges, the backpack route, and the bike singletrack, Lake Hope rewards whatever kind of day you show up wanting. ## Hope Furnace and the iron that built Ohio The stone tower above the lake is the reason this whole landscape looks the way it does. **Hope Furnace** was built in the 1850s and ran for about two decades, one of dozens of iron furnaces that once roared across southeastern Ohio in what was called the Hanging Rock Iron Region. This was heavy industry, deep in the hills, long before anyone thought of the area as a place to hike. The furnaces ran on charcoal, and charcoal comes from wood — enormous quantities of it. To feed a single furnace, crews clearcut the surrounding forest, hauling in timber to be burned down into fuel. Multiply that by dozens of furnaces running for years, and you get the result: the hills of Vinton County were stripped nearly bare. The iron industry ate the forest around it, and when the ore and the easy timber ran out, the furnaces went cold and the companies left, and the land was abandoned raw and eroded. That devastation is exactly why the park exists. By the 1920s, people were alarmed enough about the deforestation that the state stepped in — the Ohio forestry program bought up the ruined land starting in 1928, and it became Zaleski State Forest. The trees came back. The furnace stayed, a stone ghost of the industry that had leveled the very woods now growing up around it. Standing at the base of that cold stack, looking up at second-growth forest that has completely reclaimed the hillside, is one of the more quietly powerful history lessons you can get on an Ohio trail. ## A ghost town, a cemetery, and the woods taking it all back The iron industry did not just leave a furnace. It left people, and the traces of the lives they lived out here. There was a company town called **Hope**, built to house the furnace workers and their families, and today it is a ghost town — foundations and hints in the forest rather than standing buildings. Along the trails you can still find an **old cemetery**, the graves of the furnace-era families who lived and died in these hills when this was an industrial frontier, not a park. Walk the ground near the furnace and you are walking through the outline of a vanished community. I find this the most haunting part of Lake Hope, more than the lake or the color. A whole town lived here, worked brutal jobs feeding a furnace, buried their dead on a hillside, and then vanished when the industry moved on. The forest simply grew back over the top of all of it. The trees you are hiking through are younger than the graves. That is a strange and moving thing to hold in your head as you walk, and it is the kind of layered history that Ohio's southeastern hills do better than anywhere else in the state. ## Deep forest, dark skies, and legendary fall color Set the history aside and Lake Hope is still one of the prettiest parks in Ohio, especially in autumn. The mixed hardwood forest that reclaimed these hills puts on a spectacular fall show — deep reds and golds rolling across ridge after ridge, mirrored in the still lake. People drive down from Columbus every October just for the color, and the remoteness means it never feels as mobbed as the Hocking Hills a little to the north. Because it is so far from any city, Lake Hope also has genuinely dark night skies. Camp here or stay at the lodge and, on a clear night, you get a sky full of stars that most Ohioans never see from home. The lack of light pollution out in Vinton County is a real rarity for this state, and it turns an ordinary campsite into a front-row seat for the Milky Way. The forest is full of wildlife too — white-tailed deer everywhere, wild turkey, plenty of songbirds and woodpeckers, and the general sense of a big, wild, lightly-traveled woods that you simply do not get in the metro parks up north. Move quietly on an early-morning trail and you will see more of it than you expect. ## How I would spend a day here If you have never been and you want a plan, here is the one I would hand you — and because it is a long drive, I would build it into a full day rather than a quick lap. Get an early start out of Columbus or the Hocking Hills so you are pulling onto the forest roads by mid-morning. Make your first stop the **Hope Furnace**. Walk around the base of the stack, read the markers, and take a few minutes to let the scale of it land — a 150-year-old industrial ruin standing quiet in second-growth woods. From there, do one of the gentler **lakeside loops** while the day is still cool, keeping an eye out for herons in the shallows and turtles logging on the deadfall. If you brought hearty legs and daylight, climb one of the forest trails up onto a ridge for the longer views over the trees; even a couple of miles up and back gives you the deep-woods feel that the lake trails alone do not. Somewhere in there, walk over to the **old cemetery** and spend a quiet few minutes with the furnace-era graves. It is the kind of stop that changes the whole tone of the hike. Break for lunch at the **lodge** above the lake if it is open, then finish the afternoon however you like — a paddle on the calm water, a longer trail, or just a slow walk back along the shore. If you can swing it, do not drive home at dark. Stay for the night and let those famously dark Vinton County skies do the last part of the show. ## Tips and seasonal notes - **Come in the fall.** October color at Lake Hope is the stuff of legend, and the remote setting keeps the crowds thinner than the more famous parks. It is the single best time to visit. - **Download your map before you arrive.** Cell service is spotty out in Vinton County. Have your route and directions saved offline before you lose signal. - **Know how far you are going.** The lake trails are gentle, but they connect to steep forest ridges and the long Zaleski loop. Match your route to your legs and your daylight. - **Stay the night if you can.** With a campground, cabins, and the lodge on site — plus those dark skies — Lake Hope rewards an overnight far more than a rushed day trip. - **Respect the history.** The furnace, the cemetery, and the ghost-town traces are irreplaceable. Look, photograph, and leave everything exactly where it stands. ## Why it is worth the drive Lake Hope asks more of you than most Ohio parks — it is farther, more remote, harder to get to. What it gives back is worth it: a quiet lake ringed by deep forest, a 150-year-old iron furnace standing over the water, a ghost town and a cemetery swallowed by the woods, some of the darkest skies in the state, and fall color that rivals anywhere in Ohio. It is a park that tells you a whole story about how these hills were used, ruined, and healed, and you read that story with your boots. I have driven the long forest road into Lake Hope more than once wondering if it was worth it, and every single time the answer was yes the moment the lake came into view with that stone stack above it. That is the Lake Hope effect. Save your map offline, aim for October if you can, plan to stay the night, and go see the wild, haunted, beautiful far corner of Ohio. > 🥾 ## Nearby trails to explore - [Zaleski State Forest](https://hiking-ohio.com/zaleski-state-forest/): the \~29-mile Selinde Roosenburg backpack loop surrounding the park - [King's Hollow Tunnel](https://hiking-ohio.com/kings-hollow/): a ghost-town rail tunnel in Zaleski - [Hocking Hills State Park: Every Trail Ranked](https://hiking-ohio.com/hocking-hills-state-park-every-trail-ranked/): the famous gorges to the north - [Clear Creek Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/clear-creek-metro-park/): a long hemlock gorge near Lancaster - [Best Fall Hikes in Ohio](https://hiking-ohio.com/best-fall-hikes-in-ohio-10-trails-for-peak-foliage/): ten trails for peak foliage ### Gorge Metro Park: A Cuyahoga River Gorge Near Akron URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/gorge-metro-park-a-cuyahoga-river-gorge-near-akron/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:44.000Z Right in the middle of the built-up strip between Akron and Cuyahoga Falls, where you would swear there is no room left for anything wild, the Cuyahoga River drops into a rock canyon and everything changes. One minute you are in a parking lot off Front Street with traffic behind you. The next you are standing on a ledge of ancient sandstone, hemlocks leaning over black water, house-sized boulders stacked in the gorge below. It is one of the most improbable pieces of trail in Ohio — a genuine river gorge hiding in plain sight in the suburbs. Gorge Metro Park is one of the crown jewels of the Summit Metro Parks system, and it has been drawing people to this bend in the Cuyahoga for almost a century. The rock ledges hold thousands of years of history. There is a recess cave with a real kidnapping story attached to it, a stretch of river that used to be a Gilded Age amusement park, and, as of this writing, one of the biggest dam-removal projects in the state slowly changing the whole character of the place. It is a short drive off I-77 or Route 8, and it packs more drama per mile than almost any hike its size. **One important note before you go:** parts of Gorge Metro Park have been closed for construction tied to the removal of the Gorge Dam. Trail access changes as that work moves along, so check the Summit Metro Parks website for current closures before you drive out. What is open is still very much worth the trip — just confirm the day's conditions first. **Visitor info (as of September 2026, Summit Metro Parks):** About **144–155 acres** (1930 donation cited as 144 acres; some Summit pages round \~155). Main entrance **1160 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221**; Highbridge area **1270 Front St., Akron, OH 44310** (Highbridge Trail area closed during dam/sediment work). Park hours **6 a.m.–11 p.m.** Admin/alerts: **330-867-5511**. Confirm closures on the [official Gorge Metro Park page](https://www.summitmetroparks.org/parks-trails/gorge-metro-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) and [alerts](https://www.summitmetroparks.org/plan-your-visit/alerts/?ref=hiking-ohio.com). **Trail at a Glance — Gorge Metro Park** - **Distance:** Gorge Trail \~1.8 miles; Glens Trail \~1.8 miles round-trip (Summit Metro Parks) - **Difficulty:** Moderate — rocky footing, stairs, and root-tangled ledges reward careful feet - **Best season:** Fall for color in the gorge; spring for high water and flow - **Dogs:** Leashed dogs welcome - **Highlights:** Cuyahoga River gorge, Mary Campbell Cave, sandstone ledges, huge boulders - **Location:** Between Akron and Cuyahoga Falls, Summit County, Ohio ## Getting there and where to start Gorge Metro Park sits right on the Akron and Cuyahoga Falls line, with its main lot off Front Street. From Cleveland it is about forty minutes south; from Columbus, a little over two hours north up I-71 and I-77\. Admission is free, like all the Summit Metro Parks. Because the park is wedged into a developed area, the lots are not huge, and on a nice fall weekend they fill up. Come early. The two trails to know are the **Gorge Trail** and the **Glens Trail**. The Gorge Trail is the star and starts right from the main lot. The Glens Trail begins across Front Street and runs along the edge of the river with springs flowing right out of the rock walls. Between construction closures and the sheer drama of the terrain, this is a park where you want a map and a little patience. Read the signs, respect the barriers, and do not go scrambling off-trail onto the ledges no matter how good the photo looks. ## The trails The **Gorge Trail** is the most popular route in the park, and for good reason. It runs a loop of roughly 1.8 miles that packs an astonishing amount of scenery into a short distance. You start high, walk out along the rim with the river far below, then drop down through the rocks toward the water. The footing is genuinely rocky — stone steps, roots, uneven ledges — so this is a trail for real shoes, not sandals, and it earns its "moderate" rating on terrain rather than distance. Early in the loop you pass the old concrete dam, an enormous man-made wall that has defined this stretch of river for over a century. A little past it, the trail reaches **Mary Campbell Cave** (also called **Old Maid’s Kitchen** on Summit Metro Parks maps), a big recess cave scooped out of the sandstone. Then the route works down among the boulders — some of them the size of small houses, tumbled and stacked where the river and the ice left them — before climbing back up to close the loop. It is the kind of hike where you stop every few minutes because the next rock formation is somehow better than the last. The **Glens Trail** across Front Street is also listed at about **1.8 miles round-trip** and hugs the riverbank, giving you water-level views and little springs weeping straight out of the cliff faces — when it is open. Between the two, you get the gorge from both the top down and the bottom up. As of September 2026, Glens Trail and portions of the lower Gorge Trail / Highbridge area have been closed for dam-removal sediment work; check alerts before you go. ## Mary Campbell Cave and a two-hundred-year-old story The recess cave along the Gorge Trail is not just a pretty overhang. It carries one of the oldest recorded human stories in this part of Ohio. In 1759, during the fighting on the Pennsylvania frontier, a young girl named Mary Campbell was taken captive by Lenape — Delaware — people and brought west into the Ohio country. By tradition, she lived for a stretch of her captivity here at this cave along the Cuyahoga, one of the first people of European descent known to have lived in what is now Summit County. She was eventually returned to her family years later. The cave has carried her name ever since. I always find it a little dizzying to stand at a spot like that. The rock has not changed. The river still runs below it the same way. And the human history layered on top — captivity, frontier violence, a child living under this exact overhang more than 260 years ago — is right there under a sign, a few hundred feet from a suburban parking lot. It reframes what looks at first like just a cool cave. ## When this was an amusement park Here is the twist almost nobody expects. This quiet gorge was once one of the biggest entertainment destinations in northeast Ohio. In the late 1800s, this stretch of river was known as High Bridge Glens, and it drew crowds by the thousands. There was a park built into the gorge with walkways, a dance hall, overlooks, and daredevil attractions perched over the rapids. When the interurban rail lines came through, the operators leaned into the gorge as a natural draw, and for a while this was where Akron came to play. The **Gorge Dam** went in around 1912, built for hydroelectric power, and it flooded out the old rapids and slowly changed the river's character for good. You can still read the bones of that history in the landscape if you know to look — old stonework, the strange scale of a place that was engineered for crowds. The gorge went from wild rapids, to Gilded Age playground, to industrial dam site, to protected metro park, all on the same short bend of the Cuyahoga. Few Ohio trails carry that many chapters. ## The dam is coming out The newest chapter is being written right now. The **Gorge Dam** — the big concrete wall you pass early on the Gorge Trail — is being removed, in what is one of the largest dam-removal efforts on the Cuyahoga River. The old dam has held back not just water but a deep pool of contaminated sediment for over a century, and taking it out is a massive, careful, multi-year job involving cleaning up that sediment and letting the river run free through the gorge again. That is why parts of the park have been closed. It is disruptive in the short term, and it means your visit right now comes with fences and detours. But it is genuinely good news for the river. When the work is done, this stretch of the Cuyahoga — a river once so polluted it famously caught fire — will flow through its gorge unobstructed for the first time in more than a hundred years. The rapids the Victorians came to gawk at may well come back. I plan to be there when they reopen the full trail to see it. ## The rock is the real story Strip away the history and the drama, and what you are really walking through is a lesson in deep time written into stone. The gorge is carved out of **Sharon Conglomerate**, a hard, coarse sandstone studded with rounded quartz pebbles — geologists sometimes call it "puddingstone" because the pebbles look like fruit set in a pudding. Those pebbles were tumbled smooth in ancient rivers something like 300 million years ago, long before the Cuyahoga existed, then cemented into rock and slowly cut back open as the modern river ground its way down through the layers. That hard conglomerate is why the gorge is so steep and blocky instead of gently sloped. The rock resists erosion, so instead of wearing into a soft valley it fractures along straight lines and topples in enormous rectangular blocks — which is exactly why the bottom of the gorge is a jumble of house-sized boulders. Water seeps out along the seams between rock layers, feeding the little springs you see on the Glens Trail and keeping the shaded cliff faces damp and green. That cool, wet, shaded microclimate is a haven for **hemlocks**. These evergreens are relics of a colder era, and they cling to the north-facing gorge walls where the air stays chilly even in July. Walking the lower trail under the hemlocks, next to the seeping rock and the black water, you get a pocket of forest that feels far more northern than a suburb of Akron has any right to. Look for the ferns tucked into the ledges and the moss on the shaded stone — this is a whole small ecosystem living on the fact that the rock keeps the gorge cool. ## How I would spend an afternoon here Because the trails are short, Gorge is an easy park to pair with the rest of a day out in the Akron area, but I would still give it a couple of unhurried hours rather than blitzing the loop. Start early to beat the small-lot parking crunch, and check the closures the night before so you already know which trails are open. Walk the **Gorge Trail** loop first, slowly. Stop at the dam, then Mary Campbell Cave, then work your way down into the boulders and let yourself actually poke around the rock formations — this is a park that rewards standing still and looking up at the ledges more than it rewards racking up mileage. When you climb back out, cross Front Street and add the **Glens Trail** for the water-level view and the springs weeping out of the cliffs. Together the two trails still add up to a modest afternoon, which leaves plenty of day for the falls at nearby Cuyahoga Falls or a drive up into the Cuyahoga Valley. Few short hikes in Ohio give you this much to look at per step. ## Tips and seasonal notes - **Check for closures first.** This is the big one. Dam-removal construction has closed portions of the park, and access changes over time. Look at the Summit Metro Parks site before you drive out. - **Wear real shoes.** The Gorge Trail is rocky, rooty, and full of stone steps. Sturdy footing beats fashion here every time. - **Stay on the trail.** The ledges are dramatic and the drops are real. The barriers are there for a reason — the best view is not worth a fall into the gorge. - **Come in fall.** The gorge lights up with color in October, and the rock walls frame it beautifully. Spring brings higher water and stronger flow. - **Go early on weekends.** The lots are small and the park is popular. Morning gets you both a parking spot and the best light down in the rocks. ## Why it is worth the drive Gorge Metro Park is proof that you do not need to leave the city to find real wildness in Ohio. A true river gorge, sandstone ledges older than anyone can picture, a cave with a frontier story, the ghost of a Victorian amusement park, and a river in the middle of reclaiming itself — all in under two miles of trail, wedged between two Ohio suburbs. I have brought first-timers here who could not believe this canyon was sitting behind a strip of Front Street the whole time. That is the Gorge effect. Check the closures, lace up real shoes, come in the fall if you can, and go see the most dramatic short hike in northeast Ohio while the river is busy remaking itself. > 🥾 ## Nearby trails to explore - [Cuyahoga Valley National Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/cuyahoga-valley-national-park-complete-trail-guide/): Ohio's only national park, just north - [Nelson Kennedy Ledges State Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/nelson-kennedy-ledges-state-park/): dramatic sandstone ledges and rock scrambles - [Mohican State Park and Memorial Forest](https://hiking-ohio.com/mohican-memorial-state-forest-and-state-park/): a gorge loop with a covered bridge - [Best Hikes Near Cleveland, Ohio](https://hiking-ohio.com/best-hikes-near-cleveland-ohio-10-trails-and-day-trips/): trails and day trips - [Ohio Waterfall Hikes](https://hiking-ohio.com/ohio-waterfall-hikes-7-best-trails-to-chase-cascades/): seven best trails to chase cascades ### Oak Openings Preserve Metro Park: Ohio's Rare Oak Savanna URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/oak-openings-preserve-metro-park-ohios-rare-oak-savanna/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:18:09.000Z There is a stretch of Ohio, right on the edge of Toledo, where the ground turns to sand and the trees stop crowding each other. The oaks stand apart, spaced out like they are keeping their distance on purpose, and the sun pours straight down through the gaps onto open grass and low blue flowers. It does not look like Ohio. It looks like something that wandered in from the Great Plains and never left. The first time I walked into the heart of Oak Openings, I stopped and just looked around, because I could not place where I was. That feeling is the whole point. Oak Openings Preserve is the largest Metropark in the Toledo system — Metroparks Toledo lists it at about **5,000 acres** (as of September 2026; some secondary sources cite a smaller historic figure) — one of the rarest ecosystems on the continent. The Nature Conservancy once named this sandy region one of its 200 "Last Great Places on Earth." Roughly a third of Ohio's rare and endangered plant species grow here, and a lot of them grow nowhere else in the state. There are over fifty miles of trails threading through savanna, wetland, and pine, plus the best day-loop backpacking trip in Ohio. It sits about an hour west of the usual Toledo stops, near Swanton, and almost nobody from central Ohio ever makes the drive. They should. **Trail at a Glance — Oak Openings Preserve Metropark** - **Distance:** 50-plus miles of trails; the Scout Trail backpacking loop runs about 16 miles - **Difficulty:** Easy to moderate — flat sandy footing, longer routes test your endurance more than your legs - **Best season:** Late spring for wild lupine bloom; fall for color and cool sand - **Dogs:** Leashed dogs welcome on trails - **Highlights:** Oak savanna, sand dunes, prairie wildflowers, the Scout Trail, prickly-pear cactus - **Location:** Near Swanton, Lucas County, Ohio, west of Toledo ## Getting there and where to start **Visitor info (as of September 2026, Metroparks Toledo):** Buehner Center / main area **5402 Wilkins Road, Whitehouse, OH 43571**; park hours **7 a.m. until dark** daily; ranger **(419) 407-9718**; programs/info **(419) 407-9700**. Confirm on the [official Oak Openings Preserve page](https://metroparkstoledo.com/explore-your-parks/oak-openings-preserve-metropark/?ref=hiking-ohio.com). Oak Openings is about ten miles west of Toledo proper, off Route 2 and Wilkins Road near Swanton/Whitehouse. From Columbus it is a straight two-hour shot up I-75 and west, which makes it a real day trip rather than a quick stop. Admission is free. The park is open from 7 a.m. until dark every day, and the trails are almost never crowded once you get away from the picnic areas. Start at the **Buehner Center**, the park's nature center. It is a good place to grab a trail map, get your bearings, and figure out which of the fifty-plus miles you actually want to walk, because the network here can be confusing if you just wing it. The trails run in color-blazed loops, and they overlap and cross often. Pick a color, note where you parked, and pay attention at the junctions. I have doubled back more than once out here because two loops share a stretch and then split without much warning. ## The trails The signature route, the one that put this park on the map for hikers, is the **Scout Trail**. It runs a roughly sixteen-mile loop marked with yellow blazes, and it is widely considered the premier day-loop backpacking trail in Ohio. You can hike it as one long day or split it across an overnight at the trail's backpack camp. It is not hard in the mountain sense — the terrain is flat and the sand is soft — but sixteen miles of loose footing works your legs in a way a packed dirt trail does not. Give yourself the whole day, carry more water than you think you need, and treat the sand like a slow, steady tax on your energy. If sixteen miles is more than you came for, the shorter color loops give you the same landscape in bite-size pieces. The **Sand Dunes** area and the trails around the old lodge run you straight through the open savanna and over the low, grass-covered dunes that give the park its strange character. The **Springbrook** and **Evergreen** loops wind through wetter ground and pine plantings, cooler and greener than the open sand. A short walk in any direction from the Buehner Center will get you into the good stuff. What makes walking here different from any other Ohio hike is the openness. In most of our parks the trail is a tunnel through thick woods. Here the canopy breaks apart, the sightlines run long across the grass, and you feel the sun and wind the whole time. Bring a hat. In summer there is real exposure out on the sand, and the same open sky that makes the place beautiful will cook you if you are careless. ## What "oak openings" even means The name is old and literal. When surveyors first crossed this ground two centuries ago, they found oaks growing in the open — spaced out with grass and wildflowers between them instead of the dense, shoulder-to-shoulder forest that covered the rest of Ohio. They called it "oak openings," and the name stuck. The reason for it is buried under your boots. Thousands of years ago, this was the beach of a giant glacial lake, an ancestor of Lake Erie called Lake Warren. When the water dropped, it left behind a broad belt of sand. Sand drains fast and holds little, so the ground here is dry and poor and often on fire historically, and only certain tough, specialized plants can handle it. That combination — sandy soil, periodic fire, open sun — produced the oak savanna: scattered fire-resistant oaks over a carpet of prairie grasses and flowers you would expect in Kansas, not northwest Ohio. It is one of the rarest ecosystems in the world, and this is one of the largest and best-protected pieces of it left anywhere. That is why a third of Ohio's rare plants cling to this one sandy corner. Modern land managers even bring the fire back on purpose, running controlled burns to keep the brush from swallowing the savanna, because without fire the openings slowly close and the whole system unravels. ## The plants and animals you will not see anywhere else This is a place to walk slowly and look down as much as up. In late spring the sand blooms with **wild lupine**, low spikes of blue-purple flower that carpet the openings and are worth timing a trip around. Lupine matters for more than looks — it is the only plant the caterpillars of the Karner blue butterfly can eat, and Oak Openings has been at the center of efforts to bring that tiny endangered butterfly back to Ohio. Then there is the cactus. Ohio has a native cactus, the eastern **prickly pear**, and it grows out here on the dry dunes, throwing up waxy yellow blooms in early summer. The first time somebody points one out to you, you will not believe it is wild in Ohio. **Sand cherry**, lupine, and a long list of prairie oddballs fill out a plant community you simply cannot find in the metro parks back home. The birds are a draw too. The mix of open savanna and rare habitat pulls in species that are hard to find elsewhere in the state — lark sparrows, a range of warblers on migration, and specialists that need this exact open, sandy ground. Birders drive here from all over the region during migration. Even if you cannot tell a warbler from a wren, the open country makes for easy watching. You can actually see the birds instead of hearing them somewhere up in a wall of leaves. ## A landscape worth protecting The whole region is usually called the Oak Openings, capital letters, and it stretches beyond the preserve itself into a patchwork of parks, nature areas, and remnant savanna across the western Toledo suburbs. Conservation groups have spent decades stitching those pieces together, because a scattered ecosystem needs room to function. The preserve is the anchor — the biggest, wildest, most complete chunk of it — and it is managed hard: prescribed burns, invasive-species control, careful trail placement, all aimed at keeping this improbable slice of prairie alive on the edge of a city. I find that story as compelling as the scenery. Most of what makes a landscape rare is dumb geologic luck — an old lakebed, the right sand, the right fire history. Keeping it rare, though, takes deliberate work, year after year, by people who decided this odd sandy place was worth the trouble. You are walking through the result of that decision. ## How I would spend a day here Here is the plan I would hand a first-timer. Start at the Buehner Center in the morning, grab a map, and ask the staff what is blooming — the answer changes the whole trip depending on the season. If it is May or June, point yourself at the open savanna while the lupine is up and the light is still soft. Walk one of the shorter color loops through the dunes and openings first, unhurried, looking for cactus and lupine and whatever birds the season brings. Eat lunch somewhere out in the open with the long sightlines. If you have the legs and the daylight and you came prepared, take on a bigger chunk of the Scout Trail in the afternoon — even a five- or six-mile out-and-back piece of it gives you the full sweep of the place. If you would rather keep it mellow, spend the afternoon poking through the wetter Springbrook and Evergreen sections for shade and a different set of plants. That is a full, varied day, and you will have seen a landscape that does not exist anywhere else in Ohio. ## Make a Toledo trip of it One of the quiet advantages of Oak Openings is that it anchors a whole cluster of good northwest Ohio hiking. If you are driving up from central or southern Ohio, it is worth turning the day into a weekend and hitting a few of the other Toledo-area parks while you are up there. **Side Cut Metro Park** down on the Maumee River gives you towpath history and spring walleye-run crowds, and **Maumee Bay State Park** out on Lake Erie trades the sand dunes for boardwalks over marsh and open water. The two landscapes could not be more different, and Oak Openings sits right between them. That contrast is the fun of it. In a single weekend up here you can walk a prairie savanna on old glacial sand, a big-river towpath, and a Lake Erie shoreline marsh, all within a short drive of each other. Few corners of Ohio pack that much variety into one trip, and almost nobody thinks of Toledo as a hiking destination until they actually come and do it. ## Tips and seasonal notes - **Time it for lupine.** Late May into June is peak bloom for the wild lupine, and the open savanna in full color is the best version of this park. Fall is a close second for cooler sand and turning oaks. - **Carry more water than usual.** The open savanna means real sun exposure and no creek to dip into. A hat and sunscreen are not optional out on the dunes in summer. - **Respect the sand.** Loose sand is easy walking but slow, and it drains your energy on the long loops. Plan your mileage a notch shorter than you would on packed dirt. - **Watch the junctions.** With fifty-plus miles of overlapping color loops, it is easy to wander onto the wrong blaze. Note your car, pick your color, and check the map at crossings. - **Leave the plants alone.** Many of the wildflowers here are rare or protected. Photograph the lupine and the cactus, admire the prickly pear from a respectful distance, and take nothing but pictures. ## Why it is worth the drive Ohio has plenty of green tunnels and gorge waterfalls, and I love them. What Oak Openings has is something none of the rest can offer: openness. Blue lupine and native cactus on old glacial sand, oaks standing apart under a wide sky, birds you cannot find anywhere else in the state, and a sixteen-mile trail that feels more like the West than the Midwest. It is a two-hour drive from Columbus and a world away from every other hike in this blog. I have taken people out here who spent the first ten minutes insisting it did not look like Ohio, and by the end of the day they were the ones spotting the cactus and calling me over to look. That is the Oak Openings effect. Pack water, wear a hat, time it for the lupine if you can, and go see the part of Ohio that looks like somewhere else entirely. > 🥾 ## Nearby trails to explore - [Side Cut Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/side-cut-metro-park/): Maumee River towpath history near Toledo - [Maumee Bay State Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/maumee-bay-state-park/): Lake Erie beach and marsh boardwalks - [Toledo Botanical Gardens Metropark](https://hiking-ohio.com/toledo-botanical-gardens-metropark/): gardens and art in the city - [Best Hikes Near Cleveland, Ohio](https://hiking-ohio.com/best-hikes-near-cleveland-ohio-10-trails-and-day-trips/): trails and day trips up north - [Ohio Waterfall Hikes](https://hiking-ohio.com/ohio-waterfall-hikes-7-best-trails-to-chase-cascades/): seven best trails to chase cascades ### Gahanna Woods State Nature Preserve: A Quiet Swamp Forest Loop URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/gahanna-woods-state-nature-preserve/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:38.000Z I almost drove past it. Taylor Station Road runs flat and ordinary past a city water tower, and the parking lot for Gahanna Woods doesn't announce much. A picnic table. A couple of benches. A port-a-potty. Then you cross a little bridge into the trees and the ground changes under you, and you realize you've walked into one of the strangest, most stubborn pieces of wild central Ohio has left. This is two parks wearing one name. The west side is a friendly city walking park with meadows and mowed-edge trails where dogs are welcome. The east side is the Gahanna Woods State Nature Preserve, a 59-acre stand of swamp forest that protects the best remaining complex of vernal pools and buttonbush swamps in this part of the state. The split matters, so I'll come back to it. But the short version is this: come for an easy loop, stay for a kind of forest most Ohioans never see anymore. I hike a lot of metro parks within a half hour of Columbus. Gahanna Woods is the one I send people to when they want quiet on a Saturday and don't want to drive to Hocking Hills to get it. ## Trail Stats - **Distance:** roughly 2 miles if you walk both loops; under a mile for the preserve loop alone - **Difficulty:** easy - **Trail type:** stacked loops (Woodland Pond Trail with the Beechwood Trail spur) - **Surface:** packed dirt and wooden boardwalk - **Time:** about an hour, longer if you stop to look at things, and you will - **Where:** Franklin County, just east of Gahanna off Havens Corners Road ## Getting There From Columbus, the easiest line is east on Havens Corners Road. Roughly a mile and a half past Gahanna proper, turn south onto Taylor Station Road. The parking lot shows up on your left after about half a mile. Pull in and stop there. If you keep driving you'll dead-end at a locked gate by the city water tower in a quarter mile, and you'll have to turn around in a tight spot, so save yourself the three-point turn. For folks out my way in Pataskala and the eastern suburbs, this is one of the closest real nature preserves you've got. It's a short hop, and it feels a lot farther from the highway than it actually is. Parking is free. There's no visitor center, no staffed gate, no fee box. From the southeast end of the lot you'll find the path into the preserve. The city park trails head off to the west. You can do one or both. Facilities are deliberately bare-bones: a small lot, a picnic table, benches scattered along the way, and a port-a-potty by the lot. That's the whole list, and honestly it's part of the charm — nobody has paved this into an attraction. The grounds keep standard preserve hours, open from dawn to dusk, so it's a morning-or-evening place, not a midnight one. Pack out whatever you pack in. With rare plants and breeding amphibians underfoot, this is a stay-on-the-trail kind of spot, especially in the wet season when one careless boot can crush a season's worth of life in a pool edge. ## The Trail Cross the bridge and you're on the Woodland Pond Trail, a loop that does a slow circle through the swamp forest. I hiked it on a dry stretch in late summer, and the first thing I noticed was how level and quiet it all felt. Packed dirt underfoot. Big oaks overhead. The kind of woods where your own footsteps are the loudest thing going. Here's the catch, and it's the whole point of the place: I was seeing it at the wrong time of year. Gahanna Woods is a seasonal-water forest. The depressions I walked past as shallow leaf-filled dimples are vernal pools, and in spring they fill with snowmelt and rain and turn into a shifting mosaic of woodland ponds. The boardwalk sections that felt almost unnecessary in August are the only dry way through in April. If you want to understand why anyone bothered to save these 59 acres, come in spring and watch the forest floor turn to water. The Beechwood Trail leaves the main loop and rejoins it, climbing onto slightly higher, drier ground. This is the wildflower stretch. The footing stays simple dirt up here because the water doesn't pool the way it does down in the swamp. In spring this higher ground is supposed to be thick with blooms, and the plant list backs it up: several species of trillium, skunk cabbage pushing up early, wild hyacinth, swamp saxifrage, yellow water-crowfoot floating in the pools. The boardwalks are the best part of the engineering. Dirt paths and wooden walkways thread together so you can get out over the seasonal swamps without trampling them or sinking to your shins. Stand on one in the wet season and you're suspended over a working wetland, with frogs going and the whole understory soaked and green. One thing to know before you go: dogs and bikes are not allowed on the preserve side. The wetland habitat is too sensitive, and the rare plants and breeding amphibians don't need the disturbance. If you're hiking with a dog, the west-side city park trails are your route, and they're genuinely nice walking through meadow and woods edge. Keep the leashes on the west, the cameras on the east, and everybody's happy. ## History and Nature The reason Gahanna Woods exists as a preserve at all is that somebody, back in 1973, looked at one of the last big stands of woods in central Ohio and decided not to let it become a subdivision. That's the founding date for the state nature preserve, and given what's happened to the land around it since, it looks like one of the better calls anyone made. What they were protecting is specific. This is a pin oak and silver maple swamp forest, the sort of bottomland woods that used to ring central Ohio's wet flats and have mostly been drained and farmed and paved. Around the woodland pools you get that swamp-forest community; up on the higher, drier islands within the preserve, the forest shifts to mature oak-hickory and beech-maple. Two different forests, a few feet of elevation apart, sorted out entirely by how long the water sits. The headline rarity lives here too. One of the buttonbush swamps inside Gahanna Woods holds Ohio's only known population of cypress-knee sedge. Sedge looks grass-like at a glance, but the old botanist's rule is "sedges have edges" — run the stem between your fingers and it's triangular, not round. That this one obscure plant survives in exactly one Ohio swamp, and that swamp happens to be ten minutes from a shopping center, tells you most of what you need to know about why these vernal-pool forests are worth the trouble. Then there are the birds. This is a known birding hotspot, and the mix of swamp, pool, meadow, and mature canopy packs a lot of habitat into a small footprint. Spring migration is the showcase, when the wet woods pull in warblers and the buttonbush thickets hide more than you'd guess. I've had quiet winter evenings here that paid off too — the bare canopy makes it easier to spot what's roosting. The vernal pools deserve one more word, because they're the engine of the whole place. A vernal pool is a wetland that fills seasonally and dries out by late summer, which means no fish. No fish means salamanders and frogs can breed without their eggs getting eaten, so these pools become amphibian nurseries every spring. The drying isn't a flaw — it's the feature. A pool that never dries fills up with fish and stops being a nursery. So the same August dryness that made me feel like I was hiking an ordinary woods is exactly what keeps the place rare. The buttonbush swamps are the other signature, and they're easy to walk past without registering. Buttonbush is a water-loving shrub with round, spiky white flower heads that look almost manufactured, like little spheres of pins. It grows with its feet wet, lining the edges of the pools, and in summer those flower balls pull in butterflies and bees. It's not a showy plant from a distance, but it's a wetland specialist, and a healthy buttonbush thicket is a sign the water regime here is still doing what it's supposed to. When you read that this preserve protects "the best remaining complex of buttonbush swamps and vernal pools in central Ohio," the buttonbush is half of what that sentence is bragging about. ## A Spring Morning Worth Setting an Alarm For I'll be honest about what changed my mind on this place. My first visit was a dry-season walk, and I left thinking it was pleasant and a little underwhelming — a flat brown loop through some nice oaks. It was a return trip in spring that fixed that. Come early on an April morning, while it's still cool and the light is coming in low and sideways through the bare canopy. The pools are full and dead still, holding the sky. The frogs are the soundtrack — spring peepers first, a wall of high jingling that you feel in your teeth, then the lower clucking of wood frogs underneath. Skunk cabbage is poking up out of the muck, weird and purple-hooded, one of the very first plants to wake up every year. The trillium hasn't peaked yet but it's coming. And the boardwalks, which felt like overkill in August, are suddenly the only thing keeping your boots dry. That's the trail this preserve was built around. The dry-season loop is the rough draft. Spring is the finished thing. If you go once, time it for the water. ## Tips and Seasonal Notes **Spring is the season.** If you only come once, come in April or early May. That's when the pools are full, the wildflowers are up, the amphibians are calling, and the boardwalks earn their keep. It's the difference between a pleasant walk and seeing the thing the preserve was built to protect. **Summer and fall** are quieter and drier. The pools shrink or vanish, the bugs pick up in the wet stretches, and the woods go deep green and still. Good for a contemplative loop, less of a spectacle. Bring insect repellent in the warm months — it's a swamp forest, and the mosquitoes know it. **Winter** strips the canopy and opens up the bird viewing, and the frozen ground makes the wettest sections walkable without boardwalks. I like it then. Fewer people, longer sightlines. **Footwear:** in spring, waterproof boots, no question. The boardwalks cover the worst of it but not all of it, and the dirt sections get soft. Other seasons, any trail shoe is fine. **Pace yourself for looking, not mileage.** This isn't a place you come to log miles. The whole trail system is short. Come to stand still on a boardwalk and watch a pool, or to find the trillium, or to listen. Bring binoculars if you've got them. **Remember the split.** Dogs and bikes on the west city-park side only. Foot traffic on the preserve. It's posted, but go in knowing it so you pick the right entrance for your group. ## Nearby Trails If you're building a day around the east side of Columbus, Gahanna Woods pairs well with a few other spots I've covered: - [Pizzurro Park in Gahanna](https://hiking-ohio.com/pizzurro-park/) is minutes away and has a creekside trail plus a dog park — the natural companion if you brought the dog and want a second stop. - [Blacklick Woods Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/blacklick-woods-metro-park/) sits just south and east, with accessible boardwalk trails through its own old beech-maple woods. - [Three Creeks Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/three-creeks-park/) catches the confluence of Big Walnut, Blacklick, and Alum creeks for a longer, more open ramble. - For more wet-woods wildflowers, [Pickerington Ponds Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/pickerington-ponds-metro-park-and-state-nature-preserve/) is a birding heavyweight a short drive south. Gahanna Woods isn't a destination hike. It's a neighborhood secret that happens to protect something genuinely rare. Catch it in spring with the pools full, and you'll get why I keep coming back. > 🥾 ### What to Pack for an Ohio Day Hike: A Tested Gear Checklist URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/ohio-day-hike-gear-checklist/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:18:11.000Z You don't need a thousand dollars of gear to hike Ohio. That's the first and most important thing I tell people who are just getting into this. We're not summiting anything. There's no glacier travel, no alpine exposure, no week in the backcountry. For the kind of hiking most of us do — a few miles through a metro park, a gorge loop in Hocking Hills, a waterfall trail after work — you can get genuinely well-equipped for not much money, and a lot of what you need is already in your house. But there's a difference between underpacking and packing smart. I've helped enough new hikers who showed up in cotton hoodies with a single half-empty water bottle to know that a short, simple gear list saves people from a lot of avoidable misery. The goal isn't to look like you're about to summit Everest. It's to have the handful of things that turn a surprise — a downpour, a turned ankle, a longer trail than you planned — from a crisis into a shrug. So here's the actual checklist I use for an Ohio day hike, organized around the classic "Ten Essentials" framework that search-and-rescue folks have preached for decades, adapted for what Ohio trails actually throw at you. Skip the stuff you don't need; never skip the stuff that keeps you safe. ## Start With Your Feet Footwear is the one place I tell beginners to spend first, because nothing ruins a hike faster than wrecked feet. For most Ohio trails, you do not need heavy mountaineering boots. What you want is a **trail shoe or a light hiking boot** with real tread and a bit of support. Ohio dirt gets slick — our trails are clay and mud and wet rock as often as they're packed dirt — and a lugged outsole is the difference between confidence and a slide on a creek crossing. Low trail runners are perfect for dry, easy metro-park loops; a mid-height boot earns its keep on the rocky, rooty, stair-heavy gorge trails down in Hocking Hills and the Appalachian foothills, where ankle support actually matters. Whatever you choose, pair it with **synthetic or wool socks, never cotton.** Cotton socks hold sweat against your skin and that's how blisters start. A two-dollar pair of merino or synthetic hiking socks prevents more pain than almost any other purchase on this list. Break in new boots on short walks before you take them on a long one. ## Water and Food **Water is non-negotiable.** Dehydration is the most common thing that turns a good Ohio hike bad, especially in our humid summers. For a short hike, a couple of bottles is fine. For anything longer or hotter, I prefer a **hydration reservoir** — the bladder-and-hose setup that lives in your pack — because when water is one easy sip away, you actually drink it, instead of "saving it" in a bottle until you're already behind. Carry more than the distance suggests. You can always pour it out; you can't conjure it on the trail. For food, day hikes don't need much, but bring more than you think. Trail mix, a couple of bars, a sandwich, some fruit. The point isn't a feast — it's that low blood sugar on a hot trail makes people lightheaded and bad at decisions, and a handful of calories fixes it. On summer hikes, add **electrolytes** to your water; sweating for hours in Ohio humidity flushes out salt, and plain water alone doesn't replace it. ## The Safety Essentials People Skip Here's where new hikers cut corners, and where I push back. These items weigh almost nothing and matter enormously the one day something goes sideways. **Navigation.** Your phone is a fine map for most Ohio hikes — download the trail map or an offline map before you go, because cell service vanishes in the gorges and the deeper forests. But your phone is also a battery that dies, so carry a **small power bank**, and on bigger or unfamiliar trails, a paper park map as backup. Knowing where you are is a safety item, not a luxury. **First aid.** A small kit covers the realistic Ohio injuries: blisters (moleskin or blister bandages), scrapes, a turned ankle, a bee sting. Add **fine-tipped tweezers** specifically for ticks, which are a real and growing concern on Ohio trails. You will use the blister supplies and the tweezers far more than anything else. **Sun and bug protection.** Even under our canopy, UV slips through the gaps — bring **sunscreen** and a hat. And bring **insect repellent** (DEET or picaridin); Ohio mosquitoes and ticks are summer constants, and the repellent that handles one handles the other. For tick country, permethrin-treated socks and pants are the upgrade. **A light and a whistle.** A **headlamp or small flashlight** lives in my pack year-round, because Ohio days get short fast in fall and winter and a wrong turn that adds an hour can put you in the dark. A whistle weighs nothing and carries far if you ever need help. **A layer and rain protection.** Ohio weather turns. A **packable rain jacket** or even a cheap poncho keeps a surprise shower from becoming a cold, miserable march, and a light insulating layer matters in the shoulder seasons when the temperature drops the moment the sun does. The rule that keeps you comfortable: dress in synthetic or wool layers you can add and shed, and leave the cotton at home — once it's wet, from rain or sweat, it stays wet and pulls heat right out of you. ## The Pack Itself You need something to carry all this, and for day hiking it doesn't have to be fancy. A **15 to 25 liter daypack** is the sweet spot for Ohio — big enough for water, snacks, layers, and the safety kit, small enough that you forget you're wearing it. Look for comfortable shoulder straps, a hip belt to take weight off your shoulders on longer days, and a sleeve for a hydration reservoir if you go that route. A simple, well-fitting pack you'll actually bring beats a feature-loaded one that lives in the closet. ## Seasonal Add-Ons The core list covers three seasons. A few Ohio-specific additions for the edges of the year: **Summer:** extra water, electrolytes, a sun hat, and serious bug and tick defense. Permethrin on the clothes, repellent on the skin, and a tick check when you finish. Our humidity is the hazard people underestimate most — hike early and hydrate hard. **Fall:** a warm layer and a headlamp, because the daylight collapses earlier than your instincts expect. Fall is arguably Ohio's best hiking season, but a 5 p.m. start that felt fine in September has you finishing in the dark by late October. **Winter:** traction matters. A pair of **slip-on micro-spikes** transforms an icy Ohio trail from treacherous to fun, and they're cheap insurance against a fall on frozen mud or a snow-packed gorge stairway. Add insulated layers, a warm hat and gloves, and remember you still need to drink water even when you don't feel thirsty in the cold. **Spring:** waterproof footwear and a willingness to get muddy. Ohio springs are wet, the trails are soft, and the wildflowers and full waterfalls are the payoff. Gaiters are a nice luxury to keep the mud out of your boots. ## Dressing for Ohio: The Layer System Clothing causes more low-grade misery on Ohio trails than any other gear category, and almost all of it comes down to one mistake: cotton. A cotton t-shirt and jeans feel fine at the trailhead and turn into a wet, cold, chafing problem the moment you sweat or get rained on, because cotton soaks up moisture and refuses to let it go. The fix is cheap and simple — build your hiking clothes out of synthetic or merino wool, in layers you can add and shed. The basic system works in every Ohio season: **A base layer** against your skin — a synthetic or merino shirt that wicks sweat away and dries fast. This is the single most important clothing upgrade for comfort. A ten-dollar synthetic athletic shirt beats a cotton tee every time. **A mid layer** for warmth when you need it — a light fleece or synthetic pullover that lives in your pack on cool mornings and shoulder-season hikes, ready to throw on at a breezy overlook or when the sun drops. **An outer layer** for wind and rain — the packable rain jacket mentioned above. In Ohio, weather changes mid-hike often enough that I carry one nearly year-round. The beauty of layering is control. You start a cool fall morning in all three, peel down to the base layer as you warm up climbing a gorge stair, and add back as you cool down at lunch. You stay comfortable across a thirty-degree swing without ever being soaked in your own sweat. Pants follow the same logic: lightweight synthetic hiking pants or shorts, never denim, which is just cotton in a stiffer costume. ## What You Can Leave Home Just as useful as the pack list is the don't-bother list, because beginners often over-buy. For standard Ohio day hiking you do **not** need trekking poles unless your knees want them on the steep gorge stairs, you don't need a water filter (we're not refilling from streams on a day hike — carry what you need), you don't need a giant overnight pack, and you don't need expensive technical mountaineering anything. Ohio hiking is welcoming and low-barrier on purpose. Spend on shoes, socks, water, and the small safety kit. Skip the rest until a specific trail makes you want it. ## A Word on Fit, Before You Buy One last piece of advice that will save you money and blisters: gear is personal, and fit beats brand every time. The most expensive boot in the store is worthless if it doesn't match your foot, and the perfect pack for your hiking buddy might ride wrong on your frame. A few fitting principles I'd pass to any beginner: **Try boots on late in the day,** when your feet have swollen to their largest, and wear the socks you'll actually hike in. Your feet swell on the trail too, so a boot that's snug in the store will be tight by mile three. Aim for a thumb's width of room in front of your toes — that gap is what saves your toenails on a steep downhill. **Load a pack before you judge it.** An empty pack feels great on every body. Put ten pounds in it in the store, cinch the hip belt, and walk around. The weight should sit on your hips, not hang from your shoulders. **Don't chase ultralight for Ohio day hikes.** The featherweight gear that backpackers obsess over solves a problem you don't have on a four-mile loop. Durable and comfortable beats minimal-and-fragile when you're not carrying it for a week. Buy the thing you'll actually keep using. ## The Honest Bottom Line The best gear is the gear that gets you out the door. I'd rather you hike Ohio in old sneakers with a borrowed water bottle than not hike at all. But once you're hooked — and Ohio's trails are good enough that you will be — a short, smart kit makes every hike safer and more comfortable: grippy shoes, wool socks, enough water, a few layers, and a little safety pouch with first aid, a light, and tick tweezers. That's it. That's the list. Now go find a trail. And here's the thing about building a kit: you don't have to do it all at once. Start with the shoes and the socks, because your feet carry everything else. Add a real daypack when the old backpack starts to chafe. Pick up the safety pouch the first time you wish you'd had a blister bandage. The gear accumulates naturally as you hike more, each piece earning its spot by solving a problem you actually ran into. That's the honest way most of us built our kits — not in one expensive shopping trip, but one trail and one lesson at a time. The only items I'd urge you not to wait on are water and decent footwear. Everything else, you can grow into. ## Where to Use Your New Kit - New to it all? Start with the [best hikes near Columbus](https://hiking-ohio.com/best-hikes-near-columbus-ohio-15-trails-worth-your-weekend/) for approachable, well-marked loops. - Ready for the rocky stuff that justifies the boots? The [Hocking Hills every-trail roundup](https://hiking-ohio.com/hocking-hills-state-park-every-trail-ranked/) is the place to test your gear. - Hiking through the warm months? Pair this list with my [summer hiking in Ohio](https://hiking-ohio.com/summer-hiking-ohio-heat-humidity/) guide for the heat-and-tick details. > 🥾 ### Summer Hiking in Ohio: Heat, Humidity, Ticks, and Staying Safe URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/summer-hiking-ohio-heat-humidity/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:18:32.000Z Ohio summer doesn't announce itself with drama. There's no altitude to worry about, no exposure, no afternoon monsoon rolling off a mountain. What we have instead is a thick, soupy, deceptively draining kind of heat — eighty-five degrees with humidity to match, the air sitting heavy under a green canopy, the trail closer and stickier than the temperature alone would suggest. I've watched people who'd happily hike all day in October get genuinely worn down by a flat three-mile loop in July, simply because they didn't respect what Ohio humidity does to a body. The good news is that summer is a wonderful time to be out on Ohio trails. The forests are at full, dripping green. The creeks and waterfalls are running. Evenings stretch long and golden, and the canopy that makes the air feel close also throws deep, cool shade over the best trails. You just have to hike summer a little differently than you hike spring or fall, and you have to know what's out there with you — the bugs, the plants, and the small handful of things that can actually hurt you. None of it is exotic, and none of it should keep you home. It just rewards a little preparation. Here's how I handle an Ohio summer on the trail, after a lot of sweaty miles figuring it out the hard way. ## The Real Enemy Is Heat and Humidity Let's start with the thing that actually sends Ohio hikers home early or worse: the heat. We don't get the dry, brutal heat of the desert Southwest. We get wet heat, and wet heat is sneaky because your sweat doesn't evaporate efficiently in humid air, which is exactly how your body is supposed to cool itself. So you keep sweating, you keep losing water and salt, and your core temperature creeps up anyway. That's the road to heat exhaustion, and on a bad day, heat stroke. The fixes are simple and I follow them religiously from June through August: **Hike early.** This is the single best thing you can do. A 7 or 8 a.m. start gets you the cool of the morning, the best wildlife activity, and a finish before the worst of the afternoon heat. The same trail at 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. is two completely different experiences in July. **Drink more than you think you need, and add electrolytes.** Plain water is necessary but not sufficient when you're sweating hard for hours — you're losing salt too. I carry more water than the distance seems to call for and drop in an electrolyte tab or mix on the hot days. If you're cramping or getting a dull headache, you're already behind. **Pick shaded, watered trails.** Summer is the season for ravine and gorge hikes, creekside trails, and deep-woods loops. Save the open prairie and the exposed ridgeline for spring and fall. A shaded trail along moving water can feel ten degrees cooler than a sun-baked field a quarter mile away. **Know the warning signs.** Heavy sweating that suddenly stops, dizziness, nausea, a pounding headache, confusion, or skin that's gone hot and dry — those are stop-now, get-to-shade, cool-down-and-rehydrate signals. Don't push through them. Heat illness escalates fast. ## Ticks: The Thing to Take Seriously If I could get every Ohio hiker to change one habit, it'd be tick checks. Ticks have expanded their range across Ohio significantly over the last couple of decades, and they're no longer a "down south" or "deep woods" problem — they're in the metro parks, the grassy edges, the brushy trailsides right outside Columbus. Ohio hosts three ticks worth knowing: - **The blacklegged tick** (the deer tick) is the one that can carry Lyme disease. It's small — the nymphs are poppy-seed tiny — and it's the reason careful tick checks matter. - **The American dog tick** is larger and can transmit Rocky Mountain spotted fever. - **The lone star tick**, identifiable by the single white dot on the female's back, has moved north into Ohio and can cause ehrlichiosis and the strange red-meat allergy known as alpha-gal syndrome. You don't need to be afraid of the woods. You need a system: **Treat your gear with permethrin.** This is the heavy hitter. Permethrin sprayed on boots, socks, and pants (not skin — it's a clothing treatment) actually kills ticks on contact and lasts through several washes. It's the closest thing to tick armor there is. **Use repellent on skin**, DEET or picaridin, especially around the ankles and lower legs where ticks climb aboard. **Dress defensively** on brushy trails — long pants, socks pulled up, light colors so you can spot a crawler before it digs in. **Check, every time.** When you get back to the car or home, do a real check: behind the knees, the waistband, the hairline, the armpits, behind the ears. A tick usually has to be attached for many hours to transmit disease, so finding and removing it promptly with fine-tipped tweezers — straight out, steady pressure — is genuinely protective. Don't burn it or smother it; just pull it cleanly. ## Poison Ivy: Learn the Leaf "Leaves of three, let it be" is a cliché because it works. Poison ivy is everywhere in Ohio — trailside, climbing trees as a hairy vine, sprawling as ground cover — and the urushiol oil in every part of the plant gives most people a miserable, itchy, blistering rash. Learn to recognize it: three leaflets, the middle one on a longer stalk, the leaf edges sometimes smooth and sometimes toothed (it's variable, which is what makes it tricky), often glossy, reddish in spring and turning brilliant in fall. When in doubt, stay on the trail and don't grab trailside vegetation to steady yourself. If you do brush it, washing the oil off with soap and cool water within a couple of hours can head off or reduce the reaction — the oil is the problem, and it doesn't soak in instantly. And if you hike with a dog, remember the dog can carry the oil home on its fur and give you the rash secondhand. ## Mosquitoes, Storms, and Ohio's Few Venomous Snakes **Mosquitoes** love the same wet summer woods you came to hike. The same DEET or picaridin repellent that fends off ticks handles them. Dawn and dusk near standing water are the worst, so plan accordingly. **Thunderstorms** are the summer weather hazard. Ohio afternoons can build pop-up storms in a hurry, and the lightning is the real danger — not the rain. Check the forecast, watch the sky, and if you hear thunder, it's time to get off exposed high ground and out from under isolated trees. The morning-start habit dodges most of this too, since storms tend to fire in the afternoon heat. **Snakes** worry people more than they should. Ohio has only three venomous species, and all three are uncommon to rare: the Eastern copperhead, the timber rattlesnake, and the Eastern massasauga. You're most likely to maybe encounter a copperhead, and only in the rocky, wooded, unglaciated hill country of southern and eastern Ohio. Across most of the state, and on the vast majority of hikes, every snake you see will be harmless. The rule is the same everywhere: don't reach into rock crevices or step over logs you can't see the far side of, watch where you put your hands and feet, and give any snake a wide berth and the right of way. Snakes want nothing to do with you. Nearly every bite happens because someone tried to handle or kill one. Just walk around it. ## Don't Forget the Dog Ohio is full of dog-friendly trails, and summer is exactly when our dogs are at the most risk and we notice it the least. Dogs cool themselves by panting, not sweating, and that system gets overwhelmed fast in heat and humidity — sometimes before the dog shows obvious distress. A few rules I never break in summer: **Hike dogs early, in the cool of the morning,** same as you'd hike yourself. The afternoon heat that wears you down can be dangerous for a panting dog. **Check the ground temperature.** Paved trailheads, boardwalks, and sun-baked rock can get hot enough to burn paw pads. The back-of-your-hand test works: if you can't hold the back of your hand on the surface for several seconds, it's too hot for paws. Stick to shaded dirt on hot days. **Carry water for the dog too,** and a way to offer it — a collapsible bowl or just a cupped hand. Don't count on the dog drinking from the creek; in summer, slow or stagnant Ohio water can carry harmful algae blooms that are genuinely toxic to dogs. If the water looks scummy, pea-green, or has a paint-like sheen, keep the dog out of it entirely. **Watch for overheating:** frantic panting, bright-red gums, stumbling, or a dog that lies down and won't get up. That's an emergency — get into shade, wet the dog down with cool (not ice-cold) water, and head for help. ## A Note on Summer Trail Conditions A couple of Ohio-specific seasonal realities round out the picture. Summer growth means **trailside vegetation crowds in** — that's part of why ticks and poison ivy are more of a problem now than in winter, and a good reason to stay centered on the trail tread rather than brushing the green walls on either side. After heavy summer rain, **creek crossings rise and rocks get slick.** Ohio doesn't have dangerous flash-flood canyons the way the desert does, but a normally ankle-deep crossing can run higher and faster than you expect after a storm upstream, and wet stepping stones send people down hard. If a crossing looks pushy, it's fine to turn around — the trail will be there next week. And the flip side: **summer is peak waterfall and creek season** only right after rain. In a long dry July, our smaller falls slow to a trickle. If chasing water is the plan, time it for the days following a good soaking, and you'll catch the gorges at their best. ## What I Actually Carry in Summer A summer day pack for an Ohio trail isn't complicated, but a few items earn their weight: - **More water than feels necessary**, plus electrolyte tabs or mix - **Repellent** (DEET or picaridin) and **permethrin-treated** socks and pants - A **lightweight, breathable sun layer** and a hat — even in shade, the gaps let UV through - **Fine-tipped tweezers** for tick removal, in a small first-aid kit - A way to check the **weather radar** before and during, since storms build fast - **Quick-dry everything** — cotton stays soaked and miserable in Ohio humidity; synthetic or merino dries and breathes - A **small dry bag or zip-top** for your phone and a spare pair of dry socks, because both an afternoon storm and a sweat-through are likely in July ## Hike Summer, Just Hike It Smart None of this is meant to scare you off the trail. Ohio summers are green and alive and worth every sweaty mile — the deep-woods shade, the full creeks, the long light. The hikers who struggle in July are almost always the ones who treated it like an October hike: started late, packed light on water, grabbed the trailside vine to steady themselves, skipped the tick check. Start early, drink more, treat your clothes, learn the leaf, and give the snakes their space, and an Ohio summer becomes one of the best seasons to be out there. I've come to think of summer as the season Ohio's trails reward preparation the most. In spring and fall, you can get away with winging it — the weather is forgiving and the bugs are quiet. Summer asks a little more of you, and gives more back. The morning you start at first light, beat the heat, and have a shaded gorge trail entirely to yourself while the rest of the county is still asleep is the morning you understand why some of us never stop hiking through the warm months. Respect the heat, the ticks, and the storms, and the rest is pure green Ohio at its best. ## More Summer Hiking Reads - For shaded, watered summer trails, my [Ohio waterfall hikes roundup](https://hiking-ohio.com/ohio-waterfall-hikes-7-best-trails-to-chase-cascades/) is built for exactly this season. - Hiking with the family? The [kid-friendly Ohio hikes](https://hiking-ohio.com/kid-friendly-ohio-hikes-10-trails-your-family-will-love/) guide flags the shorter, shadier loops that work in the heat. - Local to central Ohio? Start with the [best hikes near Columbus](https://hiking-ohio.com/best-hikes-near-columbus-ohio-15-trails-worth-your-weekend/) and pick the wooded ones for July and August. > 🥾 ### Leo Petroglyph and Nature Preserve: Ancient Carvings and a Gorge URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/leo-petroglyph-nature-preserve/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:59.000Z There's a face carved into the sandstone with deer antlers growing out of its head and a bird's feet where a chin should be. Nobody alive knows for certain what it meant. Somebody cut it into the rock here in southern Ohio somewhere between seven hundred and a thousand years ago, and it's still here, under a simple wooden shelter at the edge of a gorge in Jackson County, waiting for you to come stand in front of it. That's the strange and wonderful thing about Leo Petroglyph & Nature Preserve. It's tiny — under thirteen acres — and it's out in the rural hill country an hour and a half south of Columbus, on a winding road past a handful of houses and a pretty little country church. There's no visitor center, no entrance fee, no crowds. Just thirty-seven ancient carvings on a slab of bedrock, and a short, rocky, genuinely beautiful trail dropping into a hemlock gorge below them. It is one of the best history-and-hiking combinations in the state, and almost nobody outside the area has heard of it. I'll tell you what's there, how to walk it, and why it's worth the drive. ## Trail Stats - **Distance:** about 0.7 mile nature trail loop - **Difficulty:** short but moderate — rocky footing, stairs, and elevation change in the gorge - **Trail type:** loop, starting at the petroglyph shelter - **Surface:** dirt, rock, and stone steps; uneven throughout - **Time:** allow an hour or more to see the carvings and walk the gorge - **Where:** near the village of Leo, Jackson County, southern Ohio - **Cost:** free; grounds open year-round ## Getting There Leo Petroglyph is in deep southern Ohio, near the tiny community of Leo, northwest of the city of Jackson. From Columbus it's roughly an hour and a half south, dropping out of the flat glaciated farmland into the unglaciated Appalachian foothills — which is exactly why the landscape down here looks so different, more rugged and rocky than central Ohio. A word of real caution on the approach: the petroglyph sits right on Park Road, a narrow, winding country lane, and some locals drive it fast. The site is tucked in right before a cluster of homes, so go slow, watch the curves, and be respectful of the folks who live there — this isn't a developed park with a buffer, it's a historic site sitting in someone's neighborhood. There's a photo-worthy old church, Trinity Methodist Episcopal, right on the road if you want a stop. The site is managed by the Ohio History Connection and cared for locally by the Friends of Buckeye Furnace in cooperation with the Jackson County Historical Society. The grounds are open year-round and free. Facilities are minimal, so come prepared and self-sufficient. ## The Carvings Start at the shelter. The petroglyph is a single large slab of Black Hand sandstone, roughly twenty feet by sixteen, carved with thirty-seven figurative images, and it's protected from the weather by a wooden shelter that was itself built as a Works Progress Administration project back in the 1930s. So there's history layered on history here — Depression-era hands built the roof that protects carvings made centuries before Columbus sailed. Take your time reading the rock. The thirty-seven figures include humans, birds, a fish, a snake, animal and human footprints, and assorted symbols whose meanings are lost to us. The famous one — the image that makes the postcards — is that human head wearing deer antlers with a bird's feet, a figure that clearly meant something specific and powerful to whoever carved it, and that we can now only guess at. Shamanic? Mythological? A clan marker? The honest answer is that we don't know, and that uncertainty is part of standing there. You're looking at a message you can see but cannot read. The carvings are almost certainly the work of the Fort Ancient culture, the late prehistoric people who lived across southern Ohio from roughly 1000 to 1650 AD. Archaeologists date the petroglyphs by the weathering of the soft sandstone, which puts them somewhere around seven hundred to a thousand years old. The slab was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970\. It originally sat exposed on the edge of the sandstone hillside above the gorge; to protect it, the rock was carefully covered with the shelter you see today, which is why it has survived legible for so long when so much Ohio rock art has weathered away to nothing. ## The Trail Behind the shelter, a short nature trail drops off the ridge and descends into the gorge below the carvings. Don't skip it. People come for the petroglyph and leave thinking the hike is an afterthought; it's actually a small gem in its own right. The trail is under a mile, but it earns its moderate rating. The footing is rocky and uneven, there are a lot of stairs, and the elevation changes come fast as you drop into and climb out of the ravine. This is not a stroller trail. It is, however, completely doable for elementary-aged kids and up who are steady on their feet — just keep them close on the rock and the stairs. What you get for that effort is a genuine little Appalachian gorge. The trail winds along intermittent cliff walls of that same Black Hand sandstone, with the unglaciated Mississippian cliffs rising twenty to sixty-five feet over your head in places. There are bedrock overhangs and rock shelters — the kind of dry, sheltered recesses that almost certainly sheltered people thousands of years ago, long before anyone carved the slab up top. Within the gorge are several small waterfalls, seasonal and best after rain, threading down over the rock. The east bank is dominated by Eastern hemlock, those dark evergreen conifers that hold the cool, shaded microclimate of the ravine and give the whole gorge a hushed, northern feel even in a southern Ohio summer. In season, wildflowers and birds are abundant down here. The combination — ancient art on the rim, a hemlock gorge with waterfalls and overhangs below — is what makes Leo punch so far above its thirteen acres. There's a tip in the visitor lore I like: come in the rain. On a wet day you'll likely have the place entirely to yourself, and you'll get to watch the water drain over the rock overhangs and run down into the gorge, which is the landscape doing the exact thing that carved it. ## History and Nature It helps to zoom out on who made these carvings. The Fort Ancient people were farmers and villagers — they grew corn, beans, and squash, built substantial settlements along the rivers of southern Ohio, and lived here for centuries before European contact and the disruptions that followed. They were not the same as the earlier Hopewell and Adena moundbuilders, though they shared the same landscape. The petroglyphs at Leo are one of the relatively few places where you can stand in front of something these specific people made with their own hands, on the actual rock, in the actual place they chose. Most of what we know about them comes from village sites and excavated objects in museums. Here, the art is still on the cliff. The geology that made the carving possible is the same geology that makes the hike. Black Hand sandstone is a soft, workable stone — soft enough to carve with stone tools, soft enough to erode into cliffs, overhangs, and rock shelters. The whole gorge is a master class in how this rock behaves: water and time cut down through it, leaving the hard ledges standing as cliffs and undercutting the softer layers into the shelters that drew people in the first place. The hemlocks on the cool east bank are a living signature of that shaded, moist gorge environment — they're a more northern tree hanging on in a southern county precisely because the ravine stays cool. It's the same Black Hand sandstone, by the way, that forms the famous formations up in Hocking Hills — Old Man's Cave, Ash Cave, the whole gorge system that draws millions of visitors a couple of hours north. Leo is carved from the identical rock, just without the crowds and with something Hocking Hills doesn't have: a thousand-year-old gallery of human art on the rim. If you've hiked the Hocking Hills recess caves and wondered who used them before they were state parks, Leo is a place where part of that answer is literally written on the stone. ## Why It's Worth the Drive Let me be straight about the math, because Leo is a long way from anywhere and I don't want you to feel cheated. The carvings themselves take fifteen minutes to really look at. The trail is under a mile. On paper, that's a thin payoff for a three-hour round trip from Columbus. But that math misses what actually makes Leo special, which is the rarity of the experience. There are not many places in the eastern United States where you can stand on the original rock and look at art that prehistoric people carved there, in the open, for free, with nobody else around. Most rock art is on private land, or destroyed, or roped off behind glass in a museum, severed from the place that gave it meaning. At Leo the slab is right where it has effectively always been, under a humble shelter, in the landscape the carvers knew. You walk down into the same gorge they sheltered in. You see the same hemlocks, the same overhangs, the same seasonal water. That continuity is the whole point, and it's not something you can get from a photo or a museum case. Pair it with Buckeye Furnace down the road, give the gorge trail its due, and the drive earns itself. ## Tips and Seasonal Notes **Make it a day with Buckeye Furnace.** This is the move. Buckeye Furnace, a restored 19th-century charcoal-iron furnace and another Ohio History Connection site, is about thirty minutes away near Wellston. The grounds are open year-round; the museum and gift shop run roughly May through October. Pairing the ancient rock art at Leo with the industrial-history furnace makes a full, varied day in Jackson County. **Mind the road and the neighbors.** Park Road is narrow and winding, traffic moves fast, and the site abuts private homes. Drive carefully and tread respectfully. **Wear real shoes.** The gorge trail is rocky, stepped, and uneven. Trail shoes or boots with grip, and watch your footing on wet rock. **Rain is a feature, not a bug.** A wet visit means solitude and running water over the overhangs. Just take the slick rock seriously. **Self-sufficient visit.** Minimal facilities, no concessions. Bring water, bring snacks, and pack out your trash. Cell service can be spotty out here. **Be a steward.** Never touch or chalk the carvings, and don't climb on the slab. This is irreplaceable, fragile, centuries-old rock art on the National Register. Look all you want; keep your hands off — the oils on human hands and the abrasion of fingers tracing the grooves are exactly what wears soft sandstone carvings away over time. Photograph them instead, and leave them as you found them for the next person and the next century. **Bring a small flashlight.** The shelter is roofed, and on an overcast day or in low light the shallow carvings can be hard to read. Raking light from the side — a flashlight held low and angled across the slab — throws the grooves into relief and makes the figures pop. It's the single best trick for actually seeing all thirty-seven. ## Nearby Trails Leo Petroglyph anchors a southern-Ohio history-and-hiking circuit: - For more deep-southern-Ohio hill country, [Zaleski State Forest](https://hiking-ohio.com/zaleski-state-forest/) and the [King's Hollow Tunnel ghost-town hike](https://hiking-ohio.com/kings-hollow/) are within reach to the east. - Chasing Ohio's history through its trails? [Wayne National Forest](https://hiking-ohio.com/wayne-national-forest/) runs the same Appalachian foothills with its own iron-furnace heritage. - For more rock and gorge scenery, the [Hocking Hills every-trail roundup](https://hiking-ohio.com/hocking-hills-state-park-every-trail-ranked/) covers the famous Black Hand sandstone country to the north. Thirty-seven figures, seven hundred years, a hemlock gorge, and a road most people will never turn down. Leo Petroglyph is small, it's out of the way, and it's one of the most quietly extraordinary places I've stood in Ohio. Go slow, look long, and keep your hands in your pockets. > 🥾 ### Charleston Falls Preserve: Ohio's Miniature Niagara Hike URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/charleston-falls-preserve/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:26.000Z They call it the Miniature Niagara, and I want to set your expectations honestly before you drive out there, because the nickname does some heavy lifting. Charleston Falls is a 37-foot waterfall in the rolling farm country of Miami County, north of Dayton. The "Niagara" part isn't about the volume — on a dry August afternoon it can thin out to what one local writer affectionately called the "Charleston Tinkle." The Niagara part is about the rock. The strata the water pours over here are the same geological layers that form the famous falls up on the New York–Ontario line. Same recipe, much smaller portion. And honestly? It's lovely, and the rest of the preserve around it is what makes the trip more than a one-photo stop. Charleston Falls Preserve is the most-visited park in Miami County, and after one loop you understand why. It's 216 acres of forest, prairie, and limestone cliff, laced with close to four miles of well-built trail, all orbiting a waterfall that drops into a shaded grotto with a little cave behind it. It's a great family hike, an easy half-day, and a genuinely interesting piece of Ohio geology. Here's how to get the most out of it. ## Trail Stats - **Distance:** about 3.7 miles of trails total; the core Waterfall Loop is roughly 0.7 mile - **Difficulty:** easy to moderate — short, with some stairs and rolling terrain - **Trail type:** stacked loops (Waterfall Loop plus several connectors) - **Surface:** packed dirt, wooden stairs, boardwalk, and observation decks - **Time:** 1 to 2 hours depending on how many loops you add - **Where:** Miami County, near Tipp City, north of Dayton - **Cost:** free ## Getting There **Visitor info (as of September 2026, Miami County Park District):** **2535 Ross Road, Tipp City, OH 45371**; **216 acres**; hours **8 a.m. to sunset** daily; district office **(937) 335-6273**. Confirm on the [official Charleston Falls page](https://www.miamicountyparks.com/parks/charleston?ref=hiking-ohio.com). Charleston Falls sits between Tipp City and Springfield in southwest Ohio's Miami County, an easy run up from Dayton or down from the Springfield area. From Interstate 70 you're only a few minutes off the highway. The preserve is managed by the Miami County Park District — not Five Rivers MetroParks, which is the Montgomery County system one county south, an easy mix-up worth getting right when you're searching for directions. The parking lot is free and decent-sized, but remember this is the most popular park in the county, so on a perfect-weather weekend it fills up. There's a restroom, a picnic area, and a trail map at the trailhead. Grab the map. The trail system is a tangle of short connectors with names like Redbud Valley and Thorny Badlands, and while you genuinely can't get lost on 216 acres, the map helps you string together exactly the loop you want. For folks coming from Columbus, this is about an hour and fifteen out I-70 west — far enough to be a destination, close enough to pair with a Dayton-area day. Tipp City itself has a walkable, well-kept little downtown with places to eat, so it's an easy add-on after the hike, and the broader Dayton region is loaded with trails if you want to make a full day of it. I'll point you to a few of those at the end. ## The Trail Most people make a beeline for the waterfall, and that's the right instinct. From the parking lot, the Waterfall Loop heads out — go counterclockwise, turning right at the first junction and staying left to cut through a big open field, and it delivers you to the falls in well under a mile. The approach is half the fun. You come through prairie and field, then the land tilts and you drop toward the sound of water. The falls themselves spill 37 feet over a rock face into a cool, shaded grotto. There's an observation deck positioned to take it in, and a set of wide wooden stairs and a boardwalk that let you get down close without tearing up the slope. Tucked behind and beside the falling water is a small cave — a recess in the rock that kids love and that gives the whole grotto a secret, sheltered feeling. On a hot day the air down there is noticeably cooler, the way it always is at the bottom of a damp Ohio ravine. Here's the honest part again: the volume depends entirely on recent rain. The stream feeding the falls rises from small underground springs a few miles east and isn't a big flow to begin with. After a good rain or during spring snowmelt, the falls run full and photogenic. In a dry spell, it's a thin veil — pretty in its own delicate way, but not a roaring cataract. If the waterfall is your whole reason for going, check the weather and aim for the days after a soaking rain. But don't make the waterfall the whole trip, because the surrounding loops are where the preserve earns its "most visited" title. Past the falls, the trail climbs and the terrain gets varied in a hurry. The Thorny Badlands trail runs through a stretch of scrubby, sun-baked ground — the name is earned, all locust and brambles and tough pioneer plants. Redbud Valley, as you'd guess, is a showcase in early spring when the redbuds light up the understory in magenta. There's a pine forest stretch that smells wonderful and goes quiet and dim under the needles. And there's Cedar Pond, a calm little pond you can circle, with benches set out for sitting and doing nothing, which is an underrated trail activity. The whole network is unusually well-built. Bridges, wide wooden staircases, observation decks, boardwalks over the wet spots, and benches placed exactly where you want to sit and catch your breath or take in a view. You can feel that the park district has put real care into it over the years. It's the kind of trail design that makes a place welcoming to families, older hikers, and anyone who isn't trying to suffer for their nature. ## History and Nature The geology is the real story here, and it's worth slowing down for. That "Miniature Niagara" line isn't marketing fluff. The rock layers exposed at Charleston Falls are the same stratigraphic sequence — a hard, resistant dolomite limestone cap sitting over softer shale — that creates Niagara Falls hundreds of miles to the northeast. At both places, water pours over the hard cap rock and undercuts the soft layer beneath, slowly eating the falls backward upstream over geologic time. You're looking at the exact same waterfall-making process Niagara runs on, just at a scale you can take in with one glance. For anyone trying to teach a kid how waterfalls and gorges actually form, it's a perfect, comprehensible classroom. The water that does the work originates from small underground springs several miles to the east, surfaces here, plunges the 37 feet, and then meanders west about a mile to join the Great Miami River. So the falls are one link in a longer water story, the place where groundwater briefly becomes spectacle before rejoining the river system that drains this whole part of Ohio. The 216 acres wrap a surprising amount of habitat variety around that centerpiece. There's forested hill country, the prairie and field you cross on the way in, limestone cliffs, the grotto microclimate at the falls, and the pond. That patchwork supports a long list of wildflowers — Redbud Valley is named for its spring show, and the preserve is a known spot for spring blooms generally — plus the usual rewarding mix of birds and small wildlife you get wherever Ohio packs several habitats close together. The cliff and grotto stay cool and damp enough to host ferns and mosses that wouldn't survive out in the open field a few hundred yards away. There's been a nature park here for decades, and Charleston Falls has long been the property people name first when they talk about the Miami County Park District. Longtime visitors will tell you it used to be a quiet local secret and has become genuinely popular, which is both a compliment to the place and a good reason to go on a weekday if you can swing it. ## A Closer Look at the Habitats What I appreciate most about Charleston Falls is how much variety the park district packed into 216 acres, and how legible it all is from the trail. You walk through four or five distinct little worlds in the space of an easy loop, and each one has a name that actually tells you what you're in. **Redbud Valley** is the spring star. In late April the eastern redbuds throw out their magenta blossoms before their leaves even open, and a whole hillside of them in a sheltered valley is a genuinely beautiful thing. Redbuds are an understory tree — they live in the dappled edge between full forest and open ground — so the valley's structure is what makes the show possible. **The Thorny Badlands** is the opposite mood: a dry, scrubby, sun-hammered stretch where the soil is thin and the plants are tough. Locust trees, brambles, and hardy pioneer species hold ground that wouldn't support the lush forest growing a few hundred yards away. It's a good lesson in how much Ohio's plant communities are dictated by soil and sun and water — change those a little, and the whole cast of characters changes with it. **The pine forest** is a planted stand, dim and quiet and carpeted in needles, that smells like Christmas on a warm day. **Cedar Pond** is the calm-water counterpoint, a small pond with a loop around it and benches for sitting. And threaded through all of it are the **forested hills and limestone cliffs** that give the park its relief and its overlooks. Five habitats, four miles, one easy afternoon — it's a remarkably efficient little preserve. ## Tips and Seasonal Notes **Chase the rain.** The single biggest factor in your waterfall experience is recent precipitation. Go in the days after a good rain, or during spring snowmelt, for the fullest flow. Midsummer dry spells leave it thin. **Spring is the all-around winner.** Full falls, the Redbud Valley bloom, wildflowers across the preserve, and comfortable temperatures. Fall brings color through the forested loops. Winter can be quietly spectacular when the falls partially freeze into ice columns — just mind the stairs, which get icy. **Go early on weekends.** Most-visited park in the county means a full lot by midmorning on a nice Saturday. An early start gets you the grotto to yourself and a parking spot without hunting. **Mind the stairs and the kids.** The wooden staircases down to the falls are sturdy but steep, and the rocks near the water are slick. It's very kid-friendly overall — short distances, a cave, a pond — but keep little ones close at the falls overlook and on the wet stone. **Footwear and water.** Trail shoes are plenty; you don't need boots for this one. Bring water in summer — the open prairie sections get hot and exposed, even though the grotto is cool. **Build a loop.** Don't just walk in to the falls and back out. Add the Thorny Badlands, swing past Cedar Pond, take the pine forest stretch. The extra mile or two is what turns a quick stop into a satisfying hike. ## Nearby Trails Charleston Falls makes a great anchor for a southwest-Ohio outing: - The [Ohio waterfall hikes roundup](https://hiking-ohio.com/ohio-waterfall-hikes-7-best-trails-to-chase-cascades/) puts Charleston Falls alongside the other cascades worth chasing across the state. - Planning around Dayton? The [best hikes near Dayton](https://hiking-ohio.com/best-hikes-near-dayton-ohio-10-trails-and-day-trips/) guide rounds up the region's trails for a full day out. - For another southwest-Ohio gorge with bigger water, [Glen Helen Nature Preserve](https://hiking-ohio.com/glen-helen-nature-preserve-yellow-springs/) and neighboring [John Bryan State Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/john-bryan-state-park-clifton-gorge-yellow-springs-ohio/) are a short drive east near Yellow Springs. Come for the Miniature Niagara, sure. But give yourself the extra hour to circle the badlands, sit by Cedar Pond, and walk the pine forest. Charleston Falls is the most popular hike in Miami County for reasons that go well beyond one 37-foot drop — and if you time it for a wet week, that drop lives up to its nickname too. > 🥾 ### 2026 Road Trip URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/2026-road-trip/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T15:17:56.000Z Hi to all! As you already know, I include other states besides Ohio in my blogging. This is a series of 14 posts that I am putting together for our 28-day trip across the western United States. The cities and states we visited are: Springfield, Illinois St. Joseph, Missouri Abilene, Kansas Oakley, Kansas La Junta, Colorado Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado Flagstaff, Arizona Gallup, New Mexico Alburquerque, New Mexico Santa Fe, New Mexico Woodward, Oklahoma Joplin, Missouri Murphysboro, Illinois Indianapolis, Indiana I planned since October 2025, for this epic trip. And it did not disappoint us. We made a few changes along the way, but the changes only enhanced the trip. Hope you enjoy these blogs. Lori ### Cantwell Cliffs URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/cantwell-cliffs/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:20.000Z If you want to escape the crowds and experience one of the most picturesque spots in Hocking Hills, Cantwell Cliffs is your destination. Located roughly **10–17 road miles** north of Old Man's Cave in the northern reaches of the park, its remote location discourages casual visitors — but those who make the extra drive are rarely disappointed. Many longtime hikers consider this the most beautiful and underrated area in all of Hocking County. [AllTrails](https://www.alltrails.com/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## Named for an Early Settler The cliffs take their name from Josiah Cantwell, one of the first settlers in the Hocking Hills region who arrived in the early 1800s. But people have lived here for much longer — the Adena settled in the area around 7,000 years ago, followed by the Hopewell culture and later the Shawnee and other tribes. These early inhabitants knew the cliffs well, often using the rock shelters for protection from the elements. When European settlers like Cantwell arrived, they marveled at the same dramatic scenery that draws visitors today. The area remained largely wild and undeveloped, eventually becoming part of the Hocking Hills State Park system in the 20th century. --- ### **Location** Cantwell Cliffs, OH-374, Rockbridge, OH 43149 | GPS: **39.539874, -82.575814** Cantwell Cliffs is one of the 7 major hiking trails of Hocking Hills State Park in southern Ohio. The path is the most rugged in the park system, remote, and a one-way in and one-way out loop. ODNR lists **Cantwell Cliffs at about 2 miles, Difficult** (as of September 2026). Two loops (Rim and Gorge) share the trailhead — plan on roughly a mile-ish each way of exploring. It takes approximately 60 to 80 minutes to hike each loop of the trail. HIKERS MUST REMAIN ON THE MARKED TRAIL. Well-behaved, non-aggressive pets are permitted on leash. There is NO wading or swimming allowed in the waterfalls or creeks. --- ## The Geology: 350-Million Years in the Making The terrain at Cantwell Cliffs began as bedrock roughly **340–350 million years ago** (Mississippian Blackhand sandstone), when an ocean covered this region. The area where the cliffs now stand was once a shallow sea floor. Changes in currents over millions of years brought sand from distant mountains that deposited in the Hocking Valley, creating the distinctive Blackhand sandstone. Interestingly, the Cantwell area has unique geological features that set it apart from other Hocking Hills locations. The middle zone of the Blackhand here shows limited cross-bedding, unlike other locations where it's extremely pronounced. You'll also notice an unusual number of concretions — rounded mineral formations — visible on the cliff faces. These formed when minerals precipitated around a nucleus in the original sand, creating harder nodules that resist erosion. Ages of uplift, retreating glaciers, and erosion have sculpted these spectacular layered ledges and recess caves. The erosion caused by Buck Run — a creek that spills over a portion of the cliffs forming a seasonal waterfall — accounts for the deep valley, steep cliffs, and rock shelter formations you'll explore today. --- ## Location and Visitor Information Cantwell Cliffs is located off State Route 374 in the northern part of Hocking Hills State Park, roughly 10–17 road miles from Old Man's Cave depending on the route. **Address:** State Route 374, Rockbridge, OH 43149 **GPS Coordinates:** 39.539874, -82.575814 (as of September 2026; do not use the erroneous -82.51 longitude that appears in some copies of this guide) **Distance from Columbus:** Approximately 45 miles (about 1 hour) **Hours (as of September 2026):** Trails roughly a half hour before sunrise to a half hour after sunset (ODNR). Best visited March–November when trails are dry. **Phone:** (740) 385-6842 (Hocking Hills park office) **Facilities:** Pit toilet and picnic shelter at the trailhead. No water or electricity available. **Pet Friendly:** Yes! Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash. However, the challenging terrain may not be suitable for all dogs. This is the least crowded of the seven main Hocking Hills areas — even on summer weekends, you'll likely find more solitude here than anywhere else in the park. --- ![Cantwell Cliffs sandstone cliffs in Hocking Hills](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/05/1780013133120-Hocking-Hills-Cantwell-Cliffs-5-1-scaled%20-%20Copy.jpg) ![Cantwell Cliffs trail pad or overlook](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/05/1780013126809-AA23Pads.jpg) ![Cantwell Cliffs stock landscape view](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/05/1780013126310-AdobeStock_334320202.webp) ![Cantwell Cliffs gorge scenery](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/05/1780013131508-bs_hh2013_105.jpg) ![Cantwell Cliffs Hocking Hills State Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/05/1780013127909-cantwell-cliffs-hocking-hills-state-park-ohio-steve-schrock.jpg) ![Cantwell Cliffs sandstone formations](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/05/1780013126308-GettyImages-1315515252.webp) ![Cantwell Cliffs cliff face](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/05/1780013133243-Hocking-Hills-Cantwell-Cliffs-5-1-scaled.jpg) ![Cantwell Cliffs forest and rock](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/05/1780013127908-jc_hh2013_012.jpg) ![Cantwell Cliffs trail view](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/05/1780013124571-OIP.webp) ## Hiking Trail The Cantwell Cliffs Loop is a moderately challenging hike that delivers big rewards. - **Distance:** about **2 miles** total for both loops (ODNR); individual loop segments often quoted \~0.9–1 mi - **Time:** 45 minutes to 1 hour (take your time to explore) - **Elevation gain:** About 225-270 feet - **Difficulty:** Moderate to strenuous A short 0.1-mile spur trail leads from the parking lot to the rim of the gorge, where you'll get your first breathtaking view. From there, the trail descends into the gorge through narrow passageways formed by massive slump blocks that have fallen away from the main cliff. These car-sized boulders create tunnels and crevices that add an element of adventure to the hike. The descent involves navigating stairs carved into the rock and some sections where you'll need to use your hands for balance. At the bottom, the trail follows the base of the cliffs before ascending the other side to complete the loop. **Important Note:** This trail is recommended for moderate to experienced hikers due to the elevation changes, narrow passages, and uneven steps. Young children may struggle with some of the climbing sections, and the trail is not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers. ![Cantwell Cliffs Fat Woman's Squeeze or gorge passage](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/05/1780013359042-05a5d73b425cae3d950f130fb5e760d3.jpg) --- ## What You'll See **Fat Woman's Squeeze** This is the highlight for many visitors — a tight, narrow passageway that descends between a huge boulder and the cliff from which it slipped thousands of years ago. The passage is only about 18 inches wide at its narrowest point and adds an element of adventure to the hike. You'll need to turn sideways and squeeze through, which is half the fun! Despite the name (which dates to a less politically correct era), most adults can fit through — though those with broader shoulders or carrying large backpacks may want to leave their gear with a companion. If you're uncomfortable with tight spaces, there's an alternate route around the squeeze. **The Towering Cliffs** The cliffs tower over 150 feet high, overlooking Buck Run creek below. Standing at the base and looking up, you gain a true appreciation for the scale of geological time. The massive walls of Blackhand sandstone display layer upon layer of ancient deposits, each representing thousands of years of sedimentation. **Rock Shelter** At the base of the cliffs, you'll find a rock shelter carved out by erosion over millions of years — a natural overhang that provides shelter and shade. Imagine Native Americans taking refuge here during storms, or early settlers resting in the shade on hot summer days. The shelter demonstrates how the softer middle layer of sandstone erodes faster than the harder upper layer, creating these characteristic Hocking Hills overhangs. **Seasonal Waterfall** Buck Run spills over a portion of the cliffs, forming a waterfall that's most impressive after rainfall or during spring snowmelt. Unlike the more consistent waterfalls at Old Man's Cave, this one is truly seasonal — visit after a good rain for the best experience. When it's flowing well, the water cascades down the rock face in a beautiful curtain. [AllTrails](https://www.alltrails.com/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## Conclusion Cantwell Cliffs is a true hidden gem in Hocking Hills. If you’ve already checked out Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, and Cedar Falls, it’s worth making the extra drive north for a change of scenery. The secluded setting means fewer crowds, the Fat Woman’s Squeeze adds a fun challenge, and the towering cliffs create that awe-inspiring vibe that keeps hikers returning to this area. It’s a great pick for anyone after a moderately challenging hike with amazing rewards. Just be ready for plenty of stairs and some elevation changes — every step is worth it. Happy hiking! ### Glen Helen Nature Preserve: Yellow Springs' Gorge and Cascades URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/glen-helen-nature-preserve-yellow-springs/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:42.000Z The town is named after the spring, and the spring is the color of old pennies. That's the first thing I want you to understand about Glen Helen, because it explains the whole place. Yellow Springs, Ohio got its name from a real, specific seep in the woods where iron-rich water bubbles up and stains the rock and the streambed a deep rusty orange-yellow. People have been walking to look at it for two hundred years. You can still walk to it today, and the path to get there is one of the best short hikes in southwest Ohio. Glen Helen is a thousand acres of preserved gorge, forest, and meadow wrapped around Yellow Springs Creek and Birch Creek, with something like twenty miles of footpaths stitched through it. At the south end the trails tie into John Bryan State Park and Clifton Gorge, so the whole protected corridor runs for miles. You could spend a full day here and not repeat yourself. But most people, me included on a first visit, come for one specific loop: the walk down to the Cascades and the Yellow Spring. It is, quietly, one of Ohio's great walks. Here's how to do it right. ## Trail Stats - **Distance:** the Inman Trail loop runs about 1.5 miles; longer combinations easily reach 4 miles - **Difficulty:** moderate — the preserve calls every hike here moderate, and the limestone stairs are why - **Trail type:** loop, with a large connected network - **Surface:** dirt path, boardwalk, and limestone stone steps - **Time:** 1 to 2 hours for the core loop - **Where:** Yellow Springs, Greene County, southwest Ohio - **Parking:** a $10 fee at the Cascades entrance lot — and worth knowing about before you arrive ## Getting There The main trailhead is the Cascades Entrance at 1075 State Route 343, Yellow Springs, on the edge of the village. This is where you'll find the parking lot, the Outdoor Education Center, and the Raptor Center, plus the most direct trail access to the Cascades and the Yellow Spring. Here's the thing nobody tells first-timers, so I will: there's a parking fee. It runs around $10 at the Cascades lot. Glen Helen doesn't get tax money — it's a private nonprofit preserve — so that fee is genuinely keeping the lights on and the trails maintained. Bring a card or cash and don't be the person grumbling at the gate. If you'd rather skip the fee, there's a less-developed access from the north, near downtown Yellow Springs, where some trails begin just northeast of the village and you cross the creek on stepping stones. But for a first visit, park at the Cascades lot, pay the ten bucks, and start from the front door. Yellow Springs is about an hour from Columbus and twenty-some minutes from Dayton, which makes Glen Helen a very doable day trip from either. The village itself is worth building time around — it's a walkable little arts town with good coffee and better people-watching, and you'll want a meal after the hike. ## The Trail From the Cascades entrance, the Inman Trail is the classic loop, marked on the preserve map as a red dashed line. It's about a mile and a half, and it strings together the headline sights: the waterfall over Birch Creek that everyone calls the Cascades, the Yellow Spring itself, a beaver dam, limestone cliffs, and some genuinely old trees. The loop begins and ends with limestone stairs, and those stairs are the reason Glen Helen rates every hike as moderate. There's real elevation change between the gorge floor and the rim, and the steps cover it in a hurry. They're solid and well-built, but they're stone, so they're slick when wet and they'll get your heart going on the climb out. If you've got knees that complain about stairs, here's the workaround the preserve actually recommends: instead of plunging straight down the Inman steps, head north on the Talus Trail first, then switch back and cross the Old Dam Bridge to start the Inman loop from a gentler grade. Same sights, kinder on the joints. Down on the gorge floor, the walk turns magic. The trail runs along Birch Creek through a deep, shaded ravine. You'll pass Pompey's Pillar, a freestanding rock formation, and reach the bridge over the Cascades — a stepped series of small waterfalls tumbling over the rock. Glen Helen Falls, the ten-foot drop also known simply as the Cascades, is the showpiece, and after a good rain it runs full and loud. There's a boardwalk threading the wettest stretches, keeping you up out of the mud and over the sensitive ground. Then the Yellow Spring. After everything else, it's almost understated — a steady seep where the iron-laden water rises and runs over rock it has dyed a deep ochre-orange over countless years. It's not dramatic the way the waterfall is. It's older than dramatic. This is the thing the town walked out to see in the 1800s, the namesake, and standing over it you get a small, real sense of continuity with everyone who's stood there before you. If you've got more time and more legs, the network opens up from here. The Grotto, reached by way of the Oak Triangle, School Forest, and Birch trails, makes a roughly four-mile loop that takes you past more waterfalls, through a planted pine forest, and across more boardwalk. The pine forest is worth the detour just for the smell and the hush — it's a different world from the hardwood gorge, dim and needle-floored and quiet. ## History and Nature Glen Helen has been a protected, studied landscape for a long time, and it shows in how intact it is. The preserve is owned and run as a nonprofit, tied historically to Antioch College in Yellow Springs, and it's served for decades as an outdoor classroom — generations of kids have had their first real woods experience on these trails. The Outdoor Education Center and the Raptor Center, which rehabilitates injured birds of prey, are both part of that mission. If the Raptor Center is open when you visit, it's a good stop, especially with kids. The natural draw is the gorge itself. Glen Helen sits in the same limestone-and-dolomite country as neighboring Clifton Gorge and John Bryan State Park, where glacial meltwater carved deep, steep-walled ravines into the bedrock. The result is a cool, moist microclimate on the gorge floor that supports plants more typical of places much farther north. You'll see limestone cliffs and overhangs, rock formations, and — the part that stops me every time — trees that have been standing for centuries. Some of the oaks here are pushing four hundred years old, which means they were alive before this was Ohio, before it was a state, before most of the history we learned in school. Spring is a wildflower riot on the gorge floor; the rich, moist soil and the protection of the ravine walls make for one of the better wildflower walks in the region. There's a beaver dam on the loop, and beaver mean a working, wet ecosystem. Birds are everywhere, and the variety of habitat — gorge, creek, pine plantation, meadow, old hardwoods — packs a long species list into a compact area. It's worth understanding that Glen Helen doesn't sit alone. It's the centerpiece of a much larger block of protected land — well over a square mile of continuous preserve when you count its neighbors. To the south the trails run straight into John Bryan State Park, and just beyond that lies Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve, where the Little Miami River has cut a dramatic, narrow chasm through the dolomite. The three properties together form one of the most significant protected natural corridors in southwest Ohio, which is why the biodiversity here is so rich: animals and plants have room to move through an unbroken stretch of gorge and forest instead of being marooned on an island of trees surrounded by farmland. For a strong hiker, that connectivity means you can start at the Glen Helen Cascades and walk south for miles without leaving protected ground. One honest note on timing the natural beauty: this is a leaves-on park. A regular here put it well — come when the trees are green, late spring through early fall. Winter has its own bare-bones appeal, but Glen Helen is built to be seen in full leaf, with the gorge walls dripping and the canopy closed overhead. ## Why the Spring Is Yellow People ask, so here's the short geology lesson, and it's a good one to have in your back pocket when you're standing over the spring with kids. The groundwater here percolates down through iron-bearing rock, picking up dissolved iron along the way. When that water surfaces at the spring and hits the air, the iron oxidizes — it rusts, basically, the same chemistry as a wet nail left out overnight. The rust precipitates out and coats the streambed and the surrounding rock in that distinctive ochre orange-yellow. So the "yellow" you're looking at is iron oxide, laid down grain by grain over an enormous span of time. The town didn't get a fanciful name; it got an accurate one. It's worth pointing out to a kid because it's one of those rare cases where you can see a slow chemical process frozen in place. The water is still doing it, right now, the whole time you're standing there. In the 1800s the spring was a genuine destination — there were resort hotels in Yellow Springs built around the idea that the mineral water was good for you. The medicinal claims didn't hold up, but the spring outlasted the hotels, and people are still making the walk. Pompey's Pillar, which you pass on the way, is another stop-and-look feature: a tall, freestanding column of rock left standing as the softer stone around it eroded away. From the Oak Triangle Trail up on the rim, there are overlooks down onto the Pillar and the boardwalk threading the gorge below — a good spot to stop, catch your breath after the stairs, and take in how deep the ravine really is. ## Tips and Seasonal Notes **Wear real shoes.** Those limestone stairs and the wet gorge-floor rock are no place for flip-flops. Trail shoes or boots with grip, every season. After rain, assume everything stone is slick. **Go early or go midweek.** Glen Helen is popular, deservedly, and the Cascades lot fills on nice weekends. An early start gets you the gorge in morning light and a parking spot without circling. **Budget the fee.** Around $10 to park at the Cascades lot. It's not a tourist gouge — it's how a nonprofit preserve with no tax base keeps twenty miles of trail open. Pay it gladly. **Time it for water.** The Cascades run hardest after rain and in spring snowmelt. In a dry late summer they slow to a trickle. If the waterfall is your main goal, check the recent weather and go after a wet stretch. **Make a day of it.** Glen Helen connects to John Bryan State Park and Clifton Gorge to the south, so ambitious hikers can chain them into a long day. And the village of Yellow Springs is right there for food afterward. **Hiking with kids?** The core Inman loop is short enough for elementary-aged kids, and there's enough to look at — a waterfall, a colored spring, a beaver dam, old giant trees — to keep them moving. Just respect those limestone stairs with little ones, hold hands on the wet steps, and consider the gentler Talus Trail approach if you're carrying a toddler. If the Raptor Center is open, time your loop to end there; a face-to-face with a rehabbing owl or hawk is the kind of thing that turns a hike into a memory. ## Nearby Trails Glen Helen is the heart of a cluster of great southwest-Ohio hikes: - [John Bryan State Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/john-bryan-state-park-clifton-gorge-yellow-springs-ohio/) shares a border at the south end and continues the gorge along the Little Miami — the natural second half of a Glen Helen day. - For more waterfall hiking around the state, my [Ohio waterfall hikes roundup](https://hiking-ohio.com/ohio-waterfall-hikes-7-best-trails-to-chase-cascades/) maps out where to chase cascades season by season. - Planning a Dayton-area outing? The [best hikes near Dayton](https://hiking-ohio.com/best-hikes-near-dayton-ohio-10-trails-and-day-trips/) guide puts Glen Helen in context with the rest of the region's trails. I've hiked a lot of Ohio, and Glen Helen still lands near the top. A spring-colored spring, a real waterfall, four-hundred-year-old trees, and a gorge that feels like it was carved for walking. Pay the ten dollars, take the stairs, and go see the thing the town was named for. > 🥾 ### Shawnee State Park: Ohio's Little Smokies Hiking Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/shawnee-state-park/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:18:27.000Z The first time someone told me Ohio had its own Smoky Mountains, I rolled my eyes. I'd done my share of flat central-Ohio rail-trails, and the phrase "Little Smokies" sounded like tourism-board wishful thinking. Then I drove down to West Portsmouth, climbed up to the Shawnee lodge, and looked out over ridge after forested ridge fading into a genuine blue haze, and I shut up. They weren't exaggerating. Tucked in the far southern corner of the state, where Ohio crumples up into the Appalachian foothills before it falls into the river, Shawnee is the closest thing we've got to mountain country. Shawnee State Park is a **1,095-acre** park set inside the **\~63,747-acre** Shawnee State Forest — the largest state forest in Ohio (figures as of September 2026 per ODNR/Wikipedia listings). It sits in the Appalachian foothills near the Ohio River, on land that was once Shawnee hunting grounds. The whole region is steep, wooded, and eroded into deep valleys, and the trees grow thick enough to throw off the same humid blue haze the national park to the south is famous for. It's about two hours from Columbus, and it's a different kind of Ohio hiking than anything up north. **Trail at a Glance — Shawnee State Park & Forest** - **Distance:** Day-hike loops from \~0.5 miles up to the 40-mile-plus Backpack Trail - **Difficulty:** Easy day loops; the Backpack Trail is among the hardest hiking in Ohio - **Best season:** Summer for the lakes and haze; fall for the color - **Dogs:** Leashed on trails; not allowed on the swimming beaches - **Highlights:** Appalachian ridge views, two lakes, backcountry camping - **Location:** West Portsmouth, Scioto County, Ohio - **Address / phone (as of September 2026):** 4404 State Route 125, West Portsmouth, OH 45663; park office **(740) 858-6652** (often 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Mon–Fri). Forest office: 13291 US Highway 52, West Portsmouth; **(740) 858-6685** - **Park hours:** typically **6 a.m.–11 p.m.** daily (confirm with the office). [ODNR Shawnee State Park](https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/shawnee-state-park?ref=hiking-ohio.com) (property URL intermittently 404'd from this runner) ## Getting there and the lay of the land Shawnee is in West Portsmouth, roughly two hours south of Columbus and right up against the Ohio River. From Portsmouth you take US-52 west, then OH-125 west into the hills. The park sits in a pocket of the much larger state forest, so you've got two layers to work with: the developed park, with a resort lodge, cabins, a campground, two lakes, and easy trails — and the wild forest around it, laced with rugged backcountry trails. The **resort lodge** is the natural anchor, and the view from up there is the one that converts skeptics. It's got a restaurant, an indoor pool, a gift shop, and rooms looking out over the hill country, plus cabins down the road. If you'd rather rough it, the campground and the backcountry both deliver. ## The day hikes Not everybody who comes to Shawnee wants a 28-mile slog, and the park knows it. There's a real range of trails here, from a half-mile lodge-to-beach stroll on up. The shorter park trails connect the lodge, the lakes, and the beaches, and many of them roll gently enough for a casual after-dinner walk while still feeling like genuine woods. One thing to know going in: a trail near the lodge shares ground with a disc golf course that zig-zags through the trees, and it's easy to wander off the hiking path and onto a fairway by accident. Pay attention to the blazes and you'll be fine, but don't be surprised if you hear a frisbee clatter off a tree somewhere uphill. The two lakes are the summer centerpieces. **Roosevelt Lake** and **Turkey Creek Lake** add up to about **68 surface acres** of water between them (as of September 2026, secondary/ODNR-aligned listings), both with public swimming beaches and launch sites for kayaks and canoes. Electric and non-electric boats are commonly allowed — confirm current horsepower/no-wake rules with the park office. The beaches are unguarded, so swim smart and keep an eye on the kids — and leave the dog in the shade, because pets aren't allowed on the swimming beaches. A morning hike on a shaded ridge trail followed by an afternoon swim in Roosevelt Lake is about as good as a southern-Ohio summer day gets. ## The Backpack Trail: Ohio's toughest Now for the serious stuff. The **Shawnee Backpack Trail**, run by the Division of Forestry, is widely considered some of the most rugged hiking in the state, and it's where Shawnee earns its mountain reputation. The system is built as a big loop that a connector splits into a **21-mile North Loop** and a **28-mile South Loop**, with a 10-mile Wilderness Side Trail hanging off the south end. Mix and match and you can put together hikes of 21, 28, 38, 45, or even 50 miles. The climbs and drops run over 400 feet at a stretch — modest next to the real Smokies, but relentless when they come one after another after another. Hikers training for the Appalachian Trail come here on purpose, precisely because it doesn't let up. The trailhead is off OH-125, about 6.6 miles in from US-52, with paved parking and an information kiosk right where you turn into the park. Permits are self-issued and free at the trailhead, and there are seven backcountry camp areas spaced along the route. Water is trucked into cisterns near most of the camps, but treat or filter anything you pull from a stream, and check conditions before you go — the cisterns aren't guaranteed. Orange blazes mark the way; they're not lavish, so keep your eyes up at junctions. I'll be straight with you: this is not a casual hike, and it's not the place to learn backpacking. The terrain is steep, the navigation takes attention, and summer down here is hot and seriously humid — that famous blue haze is made of water in the air, and you'll feel every bit of it on a climb. But if you're ready for it, there's nowhere else in Ohio that delivers this much wilderness, this many ridge views, this much quiet. You can walk for hours and see nobody. ## How to take it on without getting in over your head I don't want to scare anyone off the Backpack Trail — I want you to respect it and then go do it. So here's how I'd ease into it. Start with a single overnight, not a multi-day epic. The North Loop at 21 miles can be broken into a comfortable two-day trip if you camp partway, and that's a far saner first bite than committing to the 50-mile combination. Hike in to one of the backcountry camps, sleep, and hike out the next day. You'll get a real taste of the terrain and learn how your legs handle those 400-foot climbs before you bet a long weekend on them. Carry more water than feels reasonable. The cisterns near the camps are filled by truck and aren't guaranteed, so plan to treat or filter stream water as a backup, and never count on a single source. In summer especially, the heat and humidity down here pull water out of you fast — that blue haze is moisture in the air, and you'll sweat through a shirt on the first climb. Go in spring or fall if you can swing it. The bugs are lighter, the air is cooler, and the views open up as the leaves thin. If summer's your only window, start at dawn and bank your miles before the afternoon heat lands. And tell someone your route. The forest is big and the blazes are sparse at junctions, so a map, a charged phone, and a friend who knows your plan are non-negotiable. Do those few things and Shawnee shifts from intimidating to unforgettable. ## What makes this corner of Ohio different The geology is the why. Shawnee sits on the Appalachian Plateau, shaped by the same forces that built the Appalachian Mountains — just less of it. The result is a landscape of erosion-carved valleys and wooded hills that feels nothing like the glacier-flattened farmland most of us picture when we think "Ohio." The forest is big and unbroken enough to function like real backcountry, and it shelters wildlife you won't bump into up north: this is some of the best black-bear and bobcat habitat in the state, and the spring wildflower and warbler shows down here are legendary. If you're patient and quiet, the wildlife rewards you. Shawnee is one of the strongholds for Ohio's returning black bears, and bobcats den in these hills too — you almost certainly won't see either, but knowing they're out there changes how the woods feel. The spring warbler migration draws birders from across the state, and on a May morning the canopy can be loud with a dozen species you'd struggle to find anywhere up north. Wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, and the occasional timber rattlesnake round out the cast. This is the wildest forest most Ohioans will ever walk in. There's history layered in, too. These were the hunting grounds of the Shawnee people long before any of it was a park, and the name is a nod to that. Standing on a high ridge at dusk, watching the haze pool in the valleys, it's not hard to understand why this country mattered to the people who knew it first. ## If you've only got a day Plenty of people will never strap on a backpack, and Shawnee still has a great day in it for them. Here's how I'd play it. Drive down in the morning and go straight up to the lodge first, just for the view — stand on the overlook, let the ridges and the haze do their work, and take the photo that'll make your friends doubt you're still in Ohio. From there, walk one of the shorter park trails near the lodge or the lakes to stretch your legs in the woods without committing to a climb. Keep an eye on the blazes so the disc golf course doesn't lure you off-route. Then spend the afternoon at the water: swim at Roosevelt Lake or Turkey Creek Lake, or put a kayak in and paddle the quiet coves. Pack a picnic, because the beaches and shelters are carry-in, carry-out, and there aren't trash cans out there. Cap the day with an early dinner at the lodge restaurant before the two-hour drive home, or — better — book a room or a cabin and stay the night so you can catch the haze settling into the valleys at dusk. A day trip works. An overnight is the version you'll keep thinking about. ## Tips and seasonal notes - **Respect the Backpack Trail.** It's widely treated as among the hardest hiking in Ohio. Don't make it your first overnight, carry more water than you'd expect to need, and tell someone your route. - **Summer is hot and humid.** Start early, hydrate hard, and use the lakes — a swim at Roosevelt or Turkey Creek is the reward at the end of a sweaty climb. - **Dogs stay off the beaches.** They're welcome on leash on the trails, but not on the swimming beaches, so plan accordingly. - **Check in with the offices.** The park office and the forest office keep tabs on trail and road conditions; a quick call before a long drive can save you a closed-trail headache. - **Make it a weekend.** Two hours is a real drive from Columbus. With a lodge, cabins, and a campground on site, Shawnee rewards staying over far more than a rushed day trip. ## Worth the drive south I came to Shawnee a skeptic and left a believer. Ohio doesn't get enough credit for its southern hill country — everybody treks to Hocking Hills and stops there — but down past Portsmouth, where the ridges stack up and the haze rolls in, there's a wilder, lonelier, more mountainous version of the state waiting. Whether you want a gentle lakeside stroll and an afternoon swim or a brutal fifty-mile loop that'll humble your legs, the Little Smokies can hand it to you. Pack for the heat, plan around the lakes, and give yourself more time than you think you'll need. Some places you visit. Shawnee, you earn — and that's exactly what makes it stick with you. > 🥾 ## Nearby trails to explore - [Zaleski State Forest](https://hiking-ohio.com/zaleski-state-forest/): another big southern-Ohio backpacking loop - [Wayne National Forest](https://hiking-ohio.com/wayne-national-forest/): Ohio's only national forest - [Hocking Hills State Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/hocking-hills-state-park-every-trail-ranked/): every trail ranked - [King's Hollow Tunnel](https://hiking-ohio.com/kings-hollow/): a ghost-town hike in Zaleski - [Ohio Waterfall Hikes](https://hiking-ohio.com/ohio-waterfall-hikes-7-best-trails-to-chase-cascades/): seven best trails to chase cascades ### Hueston Woods State Park: Old-Growth & Fossil Trail Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/hueston-woods-state-park/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:52.000Z There's a stand of trees near Oxford, Ohio that has never been logged. Not once. Not by the Huestons who farmed around it for four generations, not by the state that bought it in 1941, not by anybody. Walk into the old-growth core of Hueston Woods on a hot afternoon and the temperature drops a real, measurable few degrees the moment the canopy closes over you. The beeches are enormous, smooth and gray as elephant skin. The light comes down green and broken. I stood in there last summer with my hand on a tree that was probably old when Ohio became a state, and I'll be honest — I didn't say anything for a while. Hueston Woods is one of those Ohio parks that quietly out-punches its reputation. Most people in Columbus drive right past it on the way to somewhere flashier. But this is a 3,000-acre state park wrapped around a lake, with a 200-acre National Natural Landmark old-growth forest at its heart, some of the best fossil hunting in the Midwest, and forty-plus miles of trails. It's about an hour and a half southwest of Columbus, near Oxford, and it makes one of the best summer day trips in the state. **Trail at a Glance — Hueston Woods State Park** - **Distance:** 40+ miles of trails; the marquee loops run 1 to 3 miles - **Difficulty:** Easy to moderate — gentle terrain, some roots near the lake - **Best season:** Summer for shade and fossils; spring for wildflowers - **Dogs:** Leashed dogs welcome on trails - **Highlights:** Old-growth forest, fossil hunting, Acton Lake, covered bridge - **Location:** Near Oxford, Butler and Preble counties, Ohio ## Getting there and where to start Hueston Woods sits about five miles northeast of Oxford, which puts it roughly 90 minutes from Columbus, 45 from Dayton or Cincinnati. Wikipedia lists the park at **2,936 acres** (often rounded to nearly 3,000), including the 625-acre lake (as of September 2026). Admission is free, like all Ohio state parks. **Park office:** 6301 Park Office Road, College Corner, OH 45003; phone (513) 523-6347\. Confirm hours and alerts on the [ODNR Hueston Woods page](https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/hueston-woods-state-park?ref=hiking-ohio.com) (property page intermittently 404'd from this runner — re-check at Ghost push). The best home base is the **nature center**, which has live animals, a raptor rehab area, and — this is the part kids lose their minds over — fossil displays and regular fossil hunts. Park there and you're within striking distance of the old-growth trails and the lakeshore both. If you're making a day of it, the resort lodge, marina, campground, and an 18-hole golf course are all on site, so you can hike in the morning, swim in the afternoon, and sleep there if you don't feel like driving home. There's even a full paintball field, which I did not expect from a state park and have not yet worked up the nerve to try. ## The trails The trail network here is genuinely big — over forty miles when you count everything — but the hikes most people come for are short, shady loops in the old-growth core. The named trails you'll see on the map include **Cedar Falls, Sycamore, Pine Loop, Mud Lick, West Shore, and Sugar Bush**, plus connectors like Hedgerow, Maple Grove, and the Acton Lake trails. A long-distance route, the American Discovery Trail, also threads through the park if you want to chain things together. For a first visit, I'd point you at the old-growth. The **Sugar Bush** and **Big Woods** area trails wind through that 200-acre climax forest of beech and sugar maple — the stand that earned National Natural Landmark status back in 1967\. The trails are mostly flat and easy, the footing is soft, and the canopy is so complete that even in July it feels like walking through a cool green cathedral. Go slow. Look up. The big trees here are the whole reason this park exists. **Cedar Falls** is the short walk to the park's modest waterfall — not a Hocking Hills cascade, but a pretty seasonal drop that runs best after rain. Down along **Acton Lake**, the **West Shore** and shoreline trails give you water views, more sun, and good odds on herons and turtles. The terrain near the lake gets a little rootier and rolls a bit, but nothing here is hard. This is a park where a family with young kids and a retiree with trekking poles are both perfectly at home. ## What "old growth" actually means We throw the phrase "old-growth forest" around a lot, so it's worth slowing down on what it really means, because Hueston Woods is one of the only places in Ohio you can stand inside the real thing. When European settlers arrived, most of Ohio was covered in forest like this. Then almost all of it got cut — for farms, for timber, for towns. By some estimates, less than one percent of Ohio's original forest survived. The 200-acre core at Hueston Woods is a piece of that one percent: a beech-maple climax forest that reached its mature, self-sustaining balance centuries ago and was simply never logged. That's why the National Park Service designated it a National Natural Landmark back in 1967. The difference is something you feel before you can explain it. The trees are bigger than you're used to — beeches and sugar maples three and four feet across, their trunks running straight up before the first branch. The canopy is so complete that the forest floor stays cool and open and shaded, carpeted with ferns and spring wildflowers instead of the tangled brush you get in younger woods. There are standing dead trees and big fallen logs left to rot, which look messy until you realize they're the whole point — that decay is what feeds the next four hundred years. It's a forest doing what a forest does when nobody interferes, and there's almost nowhere else in the state to witness it. I tell people to walk these trails slowly and quietly, the way you'd move through an old library. Touch a beech. Look for the woodpecker holes. Listen. This is the closest most of us will ever get to seeing the Ohio that existed before the plows. ## The fossils are the secret Here's the thing almost nobody tells you about Hueston Woods: you can take fossils home. Legally. Encouraged, even. The bedrock here is Ordovician limestone and shale, laid down when this whole part of Ohio sat at the bottom of a warm, shallow sea something like 450 million years ago. That sea was crawling with life, and the rock is absolutely packed with the evidence — brachiopods, bryozoans, horn corals, snails, and if you're lucky, the curled-up shapes of trilobites. The park has designated fossil-collecting areas, and the nature center runs fossil hunts where a naturalist shows you what you're looking at. Bring an empty egg carton and a little patience, and your kids will fill it in twenty minutes. I'm a hiker first and a rock nerd a distant second, but I've never left Hueston Woods without pocketing a brachiopod or two. There's something genuinely humbling about holding a 450-million-year-old animal you picked up off a creek bank in Butler County. It reframes the whole hike. ## A lake, a covered bridge, and some history The water at the center of all this is **Acton Lake**, a 625-acre reservoir formed in 1956 when the state dammed Four Mile Creek. It's named for Cloyd Acton, the Preble County legislator who talked Ohio into buying the Hueston land in the first place. ODNR allows boats of any motor size on Acton Lake but restricts speed to **no wake** (as of September 2026) — which keeps the lake quiet and friendly for kayaks, canoes, and lazy pontoon afternoons rather than roaring ski runs. There's a swimming beach, a marina, and plenty of bank fishing. The history of the place is worth knowing. The state bought the Hueston farmland in 1941 and ran it for years as a state forest, even using part of it as a prison honor camp in the 1950s before the lake went in and it was redesignated a state park. Just outside the park, the **Hueston Woods Covered Bridge** — a 108-foot Burr-arch span over Four Mile Creek, finished in 2012 — is a photogenic stop, and the mid-1800s **Doty Homestead** brick farmhouse nearby runs as a small history museum. If you've got history buffs in the car, you can stitch a real afternoon out of it. For birders, the mix of mature forest, lake, and meadow pulls in over 200 recorded species — migrating songbirds through the old-growth in spring and fall, waterfowl on Acton Lake in the colder months. The park has long been known for nesting bald eagles around the lake, and the nature center's raptor rehabilitation program means you can often get a close look at owls, hawks, and eagles that can't be released back to the wild. It's one of the better places in southwest Ohio to introduce a kid to birds of prey without a long drive or a pair of high-powered binoculars. ## How I'd spend a summer day here If you've never been and you want a plan, here's the one I'd hand you. Start at the nature center mid-morning, before the heat builds. Catch a fossil program if one's running, or just grab a trail map and ask the staff where the collecting areas are. Then walk the old-growth loops while the air is still cool under that big canopy — give yourself an hour to really be in it, not just pass through. By early afternoon, head down to a designated fossil-collecting area near the lake or a creek bank and let everybody hunt. Twenty minutes in, somebody will shout because they found a horn coral, and the next forty minutes will disappear. Pocket your finds, then cool off at the Acton Lake beach or rent a kayak from the marina — the no-wake rule keeps the water calm and pleasant for paddling. If there's time left, drive out to the Hueston Woods Covered Bridge for a few photos, or swing by the Doty Homestead if the history museum's open. That's a full, varied day for a family or a couple of friends, and you've barely scratched the park's forty-plus miles of trails. It's the kind of place that quietly justifies a return trip before you've even left. ## Tips and seasonal notes - **Summer is the move.** That old-growth canopy makes Hueston Woods one of the most comfortable hot-weather hikes in the state — real shade, cooler air, and the lake right there when you want to cool off. - **Bring something to carry fossils.** An egg carton, a zip bag, anything. You'll want it. Collect only in the designated areas, and check the current nature-center rules. - **Watch the lake-edge roots.** The shoreline trails are easy but rooty in spots. Decent shoes beat flip-flops. - **Make it an overnight.** With a lodge, cabins, and a campground on site, Hueston Woods rewards a slower visit. Hike, swim, hunt fossils, repeat. - **Spring for wildflowers, fall for color.** The beech-maple forest puts on a show in both shoulder seasons if you can swing a return trip. ## Why it's worth the drive Ohio has bigger waterfalls and more dramatic gorges, and I've written about plenty of them. What Hueston Woods has is something rarer and quieter: a piece of forest that nobody ever cut, sitting on top of a sea floor full of ancient animals, wrapped around a calm lake where the boats can't go fast. It's a park that rewards curiosity more than it rewards mileage. I've hauled friends out here who grumbled about the drive and then spent forty-five minutes hunched over a creek bank arguing about whether they'd found a trilobite. That's the Hueston Woods effect. You come for a hike and leave with a pocket full of 450-million-year-old shells and a new appreciation for trees older than the country. Pack the egg carton. Bring the kids. Make a day of it. > 🥾 ## Nearby trails to explore - [John Bryan State Park and Clifton Gorge](https://hiking-ohio.com/john-bryan-state-park-clifton-gorge-yellow-springs-ohio/): limestone gorge near Yellow Springs - [Caesar Creek State Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/caesar-creek-state-park-and-pioneer-village/): more fossils and big lake trails - [Best Hikes Near Dayton, Ohio](https://hiking-ohio.com/best-hikes-near-dayton-ohio-10-trails-and-day-trips/): trails and day trips - [Best Hikes Near Cincinnati, Ohio](https://hiking-ohio.com/best-hikes-near-cincinnati-ohio-10-trails-and-day-trips/): trails and day trips - [Ohio Waterfall Hikes](https://hiking-ohio.com/ohio-waterfall-hikes-7-best-trails-to-chase-cascades/): seven best trails to chase cascades ### Conkle's Hollow State Nature Preserve URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/conkles-hollow-state-nature-preserve/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:30.000Z Conkle’s Hollow is notable for its deep, narrow gorge with cliffs over 200 feet high, dense hardwood forests, and wildflowers, making it one of the most scenic and challenging hiking destinations in the Hocking Hills. The deep, cool gorge, which is only 100 feet wide in places and is considered by some to be the deepest in Ohio, has numerous waterfalls cascading over its sandstone cliffs. The cliff tops with their magnificent overlooks and the quiet gorge beneath offer visitors an opportunity to explore different habitats, each with its own unique plant and animal communities. It was purchased in 1925 by the state of Ohio in order to preserve its scenic beauty. In 1977, the site was dedicated as a state nature preserve. --- ### **Reason for the name** Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve (Hocking Hills region — adjacent to the state park, not a standard park trail), Ohio, is named after **W.J. Conkle**, an early visitor to the area who carved his name and the date **1797** into the sandstone wall of the gorge in that year. If you look carefully on the west wall, you can still see his inscription, a tangible connection to Ohio's history. --- ### **Local Legend** The site is steeped in local legends. One well-known tale tells of a group of Native Americans who raided a flotilla of settlers on the Ohio River and stashed the stolen goods in a recess on the west wall of the gorge. They carved an arrow pointing toward the hidden spot, which could only be reached by climbing a hemlock tree. Years later, when they came back, the tree had fallen, and the treasure remains lost to this day. Though the arrow carving has worn away, the story still lingers among locals. --- ### Geology About 350 million years ago, this portion of Ohio lay under the waters of a vast inland ocean. Rivers flowed into this ancient sea and carried sands. Then deposited them in large wide deltas much like the present-day delta at the mouth of the Mississippi River. Over millions of years, these sand deltas were buried by finer textured silt and clay sediments. Eventually these sedimentary deposits were compressed to form a thick hard layer of sandy textured rock, now referred to as Black Hand sandstone. --- ### **Location and Visitor Information** Conkle's Hollow is located near Rockbridge, Ohio, about 3 miles north of Old Man's Cave. **Address:** 24858 Big Pine Road, Rockbridge, OH 43149 **Size:** about **87 acres** (as of September 2026) **GPS Coordinates:** 39.4529, -82.5721 **Distance from Columbus:** Approximately 50 miles (about 1 hour) **Hours (as of September 2026):** Dawn to dusk / follow ODNR preserve hours — typically aligned with daylight trail use. Phone often routed via Hocking Hills **(740) 385-6842**. **Official:** [ODNR Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve](https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/conkles-hollow-state-nature-preserve?ref=hiking-ohio.com) (property URL intermittently 404'd from this runner) **Important — No Pets Allowed:** Because Conkle's Hollow is a state nature preserve (not a regular state park trail), dogs and other pets are NOT permitted on the trails. --- ### Trails ![Conkle's Hollow trail map](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/05/1780004446107-map%20conkle.webp) ODNR notes Conkles Hollow has **two trails totaling about 3.5 miles**; a portion of the Gorge Trail is wheelchair accessible (as of September 2026). Two Trails, Two Very Different Experiences Conkle's Hollow features two unique trail experiences, and both are worth exploring if you have the time. Each offers a completely different perspective of the hollow. **Gorge Trail (Lower Trail)** - **Distance:** about **0.7–1.1 miles** out-and-back (field guides vary; ODNR system total includes both trails) - **Time:** 30 minutes to 1 hour - **Difficulty:** Easy — mostly paved and handicap accessible for most of the route - **Elevation gain:** About 75 feet The Gorge Trail winds along the valley floor, nestled between towering 200-foot cliffs. A paved stretch, nearly half a mile long, makes it easy for the whole family to enjoy, accommodating strollers and wheelchairs, though the pavement stops short of the end. The trail wraps up at a recess cave in a natural box canyon, giving the sense you’ve reached the edge of the world. It’s the perfect route if you’re after that awe-inspiring, cathedral-like feeling of walking between massive stone walls, where the sheer scale makes you feel small in the best way. **Rim Trail (Upper Trail)** - **Distance:** 2.5-mile loop - **Time:** About 2 hours - **Difficulty:** STRENUOUS — steep inclines, uneven steps, exposed cliff edges The Rim Trail winds around the gorge atop the tallest cliffs in the Hocking Hills, offering some of the most breathtaking and dramatic views in Ohio. Along the way, you’ll pass scenic overlooks, catch sight of the seasonal Upper Falls of Conkles Creek, and gaze down into the gorge from thrilling heights. ## **Heads up: The Rim Trail can be risky any time of year. Expect sheer cliff drops of 70 to 100 feet with no guardrails, uneven paths tangled with roots, and steep inclines. It’s not suited for young kids, anyone with balance issues, or those uneasy with heights. Falls from these cliffs have been fatal historically — take cliff edges seriously and stay on the marked trail.** That said, for experienced hikers who respect the dangers, the Rim Trail offers views that are simply unmatched in Ohio. --- ### **Don't Miss These** **The Box Canyon** At the end of the Gorge Trail, you’ll find a natural amphitheater—a box canyon framed by towering cliffs, rocky overhangs, and seasonal waterfalls. It’s an enchanting place, especially in the morning when sunlight streams through the hemlock canopy, lighting up the mist. This is the deepest part of the hollow, with walls soaring more than 200 feet high on three sides. **Upper Falls** Just off the Rim Trail, the Upper Falls of Conkle's Creek is most stunning after a good rain, when water spills over the rocks. In drier times, it might shrink to just a trickle. When flowing, it tumbles down the rock face into the gorge below, offering a breathtaking view from the rim. **The Hemlock Forest** The gorge is home to magnificent eastern hemlocks and other species that thrive in the cool, shaded environment. The deep hollow creates its own microclimate — cooler and more humid than the surrounding forest. This allows boreal species typically found in Canada to grow here in Ohio. Some of these hemlocks are over 200 years old. Unfortunately, many hemlocks are threatened by the hemlock woolly adelgid, an invasive insect. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these ancient trees. **Wildflowers and Ferns** The moist gorge environment supports a rich diversity of ferns and wildflowers. In spring (April-May), look for trillium, bloodroot, and violets. Throughout the year, Christmas ferns and other species carpet the gorge floor. ## ![Conkle's Hollow gorge cliffs](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/05/1780004508213-Conkles_Hollow-1.jpg) ![Conkle's Hollow rim or gorge view](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/05/1780004510108-bs_hh2013_107.jpg) ## --- ### **Conclusion** Conkle’s Hollow stands out from the other Hocking Hills spots. It’s quieter, more intimate, and has that rare slot-canyon vibe that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into another world. The Gorge Trail is great for families or anyone after an easy but awe-inspiring walk, while the Rim Trail offers adventure and incredible views for seasoned hikers ready to put in the effort. Happy hiking! ### Prairie Oaks Metro Park: Trails, Lakes & Dog Beach Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/prairie-oaks-metro-park/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:18:13.000Z Trail FactsPrairie Oaks Metro ParkEasyDifficultySummerDog-friendlyKid-friendly The first time I brought my dog to Prairie Oaks, I made the rookie mistake of forgetting towels. She came out of Darby Bend Lakes looking like a wet otter, grinning the whole way back to the car, and shook half the lake onto my driver's seat. I've never forgotten towels since. That's Prairie Oaks in a nutshell — it's the rare central Ohio park where the dogs are having a better time than anyone, and somehow that energy rubs off on you too. Tucked just north of West Jefferson and stretching toward Hilliard and Plain City, Prairie Oaks is one of the biggest Metro Parks in the Columbus system and one of the easiest to love in summer. Columbus & Franklin County Metro Parks lists the park at **2,291 acres** overall, including nearly 500 acres of restored tallgrass prairie (as of September 2026). A State and National Scenic River runs straight through the middle of it, and a cluster of deep former-quarry lakes turn into the best free swimming-for-dogs and paddling spot in the metro. On a hot July morning, there's nowhere I'd rather start the day. **Visitor info (as of September 2026, Metro Parks):** Main entrance 3225 Plain City-Georgesville Road, West Jefferson, OH; phone 614-208-4321\. Seasonal hours are typically 6:30 a.m.–10 p.m. (April–September) and 6:30 a.m.–8 p.m. (October–March). Confirm current hours and closures on the [official Prairie Oaks page](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/prairie-oaks/?ref=hiking-ohio.com). **Trail at a Glance — Prairie Oaks Metro Park** - **Distance:** 16 miles of trails total; most loops run 0.5 to 3.5 miles - **Difficulty:** Easy — flat, wide, beginner- and stroller-friendly - **Best season:** Summer for water and prairie bloom; spring and fall for cool walking - **Dogs:** Yes — on leash on trails, off-leash at the Doggie Beach - **Highlights:** Big Darby Creek, prairie wildflowers, quarry lakes, an Adena mound - **Location:** West Jefferson, Madison and Franklin counties, Ohio ## Getting there and which entrance to pick Prairie Oaks is one of those parks where the entrance you choose changes your whole day, so it's worth a second of planning. There are five of them. If you want the lakes, the beach, and the dog swim — which in summer is most people — aim for the **Darby Bend Lakes entrance at 2755 Amity Road**. That's the closest lot to the water, and it's where I park nine times out of ten. The other gates each have a personality. **Beaver Lake (8921 Lucas Road)** is the quiet paddling pond. The **Darby Creek Boat Ramp (4275 Amity Road)** is your put-in if you're floating Big Darby. The **main entrance at 3225 Plain City-Georgesville Road** drops you near the prairie and shelters. And **Sycamore Plains (2009 Amity Road)** opens onto the tallgrass loops. The park sits right off I-70 west of the outerbelt, which makes it one of the faster escapes from the city — I've been boots-on-trail twenty-five minutes after leaving downtown. ## The trails Don't come to Prairie Oaks expecting climbs and overlooks. This is flat, glacier-flattened Darby Plains country, and the hiking here is about openness and water, not elevation. The flip side is that almost everyone can do these trails — little kids, grandparents, a stroller, a dog that's more enthusiasm than stamina. **Darby Creek Greenway Trail** is the spine of the park. It's a 3.5-mile crushed-gravel path, ADA-accessible and open to bikes, running from the north end down toward I-70 and linking most of the other trails along the way. If you only have time for one route, walk a stretch of this out and back along the water. I usually pick it up at Darby Bend Lakes and follow it west until it crosses Big Darby on the bridge, which is the best free view in the park. **River Rock Trail** is a 0.6-mile near-loop around one of the Darby Bend Lakes. It doesn't quite close on its own — it ties into the Greenway to bring you back — but it's a gentle, pretty 20-minute leg-stretcher right by the water, perfect before or after a swim. **Lake View and Mound Trails** add up to about 0.9 miles and hold the park's quiet surprise: a Native American burial mound built by the Adena culture, who lived along these creeks more than two thousand years ago. You walk a flat path around a low grassy rise that people were shaping into a sacred place when Rome was still a republic. The Adena were the mound builders of this region, the same culture responsible for the more famous earthworks scattered across southern Ohio, and finding one of their mounds tucked into a Metro Park between a quarry lake and a soybean field is a strange and good reminder of how deep human history runs here. The Metro Parks system doesn't make a circus of it, and I appreciate that. There's no gift shop, no big interpretive plaza — just a sign, a mound, and the trees. Stand there a second before you move on. **Sycamore Plains, Osage Orange, and Tall Grass Trails** total around 2.2 miles through the heart of the restored prairie. This is where you go in July and August when the big bluestem is over your head and the coneflowers are out. **Alder Trail** is a half-mile connector that ties the lakes area to the prairie loops if you want to stitch a longer day together. There's also **Beaver Lake Trail** at about 0.9 miles around its namesake pond, and a couple of bridle and cross-country-ski paths that the park reserves for those uses in season. String a few together and you can easily put in five or six flat miles without repeating yourself. ## My go-to morning loop If you want a route instead of a menu, here's the one I run most weekends. Park at Darby Bend Lakes, off Amity Road. Start west on the Darby Creek Greenway with the lakes on your left, and let the dog burn off the car ride. In about ten minutes you'll reach the bridge over Big Darby Creek — stop there. Lean on the rail. The water runs clear over gravel, and on a calm morning you'll often see fish holding in the current and a heron working the far bank. From the bridge, loop back and tie into the River Rock Trail to circle one of the quarry lakes, then cut over toward the Mound Trail to pay a quiet visit to the Adena mound before heading back to the lot. That whole circuit runs a flat, easy three miles or so and hits the park's three best things — creek, lakes, and mound — without ever feeling like work. Finish at the Doggie Beach and let the dog cash in. Door to door, it's a two-hour morning, and I've never once regretted it. If you've got more time and more legs, push south on the Greenway or add the Sycamore Plains prairie loops for another couple of miles. The beauty of Prairie Oaks is that you can dial the day up or down on the fly. ## The water is the whole point in summer Here's what makes Prairie Oaks different from every other Metro Park: the lakes are deep, clean former quarry pits, and the park leans into them. The **Doggie Beach at Darby Bend Lakes** is an honest-to-goodness off-leash dog swim, and on a warm weekend it's pure joy — labs launching off the bank, a few brave terriers paddling out after tennis balls, everybody soaked and happy. If you have a water dog, this is the central Ohio destination. Just, again, bring towels. And maybe a second towel. You can also **kayak and canoe** on Beaver Lake and Darby Bend Lakes, and there's a canoe access point to Big Darby Creek itself over at 4275 Amity Road in Hilliard. Big Darby is a genuine prize — a State and National Scenic River, one of the most biologically diverse streams in the Midwest, home to dozens of species of freshwater mussels and fish you won't find in a polluted creek. Floating it on a slow summer afternoon, watching the water clear over gravel bars, you start to understand why so much effort went into protecting this watershed. ## What's actually living out here The "prairie" in Prairie Oaks isn't decoration. It's a restoration — nearly 500 acres replanted from seed collected on the Darby Plains, an effort to bring back the tallgrass ecosystem that covered this part of Ohio before the plows. Walk the Sycamore Plains loops in mid-to-late summer and you'll see why it matters: purple coneflower, black-eyed Susan, towering big bluestem and prairie dock, and the bees and butterflies that all of it feeds. It hums, literally. The birds follow the habitat. Because Prairie Oaks layers prairie, woodland, lakes, and a scenic river all in one place, it pulls in a wide mix — grassland sparrows and bobolinks out in the tall grass, herons and kingfishers along the creek, waterfowl on the lakes. Bring binoculars and you'll fill a checklist fast. It's no accident that birders treat this stretch of the Darby Plains, including neighboring Battelle Darby Creek, as one of the best birding corridors in central Ohio. And then there's the creek itself. Big Darby and its sister stream, Little Darby, are protected as both State and National Scenic Rivers, and that designation is earned. The Darby system is one of the most biologically diverse streams of its size anywhere in the Midwest — home to dozens of species of freshwater mussels and well over a hundred kinds of fish, several of them rare or endangered. Mussels are the part that always gets me. They're easy to overlook, but a healthy mussel bed is one of the surest signs of clean water, and the Darby has some of the best left in the state. When you stand on that bridge and look down at gravel you can actually see through, you're looking at the payoff of decades of work to keep this watershed from going the way of so many other Ohio creeks. Prairie Oaks isn't just a pretty place to walk the dog. It's a working piece of one of Ohio's best conservation stories. ## Tips and seasonal notes A few things I've learned the hard way out here: - **Summer means sun.** These trails are flat and lovely, but they're also wide open. There's very little shade on the prairie loops, so go early, wear a hat, and carry more water than you think you need. - **Mornings beat afternoons.** The dog beach and the lakes get busy on warm weekends. Show up by 9 and you'll have elbow room and softer light. - **Bug spray from June on.** Prairie and creek means mosquitoes and ticks. Spray your ankles, check yourself after, and you'll be fine. - **It's a swimming-dog park, not a swimming-people park.** The dog beach is for pups. Bring the kayak if you want to be on the water yourself. - **Pair it with Battelle Darby Creek.** The two parks sit minutes apart on the same scenic river, and Battelle Darby has the bison herd. Make it a full Darby Plains day. ## Why I keep coming back I've hiked a lot of central Ohio, and Prairie Oaks isn't the most dramatic park on my list. There's no gorge, no waterfall, no ridgeline. What it has is a kind of easy generosity — flat trails anybody can walk, water for the dogs, a real river you can float, prairie that's loud with bees, and a two-thousand-year-old mound that quietly reminds you people have been drawn to this exact bend in the creek for a very long time. It's the park I recommend when somebody tells me they want to start hiking but aren't sure they're "outdoorsy." You can do as little as a half-mile stroll or as much as a six-mile prairie-and-lakes day, and either way you'll come home with a wet dog and a good morning behind you. Just don't forget the towels. I'm serious about the towels. > 🥾 ## Nearby trails to explore - [Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/battelle-darby-creek-metro-park/): bison, prairie, and the same scenic creek - [Heritage Trail Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/heritage-trail-metro-park/): a paved rail-trail through Hilliard - [Homestead Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/homestead-metro-park/): quiet prairie and pond loops nearby - [Glacier Ridge Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/glacier-ridge-metro-park/): wetlands and an observation tower - [Best Hikes Near Columbus, Ohio](https://hiking-ohio.com/best-hikes-near-columbus-ohio-15-trails-worth-your-weekend/): 15 trails worth your weekend ### I Got a Free Year of Komoot. Here's My Honest First Take as an Ohio Hiker. URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/komoot-first-take-ohio-hiker/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:56.000Z *Disclosure, up front and in plain sight: komoot reached out and handed me a free year of their Premium plan to try it. I took it. Read everything below with one eyebrow raised — that's the honest way to read a review that started with a freebie.* > **⏱️ The quick version** A European trail-planning app emailed me because of my Ohio bison guide and gave me a year of Premium for free. I've spent two weeks poking at it. The planning tools are a real leap over the Google Maps fumbling I've done for years — but the company behind it was gutted by new owners in 2025, and its U.S. trail coverage is thinner than its European reputation. **Verdict so far: impressed, a little nervous, and very glad I'm not paying yet.** There's a spot at **Battelle Darby Creek** where the trail runs along a fence line, and on the other side of that fence, more often than not, there are bison. Actual bison. In Ohio. Twenty minutes from a Kroger. The first time I took my seven-year-old out there, we stood at that fence for a solid ten minutes while I tried to work out — on Google Maps, like an amateur — which of the trails ahead would loop us back to the car without tacking on a couple of miles neither of us had the legs for. Google Maps had no idea. A gray void, a thin dashed line, and a blue dot that was, allegedly, me. No elevation. No surface. No *"this one dead-ends at the creek."* Just vibes. We guessed wrong, the way you always do, and the *"are we there yet?"* started somewhere around the prairie. ![Bison grazing close to the pasture fence at Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park](https://cdn.llitd.com/ghost-images/blog-hiking/2026/06/komoot-battelle-darby-bison-featured.jpg) *This is the fence we stood at. The bison were in no hurry; the seven-year-old was. Photo: [Nheyob](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Nheyob?ref=hiking-ohio.com) via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.* I've used Google Maps for hiking the way you'd use a butter knife as a screwdriver: it technically works, right up until it really, really doesn't. So when an actual trail app showed up in my inbox, I paid attention. ## The honest part A woman named **Fede, from komoot**, emailed me. Not a form letter — she'd read my guide to the Columbus metro parks and quoted my own line about the Darby Creek Greenway threading between the two bison pastures right back to me. (Reader, I am not made of stone. Flattery works.) komoot — lowercase *k*, they're European and committed to the bit — is a route-planning app that's enormous with cyclists and long-distance hikers across the Atlantic. The pitch came with a gift: **a free year of komoot Premium, no strings.** Just try it and tell people what you think. I took the free year. I'm telling you that in the first hundred words because *"here's a free thing, now go love it in public"* is exactly the arrangement that should make you suspicious of everything that follows. > So stay suspicious. I'll try to earn it back. ## Library vs. planner: what komoot actually is Most American hikers have an **AllTrails-shaped hole** in their phone. And AllTrails is great — but it's fundamentally a *library*. You browse trails other people have already walked, and you pick one to follow. komoot is a different animal. komoot is a **planner**. You drop a start and a finish, and it builds the optimal route between them, hands you the elevation profile, and tells you the surface — paved, gravel, dirt, singletrack — *before* you commit a single step. There's a feature called **Trail View** that surfaces real photos of the path, so you can see the mud before you're standing ankle-deep in it. Here's the same trail question, three apps: | What I actually want on a trail | Google Maps | AllTrails | komoot | | ------------------------------- | ----------- | ----------------- | ----------------------------- | | Where am I, exactly? | Sort of | Yes | Yes | | What's the surface ahead? | No clue | Sometimes | **Yes — Trail View** | | Plan my *own* custom loop | No | Limited | **Its whole reason to exist** | | Works with zero signal | No | Paid add-on | **Yes — Premium, worldwide** | | Trail conditions *this week* | No | **Best in class** | Thin in the U.S. | For someone who keeps guessing wrong at trail junctions, that third row is the entire ballgame. ## The stuff that genuinely won me over I went in skeptical. A few things flipped me anyway — and since I'm supposed to be the suspicious one here, take it as meaningful that I'm enthusiastic about *any* of it. **The planner is the headline.** Even just poking at it — dropping a pin, watching komoot propose a route with the elevation and the surface already attached — did more for me than Google Maps has managed in years. I'm a control freak about my own routes, and this is the first tool that lets me *build* one instead of just borrowing someone else's. ![Bison on the ridge under a wide sky, Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park](https://cdn.llitd.com/ghost-images/blog-hiking/2026/06/komoot-bd-bison-ridge.jpg) *The whole reason I want to nail the route here is so I'm watching this, not my phone. Photo: [Nheyob](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Nheyob?ref=hiking-ohio.com) via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.* **The free year of Premium unlocks the parts I'd actually pay for:** - 🗺️ **Offline maps for the entire world** — so the dead zone past the Darby prairie stops mattering. komoot recently made offline smarter, too: it now saves the Highlight photos and the upcoming points along your route, not just the lines. - ⛰️ **Official USGS topographic maps** as a U.S. layer — real government topo data, not a guess stitched together from community uploads. This is the one that surprised me most. - 🧭 **A multi-day planner** that breaks a long route into daily chunks and even suggests places to stay — for the someday-weekend when I finally get ambitious. - 🌦️ **Weather along the route**, not just "weather in the nearest town." - ⌚ **It plays nicely with watches** — there's a proper offline Apple Watch app now, plus live sync to Garmin, including a slick "Up Ahead" that tells your wrist how far to the next viewpoint or water stop. **And one small thing I didn't expect to love:** komoot's rerouting is *forgiving*. Wander off the path and it quietly finds you a way **forward** back onto the route, instead of barking *"turn around"* at you like a disappointed parent. If you've ever been scolded by a GPS, you know exactly how nice that is. ## First impressions, since that's all I can honestly claim I've spent a couple of weeks poking at it. **Planning, not yet walking** — the account is two weeks old, and I'm not going to pretend I've thru-hiked Ohio with it. So, honestly: It's clean, but it's **not AllTrails-clean.** The interface has a slightly older, more European feel — a few more menus, a little more to learn before it gets out of your way. There's a genuine learning curve, and I won't pretend the first ten minutes were love at first tap. ![Fog rising over the meadow and mowed trail at Battelle Darby Creek](https://cdn.llitd.com/ghost-images/blog-hiking/2026/06/komoot-bd-darby-fog.jpg) *The kind of morning where you really want to know which mowed line through the grass is the actual trail. Photo: [Sixflashphoto](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Sixflashphoto?ref=hiking-ohio.com) via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.* But it rewards the patience. Even just exploring the planner around Battelle Darby, I could see the climbs before my legs would have to find them. The community **"Highlights"** — little pins where other users flagged a view or a good photo spot — are charming and occasionally useless, the way community features always are. There's even a **ChatGPT tie-in** now where you ask for routes in plain English; I tried it, found it mildly magical, then went back to doing it by hand, because, again: control freak. > **Ease of use, in one line:** harder than AllTrails to *start*, better than anything I've used to actually *plan*. ## Now the part a real review has to include Free year or not, I'm worried about two things — and so should you be, if you're eyeing a subscription once my freebie runs dry. **Worry #1: longevity.** In **March 2025, komoot was bought by Bending Spoons** — an Italian company that also owns Evernote, WeTransfer, and Meetup. Within weeks of the sale, they laid off something like **eighty percent** of komoot's staff, including most of the people who actually built it. The founders, who'd reportedly told their team for years *"we won't sell,"* sold, and walked away with the money. Bending Spoons has a well-documented playbook: buy a beloved app, cut the team to the bone, raise the price, push features behind a bigger paywall — and they've already shipped a redesign and a price bump. So when I ask *"will komoot still be good in three years?"*, I'm not being cynical for sport. I'm reading the room. **Worry #2: quality, specifically here.** komoot is brilliant in the Alps. **Ohio is not the Alps.** Plenty of reviews — and my own gut — say komoot's coverage and routing thin out across North America, sometimes confident enough to route a hiker onto a road or clean off the trail. AllTrails, for all its clutter, still owns the single freshest thing in hiking: a hundred recent strangers telling you the creek crossing washed out *this week.* komoot's U.S. community is thinner. I don't yet know how often it'll be right about a muddy spur trail at Pickerington Ponds. ![Bison herd in the pasture, Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park](https://cdn.llitd.com/ghost-images/blog-hiking/2026/06/komoot-bd-bison-herd.jpg) *Our herd doesn't care who owns the app. Neither, in the end, do I — I care whether the map is right. Photo: [Nheyob](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Nheyob?ref=hiking-ohio.com) via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.* Here's the whole thing on one card: | ✅ What's already winning me | ⚠️ What's making me nervous | | ----------------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------- | | Real route *planning*, not just route-following | New owners gutted the team in 2025 | | Worldwide offline maps + USGS topo | The price has already crept up | | Smart, forgiving rerouting | U.S. coverage thinner than Europe's | | Surface + elevation before you commit | Steeper learning curve than AllTrails | ## My one-month test I don't want to review an app off a couple of evenings on the couch. So here's what I'm actually going to do — and I'll come back and tell you how each one went: 1. **Take komoot back to Battelle Darby Creek** and plan the bison loop properly. The redemption arc this whole thing deserves. 2. **Walk it with the app in my pocket** and find out whether it truly knew where the trail went — or whether it tried to march me into the creek. 3. **Kill my signal on purpose** in the back half of the park and see if the offline maps hold up where Google Maps goes blank. 4. **Run it head-to-head with AllTrails** on a trail I know has a sketchy, conditions-dependent stretch — and see which one was honest with me. 5. **Bring my seven-year-old along** for the real test: do we make it back to the car without a mutiny? Reader, that's the only benchmark that truly matters. ## Where I land (for now) Cautiously optimistic, with a free year to actually find out — which is, conveniently, the entire point of a free year. The planning tools are plainly better than what I've been doing, which is to say better than a butter knife. The offline maps solve a real problem I have in the back half of Ohio's bigger parks. And the worries — the new owners, the thinner American coverage — are real, but **not yet proven against my own boots on my own trails.** ![Autumn forest near the bison range, Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park](https://cdn.llitd.com/ghost-images/blog-hiking/2026/06/komoot-bd-fall-forest.jpg) *Fall comes to the woods by the bison range. I'll have a verdict on komoot before the leaves are all down. Photo: [Sixflashphoto](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Sixflashphoto?ref=hiking-ohio.com) via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.* If you want to poke at it yourself, **the free tier is genuinely usable and costs nothing** — you can plan routes and unlock one region without paying a cent: [**komoot.com**](https://www.komoot.com/?ref=hiking-ohio.com). I'll report back in a month on whether the *Premium* part is worth your money once nobody's handing it out for free. The bison, for the record, do not care which app you use. But my kid's legs do. And so, increasingly, do mine. --- --- ## Related Ohio hiking reads Planning a real route is only half the work. Pair this app take with the on-the-ground [Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park guide](https://hiking-ohio.com/battelle-darby-creek-metro-park/) that started this experiment, and the packing list in my [Ohio day-hike gear checklist](https://hiking-ohio.com/ohio-day-hike-gear-checklist/). For hot-weather loops to test offline maps, start with [summer hiking in Ohio heat and humidity](https://hiking-ohio.com/summer-hiking-ohio-heat-humidity/). *Photo credits: Bison and landscape photographs of Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park by* [*Nheyob*](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Nheyob?ref=hiking-ohio.com) *and* [*Sixflashphoto*](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Sixflashphoto?ref=hiking-ohio.com) *via Wikimedia Commons, licensed* [*CC BY-SA 4.0*](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/?ref=hiking-ohio.com)*. This post discloses a complimentary year of komoot Premium provided by komoot; all opinions are my own.* ### Bank Run Metro Park: Columbus's Newest Park Preview 2026 URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/bank-run-metro-park/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:08.000Z Trail FactsBank Run Metro Park I drove out to Lockbourne on a Tuesday in May, mostly because I couldn't help myself. Columbus is getting a brand-new Metro Park, and the place it's being built on is one I half-remembered from a friend's birthday party decades ago. Bank Run Metro Park sits on the old Hoover YMCA Park grounds off Rohr Road, and standing at the edge of that old limestone quarry, looking down at the water sitting still and green at the bottom, I felt the same thing I felt as a kid: like the afternoon could go on forever and nobody was going to check the time. Here's the honest part, and I want to lead with it so nobody drives out expecting more than is there yet. The trails aren't open. As of September 2026, the natural side of Bank Run — the woods, the fields, the water access, the actual hiking — is still being built, with Metro Parks still pointing visitors to a later-2026 natural-area opening (confirm before you drive). What *is* open is the event center, and a paved 5K loop, and a whole lot of promise. So consider this less a trail guide and more a scouting report. I went, I poked around, I talked to a couple of people, and I came back convinced this one is worth watching. **Visitor info (as of September 2026, Metro Parks):** 1570 Rohr Road, Lockbourne, OH 43137; phone 614-935-1974\. Details and opening updates: [official Bank Run page](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/bank-run/?ref=hiking-ohio.com). **Bank Run at a Glance** - **Location:** 1570 Rohr Rd, Lockbourne, Ohio (between Lockbourne and Obetz, southeast of Columbus) - **System:** Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks — the system's 22nd park - **Open now:** Event center, two indoor lodges, outdoor shelters, a paved 5K loop - **Coming later in 2026 (confirm):** Hiking trails, quarry-lake paddling, fishing, open fields and woods — still listed as not fully open as of September 2026 - **Former life:** Hoover YMCA Park and an adjacent limestone quarry - **Good for:** Keeping an eye on. Big events now, real hiking soon. ## A quarry, a YMCA camp, and a second life Before it was anything official, this land was where a lot of central Ohio kids spent their summers. Long stretches of it were the Hoover YMCA Park — the kind of place where you'd fly down a slide, wander into the trees looking for frogs, and eat a cooler-warmed cake under a shelter while the afternoon melted. Right next door, crews were pulling stone out of a working limestone quarry. Two very different uses of the same patch of Franklin County, sitting side by side for years. The Metro Parks system took the whole thing on and started reimagining it as two connected experiences. One half is built for gathering. The other half, still on the way, is built for getting lost in the good way — fields, woods, water, and the quiet you go to a park to find. I like that they didn't bulldoze the quarry and pretend it was never there. That deep cut in the limestone is going to be the heart of the place. The plan calls for a quarry lake you can actually kayak and paddleboard on, with fishing too. There's something honest about a park that takes an industrial scar and turns it into the best view on the property. Ohio has a few of these reclaimed-quarry parks now — Quarry Trails out on the west side did the same trick — and they tend to become the parks people brag about. ## What's actually open right now The first thing to swing wide was the Bank Run Event Center, and I'll be straight with you: it's a bigger deal than I expected for a Metro Park. We're not talking about a couple of picnic tables and a roof. There are two indoor lodges that each hold up to 99 people, plus outdoor shelters that scale way up — one fits around 120, and the largest can handle close to 300\. There's a stage wired for power, built for concerts and presentations. If you've got a wedding, a reunion, or a nonprofit fundraiser to plan, this is a genuine venue sitting in the middle of green space, and groups are already booking it for 2026 and 2027. For those of us who just want to move, the piece that matters most is the paved 5K loop. It was laid out with races and events in mind, and it's open. The morning I walked part of it, it was flat, smooth, and quiet — the kind of surface that's friendly to strollers, wheelchairs, new runners, and anybody easing back into walking after a rough winter. It's not a wilderness trail. It's a clean, accessible loop with a quarry view, and on a clear day that's plenty. There was a grand-opening preview event on May 16 with a 5K run and walk, live music, and food trucks, and from what I could tell, the whole point was to show the community what the space feels like when it's actually being used. Smart move. A park is easier to love once you've stood in it with a coffee and a band playing. ## The part I'm really waiting for The trails. Obviously the trails. Once the natural side opens, Metro Parks says Bank Run will feel a lot more like the parks people already know — open fields, wooded areas, and water views, with room for walking, running, kayaking, and fishing. The quarry lake is the headline. Paddling a flatwater lake ringed by old quarry walls is a genuinely different central-Ohio experience, and I'll be first in line with a rented kayak the week it opens. There's also a 100-foot slide in the plans — they've been calling it the "Granddaddy Slide" — which is the kind of detail that tells you who this park is really for. Families. Birthday parties. The exact crowd that filled this place when it was the YMCA park. That continuity matters. A lot of new parks feel designed by a committee; this one feels like it remembers what it used to be. I'm not going to pretend I've hiked trails that don't exist yet. When they open, I'll come back, walk every loop, and write the real guide — distances, surfaces, where the good overlooks are, which lot to park in. For now, file Bank Run under "soon," and check the Metro Parks site before you make the drive, because an opening date hadn't been pinned down when I visited. ## Why central Ohio keeps building parks Bank Run isn't arriving alone. It's the 22nd park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system, and its sibling, Great Southern Metro Park on the city's South Side, opened earlier in 2026 as number 21\. Two new Metro Parks in a single year is not normal. So what's going on? Part of it is simple math. Ohio's outdoor-recreation economy is enormous — somewhere around $20 billion a year, supporting well over a hundred thousand jobs across the state. Trails, boat ramps, and campgrounds aren't just nice-to-haves anymore; they're economic engines, and planners have noticed. When a region invests in green space, the visitors and the spending follow. But there's a quieter reason I like better. Both of these new parks are built on land that used to be something else. Great Southern sits on ground that was once a city park and, later, a well-known homeless encampment. Bank Run is a former YMCA park and a working quarry. The system isn't carving new parks out of untouched countryside — it's reclaiming the leftover, used-up, overlooked corners of the county and handing them back to people as something green. Quarry Trails Metro Park on the west side did the same thing a few years ago with an old stone quarry, and it's become one of the most popular parks in the system. That's the lineage Bank Run is stepping into. Take a scarred industrial site, let nature back in, add trails and water access, and watch a neighborhood fall in love with it. It works almost every time. ## Where to hike right now while you wait Here's the thing about waiting: the southeast and south sides of Columbus are loaded with Metro Parks that are open today, and most of them are a short drive from Bank Run. If you've got the itch, point the car at one of these. I've walked all of them, more than once. **Three Creeks Metro Park** is my first pick for this corner of the county. Where Big Walnut, Alum, and Blacklick creeks come together, you get a genuinely big park with flat, easy paved and crushed-gravel trails, good birding along the water, and enough mileage to make a real morning of it. Bring binoculars; the confluence pulls in herons and the occasional bald eagle. **Walnut Woods Metro Park** down in Groveport is the underrated one. The Tall Pines area smells like a north-woods campground in July, and the trails loop through prairie and woodland without ever getting hard. It's a great one for kids who are still building up their hiking legs. **Slate Run Metro Park** near Canal Winchester pairs a quiet wetland boardwalk with a working 1880s living historical farm. You can do a real hike and then go watch draft horses and heritage-breed pigs, which is an easy sell if you're dragging a skeptical family member along. **Pickerington Ponds** is the birding heavyweight — a state-designated important bird area where the trails skirt marsh and open water. Slower-paced, quieter, and worth it if you'd rather watch wildlife than rack up miles. **Chestnut Ridge Metro Park** down toward Carroll is the one to pick if you actually want some elevation — its hilltop boardwalk climbs to one of the few real long-range views in the area, and on a clear day you can see the downtown Columbus skyline floating on the horizon. It's a genuine workout by central-Ohio standards, and a nice contrast to all the flat trails closer in. And **Great Southern Metro Park**, Bank Run's sibling that opened earlier in 2026 over on the South Side, is the closest preview of what new Metro Parks are doing right now. If you want to see how a brand-new park feels, start there. ## Getting there and a few honest notes Bank Run is at 1570 Rohr Road in Lockbourne, tucked between Lockbourne and Obetz on the southeast edge of the metro. From I-270, it's a quick run south, and you'll find it well before you hit the truly rural stretches of Pickaway County. Parking is built out around the event center. A few things to keep in mind on a visit right now: - **The trails are not open yet.** Come for the 5K loop and the quarry overlook, not for a backcountry hike. - **Check before you go.** The natural-area opening was still listed as "later in 2026" when I visited, with no firm date. The Metro Parks website is the place to confirm. - **The event center is bookable.** If you're planning a wedding or a big gathering, this is a real venue — groups can email the park's special-events team to start the process. - **Bring water and sun protection.** That paved loop runs through open, reclaimed ground, and there's not much shade yet. The young trees need a few more summers. I'll admit I left a little impatient. Standing at the rim of that old quarry, watching the light move on the water, it's easy to picture the version of this park that's coming — kayaks out on the lake, kids screaming down a hundred-foot slide, a trail disappearing into trees that are finally tall enough to throw shade. It's not here yet. But it's close, and it's being built with real care, and central Ohio doesn't get a 22nd Metro Park very often. Keep this one on your list. I'll see you out there once the trails open. > 🥾 ## Nearby trails to explore - [Chestnut Ridge Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/chestnut-ridge-metro-park/): a hilltop boardwalk with skyline views - [Three Creeks Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/three-creeks-park/): where three central Ohio creeks meet - [Walnut Woods Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/walnut-woods-metro-park/): prairie and pine in Groveport - [Slate Run Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/slate-run-metro-park-and-living-historical-farm/): wetland boardwalk plus a living historical farm - [Pickerington Ponds](https://hiking-ohio.com/pickerington-ponds-metro-park-and-state-nature-preserve/): central Ohio's birding hotspot - [Great Southern Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/great-southern-metro-park-columbus/): Columbus's other brand-new park ### Kid-Friendly Ohio Hikes: 10 Trails Your Family Will Love URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/kid-friendly-ohio-hikes-10-trails-your-family-will-love/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:18:41.000Z My kids have opinions about hiking. Strong ones. "Are we there yet?" starts about four minutes in. "My legs are tired" follows at minute seven. And if the trail doesn't have something interesting to look at every couple hundred yards — a bridge, a funny tree, a creek they can throw rocks into — I've lost them entirely by the half-mile mark. So I've gotten strategic about it. Not every trail works for kids, and the ones that do aren't always the trails that work for adults. A perfect kid hike is short (under 3 miles), mostly flat, has interesting features along the way, and ideally ends somewhere with a bathroom and a water fountain. Bonus points if there's a playground at the trailhead. Ohio has a surprising number of trails that check all these boxes. Here are the ones my family keeps going back to. --- ## 1\. Inniswood Metro Gardens — Franklin County **Distance:** 2.0 miles | **Difficulty:** Easy | **Elevation:** 50 ft | **Type:** Loop Inniswood is technically a botanical garden, but the path system works as an easy nature walk that holds kids' attention better than most actual hiking trails. The gardens are divided into themed sections — a rock garden, a herb garden, a perennial border, a woodland path — and each one looks different enough that kids feel like they're discovering something new every few minutes. The paths are paved or packed gravel, flat, and stroller-accessible throughout. There are benches everywhere, which matters when someone needs a snack break every ten minutes. The woodland trail section in the back of the park feels more like a traditional hike, with shade trees and wildflowers in spring. No dogs allowed here, which is actually a feature when you're hiking with small kids — no surprise encounters with unfamiliar animals. The gardens are free and the parking lot has restrooms. **Pro tip:** Visit in May for the peak garden displays, or in October when the woodland trail section has excellent fall color. The Sisters' Garden has a fairy garden element that younger kids love. [Read our full Inniswood Metro Gardens guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/inniswood-metro-gardens/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## 2\. Chestnut Ridge Metro Park — Franklin County **Distance:** 2.5 miles | **Difficulty:** Easy | **Elevation:** 150 ft | **Type:** Loop Chestnut Ridge has a playground at the trailhead, which is the secret weapon. You can promise playground time as a reward for completing the loop, and suddenly the hike becomes a motivated march instead of a reluctant shuffle. The trail itself is a nice loop through mixed hardwood forest with gentle hills. There are creek crossings where kids can stop and look for crayfish and salamanders, and the ridge-top section has open views that break up the forest monotony. The trail is wide and well-maintained — no scrambling, no dicey footing, no sections where you need to carry a tired four-year-old. The nature center hosts programs for kids on weekends, and the whole park has a family-oriented feel. You'll see other families with kids on the trails here more than at most other metro parks. **Pro tip:** The creek at the bottom of the ravine is the highlight for most kids. Bring a change of shoes — someone is going to wade in. [Read our full Chestnut Ridge Metro Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/chestnut-ridge-metro-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## 3\. Slate Run Metro Park & Living Historical Farm — Pickaway County **Distance:** 4.0 miles | **Difficulty:** Easy | **Elevation:** 150 ft | **Type:** Loop Slate Run combines a traditional hiking trail with a working 1880s farm, and for kids, the farm is the star attraction. Real farm animals — horses, cows, pigs, chickens — in an authentic historical setting, with costumed interpreters who explain how people lived in the late 1800s. Kids can watch butter being churned, see garden tools that look like they belong in a museum, and pet friendly farm animals. The hiking trails are separate from the farm area and loop through bottomland forest along Slate Run Creek. They're flat, easy, and shaded. You can do a short out-and-back to the farm and back (about a mile) or extend into the full trail system for a longer hike. The combination of nature hike plus interactive farm visit makes this one of the best half-day family outings in central Ohio. Pack a picnic — there are tables near the farm. **Pro tip:** The farm is open year-round but has special seasonal events (maple syrup in March, harvest activities in October). Check the schedule before you go. [Read our full Slate Run Metro Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/slate-run-metro-park-and-living-historical-farm/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ## 4\. Sharon Woods Metro Park — Franklin County **Distance:** 3.8 miles | **Difficulty:** Easy | **Elevation:** 120 ft | **Type:** Loop Sharon Woods is a family classic in central Ohio. The trail system loops through hilly forest with creek gorges, footbridges, and a nature center that gives kids a destination to hike toward. The gorge section — where the trail crosses over narrow creek canyons on wooden bridges — is the kind of feature that turns a regular walk into an adventure for young hikers. The Gorge Trail is the highlight. It follows a creek through a miniature gorge with exposed shale walls about fifteen feet high. It's not wilderness, but for a kid, it's a canyon. They'll want to stop at every bridge and look down at the water. Sharon Woods has a playground, restrooms at multiple points along the trail, and drinking water. The practical infrastructure matters when you're hiking with kids and everything takes three times longer than planned. **Pro tip:** The park connects to the Alum Creek multi-use trail system, so if your kids prefer bikes to boots, that's an option too. [Read our full Sharon Woods Metro Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/sharon-woods-metro-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## 5\. Topiary Garden at Old Deaf School Park — Franklin County **Distance:** 0.5 miles | **Difficulty:** Easy | **Elevation:** 10 ft | **Type:** Loop This one is barely a hike — half a mile on flat, paved paths — but it's one of my kids' favorite outdoor spots in Columbus. The Topiary Garden is a living recreation of Georges Seurat's painting "A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte," with 54 sculpted topiary figures arranged in a park setting. The topiaries are people, dogs, a monkey, boats — all trimmed from yew bushes. For very young kids (under 5), this is a perfect outdoor activity. The paths are short, flat, and completely contained. The topiaries give them something specific to look at and talk about. Older kids appreciate the art connection, especially if you show them the painting first. The park is free, open year-round, and has restrooms. It's also right in downtown Columbus, making it easy to combine with other activities. **Pro tip:** Visit in late summer when the topiaries are at their fullest and most recognizable. Winter visits still work but the topiaries are dormant and harder to interpret. [Read our full Topiary Garden guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/topiary-garden-at-old-deaf-school-park-columbus-ohio/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## 6\. Blendon Woods Metro Park — Franklin County **Distance:** 2.8 miles | **Difficulty:** Easy | **Elevation:** 100 ft | **Type:** Loop Blendon Woods has one thing that sets it apart for families: a nature center with live animals. Turtles, snakes, frogs, fish — all native Ohio species in tanks and enclosures that kids can observe up close. Start or end your hike at the nature center, and the whole outing feels more like a nature expedition than a walk in the park. The trails are gentle loops through mature forest, with a pond that attracts herons and turtles. The Ripple Rock Trail section has exposed rock formations along a small creek — kids enjoy climbing on the rocks and looking for fossils in the limestone. The Sugarbush Trail connects the nature center to the main trail system and is probably the most family-friendly section. The park is well-maintained and feels safe. The trails are wide, the signage is good, and you're never more than a half mile from a parking area or restroom. **Pro tip:** The nature center hosts wildlife programs on weekends. Check the schedule for guided hikes, animal feedings, and seasonal events. [Read our full Blendon Woods trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/blendon-woods-metro-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ## 7\. Three Creeks Metro Park — Franklin County **Distance:** 3.0 miles | **Difficulty:** Easy | **Elevation:** 80 ft | **Type:** Loop Three Creeks is where three waterways converge — Alum Creek, Big Walnut Creek, and Blacklick Creek — and the trail system follows the floodplain between them. It's flat, easy, and has multiple bridges and creek-side sections that keep kids engaged. The park has a large playground near the main parking area, which serves as both a warm-up and cool-down activity. The trails run through bottomland forest with thick summer shade and autumn color. Creek access points let kids throw rocks, look for crawdads, and generally do the messy nature play that makes outdoor time worthwhile. The Confluence Area, where the creeks meet, is interesting for older kids who are starting to think about geography and how water systems work. You can see the different water colors mixing where the streams join. **Pro tip:** Bring a change of clothes. Between the creek access and the playground, someone is going to get wet and dirty. That's the point. [Explore our Columbus Metro Parks guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/columbus-franklin-county-metro-parks/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## 8\. Hopewell Culture National Historical Park — Ross County **Distance:** 2.6 miles | **Difficulty:** Easy | **Elevation:** 60 ft | **Type:** Loop Hopewell Culture is a National Park Service site preserving 2,000-year-old earthworks built by the Hopewell people. The trail loops around and between massive geometric earthwork enclosures — mounds, walls, and ceremonial sites that are older than most of the famous ruins in Europe. For kids, the scale is the draw. You're walking alongside earthen walls that were built by hand two millennia ago, and the trail through the site helps them understand the size and effort involved. The visitor center has exhibits and a short film that provide context for what they're seeing outside. The trail itself is flat, mowed grass with some paved sections — easy for any age. It's also a Junior Ranger site, so kids can pick up a Junior Ranger booklet at the visitor center and earn a badge by completing activities along the trail. **Pro tip:** The park is free. The Junior Ranger program is free. This is one of the best educational outdoor activities in Ohio for the price (nothing). --- ## 9\. Homestead Metro Park — Franklin County **Distance:** 2.5 miles | **Difficulty:** Easy | **Elevation:** 80 ft | **Type:** Loop Homestead is a small, quiet metro park near Hilliard that feels like a neighborhood secret. The trails loop through forest and meadow, with a community garden area, a playground, and picnic shelters. It's the kind of park where you see the same families every weekend — a regular spot rather than a destination. The trails are easy enough for small children — gentle grades, no obstacles, good footing. The forest sections have wildflowers in spring and mushrooms in fall that give observant kids something to hunt for. The open meadow areas let kids run ahead (within sight) without the anxiety of tight forest trails. What makes Homestead work for families is the low stakes. It's small enough that you can't get lost, close enough to civilization that forgotten snacks aren't a crisis, and quiet enough that your kids aren't competing with crowds of other visitors. **Pro tip:** The community garden is worth a walk-through in summer. Seeing what people are growing is more interesting to kids than you'd expect. [Read our full Homestead Metro Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/homestead-metro-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ## 10\. Heritage Trail Metro Park — Pickaway County **Distance:** 6.2 miles | **Difficulty:** Easy | **Elevation:** 100 ft | **Type:** Out-and-back Heritage Trail is a paved multi-use path that follows an old rail corridor through southern Franklin County and into Pickaway County. It's a rail-trail, so it's flat, straight, and smooth — perfect for bikes, strollers, and kids who want to ride alongside walking parents. The out-and-back format lets you choose your distance. Do a mile and turn around, or go the whole way. The trail passes through a mix of suburban edges and open farmland, with enough variety to stay interesting. There are rest stops with benches along the route. For families with a mix of ages, the paved surface and flat grade work well. A 10-year-old on a bike can range ahead while parents walk with a stroller. The trail is wide enough for side-by-side walking without blocking faster users. **Pro tip:** The Lockville section has an old canal lock that's been preserved as a historical exhibit — a good turnaround point for a 2-mile out-and-back. [Read our full Heritage Trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/heritage-trail-metro-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## Quick Reference: Kid-Friendly Ohio Hikes | Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Region | Kid Highlights | | ----------------------- | -------- | ---------- | ------- | --------------------------------- | | Inniswood Metro Gardens | 2.0 mi | Easy | Central | Themed gardens, fairy garden | | Chestnut Ridge | 2.5 mi | Easy | Central | Playground, creek exploration | | Slate Run & Farm | 4.0 mi | Easy | Central | 1880s working farm, animals | | Sharon Woods | 3.8 mi | Easy | Central | Creek gorge, bridges | | Topiary Garden | 0.5 mi | Easy | Central | Living art, flat paved paths | | Blendon Woods | 2.8 mi | Easy | Central | Nature center, live animals | | Three Creeks | 3.0 mi | Easy | Central | Playground, creek access | | Hopewell Culture NHP | 2.6 mi | Easy | South | Ancient earthworks, Junior Ranger | | Homestead | 2.5 mi | Easy | Central | Quiet, playground, meadows | | Heritage Trail | 6.2 mi | Easy | Central | Paved, bikes welcome, flat | --- ## Tips for Hiking with Kids in Ohio **Set realistic distances.** A good rule of thumb: kids under 5 can handle about 1 mile with lots of stops. Ages 5-8 can manage 2-3 miles on easy terrain. Ages 8-12 can handle most easy trails at full distance. These are rough guides — know your kid. **Choose trails with features.** Bridges, creeks, animals, playgrounds, nature centers — anything that breaks the hike into "chapters" works better than a monotonous forest path. Kids need landmarks to hike toward. **Pack more snacks than you think you need.** Snack breaks solve 90% of on-trail complaints. Small, frequent energy boosts work better than waiting for a designated lunch stop. Trail mix, granola bars, fruit pouches — whatever your kid will actually eat. **Let them lead.** Giving kids the trail map (or a phone with the trail map) and letting them navigate keeps them engaged and gives them ownership of the experience. Even a five-year-old can follow a simple path on a printed map. **Embrace the slow pace.** The point isn't covering miles — it's getting kids outside and building positive associations with nature. If you spend 20 minutes watching tadpoles in a creek, that's a successful hike. If you also happened to walk two miles, even better. **Dress for dirt.** Kids will find mud, water, and dirt even on paved trails. Dress them in clothes you don't care about, bring a spare outfit for the car, and let them get messy. The laundry is worth it. Ohio's parks are built for families. Free admission, maintained trails, restrooms, and programming — the infrastructure makes it easy to just show up and hike. Pick a park, pack some snacks, and give your kids a reason to put down the screens for a couple of hours. They might even say they had fun. [Browse all Columbus Metro Parks guides →](https://hikingohio.blog/columbus-franklin-county-metro-parks/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) | [Read about Marietta Riverfront Trail →](https://hikingohio.blog/marietta/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) | [Visit Walnut Woods Metro Park →](https://hikingohio.blog/walnut-woods-metro-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776615927064-innis.jpg) Innis Wood Metro Gardens ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776616000158-playground-at-chestnut-ridge-metro-park.jpeg) Chestnut Ridge Metro Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776616027060-slate.jpg) Slate Run Metro Park and Living Historical Farm ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776616078244-sharon.jpg) Sharon Woods Metro Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776616111123-topiary-park.jpg) Topiary Garden at Old Deaf School ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776616152231-blendon-woods-inclusive-playground-kid-set-1024x768.jpg) Blendon Woods Metro Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776616174751-three-creeks-natural-play-area-642x482.jpeg) Three Creeks Metro Parks ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776616205127-hopewell.jpg) Hopewell Culture National Historic Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776616245248-homestead.jpg) Homestead Metro Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776616266640-heritage.jpg) Heritage Trail Metro Park 🥾 Need some gear for your next great hike? Check out some [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### Best Fall Hikes in Ohio: 10 Trails for Peak Foliage URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/best-fall-hikes-in-ohio-10-trails-for-peak-foliage/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T18:55:21.000Z 🥾 Need some gear for your next great hike? Check out some [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) There's a two-week window every October when Ohio's forests catch fire. Not literally — but the sugar maples go electric orange, the oaks turn burgundy, and the beeches fade to gold, and for those two weeks the trails look like someone ran a saturation slider all the way to the right. Then one big windstorm blows through and the whole show ends up on the ground. I've learned to plan my best hikes around this window. Ohio's fall foliage peaks from mid-October in the northeast to late October in the southern hills, which actually gives you a solid month of prime color if you're willing to chase it around the state. Some trails are good year-round but become genuinely spectacular in autumn. Others — the seasonal trails in Hocking Hills especially — are specifically flagged for spring and fall visits because that's when the water flows and the gorges are at their best. Here are the trails I'd recommend for fall hiking in Ohio, from easy strolls through burning-red canopy to serious backcountry loops through the hills. --- ## 1\. Cedar Falls Trail — Hocking Hills State Park **Distance:** 1.4 miles | **Difficulty:** Moderate | **Elevation:** 250 ft | **Type:** Out-and-back Cedar Falls in fall is a different animal than Cedar Falls in spring. The waterfall usually has less flow — sometimes barely a veil of water over the rock face — but the gorge itself transforms. Hemlock and beech frame the trail in green and gold, and the stairs descend through layers of color that shift as the season progresses. The reduced water flow has an upside: you can get closer to the rock face and see details in the sandstone that are hidden behind spray in spring. The layers of Blackhand sandstone are exposed in cross-section, and in the right afternoon light, the whole amphitheater glows amber. Fall weekends at Hocking Hills are crowded. The park estimates peak-season visitation at over 25,000 per weekend across all trails. But early-morning visits (before 9 AM) still offer relative solitude, and weekdays in October are genuinely peaceful. **Pro tip:** The trail is leaf-covered in late October, which can obscure the stone steps. Watch your footing on the descent, especially after rain. [Read our full Cedar Falls trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/cedar-falls/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## 2\. Nelson Kennedy Ledges State Park — Portage County **Distance:** 3.0 miles | **Difficulty:** Moderate-Hard | **Elevation:** 200 ft | **Type:** Loop Nelson Kennedy Ledges is the most dramatic rock formation trail in Ohio, and fall foliage turns it into something from a fantasy novel. Massive Sharon conglomerate boulders — some the size of houses — are stacked and tilted along the trails, with narrow passages, slots, and squeeze-throughs between them. In October, the surrounding maple-oak forest blazes orange and red above the moss-covered stone. The trails here range from easy gravel paths to rugged scrambles through boulder fields. The Indian Trail is the most challenging, involving some hand-over-hand climbing and tight passages that aren't suitable for everyone. But even the easier Cascade Falls Trail delivers rock formations and fall color. What makes this park special for fall is the contrast — grey and green stone against red and orange foliage, with fallen leaves blanketing the forest floor. Bring a camera. **Pro tip:** The park is in northeast Ohio, where fall color peaks earlier (early to mid-October) than in the Hocking Hills. Time your visit accordingly. [Read our full Nelson Kennedy Ledges trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/nelson-kennedy-ledges-state-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ## 3\. Highbanks Metro Park — Delaware County **Distance:** 4.2 miles | **Difficulty:** Moderate | **Elevation:** 250 ft | **Type:** Loop Highbanks earns its name from the 100-foot bluffs above the Olentangy River, and those bluffs are the perfect vantage point for fall foliage. The Overlook Trail takes you along the rim with views down into the river valley, and in October the canopy below you is a patchwork of red, orange, and gold. The Dripping Rock Trail section passes through deep woods where the undergrowth clears out in fall, opening up sightlines through the forest. There's an atmospheric quality to autumn hiking here — low-angle sunlight filtering through thinning canopy, the crunch of leaves underfoot, cooler air in the ravines. Highbanks is close to Columbus, which means it's accessible for weekday evening hikes in early fall when the daylight still cooperates. A 5 PM start gives you two good hours of golden-hour hiking through peak color. **Pro tip:** The Adena earthwork mound on the Overlook Trail has the best panoramic view for fall photography. The mound-top clearing offers an unobstructed view of the forested valley. [Read our full Highbanks Metro Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/highbanks-metro-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## 4\. Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve — Licking County **Distance:** 4.3 miles | **Difficulty:** Easy | **Elevation:** 150 ft | **Type:** Out-and-back Blackhand Gorge is one of Ohio's geological landmarks — the Licking River carved through Blackhand sandstone to create a gorge with 100-foot walls on either side. The main trail follows an old rail-to-trail conversion along the river, flat and paved, making it accessible even for casual hikers. In fall, the gorge becomes a natural corridor of color. The walls funnel your view upward through layers of foliage, and the river reflects the canopy in still sections. The signature Blackhand sandstone — named for a hand-shaped petroglyph that was blasted away during canal construction in the 1800s — shows off its warm orange tones against the autumn palette. The easy terrain makes this a great fall hike for families, older hikers, or anyone who wants the scenic payoff without the physical effort. It's also a good cycling trail if you prefer wheels to boots. **Pro tip:** The gorge faces roughly east-west, so afternoon sun illuminates the south wall beautifully in October. Plan your hike for early afternoon on sunny days. [Read our full Blackhand Gorge trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/blackhand-gorge-state-nature-preserve/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## 5\. John Bryan State Park & Clifton Gorge — Greene County **Distance:** 5.5 miles | **Difficulty:** Moderate | **Elevation:** 350 ft | **Type:** Loop The Little Miami River gorge at John Bryan is limestone instead of sandstone, which gives the fall colors a different backdrop — grey and cream cliff faces instead of warm orange stone. The maples here are the star performers, and when they peak in mid-to-late October, the gorge looks like it's on fire. The trail follows the gorge rim with frequent overlook points where you can stop and take in the view. The Clifton Gorge section is a state nature preserve, so the forest is largely undisturbed old growth. Some of the trees here are impressive — tall, straight trunks with crowns that form a nearly complete canopy overhead. When those crowns turn color, you're walking through a tunnel of autumn. After the hike, Yellow Springs is a ten-minute drive — good coffee, local food, bookshops. It's the kind of autumn Saturday that sticks with you. **Pro tip:** Clifton Gorge can be slippery with wet leaves on the rim trail. Stay behind guardrails at the overlook points — the gorge is deep and the edges are real. ## 6\. Chestnut Ridge Metro Park — Franklin County **Distance:** 2.5 miles | **Difficulty:** Easy | **Elevation:** 150 ft | **Type:** Loop Chestnut Ridge is an underrated fall destination right on Columbus's doorstep near Groveport. The park sits on a glacial ridge — higher ground than the surrounding farmland — which means the forest here is slightly different from lowland parks. The ridge-top trail passes through mixed hardwoods that peak with vivid color in mid-October. The Chestnut Ridge Loop Trail climbs gently to the top of the ridge and circles back through ravines and creek crossings. It's short enough for an after-work autumn hike when the evening light is hitting the canopy at that perfect low angle. What I like about this park for fall is the intimacy. It's not a vast wilderness — it's a compact, well-maintained metro park where you can see excellent foliage in under two hours and still be home for dinner. **Pro tip:** The overlook at the southeast corner of the ridge trail offers the best view of the surrounding farmland and forest. On a clear fall day, you can see for miles. [Read our full Chestnut Ridge Metro Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/chestnut-ridge-metro-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## 7\. Wahkeena Nature Preserve — Hocking County **Distance:** 2.5 miles | **Difficulty:** Moderate | **Elevation:** 300 ft | **Type:** Loop Wahkeena in fall combines autumn foliage with the last of the seasonal waterfall flow. October rains can recharge the creeks after a dry summer, and the preserve's waterfall — though modest — is framed by golden beech and deep-green hemlock that holds its color through the deciduous transition. The trails wind through old-growth forest on the slopes above the waterfall. The wildflowers are gone by fall, but the fern-covered slopes and moss on the sandstone formations create a lush, green-and-gold palette that photographs beautifully. Wahkeena's small size and remote location keep crowds minimal even during peak foliage season. I've hiked here on October Saturdays and had entire trail sections to myself. **Pro tip:** The preserve closes at dusk and has limited parking. Arrive by mid-morning for the best combination of light and availability. --- ## 8\. Zaleski State Forest — Vinton County **Distance:** 23.5 miles (full) | **Difficulty:** Hard | **Elevation:** 1,500 ft | **Type:** Loop Zaleski is Ohio's premier backpacking destination, and the fall foliage here is some of the best in the state. The full loop is a two-to-three-day trip through the unglaciated Appalachian foothills of southeast Ohio, with ridgetop views that stretch to the horizon in every direction. The forest here is predominantly oak-hickory, which means the fall color skews warm — amber, rust, deep orange, and brown. From the ridgetops, you look out over an ocean of color rolling across the hills. It's the closest thing to Appalachian mountain hiking that Ohio offers. You don't have to do the full 23.5 miles. Shorter loops using the connector trails bring it down to day-hike distances. The day-use areas near the fire tower offer ridgetop views without the commitment of an overnight trip. **Pro tip:** Backcountry campsites are first-come, first-served and fill up on peak October weekends. Start early Friday or go midweek for guaranteed sites. ## 9\. Maumee Bay State Park — Lucas County **Distance:** 3.5 miles | **Difficulty:** Easy | **Elevation:** 50 ft | **Type:** Loop Maumee Bay offers a completely different fall experience — Lake Erie marshland and shoreline instead of forest gorges. The fall appeal here is less about foliage (though the wetland grasses turn golden) and more about the fall bird migration. September through November brings waves of migrating shorebirds, raptors, and songbirds through the Lake Erie flyway, and the boardwalk trails at Maumee Bay put you right in the middle of it. The boardwalk through the wetlands is stunning in early fall when the marsh is golden and the sky is full of movement. On a good migration day, you might see dozens of species in a single morning. Even if you're not a birder, the scale of fall migration is impressive to witness. The flat terrain and easy boardwalk make this a great fall hike for anyone who wants something different from the typical forest trail. **Pro tip:** The beach is largely empty in fall — good for a quiet walk with dramatic Lake Erie skies. Weather moves in fast off the lake, so pack a layer. [Read our full Maumee Bay trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/maumee-bay-state-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## 10\. Mohican State Park — Ashland County **Distance:** 6.5 miles | **Difficulty:** Moderate | **Elevation:** 450 ft | **Type:** Loop Mohican's Clear Fork Gorge is one of the deepest gorges in Ohio, and when the mixed forest on its walls turns color, the 300-foot depth amplifies the effect. You're looking across a gorge at layers of fall foliage — hemlock green at the bottom transitioning through beech gold and oak rust to maple red at the rim. The Lyons Falls Trail and the gorge rim trail combine into a loop that hits the highlights. The covered bridge at the north end of the park is a classic Ohio autumn photograph, and the hemlock groves along the creek add evergreen contrast to the deciduous color show. Mohican is also a popular camping destination for fall weekenders. The campground fills quickly on October weekends, but the lodge and cabins offer alternatives if you'd rather not sleep in a tent. **Pro tip:** The gorge catches less direct sunlight than ridgetop trails, so fall colors here last a bit longer. Late October visits often find good color remaining when exposed sites have already peaked. --- ## Quick Reference: Best Fall Hikes in Ohio | Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Region | Fall Highlights | | --------------------- | -------- | ---------- | ------------- | ----------------------------------- | | Cedar Falls | 1.4 mi | Moderate | Hocking Hills | Gorge foliage, seasonal falls | | Nelson Kennedy Ledges | 3.0 mi | Hard | Northeast | Boulders framed by maples | | Highbanks | 4.2 mi | Moderate | Central | Bluff-top views over river valley | | Blackhand Gorge | 4.3 mi | Easy | Central | River gorge corridor of color | | John Bryan | 5.5 mi | Moderate | Southwest | Limestone gorge, old-growth canopy | | Chestnut Ridge | 2.5 mi | Easy | Central | Quick ridge-top foliage loop | | Wahkeena | 2.5 mi | Moderate | Hocking Hills | Secluded forest, seasonal waterfall | | Zaleski | 23.5 mi | Hard | Southeast | Ridge-top Appalachian panoramas | | Maumee Bay | 3.5 mi | Easy | Northwest | Fall bird migration, golden marsh | | Mohican | 6.5 mi | Moderate | Northeast | Deep gorge, layered foliage | --- ## Fall Hiking Tips for Ohio **Track the foliage.** Ohio's fall color moves from northeast to southwest, generally peaking from early October in the Lake Erie region to late October in the southern hills. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources posts foliage reports weekly during the season — use them to time your trips. **Layer up.** Ohio fall weather is unpredictable. A sunny 65-degree afternoon can drop into the 40s by the time you're back at the trailhead. Bring a lightweight fleece or wind layer even on warm-looking days, especially for gorge trails where the sun disappears early. **Watch for wet leaves.** Fallen leaves over stone steps and rock surfaces are genuinely hazardous. Trails in Hocking Hills and Nelson Kennedy Ledges become significantly more technical when covered in a layer of wet leaves. Trekking poles help. **Start early, stay late.** Fall's lower sun angle creates dramatic light conditions for longer portions of the day. Sunrise and sunset on an October trail are worth setting an alarm for. **Respect hunting seasons.** Ohio bow season opens in late September, and gun season follows in late November. If you're hiking on state forest land (like Zaleski), wear blaze orange during hunting season. Metro parks and state nature preserves typically don't allow hunting, so they're safer bets if you want to avoid the overlap. Fall is the best time to hike in Ohio. Full stop. The temperatures are ideal, the bugs are gone, the colors are extraordinary, and the trails are at their most photogenic. Don't wait — Ohio's autumn window is beautiful but short. Get out while it lasts. [Explore more Hocking Hills trails →](https://hikingohio.blog/tag/hocking-hills/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) | [Browse all Central Ohio trail guides →](https://hikingohio.blog/tag/central-ohio/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776690195134-cedar falls.jpg) Cedar Falls ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776690214634-nelson kennedy.jpg) Nelson Kennedy Ledges State Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776690249638-highbanks.jpg) Highbanks Metro Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776690275734-blackhand.jpg) Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776690298256-jb and cg.jpg) John Bryan State Park and Clifton Gorge ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776690325523-chestnut.jpg) Chestnut Ridge Metro Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776690348449-Wahkeena_HERO.jpg) Wahkeena Nature Preserve ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776690392365-zaleski.jpg) Zaleski State Forest ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776690419650-maumee.jpg) Maumee Bay State Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776690438150-mohican.jpg) Mohican State Park --- 🥾 Need some gear for your next great hike? Check out some [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Ohio: 10 Tested Favorites URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/dog-friendly-hiking-trails-in-ohio-10-tested-favorites/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:10:20.000Z 🥾 Need some gear for your next great hike? Check out some [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) My dog doesn't care about scenic overlooks. She doesn't read trail reviews or check AllTrails ratings. She cares about squirrels, interesting smells, and whether or not she's allowed to come along. And for a long time, that last part was the problem — I'd find a great trail, drive an hour to get there, and discover "no pets" signs at the trailhead. So I started keeping track. Which Ohio trails actually welcome dogs? Not just "technically allow them on a leash" but genuinely work well for hiking with a dog — good footing, water access, enough space that you're not constantly pulling your pup off narrow boardwalks while other hikers squeeze past. After logging dozens of dog-friendly hikes across the state, here are my favorites. Every trail on this list is confirmed dog-friendly, tested with an actual dog, and worth the drive. --- ## 1\. Highbanks Metro Park — Delaware County **Distance:** 4.2 miles | **Difficulty:** Moderate | **Elevation:** 250 ft | **Type:** Loop Highbanks is the gold standard for dog hiking near Columbus. The Dripping Rock Trail and Overlook Trail combine into a loop that runs along bluffs above the Olentangy River, through dense hardwood forest, and past the park's famous Adena earthworks. The trails are wide enough that passing other dogs isn't stressful, and the elevation changes keep things interesting without being punishing. Dogs must be leashed (six-foot max), but there's plenty of room for them to sniff and explore along the trail edges. The Olentangy River is visible from several points, and there are a few spots where the trail drops close enough to the water for a quick drink — though no official water access for dogs. The park gets busy on weekends, especially the paved multi-use paths near the nature center. Stick to the dirt trails on the east side of the park for a quieter experience. **Pro tip:** The Dripping Rock Trail has a sandstone overhang with water seeping through the rock face — fascinating geology and a good shady rest spot on hot days. [Read our full Highbanks Metro Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/highbanks-metro-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## 2\. Glacier Ridge Metro Park — Union County **Distance:** 3.2 miles | **Difficulty:** Easy | **Elevation:** 100 ft | **Type:** Loop Glacier Ridge is wide-open prairie and wetland — a completely different vibe from the forested metro parks closer to Columbus. The trails here are mostly paved or packed gravel, flat as a table, and surrounded by restored tallgrass prairie that waves in the wind like a golden ocean in late summer and fall. For dogs, this park works because of the space and the sightlines. You can see other hikers and their dogs from a distance, which gives reactive dogs (and their anxious owners) time to adjust. The wetland sections have boardwalks, and there are benches along the route for rest stops. The park is also home to a dedicated dog park area if your pup needs some off-leash time after the hike. It's a separate fenced section near the main parking area. **Pro tip:** Bring water — there's almost no shade on the prairie trails, and summer hikes can be hot. Early morning or evening visits are best in July and August. [Read our full Glacier Ridge Metro Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/glacier-ridge-metro-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## 3\. Scioto Audubon Metro Park — Franklin County **Distance:** 3.0 miles | **Difficulty:** Easy | **Elevation:** 50 ft | **Type:** Loop Scioto Audubon sits on reclaimed land along the Scioto River in south Columbus, and it's become one of the best urban nature parks in the city. The trails wind through wetlands, along the river, and past the park's famous climbing wall (the largest free outdoor climbing wall in the country). Dogs love this park because of the variety — you're on gravel paths through woods, then crossing open meadows, then walking along the river where geese and herons do their thing. There's a dedicated dog park area here too, fenced and well-maintained. The park is flat and easy, making it accessible for dogs of all ages and fitness levels. Senior dogs and puppies do fine here. The river access points let dogs wade in the shallows on warm days. **Pro tip:** The parking lot fills up on nice weekends. The south entrance off Whittier Street is usually less crowded than the main entrance. [Read our full Scioto Audubon trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/scioto-audubon-metro-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ## 4\. Quarry Trails Metro Park — Franklin County **Distance:** 3.2 miles | **Difficulty:** Moderate | **Elevation:** 180 ft | **Type:** Loop Quarry Trails is one of Columbus's newest metro parks, built on the site of an old limestone quarry. The terrain is unusual for central Ohio — rolling hills, exposed rock faces, and wooded ravines that feel more like southeast Ohio than the flat suburbs around it. Dogs seem to find this park especially interesting, probably because the varied terrain creates a lot of different smells and surfaces. You're on packed dirt, then gravel, then crossing over rocky outcrops. The moderate elevation changes keep it engaging without being exhausting. The trails are well-marked and the park has a modern layout with good signage. Weekend crowds are manageable since the park is still relatively new and less well-known than places like Highbanks or Scioto Audubon. **Pro tip:** The quarry rim trail offers views down into the old quarry basin. Keep dogs on leash and stay on trail near the edges — the drop-offs are real. [Read our full Quarry Trails trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/quarry-trails-metro-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## 5\. Deer Creek State Park — Pickaway County **Distance:** 3.5 miles | **Difficulty:** Easy | **Elevation:** 150 ft | **Type:** Loop Deer Creek is my go-to recommendation for people who want to hike with their dog near water. The trail loops around a section of Deer Creek Lake, and there are multiple spots where the trail meets the shoreline — perfect for dogs that like to splash. The reservoir attracts waterfowl, so keep a good grip on that leash if your dog is bird-motivated. The terrain is gentle — mixed forest with some open meadow sections along the lake. It's an easy half-day trip from Columbus, and the state park has picnic areas and a beach (though dogs aren't allowed on the beach itself). Fall visits are especially nice. The lake reflects the autumn colors and the trails are quieter once summer crowds thin out. **Pro tip:** The park allows fishing along the lakeshore. Watch for fishing lines and hooks near the water access points — not great for curious dogs. [Read our full Deer Creek State Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/deer-creek-state-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## 6\. Maumee Bay State Park — Lucas County **Distance:** 3.5 miles | **Difficulty:** Easy | **Elevation:** 50 ft | **Type:** Loop Maumee Bay is Lake Erie hiking with your dog. The boardwalk trail through the wetlands and the loop along the lake shore give you birds, water views, and wide-open skies. It's flat, easy, and the kind of hike where you can actually relax instead of constantly managing your dog on difficult terrain. The park is in northwest Ohio near Toledo, so it's a longer drive from Columbus but worth it for the completely different landscape. Marshland, lake breezes, migrating shorebirds in spring and fall. Dogs on leash are welcome on the trails, and the grassy areas near the lodge make for good rest spots. The boardwalk sections are elevated over the marsh, which keeps things clean and dry even after rain. Some dogs are nervous on boardwalks, so know your pup before committing to the full marsh loop. **Pro tip:** Spring migration (April-May) brings incredible birdwatching, but it also brings mosquitoes. Bring bug spray for yourself and check your dog for ticks after the hike. [Read our full Maumee Bay trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/maumee-bay-state-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## 7\. Side Cut Metro Park — Lucas County **Distance:** 4.5 miles | **Difficulty:** Easy | **Elevation:** 50 ft | **Type:** Out-and-back Side Cut follows the old Miami & Erie Canal towpath along the Maumee River near Toledo. It's a straight, flat, easy trail that's perfect for dogs who like to maintain a steady trotting pace. The river is visible for most of the hike, and there are spots where the bank is gentle enough for water access. The towpath history is interesting — you're literally walking the same path that mule teams used to pull canal boats in the 1800s. The old canal locks are still visible and make for good photo stops. This is a great winter hike too. The flat terrain handles snow well, and the river views are dramatic when the water is high. Side Cut doesn't close for winter, so it's a year-round option. **Pro tip:** The fishing areas near the rapids attract anglers year-round. Keep your dog close in these sections — discarded bait and tackle are common near the river access points. [Read our full Side Cut Metro Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/side-cut-metro-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ## 8\. Rocky Fork Metro Park — Pickaway County **Distance:** 2.5 miles | **Difficulty:** Easy | **Elevation:** 150 ft | **Type:** Loop Rocky Fork is a quiet, wooded metro park south of Columbus that rarely gets crowded. The trails loop through deciduous forest with a few gentle hills, and the low traffic means your dog can enjoy the hike without constant encounters with other pets. The park is small but well-maintained. The forest here supports a healthy population of deer, and I've spotted owls on winter evening hikes. The understory is thick enough to feel immersive without blocking sightlines, which is nice when you're keeping an eye on wildlife ahead. For reactive dogs or dogs in training, Rocky Fork's low visitor numbers make it ideal. You can work on trail manners without the pressure of constant encounters. **Pro tip:** The parking lot is small — maybe fifteen cars. Arrive early on fall weekends when the colors draw more visitors than usual. [Read our full Rocky Fork Metro Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/rocky-fork-metro-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## 9\. Salt Fork State Park — Guernsey County **Distance:** 8.0 miles | **Difficulty:** Moderate | **Elevation:** 500 ft | **Type:** Loop Salt Fork is Ohio's largest state park, and the trail system here is big enough to give you genuine solitude. The backpacking trail loops through hilly forest with lake views, wildlife, and the kind of quiet that city-adjacent parks can't offer. Dogs are welcome on all hiking trails (leashed), and the variety of terrain keeps things interesting for both of you. You're climbing ridges, descending into hollows, and crossing creeks on stepping stones. The full 8-mile loop is a solid day hike, but shorter loops are available. Salt Fork also has campgrounds, cabins, and a lodge, so you can make it a weekend trip. Dog-friendly camping sites let you set up camp and explore different sections of the trail system each day. **Pro tip:** Bring plenty of water — there's no reliable water source on the main trail loop, and the elevation changes are enough to tire out a big dog in warm weather. --- ## 10\. Scioto Grove Metro Park — Franklin County **Distance:** 3.5 miles | **Difficulty:** Easy | **Elevation:** 100 ft | **Type:** Loop Scioto Grove runs along the Scioto River south of Columbus, with trails through bottomland forest and open meadows. It's an underappreciated park — most Columbus hikers head to Highbanks or Scioto Audubon, leaving Scioto Grove relatively quiet. The river access here is one of the best features for dog owners. Several trail sections run right along the bank, and there are spots where the water is shallow enough for dogs to wade. The forest is thick with cottonwood and sycamore, providing good shade even in midsummer. The flat terrain and short distance make this a good option for older dogs or dogs recovering from injury who need easy exercise. The trail surface is mostly packed earth with some mowed grass sections. **Pro tip:** Spring flooding can temporarily close sections of the river trail. Check the metro parks website for alerts before driving out, especially in March and April. [Read our full Scioto Grove trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/scioto-grove-met/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ## Quick Reference: Dog-Friendly Ohio Trails | Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Region | Dog Highlights | | -------------- | -------- | ---------- | --------- | ------------------------------ | | Highbanks | 4.2 mi | Moderate | Central | Wide trails, river views | | Glacier Ridge | 3.2 mi | Easy | Central | Open prairie, dog park on-site | | Scioto Audubon | 3.0 mi | Easy | Central | Dog park, river access | | Quarry Trails | 3.2 mi | Moderate | Central | Varied terrain, rocky sections | | Deer Creek | 3.5 mi | Easy | Central | Lake access, water play | | Maumee Bay | 3.5 mi | Easy | Northwest | Lake Erie, boardwalks | | Side Cut | 4.5 mi | Easy | Northwest | River towpath, flat terrain | | Rocky Fork | 2.5 mi | Easy | Central | Low traffic, quiet woods | | Salt Fork | 8.0 mi | Moderate | Southeast | Largest state park, solitude | | Scioto Grove | 3.5 mi | Easy | Central | River access, shaded paths | --- ## Dog Hiking Tips for Ohio Trails **Leash rules are real.** Every trail on this list requires a six-foot leash. Ohio state parks and metro parks enforce this, and rangers will issue warnings. Even if your dog has perfect recall, leash them — it's the law, and it protects wildlife and other hikers. **Water, water, water.** Dogs overheat faster than we do, and Ohio summers are humid. Carry at least 16 ounces of water per hour of hiking for your dog, more for large breeds. A collapsible bowl takes up almost no pack space. **Tick check after every hike.** Ohio's tick population is no joke, especially from April through October. Check ears, armpits, belly, and between toes. Talk to your vet about preventive treatments. **Know your dog's limits.** A 5-mile hike on flat terrain is very different from 5 miles with 500 feet of elevation gain. Start with shorter, easier trails and work up. Senior dogs and brachycephalic breeds (bulldogs, pugs) need extra consideration on warm or hilly trails. **Pack out waste.** Every park on this list has waste stations at trailheads, but carry extra bags for the trail. Nothing ruins a trail faster than dog waste left on the path. **Check for seasonal closures.** Some trails close temporarily for hunting season or maintenance. State parks are more likely to have hunting-related closures than metro parks. Ohio's metro park system is genuinely excellent for dog owners. Most parks are free, well-maintained, and within easy driving distance of major cities. Pick a trail, leash up your best friend, and get out there. [Browse all Central Ohio trail guides →](https://hikingohio.blog/tag/central-ohio/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) | [Read about the Columbus Metro Parks system →](https://hikingohio.blog/columbus-franklin-county-metro-parks/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776690930564-highbanks-metro-park-2.jpeg) Highbanks Metro Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776690953459-glacier.jpg) Glacier Ridge Metro Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776691011646-scioto-audubon-metro-park-680.jpg) Scioto Audubon Metro Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776691043444-quarry.jpg) Quarry Trails Metro Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776691065551-deerck-aerial.jpg) Deer Creek State Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776691091421-MaumeeBayStateParkBeach.jpeg) Maumee Bay State Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776691110860-side-cut-1400x700-c.jpg) Side Cut Metro Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776691130206-rocky f.jpg) Rocky Fork Metro Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776691153332-salt fork.jpg) Salt Fork State Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776691170428-scioto grove.jpg) Scioto Grove Metro Park --- 🥾 Need some gear for your next great hike? Check out some [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### Schiller Park: German Village's Historic Columbus Park URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/schiller-park/ Last updated: 2026-06-27T21:50:03.000Z **Schiller Park** · German Village, Columbus · 1069 Jaeger St About 23 acres · \~0.6–0.8-mile loop · Flat, paved paths · Free · Second-oldest park in Columbus Schiller Park is the green centerpiece of German Village, a 23-acre neighborhood park wrapped in brick streets and 19th-century houses just south of downtown Columbus. It's the second-oldest park in the city, and it blends easy walking, a stocked pond, formal gardens, and a summer tradition of free outdoor Shakespeare under the trees. For a short, pretty, history-rich walk in one of Columbus's most beautiful neighborhoods, it's hard to beat. The loop here is short, flat, and friendly, well under a mile, which makes Schiller a relaxed stroll rather than a workout. The draw is the setting and the atmosphere as much as the distance. ## Getting there and walking it The park is centered near 1069 Jaeger Street, bounded by Reinhard Avenue, Jaeger Street, Deshler Avenue, and City Park Avenue, right in the middle of German Village. A paved path loops the park in roughly six-tenths to eight-tenths of a mile on flat ground, easy for all ages and good for a quick walk, a jog, or a leisurely lap with the dog. Street parking surrounds the park; the brick streets of German Village are part of the charm, so plan to walk a block or two. ## What you'll find - **The pond.** A central pond, stocked for fishing, anchors the park and draws ducks, herons, and plenty of foot traffic. - **The gardens.** Landscaped beds, including the Huntington Gardens, and mature shade trees make the grounds feel established and cared for. - **Art and statues.** The bronze statue of German poet Friedrich von Schiller, installed in 1891, gives the park its name, and the beloved "Umbrella Girl" statue is a local landmark in her own right. - **Summer Shakespeare.** The park's outdoor amphitheater hosts free summer performances by Actors' Theatre of Columbus, a German Village tradition worth planning an evening around. - **Recreation.** Walking paths, basketball, tennis, and pickleball courts, ball diamonds, a playground, a community center, and picnic areas round out the park. ## A park built by Columbus's German community The grounds started as Stewart's Grove in the 1830s, a spot for gatherings and celebrations, and hosted the Ohio State Fair in 1864 and 1865\. The city bought the land in 1867 and named it City Park, making it the second-oldest park in Columbus. The Schiller statue arrived in 1891, and the park was officially renamed Schiller Park in 1905\. During World War I, anti-German sentiment briefly pushed the name to Washington Park before it was changed back. For generations it served as the social center of Columbus's German immigrant community, and that heritage still defines the surrounding neighborhood. ## Tips for your visit - **Summer evenings** are the highlight, thanks to free Shakespeare in the amphitheater. Check the Actors' Theatre schedule and bring a blanket. - **Spring and fall** show off the gardens and the mature trees at their best. - **Make a morning of it** by pairing the park loop with a walk through German Village's brick streets and a stop at a neighborhood bakery. ## Nearby walks - [Scioto Audubon Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/scioto-audubon-metro-park/) — riverside trails and birding a few minutes west. - [Three Creeks Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/three-creeks-park/) — where three creeks meet, with real trail just southeast of the city. - [Columbus Metro Parks: Franklin County Trail Guide](https://hiking-ohio.com/columbus-franklin-county-metro-parks/) — every Metro Park in the system, when you want more distance. 🎒 **Out for a city walk?** Comfortable shoes and a water bottle are all you need for a Schiller Park loop. See our [tested gear notes for Ohio trails](https://hiking-ohio.com/comparing-backpacking-pouch-meal-brands/). ### Goodale Park: Historic Victorian Village Walk in Columbus URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/goodale-park/ Last updated: 2026-06-27T21:50:03.000Z **Goodale Park** · Victorian Village, Columbus · 120 W Goodale St About 32.5 acres · \~2.3-mile easy loop · Flat, paved paths · Free · One of the oldest city parks in the U.S. Goodale Park is the green heart of Victorian Village, a 32.5-acre urban oasis right next to the Short North and a short walk from downtown Columbus. It's one of the oldest public parks in the country, and it wears its history well: a central pond with an iconic elephant fountain, Victorian-era gates and gazebo, and clear sightlines to the downtown skyline that make it a favorite for evening walks and sunset photos. The loop is flat, paved, and about 2.3 miles, which makes this an easy, satisfying walk in the middle of the city. Bring the dog, bring a coffee from the Short North, and take your time. ## Getting there and walking it The park sits at 120 W Goodale Street, bounded by Buttles Avenue, Park Street, Goodale Street, and Dennison Avenue. It's an urban park, so street parking around the edges is your main option, and it fills up fast on event days. The main loop runs roughly 2.3 miles with only gentle elevation change, mostly paved paths and open lawn. It's popular for walking, jogging, leashed dog walking, casual biking, and birdwatching, and it stays lively most of the year. ## What makes it special - **The pond and elephant fountain.** The central pond is the park's signature, and the elephant fountain, added in 2013, nods to the park's old circus and animal-exhibit history. It's the most photographed spot in the park for a reason. - **Skyline views.** Clear lines of sight toward downtown make the park a go-to for photographers and sunset-watchers. - **A serious tree collection.** More than 650 trees representing over 160 species, including several rare and champion specimens. It's a quiet arboretum hiding in plain sight. - **Community life.** Goodale hosts ComFest, the huge annual community arts and music festival, plus tennis and pickleball courts, a basketball court, a playground, and broad picnic lawns. ## A park older than most of Ohio's cities The land was originally owned by Dr. Lincoln Goodale, who donated it to Columbus in 1851 with a legal restriction that it remain a public park forever. The park opened around 1852, created in part to improve public health by giving the growing city green space during an era of disease outbreaks. It has stayed public land ever since. During the Civil War, in 1861, the park served as Camp Jackson, a Union Army staging ground that held up to about 8,000 soldiers, until the troops were moved after Goodale objected to the misuse of his gift. Through the late 1800s and early 1900s the park was landscaped with carriage paths, lakes you could actually boat on until around 1920, and Victorian features, and it even hosted early animal exhibits. One lake was filled in during the 1960s and the carriage road was removed in 1955\. After a rough stretch in the 1970s and '80s, the community group Friends of Goodale Park formed in 1987 and led the restoration that brought the park back to the showpiece it is today. ## Tips for your visit - **Best times:** golden hour for skyline photos; spring and fall for the tree collection. Summer weekends are busiest, especially during ComFest. - **Parking:** plan for on-street parking and arrive early on event days. - **Pair it with the Short North** for food, galleries, and a longer urban walk right next door. ## Nearby walks - [Scioto Audubon Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/scioto-audubon-metro-park/) — riverside trails, a climbing wall, and birding just south of downtown. - [Topiary Garden at Old Deaf School Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/topiary-garden-at-old-deaf-school-park-columbus-ohio/) — a sculpted living garden a few minutes east. - [Columbus Metro Parks: Franklin County Trail Guide](https://hiking-ohio.com/columbus-franklin-county-metro-parks/) — when you're ready to trade city loops for real trail. 🎒 **Walking the city?** Comfortable shoes and a water bottle make an urban park day easy. See our [tested gear notes for Ohio trails](https://hiking-ohio.com/comparing-backpacking-pouch-meal-brands/). ### Franklin Park Conservatory: Columbus Gardens & Walking Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/franklin-park-conservatory/ Last updated: 2026-06-27T21:50:04.000Z **Franklin Park & Conservatory** · Near East Side, about 2 miles east of downtown Columbus 88-acre public park (free) · \~1.1 miles of paved paths · 13-acre ticketed conservatory · Flat and easy · Family-friendly Franklin Park is two destinations in one. There's the big, free, 88-acre public park with shade trees, ponds, and an easy mile-plus of paved walking paths. And there's the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens tucked inside it, a ticketed glasshouse where you can walk through a tropical rainforest, a desert, and a Pacific Island water garden without leaving Columbus. Together they make one of the city's best spots for a relaxed walk with a little wonder mixed in. This one is for the days you want green space and gardens rather than rugged trail. It's flat, accessible, close to downtown, and works just as well for a quick lunchtime loop as for a half-day visit with kids. ## The park: free and open The surrounding park is free, and it's the right call if you just want to walk. About 1.1 miles of paved paths meander through open lawns, past ponds, and around the gardens, with a few gentle rises but nothing taxing. The Cascades, a waterfall feature built for the 1992 AmeriFlora exposition, still runs as a centerpiece, and the grounds include an amphitheater, a playground, picnic areas, and a stand of cherry blossom trees given as a gift from Japan. In spring, those blossoms are reason enough to come. ## The conservatory: worth the ticket The conservatory occupies about 13 acres of indoor and outdoor garden space, and it does require admission, generally in the range of twenty to twenty-five dollars for adults, with discounts for seniors, children, and residents, plus the occasional free community day. Inside, themed glasshouse biomes carry you from a tropical rainforest to a desert to a Himalayan mountain garden to a Pacific Island water garden, with more than 400 plant species in the collections. The historic heart of the place is the Palm House, an 1895 Victorian glass greenhouse that anchors the whole campus. Threaded throughout is a permanent collection of glass artwork by Dale Chihuly, whose forms tangle right into the living plants. Seasonal exhibits rotate through the year, from Blooms and Butterflies in summer to orchids in late winter to holiday light displays. There's also a Children's Garden and a nearby community garden campus with an apiary and a demonstration kitchen. ## A little history The land has been a gathering place for a long time. It was bought in 1852 for the Franklin County Fair, hosted the Ohio State Fair from 1874 to 1884, and was converted into a public park in the 1880s. The original Palm House greenhouse opened in 1895, inspired by the world's fairs and the City Beautiful movement. The modern era arrived in 1992, when Franklin Park hosted AmeriFlora '92, a major international horticulture exposition that triggered the expansion into the biomes, education spaces, and event venues there today. You can read the fuller story of that expo in our piece on [AmeriFlora '92](https://hiking-ohio.com/ameriflora-92/). ## Tips for your visit - **Walking only?** Stick to the free park and its paved loops. You don't need a ticket to enjoy the grounds. - **Want the gardens?** Buy conservatory admission, and check the calendar first; seasonal exhibits change the whole experience. - **Spring** brings the cherry blossoms outdoors and orchids inside. **Winter** is when the warm, humid glasshouse earns its keep. - **Accessibility:** paths in both the park and the conservatory are flat and largely accessible, good for strollers and wheelchairs. ## Nearby green spaces - [Topiary Garden at Old Deaf School Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/topiary-garden-at-old-deaf-school-park-columbus-ohio/) — a one-of-a-kind sculpted garden a few minutes west, downtown. - [Inniswood Metro Gardens](https://hiking-ohio.com/inniswood-metro-gardens/) — woodland trails and themed gardens in Westerville. - [Scioto Audubon Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/scioto-audubon-metro-park/) — riverside trails and birding just southwest of downtown. 🎒 **Heading out for a longer walk after?** Comfortable shoes and a water bottle go a long way on a garden-and-park day. See our [tested gear notes for Ohio trails](https://hiking-ohio.com/comparing-backpacking-pouch-meal-brands/). ### Pizzurro Park Gahanna: Dog Park & Creekside Trail Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/pizzurro-park/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:03:26.000Z Trail FactsPizzurro Park Dog-friendly **Pizzurro Park** · Gahanna, Ohio · along Big Walnut Creek About 23 acres · Paved paths · Flat and easy · Dogs very welcome · Free · 4-acre fenced dog park Not every good walk needs a gorge or a waterfall. Pizzurro Park in Gahanna is a flat, easy, 23-acre community park along Big Walnut Creek, and its claim to fame is one of the largest fenced dog parks in the Columbus area. If you've got a dog who needs to run, or you just want a low-key creekside loop close to the east side, this is a reliable pick. This isn't a backcountry hike, and it doesn't pretend to be. What you get is paved paths, open green space, creek access, and a four-acre off-leash playground for your dog. It's a neighborhood park doing its job well. ## Getting there Pizzurro Park sits just east of Columbus in Gahanna, tucked along Big Walnut Creek. A short entrance drive off Pizzurro Park Road leads to the parking lot. From there, everything is a flat, easy walk. The park is free and open to the public, with a paved lot, restrooms, and a picnic shelter on site. ## The trails and the dog park Paved walking paths wind through the park, suitable for walking, running, or a stroller, and accessible by wheelchair through much of the grounds. These are short internal loops rather than a long trail, but they connect nicely to the wider Big Walnut Trail system, and Gahanna continues to expand its regional trail network, so the through-connections are improving over time. The signature feature is the dog park: roughly four acres, fully fenced, with separate areas for small and large dogs, agility equipment, and plenty of off-leash room. It's a genuine destination for east-side dog owners, not an afterthought. Beyond the dog park you'll find a playground, a basketball court, open lawns, and direct access to Big Walnut Creek for fishing and for launching a canoe or kayak. 💡 Because the park sits right on Big Walnut Creek, parts of it can flood after heavy rain and occasionally close. Check conditions before you make the drive in wet weather. ## A park that turned itself around Pizzurro Park's history is less about settlers and more about recent community planning. For years it was a basic creekside park with ball diamonds, a playground, and canoe access, but parts of it fell into disuse and the park developed a rough reputation that kept families and donors away. A small, informal fenced dog area, partly funded by a local group called Pooch Playground, Inc., became muddy and overcrowded almost as fast as it appeared. In the late 2000s the City of Gahanna launched a full redesign. A Dog Park Advisory Committee made up of residents, officials, and advocates helped guide the plan, with three goals: improve safety and reputation, make the park more usable for families, and build a modern off-leash facility. The redevelopment replaced the old softball fields with the large, purpose-built dog park you see today, complete with separate dog areas, an agility space, paved paths, and seating. The result turned a declining, underused space into one of the most popular dog parks in the region, driven largely by local demand and organized planning. If you talk to longtime visitors, some remember a longer access road that once cut deeper into the park, back when cars were allowed farther in to reach the ball fields and creek. That older alignment was shortened and partly converted to walking paths and green space during the overhaul, part of a broader shift toward pedestrian-friendly, flood-safe design along the creek corridor. ## Tips and seasonal notes - **Best for:** dog owners, a quick walk or run, families with young kids, and casual creek fishing. - **Spring and summer** are prime, though the dog park can get muddy after rain. Fall brings nice color along the creek. - **Bring water** for you and the dog in warm months, and watch creek levels after storms. - **Pair it with a longer hike.** If you want more distance, the regional Big Walnut Trail and the Metro Parks nearby pick up where Pizzurro's short loops leave off. ## Nearby parks and trails - [Three Creeks Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/three-creeks-park/) — where Big Walnut, Alum, and Blacklick creeks meet, with miles of paved and natural trail just south. - [Blacklick Woods Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/blacklick-woods-metro-park/) — mature forest and boardwalk trails a short drive east. - [Columbus Metro Parks: Franklin County Trail Guide](https://hiking-ohio.com/columbus-franklin-county-metro-parks/) — every Metro Park in the system, mapped and ranked. 🎒 **Gear up for the trail.** Even an easy creekside walk goes better with good shoes and a water bottle for you and the dog. See our [tested gear notes for Ohio trails](https://hiking-ohio.com/comparing-backpacking-pouch-meal-brands/). ### King's Hollow Tunnel: A Ghost-Town Hike in Zaleski URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/kings-hollow/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:02:55.000Z Trail FactsZaleski State Forest 1 miDistance EasyDifficulty 45 minDuration Out & BackType Year RoundDog-friendly **King's Hollow Tunnel** · Zaleski State Forest, Vinton County (near Zaleski, OH) About 1 mile round trip to the tunnel · Mostly flat rail grade · 30–60 minutes · Easy · Year-round · Dogs welcome on leash There's an abandoned railroad tunnel hidden in the woods of Zaleski State Forest, cut straight through a sandstone cliff and lined with timbers that have been standing for more than 150 years. Its famous cousin, the Moonville Tunnel, gets all the ghost stories and all the visitors. King's Hollow Tunnel sits quietly a few miles away, just as eerie and a fraction as crowded. If you want a short, strange, history-soaked walk in southeast Ohio, this is the one. King's Hollow is the kind of place that rewards a little curiosity. The hike itself is easy and quick, but you're walking through the bones of a vanished town and a railroad that hauled iron and coal out of these hills a century and a half ago. ## Getting there The tunnel sits in Zaleski State Forest, in Vinton County, near the village of Zaleski and not far from Lake Hope State Park. The common access point is the gravel intersection of King Hollow Trail and Rockcamp Road, deep in the forest. The old Moonville rail line, now a hiking trail, crosses Rockcamp Road just south of that intersection. Park along the gravel shoulder near the intersection, find the old rail bed where it crosses the road, and follow it east. It's roughly half a mile to the tunnel, which makes the out-and-back about a mile total. Cell service out here is unreliable, so download your map or print directions before you leave pavement. These are forest-service gravel roads; take them slow. ## The walk to the tunnel The route follows the old Moonville rail grade, so the walking is flat and straightforward, the way railroad beds always are. The surface is rustic and informal, not a manicured park trail. Expect uneven footing, the occasional overgrown stretch, and a small creek crossing or two depending on the season. Sturdy shoes are smart. The trail climbs a small hill to the left, then the tunnel comes into view, cut through a cliff face. King's Hollow Tunnel runs about 120 feet and is lined the whole way with heavy timber framing. The interior is dark, quiet, and usually holds shallow pools of standing water on the floor. Bring a flashlight, or use your phone, both to see the timber work and to keep your footing on the wet ground. The light catches the old beams and the rough rock at the entrance in a way that's genuinely worth the short trip. If you want a longer day, the Moonville Rail Trail runs about ten miles total and connects a string of historic sites: Zaleski, the ghost town of Mineral, and the far more famous Moonville Tunnel, the haunted centerpiece of the corridor. You can stitch King's Hollow and Moonville together into a multi-mile out-and-back if your legs are up for it. ## History: a railroad town that vanished Mineral, Moonville, and Hope were all working towns during Ohio's 19th-century iron and coal boom, strung together by the Moonville rail line that carried freight to the iron furnace at Hope. The line came through in the late 1850s when the Marietta and Cincinnati Railroad pushed into the region, and it later became part of the Baltimore and Ohio system. King's Hollow grew out of a small stop once known as King's Station, a depot and shipping point that moved coal, timber, and iron ore out of the hills. The "King" name most likely came from a local landowning family, a common naming habit in rural Ohio at the time. As the mines played out and the iron industry declined in the early 1900s, the town shrank and was eventually abandoned. The formal "station" designation faded from the maps, and locals started calling the area by its geography instead: a hollow, in Appalachian usage, is simply a small valley between hills. Today little remains besides old rail grades, scattered foundations, the tunnel, and a lot of oral history. The tunnel itself goes by several names, depending on who you ask: King's Hollow Tunnel, King's Switch Tunnel, the Mineral Tunnel, or just King's Tunnel. They're all the same timber-lined passage through the cliff. ## The ghost stories Like most abandoned railroad structures in southeastern Ohio, King's Hollow has collected its share of legends. Take them for what they're worth: campfire folklore, not history. - **The phantom train.** On foggy nights, people claim to hear a train rumbling through the tunnel and to glimpse a faint headlamp inside, even though no tracks remain. Sound carrying through the hills from distant rail lines is the usual explanation. - **The railroad worker's spirit.** A worker is said to have died during construction and to appear as a shadowy figure near the entrance. There's no verified record of a fatal accident at this exact tunnel; the story survives by word of mouth. - **The vanishing light.** Teenagers have long told of a floating lantern light, flashlights flickering, and phone batteries draining near the center of the tunnel. Moisture, drafts, and cold air pockets do most of the heavy lifting here. Why does it feel so creepy? The dense Appalachian forest, the isolation, the cold air that pools inside the tunnel, and the way the stone amplifies and distorts every sound. An abandoned tunnel in deep woods does a lot of the work on its own. ## Tips and seasonal notes - **Bring a light.** The tunnel is dark and the floor is often wet. A headlamp keeps your hands free. - **Wear real shoes.** The rail bed is rough and can be muddy or overgrown. - **Go in fall or winter** for the best atmosphere and the fewest bugs. Summer brings humidity and mosquitoes in the low, wet sections. - **Respect the site.** The timbers are historic and fragile. Look, photograph, and leave it as you found it. - **Prefer to ride?** Local outfitters near New Marshfield run guided horseback trips along this same corridor, including longer rides out to King's Hollow Tunnel, if you'd rather see it from the saddle. ## Nearby trails - [Zaleski State Forest](https://hiking-ohio.com/zaleski-state-forest/) — the larger backpacking loop and bridle trail network surrounding the tunnel. - [Wayne National Forest](https://hiking-ohio.com/wayne-national-forest/) — more remote southeast Ohio hiking and historic iron furnaces. - [Hocking Hills State Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/hocking-hills-state-park-every-trail-ranked/) — the waterfalls and gorges, less than an hour northwest. 🎒 **Gear up for the trail.** A headlamp, sturdy shoes, and a downloaded offline map make this short hike a lot more comfortable. See our [tested gear notes for Ohio trails](https://hiking-ohio.com/comparing-backpacking-pouch-meal-brands/). ### Wayne National Forest: Ohio's Only National Forest URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/wayne-national-forest/ Last updated: 2026-06-27T21:50:06.000Z **Wayne National Forest** · Main office: 13700 US Highway 33, Nelsonville, OH 45764 Over 240,000 acres · 300+ miles of trails · Open 24 hours, year-round · Free (fees at some developed areas) · Dogs welcome Wayne National Forest is Ohio's only national forest, and it's a treasure plenty of Ohioans don't even know exists. Spanning more than 240,000 acres across twelve counties in the southeastern corner of the state, it offers something you won't find in Ohio's busy state parks: genuine solitude. You can hike for miles through rugged Appalachian foothills without seeing another person. It feels different from Hocking Hills or the Metro Parks the moment you arrive. No crowds, no paved paths, no visitor centers with gift shops. Just rolling hills, oak-hickory forest, and the occasional glimpse of wildlife. This is wild in a way that's increasingly rare in Ohio. 📌 **A name change is on the table.** In August 2023 the U.S. Forest Service proposed renaming the forest "Buckeye National Forest," part of a national effort to revisit names tied to figures like General Anthony Wayne, who led the campaign that displaced the region's Native nations. The proposal drew strong opinions on both sides and, as of 2026, remains under review. The official name is still Wayne National Forest, so that's what you'll see on signs and maps for now. ## A forest reclaimed The story of Wayne is one of remarkable recovery. When European settlers arrived in southeastern Ohio, they found a landscape covered in ancient forest. Over the following century those woods were almost completely cleared, first for farmland, then for the timber and charcoal that fed the iron furnaces dotting the region. By the 1930s the land was wrecked. Failed farms, eroded hillsides, and abandoned mining operations left the area economically depressed. In 1934 the federal government began buying up these worn-out lands, and in 1951 the area was officially designated Wayne National Forest. Today, after roughly 90 years of regrowth, the forest has returned. What were once barren hillsides now hold a thriving ecosystem of mixed hardwoods, home to deer, wild turkey, the occasional black bear, and dozens of bird species. Walking through these woods, it's hard to imagine they were ever gone. ## Three districts, one forest Wayne is divided into three ranger districts, each with its own character. ### Athens Ranger District In Athens and surrounding counties, this district holds some of the forest's most popular trails, including stretches of the Buckeye Trail. The Burr Oak area offers a reservoir for fishing and swimming plus miles of hiking through Appalachian forest. ### Marietta Unit In Washington County near the Ohio River, this area features stunning overlooks and some of the most rugged terrain in the forest. The Archers Fork Trail delivers challenging backcountry hiking with multiple stream crossings. ### Ironton Ranger District The southernmost district extends to the Ohio River and includes historic iron furnaces and rock shelters. Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area is the highlight, with swimming, camping, and miles of trails around a scenic lake. ## Notable hiking trails Wayne offers over 300 miles of trails. A few standouts: ### Lake Vesuvius Trails (Ironton District) A network of trails circles the 143-acre Lake Vesuvius, named for the nearby Vesuvius Iron Furnace built in 1833\. Options range from the easy 8-mile Lakeshore Trail to the tougher 16-mile Vesuvius Backpack Trail. This is the best area for introducing someone to the forest. ### Archers Fork Trail (Marietta Unit) This challenging 9.2-mile loop is considered one of Ohio's best backpacking trails, with ridge-top views, multiple stream crossings, and a true wilderness feel. The Irish Run section includes a natural rock arch. ### Wildcat Hollow Trail (Athens District) A 15-mile backpacking trail that also works as a series of day hikes, passing through recovering forest with wildflowers in spring and strong color in fall. ### Buckeye Trail and North Country Trail Both long-distance routes pass through the forest for roughly 45 miles, offering some of the most remote hiking in Ohio. ## What you'll see ### Historic iron furnaces In the 1800s, southeastern Ohio was an iron-producing powerhouse, with dozens of stone furnaces converting local ore and charcoal into pig iron. Several massive stone structures still stand, including Vesuvius Furnace, Buckeye Furnace, and Hope Furnace, some rising 35 feet. ### Rock shelters and wildlife The sandstone geology has carved numerous rock shelters throughout the forest. Wildlife includes white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and, increasingly, black bears, and the forest is excellent for birdwatching. ## Visitor information - **Main office:** 13700 US Highway 33, Nelsonville, OH 45764 · (740) 753-0101 - **Hours:** open 24 hours, year-round; some recreation areas have seasonal hours - **Cost:** free, with fees at some developed areas like Lake Vesuvius - **Distance from Columbus:** the Athens District is about 75 miles (1.5 hours); the Ironton District is about 120 miles (2 hours) - **Dogs:** welcome throughout the forest ## Tips for your visit - **Prepare for solitude.** Unlike Hocking Hills, you may not see another hiker for hours. Carry a map and be self-sufficient. - **Download offline maps.** Cell service is spotty to nonexistent across much of the forest. - **Bring waterproof boots.** Many trails include unbridged stream crossings. - **Consider camping.** The forest has developed campgrounds and allows dispersed backcountry camping. - **Watch for ticks.** Wear long pants, use repellent, and check yourself after hiking. ## Why it's worth the drive Wayne offers something rare in Ohio: a true wilderness experience. It lacks the dramatic waterfalls of Hocking Hills, but it makes up for that with sheer scale, solitude, and a remarkable story of recovery. This is a forest that was nearly destroyed and came all the way back. Whether you're day hiking at Lake Vesuvius, backpacking Archers Fork, or tracking down historic furnaces, you'll find a wilder Ohio waiting. ## Nearby trails - [Zaleski State Forest](https://hiking-ohio.com/zaleski-state-forest/) — big backcountry trails and the Moonville Rail Trail, just west of the Athens District. - [Hocking Hills State Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/hocking-hills-state-park-every-trail-ranked/) — the waterfalls and gorges, about an hour north of the Athens District. - [The Buckeye Trail](https://hiking-ohio.com/buckeye-trail/) — Ohio's 1,400-mile loop, which threads right through Wayne. 🎒 **Gear up for the backcountry.** Wayne's remote trails reward self-sufficiency: waterproof boots for stream crossings, a paper map, and plenty of water. See our [tested gear notes for Ohio trails](https://hiking-ohio.com/comparing-backpacking-pouch-meal-brands/). ### Great Southern Metro Park Columbus: Trail Guide & Map 2026 URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/great-southern-metro-park-columbus/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:02:40.000Z Trail FactsGreat Southern Metro Park 2 miDistance EasyDifficulty 1.5 hrsDuration Year RoundDog-friendly **Great Southern Metro Park** · 125 Williams Road, Columbus, OH 43207 About 2 miles of trails · Flat terrain · 1–2 hours · Easy · Year-round · Dogs welcome on leash · Free · Open daily 7:30 a.m. to dark Columbus just got a brand-new Metro Park, and it might be the most unexpected one in the system. Great Southern Metro Park opened on April 1, 2026, bringing 70 acres of trails, restored prairie, river access, and a full-blown obstacle course to the South Side. It's the 21st park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system, and it fills a gap that residents south of I-270 have felt for a long time. The park sits right along the Scioto River, tucked behind the Great Southern Shopping Center off South High Street. You've probably driven past this stretch a hundred times without giving it a second thought. But there's a surprisingly wild riverfront back here, complete with prairie grasslands, wetlands, an old canal corridor you can walk, and exposed geological layers dating back to the last ice age. If you live on the South Side, this is your backyard park now. If you don't, it's worth the drive. ## Getting there The easiest approach is from South High Street, US-23\. Head south from downtown, pass under I-270, and turn west onto Williams Road. The park entrance and main parking lot are on your right. Coming from I-270, take the South High Street exit and head north briefly; Williams Road is less than half a mile from the interchange. You can also reach the park from Hirst Drive on the north side. **Parking:** a paved lot at the Williams Road entrance serves as the main trailhead, with overflow parking along Hirst Drive. Free, like all Metro Parks. GPS: 39.8915, -83.0010\. Open daily, 7:30 a.m. until dark. No entrance fee, no reservations. The location sits between the Scioto River to the west, the shopping center to the east, and I-270 to the south. Don't let the commercial surroundings fool you. Once you're fifty yards down the trail, the city noise drops away and the river takes over. ## The trails Great Southern isn't backcountry wilderness, and it isn't pretending to be. What you get is a well-designed network of paved and natural-surface trails through prairie, woodland, and river corridor, all within easy reach of south Columbus neighborhoods that haven't had a Metro Park nearby until now. ### Paved multi-use trail Flat, smooth asphalt. The main paved trail forms the backbone of the park: wheelchair accessible, stroller-friendly, good for walking, jogging, or a casual bike ride. It winds through open prairie with clear sightlines to the Scioto and connects everything, from the parking area to the overlook deck, playground, and obstacle course. You'll cover about a mile on the paved route alone. Plan 30 to 45 minutes for a casual walk, longer if you stop at the overlook or detour to the fitness stations. ### Canal Trail This is the quieter side of Great Southern, and honestly the most interesting. The Canal Trail follows the route of the old Columbus Feeder Canal through a wooded corridor along the river. The surface is natural, packed earth and gravel, so sturdy shoes are a good idea, particularly after rain when the low spots hold water. The canopy here is surprisingly thick for a park this new. Mature trees line both sides of the old canal bed, and you'll feel like you've stepped into a completely different park compared to the open prairie. Watch for exposed canal-era stonework along the edges of the path, remnants of the 1820s engineering that once connected Columbus to the Ohio and Erie Canal at Lockbourne. This is also the section that will eventually link north to Scioto Audubon Metro Park via an extension of the Scioto Greenway Trail. That four-mile connection is still in development. When it's finished, you'll be able to walk or bike from Great Southern all the way to downtown along the riverfront. ### Prairie and nature paths Several spur paths branch off the main paved route into the prairie and wetland areas. These are short, informal walks, perfect for birding or getting a closer look at the restored native grassland. Wild bergamot, black-eyed Susans, and native bluestem are planted throughout. Give it two or three growing seasons to fill in. By midsummer 2027 the wildflower displays should be worth visiting on their own. The wetland on the park's southern edge is worth checking during migration season; standing water and emergent vegetation draw shorebirds and wading species you won't see on the paved trail. ## The obstacle course No other Metro Park in the system has anything quite like this. A 230-yard obstacle course with an over-under, ninja jump, cargo climb, balance beams, and a wall climb. American Ninja Warrior lite, basically, except your backdrop is tall-grass prairie and the Scioto River instead of a studio audience. Next to the course is a dedicated fitness station with monkey bars, pull-up bars, dip bars, push-up stations, decline sit-ups, inverted rows, and a box jump. If you want to combine a trail walk with an actual outdoor workout, this is one of the few Metro Parks where that's genuinely an option. Scioto Audubon has an obstacle course too, but Great Southern's is newer and the fitness-station integration is tighter. Bring gloves if you're hitting the obstacles in cold weather. The metal gets brutal in November. 💡 The obstacle course is built for adults and older kids. Younger children will want to stick to the playground near the parking lot. The fitness station works great as a standalone workout if the obstacles aren't your thing. ## The overlook and river access An overlook deck sits on a raised mound near the park's western edge, with views across the Scioto and the surrounding floodplain. There's a swing bench up here, a nice touch if you want to sit and watch the water for a while. On clear days the tree line stretching south toward Scioto Grove is visible on the horizon. The Scioto runs along the park's entire western boundary, giving you direct access for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. There's no formal boat ramp, just flat put-in points along the bank that work fine for small watercraft. The Scioto south of Columbus is Ohio's longest free-flowing, undammed stretch of river. According to Ohio Division of Wildlife data, 116 species of fish and 67 species of freshwater mussels live in these waters. Anglers, you have real variety here. ## History and nature ### From canal boats to quarries to Metro Park Look at the exposed riverbank here and you're reading two hundred years of history in a few feet of dirt. Start with the canal. In 1824, engineers began surveying an eleven-mile navigable feeder from the Scioto south to Lockbourne, where it would join the main Ohio and Erie Canal. Groundbreaking came on April 30, 1827, and the first canal boat ran from Lockbourne to Columbus in 1831\. Lockbourne exploded into a hub of commerce, with eight lift locks, two canal basins, and a junction that made it one of the busiest stretches on the whole system. The Ohio and Erie Canal itself ran 308 miles, Lake Erie to the Ohio River, built between 1825 and 1832\. The Canal Trail at Great Southern follows the exact route of the feeder that kept Columbus connected. Then the canal era ended. The Scioto valley sits at the lowest point in Franklin County, so limestone is right near the surface, and quarrying moved in. Anderson Concrete, Shelly Materials, Olen, Kokosing; they carved out the quarry lakes you can still spot on satellite maps, scattered south toward Circleville. The most recent chapter: this parcel held the City of Columbus's Heer Park, which closed in 2021 over safety concerns. Mixed in were ODNR land, American Electric Power land, and portions of historic Harman Farms. Metro Parks spent years assembling the 70-acre site. Total cost for the park and planned Scioto Trail extension ran about twenty million dollars. ### Geology you can actually see Blue clay. Cobbles. A layer of sand, then wood debris, then freshwater mussel shells thousands of years old. The exposed banks along the Scioto are a field geology lesson you didn't plan for. Metro Parks naturalists have documented the layers: glacial-period deposits sitting right alongside canal stonework from the 1800s. Deeper in the bank, lake-bottom sediments hold mussel shells and woody debris from an ancient lake that covered this low-lying area before it silted in and became dry land. Above all of it, a distinct soil horizon where the landscape finally stabilized. Most visitors walk right past it. ### Wildlife along the Scioto corridor Even before Metro Parks broke ground, birds were already here. Columbus Audubon had been documenting the site for years: gulls, raptors, flocks of starlings, robins, and various sparrows. The real surprise was Blue Grosbeaks, a striking bird you'd normally associate with the Deep South, which showed up as potential breeders at this scruffy industrial riverfront for several consecutive summers. Nobody quite expected that. Great blue herons are a regular presence along this stretch, standing motionless in the shallows hunting fish, frogs, and crustaceans; they return to central Ohio as early as mid-February in warm years. Four miles north at Scioto Audubon, birders regularly record waterfowl, sandpipers, warblers, flycatchers, and kingfishers, and you can expect similar species to filter down as the habitat establishes. The Scioto functions as an avian highway through central Ohio, and Great Southern sits right on the flight path. ## Bringing the dog Dogs are welcome on a leash of six feet or shorter, following standard Metro Parks pet policy. Nothing here is technical or steep, so small dogs and older dogs do fine. The Canal Trail is where most dogs seem happiest: packed earth, leaf litter, the occasional mud puddle to investigate. Bring water; there are no pet stations yet. The river looks tempting, but keep dogs leashed and away from the put-in points where kayakers launch. ## Tips and seasonal notes **Spring (March–May):** the best season for birding, as migrants follow the river corridor and the prairies green up fast once April hits. The Canal Trail can be soft after rain, so wear boots. **Summer (June–August):** prairie grasses and wildflowers peak, and the obstacle course draws weekend crowds. Beat the heat with an early start. River access is prime for kayaking. **Fall (September–November):** prairie grasses turn gold and copper, and raptor migration picks up along the river. The wooded Canal Trail offers decent color, though the canopy is still young in places. The grasses going gold in October are genuinely worth stopping for. **Winter (December–February):** open year-round, but the Canal Trail gets icy after freezing rain, so stick to pavement. The overlook on a clear January morning, with fog lifting off the Scioto, is worth bundling up for. **What to bring:** sturdy shoes (boots for the Canal Trail after rain), water (no drinking fountains yet), binoculars for birding, sunscreen for the fully exposed prairie, bug spray in summer, and gloves for the obstacle course in cold weather. ## Nearby trails Great Southern makes a solid anchor for a south Columbus park day. Combine it with any of these: - [Columbus Metro Parks: Franklin County Trail Guide](https://hiking-ohio.com/columbus-franklin-county-metro-parks/) — our full guide to every Metro Park in the system, with trail maps and highlights. - [Best Hikes Near Columbus, Ohio](https://hiking-ohio.com/best-hikes-near-columbus-ohio-15-trails-worth-your-weekend/) — 15 trails worth your weekend, from urban loops to gorge hikes. - [Scioto Audubon Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/scioto-audubon-metro-park/) — four miles north along the Scioto, with its own obstacle course, climbing wall, and boat ramp. The future greenway will link the two parks by trail. - [Scioto Grove Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/scioto-grove-met/) — 620 acres of mature forest and river bluffs in Grove City, about 15 minutes south, with seven miles of trails and backpacking sites. - [Three Creeks Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/three-creeks-park/) — where Big Walnut, Alum, and Blacklick creeks meet, just east of the park. 🎒 **Gear up for the trail.** Great Southern's paths are flat and well-maintained, but sturdy shoes make the Canal Trail a lot more comfortable after rain, and a good water bottle is essential since there are no fountains yet. See our [tested gear notes for Ohio trails](https://hiking-ohio.com/comparing-backpacking-pouch-meal-brands/). ### Ohio Waterfall Hikes: 7 Best Trails to Chase Cascades URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/ohio-waterfall-hikes-7-best-trails-to-chase-cascades/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:18:48.000Z 🥾 Need some gear for your next great hike? Check out some [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) I never expected Ohio to be a waterfall state. When I first moved here, my mental image was flat farmland stretching to the horizon — cornfields, soybeans, maybe a creek or two. Then someone dragged me to Hocking Hills on a rainy spring afternoon, and I stood at the rim of a gorge watching Cedar Falls thunder into a pool of green-black water. Ohio had been hiding this from me. The thing is, Ohio's waterfalls aren't like the ones you see plastered across national park brochures. They're tucked into sandstone gorges and hemlock ravines, carved by thousands of years of patient water working through Blackhand sandstone. Most of them are seasonal — visit in April after snowmelt or following heavy spring rains, and you'll see them at their best. Show up in August, and some are barely a trickle. Timing matters. I've spent the last few years tracking down every waterfall hike I can find in the state. Here are the best ones, ranked by the overall experience — not just the waterfall itself, but the trail, the scenery, the effort, and whether it's worth the drive. --- ## 1\. Cedar Falls Trail — Hocking Hills State Park **Distance:** 1.4 miles | **Difficulty:** Moderate | **Elevation:** 250 ft | **Type:** Out-and-back Cedar Falls is probably Ohio's most-photographed waterfall, and for good reason. The trail drops down through a hemlock-shaded gorge where the air is ten degrees cooler than the parking lot. When you reach the falls, you're standing in a natural amphitheater of layered sandstone with water cascading over a wide rock shelf. The "moderate" rating comes entirely from the stairs. There are a lot of them, and coming back up is a workout — especially if you're carrying camera gear. But the trail itself is well-maintained with boardwalks and handrails through the steepest sections. Best time to visit is mid-March through May, when snowmelt pushes the flow rate up and the gorge is lush with spring ephemeral wildflowers. I've been here in late summer when the falls were barely a drip, which is still scenic but a different experience entirely. **Pro tip:** Visit on a weekday morning if possible. This is one of the most popular trails in Ohio and weekend parking can fill by 10 AM during peak season. [Read our full Cedar Falls trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/cedar-falls/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## 2\. Whispering Cave Trail — Hocking Hills State Park **Distance:** 2.0 miles | **Difficulty:** Moderate | **Elevation:** 400 ft | **Type:** Out-and-back Whispering Cave (sometimes called Old Man's Cave Upper Falls) is a massive rock overhang — one of the largest recess caves in Ohio — with a seasonal waterfall pouring over the lip. When the water is flowing, the acoustics inside the cave amplify the sound into this low, echoing rumble that earned the trail its name. The hike to reach it involves some serious elevation change for Ohio standards. You're descending into the gorge on stone steps, crossing bridges over the creek, and working your way along cliff edges. It's not dangerous, but it keeps you engaged the whole way. What makes Whispering Cave stand out is the scale. You walk up under the overhang and realize you're standing inside a space that could shelter a hundred people. The waterfall drops maybe 25 feet over the cave lip, and in spring you can feel the mist from thirty yards away. **Pro tip:** Bring a rain jacket even on sunny days — the mist is real. And in spring, the approach trail can be muddy in sections. [Read our full Whispering Cave trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/whispering-cave/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ## 3\. John Bryan State Park & Clifton Gorge — Yellow Springs **Distance:** 5.5 miles | **Difficulty:** Moderate | **Elevation:** 350 ft | **Type:** Loop John Bryan doesn't get the attention that Hocking Hills does, and honestly, that's part of its appeal. The Little Miami River has carved a limestone gorge here that looks like it belongs in the Appalachian backcountry, not fifteen minutes from Yellow Springs. The waterfalls along this trail are smaller and more scattered — cascading ledge falls that spill down the gorge walls, especially after rain. You won't find one dramatic centerpiece falls here. Instead, you get a whole gorge full of them. The trail follows the rim and then drops down to river level, where you can hop between rock ledges and get close to the water. Clifton Gorge is a designated state nature preserve, so stay on designated trails through that section. The gorge walls are fragile dolomite and limestone, and the preserve protects some rare plant species that cling to the cliff faces. The Yellow Springs connection is a bonus — finish your hike and walk into town for lunch at one of the local spots. It's a perfect full-day outing. **Pro tip:** The best waterfall views are in spring, particularly after a few days of rain. The North Gorge Trail section offers the most dramatic views down into the gorge. --- ## 4\. Wahkeena Nature Preserve — Hocking County **Distance:** 2.5 miles | **Difficulty:** Moderate | **Elevation:** 300 ft | **Type:** Loop Wahkeena is Hocking Hills without the crowds. Seriously — I've hiked here on beautiful spring Saturdays and passed maybe four other people. The preserve is managed by the Ohio Historical Society and tucked away on a side road that most GPS apps handle poorly, which keeps the traffic down. The waterfall here drops into a fern-covered grotto that feels like something out of a nature documentary. It's not huge — maybe fifteen feet — but the setting is perfect. The surrounding forest is old-growth hemlock and beech, with wildflowers carpeting the slopes in April and May. The trail system loops through the preserve with moderate elevation changes and some sections that follow the creek bed. There's a nature center at the trailhead with botanical displays and seasonal programs if you're into that. **Pro tip:** The preserve's name comes from the Shawnee word for "most beautiful," and in wildflower season, you'll understand why. Visit mid-April for peak bloom. --- ## 5\. Clear Creek Metro Park — Hocking County **Distance:** 5.0 miles | **Difficulty:** Moderate | **Elevation:** 400 ft | **Type:** Loop Clear Creek is one of the bigger metro parks in the Columbus system, and it sits right on the edge of the Hocking Hills region. The waterfall here is seasonal and tucked into a sandstone ravine along the Hemlock Trail — it's not marked as a "waterfall trail" on the park map, which means most visitors walk right past it. The park has over 15 miles of trails total, so you can make a short trip to the falls or build it into a longer loop. The Fern Loop connects to the Hemlock Trail and takes you through some of the most diverse forest in central Ohio — old-growth hemlock, mixed hardwoods, and a creek system that supports salamanders and crayfish. Wildlife is part of the draw here. Clear Creek is one of the best birding spots in the region, and I've seen pileated woodpeckers on nearly every visit. The waterfall section of the Hemlock Trail is shaded and cool even in summer. **Pro tip:** The park entrance on Clear Creek Road puts you closest to the waterfall trails. Download the trail map before you go — cell service is spotty. ## 6\. Mohican State Park — Ashland County **Distance:** 6.5 miles | **Difficulty:** Moderate | **Elevation:** 450 ft | **Type:** Loop Mohican is a sleeper pick for Ohio waterfalls. Most people come here for the camping or the canoe liveries on the Mohican River, but the Lyons Falls Trail delivers one of the most satisfying waterfall hikes in the state. Big Lyons Falls and Little Lyons Falls are both accessible from the same trail system, with the big falls dropping around 30 feet into a rocky pool. The surrounding Clear Fork Gorge is spectacular — 300-foot sandstone walls covered in hemlock and fern. It's the kind of gorge that makes you forget you're in Ohio. The Lyons Falls Trail connects to a network that includes the covered bridge trail and hemlock gorge trail, so you can easily spend a full day here. Mohican also has the advantage of being a full-service state park with campgrounds, cabins, and a lodge. Make a weekend of it — hike to the falls on Saturday, spend Sunday paddling the river. **Pro tip:** The falls are best in spring and after heavy rains. The gorge section can be slippery on wet days — wear boots with good traction, not trail runners. --- ## 7\. Christmas Rocks & Jacobs Ladder — Hocking Hills **Distance:** 3.5 miles | **Difficulty:** Hard | **Elevation:** 500 ft | **Type:** Loop This one earns its "hard" rating. Christmas Rocks is a wild, semi-maintained trail in the Hocking Hills backcountry that scrambles through rock formations, along cliff edges, and past a series of seasonal cascading falls. Jacobs Ladder is a steep stone staircase carved into the sandstone that connects the upper and lower sections of the gorge. The waterfalls here are scattered throughout the trail — small cascades dropping over rock ledges, seasonal pour-offs after rain, and one larger falls near the Jacobs Ladder section. None of them are individually as impressive as Cedar Falls, but the cumulative effect of hiking through a gorge with water dropping around you from multiple points is pretty incredible. This is not a beginner trail. The footing is uneven, some sections require basic scrambling, and trail markers can be sparse. But if you're comfortable on rugged terrain and want to see a less-touristy side of Hocking Hills, Christmas Rocks delivers. **Pro tip:** Go after a solid rain for the best waterfall display. Wear sturdy boots and bring trekking poles — the descent through Jacobs Ladder is steep and can be slick. [Read our full Ash Cave Fire Tower trail guide for nearby Hocking Hills hiking →](https://hikingohio.blog/ash-cave-fire-tower/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## Quick Reference: Ohio Waterfall Hikes at a Glance | Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Best Season | Highlights | | -------------------------- | -------- | ---------- | ----------- | ------------------------------------ | | Cedar Falls | 1.4 mi | Moderate | Spring/Fall | Ohio's most iconic waterfall | | Whispering Cave | 2.0 mi | Moderate | Spring | Massive recess cave with cascade | | John Bryan & Clifton Gorge | 5.5 mi | Moderate | Spring/Fall | Limestone gorge with scattered falls | | Wahkeena Nature Preserve | 2.5 mi | Moderate | Spring/Fall | Secluded grotto, wildflowers | | Clear Creek Metro Park | 5.0 mi | Moderate | Year-round | Hidden ravine falls, great birding | | Mohican State Park | 6.5 mi | Moderate | Year-round | Lyons Falls in deep sandstone gorge | | Christmas Rocks | 3.5 mi | Hard | Spring/Fall | Rugged backcountry cascades | ## Tips for Chasing Ohio Waterfalls **Timing is everything.** Most Ohio waterfalls are seasonal. March through May gives you the best flow from snowmelt and spring rains. Fall can be good too, especially after a wet October. Summer? Hit or miss — a dry July can reduce even Cedar Falls to a trickle. **Bring the right shoes.** Every trail on this list involves uneven terrain, stone steps, or creek crossings. Trail runners are fine for the paved metro park approaches, but for Hocking Hills and Mohican, you want waterproof hiking boots with ankle support. **Check conditions before you go.** The Hocking Hills State Park website posts trail condition updates, and the ODNR site has seasonal alerts for closures. Nothing worse than driving ninety minutes to find your trail closed for maintenance. **Start early.** The popular Hocking Hills trails (Cedar Falls, Whispering Cave) fill up fast on weekends. If you're there by 8 AM, you'll have the gorge mostly to yourself. By noon, you're sharing the trail with everyone. **Respect the preserve rules.** Several of these trails pass through state nature preserves with stricter rules than standard state parks — stay on marked trails, don't collect specimens, and keep your voice down. These places are protected for a reason. Ohio might not be the first state that comes to mind when you think of waterfall hikes. But the combination of Blackhand sandstone geology, deep hemlock gorges, and seasonal water flow creates something genuinely special. Start with Cedar Falls if you haven't been. Then work your way through this list. You won't be disappointed. [Explore more Hocking Hills trails →](https://hikingohio.blog/tag/hocking-hills/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) | [Read about Rhododendron Cove →](https://hikingohio.blog/rhododendron-cove-state-nature-preserve/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) | [Discover Boch Hollow →](https://hikingohio.blog/boch-hollow-state-nature-preserve/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776696534744-cedar falls wf.jpg) Cedar Falls ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776696552435-whispering.jpg) Whispering Cave ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776696570456-jb.jpg) John Bryan State Park and Clifton Gorge ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776696598165-wahkeena.jpg) Wahkeena Nature Preserve ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776696724524-cc.jpg) Clear Creek Metro Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776696740631-mohican.jpg) Mohican State Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1776696759066-JacobsLadder_2.jpg) Christmas Rocks and Jacob's Ladder --- 🥾 Need some gear for your next great hike? Check out some [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### Best Hikes Near Dayton, Ohio: 10 Trails and Day Trips URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/best-hikes-near-dayton-ohio-10-trails-and-day-trips/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:18:57.000Z Dayton sits in a sweet spot for Ohio hiking. Thirty minutes east, you're in the gorges and limestone bluffs of the Little Miami River valley — some of the most dramatic terrain in southwest Ohio. An hour north, quiet lakeside trails meander through rural Shelby County. Push east toward Columbus, and the landscape opens into prairies, reservoirs, and metro parks with bison herds. The city itself is better known for aviation history than trails, and that's fair — the Wright Brothers story is one of the great American narratives, and Dayton owns it. But hiking near Dayton means you're never far from serious outdoor time. The trick is knowing which direction to drive. Here are my 10 favorite hikes and outdoor destinations within about 90 minutes of Dayton. The best of them — John Bryan State Park — belongs on any Ohio hiker's bucket list. The rest round out a year of weekends. ## Close to home (under 45 minutes) ### 1\. John Bryan State Park and Clifton Gorge **5.5 miles | Moderate | 30 min east of downtown** John Bryan is the crown jewel of Dayton-area hiking, and it isn't close. The park and the adjacent Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve sit along the Little Miami River where it has cut a 100-foot-deep gorge through Silurian-era dolomite. The cliff walls are layered and textured, old-growth white cedars cling to the ledges, and the river churns through rapids at the bottom. The North Rim Trail gives you the best views — long stretches of cliff-edge walking with the gorge dropping away to your left. The South Gorge Trail takes you down to river level where you feel the spray from small rapids. The full loop connects both and passes through Yellow Springs, one of Ohio's most interesting small towns. Grab lunch at the Winds Cafe or browse the shops on Xenia Avenue after your hike. I tell every visitor to Dayton: you have to do this hike. People expect flat, boring Ohio and they get a gorge that rivals anything in the eastern United States. The surprise on their faces is half the fun. **Best season:** Spring for the river running high and wildflowers along the rim. Fall foliage in the gorge is extraordinary — the narrow walls concentrate the color. [Read the full John Bryan State Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/john-bryan-state-park-clifton-gorge-yellow-springs-ohio/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 2\. Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park **1.0 miles | Easy | In the city** The Wright Brothers didn't just visit Dayton — they were Dayton. The Aviation Heritage trail connects several NPS sites across the city: the Wright Cycle Company building where they ran their bicycle shop and tinkered with aeronautics, the Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center, and Huffman Prairie Flying Field where they actually perfected powered flight after Kitty Hawk. Most people don't know that. Kitty Hawk was the first flight. Dayton is where they learned to really fly. The walking tour through the Wright-Dunbar neighborhood adds historical depth — this was also the home of Paul Laurence Dunbar, one of the first nationally recognized African American poets. The NPS has done a thoughtful job connecting the Wright Brothers and Dunbar stories into a single narrative about Dayton's creative heritage. **Best season:** Year-round. Huffman Prairie is beautiful in late summer when the tall grasses wave in the wind. [Read the full Dayton Aviation Heritage guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/dayton-aviation-heritage-national-historical-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 3\. Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument **0.5 miles | Easy | 30 min east of downtown (Wilberforce)** Colonel Charles Young was a barrier-breaker in every sense — the third African American to graduate from West Point, the first Black superintendent of a national park (Sequoia), and a military officer whose career was systematically limited by the racism of his era. His restored home near Wilberforce University is a small but powerful NPS site. The grounds are compact, and the visit is more about the story than the distance. Pair this with John Bryan State Park, 15 minutes south. The combination of American military history and world-class gorge hiking makes for one of the best day trips in the Dayton region. **Best season:** Year-round. Check NPS website for seasonal hours and special programs. [Read the full Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers NM guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/charles-young-buffalo-soldiers-national-monument/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 4\. Caesar Creek State Park **5.2 miles | Moderate | 45 min southeast of downtown** Caesar Creek is the trail that gives you everything in one park — forested ridges above a big reservoir, decent elevation change for Ohio, lake views through the canopy, and the thing that makes it one-of-a-kind: a fossil-hunting area where 450-million-year-old Ordovician sea creatures are just lying on the ground waiting for you to pick them up. The designated collection area along the emergency spillway is where the magic happens. After heavy rain, the erosion exposes fresh specimens — brachiopods, trilobites, bryozoans, crinoid stems. You don't need special equipment. Just sharp eyes and a bag. I've found trilobites here that are museum-quality, sitting in the gravel like they've been waiting four hundred million years for someone to notice. The hiking trails loop through the forested bluffs above Caesar Creek Lake, and the Pioneer Village at the park entrance — restored 19th-century buildings — adds a historical dimension. Plan for a full morning if you want to hike and fossil hunt. **Best season:** Fall for trail foliage around the reservoir. Spring and summer after rain for fresh fossil exposure. [Read the full Caesar Creek State Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/caesar-creek-state-park-and-pioneer-village/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ## Worth the drive (1-1.5 hours) ### 5\. Lake Loramie State Park **3.0 miles | Easy | 1 hr north of downtown** Lake Loramie is a quiet park in Shelby County that most hikers drive right past on their way to somewhere else. That's their loss. The lake is a former canal reservoir — part of the Miami and Erie Canal system that once connected Lake Erie to the Ohio River — and the trails loop through wooded shoreline and open meadows. It's peaceful in a way that's hard to find at more popular parks. The fishing is good here — bass, catfish, bluegill — and the campground is one of the more pleasant in the state park system. Nearby, the Annie Oakley Birthplace in neighboring Darke County is a quirky historical side trip. She grew up poor on the Ohio frontier and became the most famous sharpshooter in the world. Ohio produces interesting people. **Best season:** Spring for wildflowers along the lake. Summer for fishing and kayaking. Fall for quiet walks with lakeside reflections. [Read the full Lake Loramie State Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/lake-loramie-state-park-and-annie-oakley-birthplace/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 6\. Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park **3.8 miles | Easy | 1 hr east of downtown** Dayton hikers don't always think of Columbus's metro parks, but Battelle Darby sits on the western edge of Franklin County — closer to Dayton than to downtown Columbus. The headline feature is the bison herd. A small group of American bison roams a fenced tallgrass prairie within the park, and you can watch them from an elevated observation platform along the trail. Beyond the bison, the park has excellent riparian trails along Big Darby Creek, tallgrass prairie restoration, and enough acreage to absorb a crowd. The flat, easy trails make it accessible for all skill levels. **Best season:** Fall for golden prairie grasses and active bison. Spring for wildflower meadows. [Read the full Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/battelle-darby-creek-metro-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 7\. Deer Creek State Park **3.5 miles | Easy | 1 hr east of downtown** Deer Creek isn't going to be the story you tell people. It's the park you go to when you just want to be outside and not think about it — flat lake trail, herons lifting off the water ahead of you, the quiet sound of nothing much happening. The reservoir reflects the sky in that way Ohio lakes do when the air is still. It's meditative, not exciting. Pack a lunch and eat at one of the lakeside shelters. If you're there in the evening, the sunset over the reservoir is the kind of thing that makes you sit on your tailgate for an extra twenty minutes before driving home. **Best season:** Fall for quiet trails and lake reflections. Spring for waterfowl migration. [Read the full Deer Creek State Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/deer-creek-state-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 8\. Glacier Ridge Metro Park **3.2 miles | Easy | 1 hr east of downtown** Prairie and wetland walking in Union County, northwest of Columbus. Glacier Ridge is named for the glacial deposits that shaped the terrain — flat, open, and dotted with wetland ponds that attract waterfowl and dragonflies. The trails are wide and easy, and the open sky feels expansive after hiking in dense forest. Good birding park. Quiet on weekdays. **Best season:** Late summer for prairie grasses at peak height. Spring for wetland birds. [Read the full Glacier Ridge Metro Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/glacier-ridge-metro-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 9\. Clear Creek Metro Park **5.0 miles | Moderate | 1.5 hr east of downtown** Clear Creek is where the terrain changes. Sitting on the edge of the Hocking Hills region in southeastern Ohio, this metro park has sandstone gorges, hemlock forests, and rugged trails that feel more like Appalachia than the Miami Valley. The biodiversity here is remarkable — it's one of the most botanically rich sites in Ohio, with rare ferns and wildflowers tucked into the gorge microclimates. If you've hiked every park within an hour of Dayton and want the next step up in difficulty and scenery, Clear Creek is it. The trails have real elevation change, creek crossings, and rocky footing in places. **Best season:** Spring for wildflowers — Clear Creek is famous for its trillium and hepatica displays. Fall for gorge views. [Read the full Clear Creek Metro Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/clear-creek-metro-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 10\. Hopewell Culture National Historical Park **2.6 miles | Easy | 1.5 hr east of downtown (Chillicothe)** The visitor center here is one of the better small museums in Ohio — free, well-curated, and refreshingly honest about how much we still don't know about the Hopewell people and why they built what they built. The earthworks outside are massive geometric enclosures constructed two thousand years ago, and they became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2023\. The trail loops through the Mound City group and surrounding prairie — easy walking, but the kind of place where you stop a lot just to look. If you make the drive to Chillicothe, take Route 23 south through the Scioto River valley on your way home. One of the most beautiful drives in Ohio, especially in October. **Best season:** Spring and fall for comfortable walking. Winter for snow-covered earthworks. [Read the full Hopewell Culture NHP trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/hopewell-culture-national-historical-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ## When to hike: a seasonal guide for Dayton **Spring (March-May):** The Miami Valley warms up fast. By mid-April, the gorges at John Bryan are alive with trillium, Dutchman's breeches, and wild geranium along the rim. The Little Miami runs strongest in spring, making Clifton Gorge's rapids genuinely dramatic. Rain is constant — bring waterproof boots and expect mud. But that rain is also why Caesar Creek is best in spring: heavy storms expose fresh 450-million-year-old fossils in the spillway gravel. **Summer (June-August):** John Bryan's gorge bottom runs 10-15 degrees cooler than the rim. That's not marketing. I've measured it. When it's 92 degrees on the parking lot asphalt, it's 78 in the gorge with shade overhead and the river creating its own microclimate. That's your summer answer. Lake Loramie and Deer Creek offer post-hike swimming if you need it. **Fall (September-November):** Here's what I'll say about Clifton Gorge in October: the dolomite cliffs glow warm in low-angle light, the canopy turns gold and red above narrow walls that concentrate the color, and if you time it right — a Tuesday morning in mid-October — you might have the North Rim Trail to yourself. This is the best season. It's not close. **Winter (December-February):** The NPS sites earn their keep in winter — Dayton Aviation Heritage and Charles Young are mostly indoor experiences that work fine when it's 25 degrees outside. John Bryan's gorge takes on a stark beauty with bare trees and occasional ice formations on the cliff faces, but watch your footing on exposed rock near the rim. Bring traction devices if there's been freezing rain. ## Before you head out Dayton's best hike — John Bryan and Clifton Gorge — is 30 minutes away and should be your first trip. Period. After that, work outward: Caesar Creek for the fossils, Lake Loramie for the quiet, Clear Creek for the rugged terrain. Most state parks charge modest parking fees. NPS sites are free. The Yellow Springs area (John Bryan + Charles Young) can fill an entire day and makes an excellent introduction to what's available. Ohio weather changes fast in the Miami Valley. Pack layers, carry water, and check conditions before heading to any trail after heavy rain. The gorge trails at John Bryan can be slippery when wet, and some sections close during high water events. Happy trails. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1777394984162-jb.jpg) John Bryan State Park and Clifton Gorge ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1777395066059-aviation.jpg) Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1777395090344-chas.jpg) Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1777395260638-caesar.jpg) Caesar Creek State Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1777395277427-Lake-view-Lake-Loramie-State-Park.jpg) Lake Loramie State Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1777395297562-new_BDC_creek-spring_on-Big-Darby-Creek_MA.jpg) Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1777395362060-DeerCreekStatePark.jpeg) Deer Creek State Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1777395469042-IMG_4353.JPG) Glacier Ridge Metro Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1777395490335-Clear_Creek_Metro_Park-trail.jpg) Clear Creek Metro Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1777395510435-Hopewell-Culture-017-775x436.jpg) Hopewell Culture National Historical Park 🥾 Need some gear for your next great hike? Check out some [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### Best Hikes Near Cleveland, Ohio: 10 Trails and Day Trips URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/best-hikes-near-cleveland-ohio-10-trails-and-day-trips/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:19:03.000Z I spent two years thinking Cleveland hiking meant the Metroparks — good parks, easy trails, nothing to write home about. Then someone sent me to Nelson Kennedy Ledges and I had to rethink everything I knew about northeast Ohio. Cleveland sits between Lake Erie and the edge of the Appalachian Plateau. Drive 45 minutes southeast and you're squeezing through crevices in sandstone formations older than anything humans have ever built. Drive southwest and the gorges open up — hemlock forests, waterfalls, covered bridges. The best hikes aren't clustered in one spot. They're scattered across a wide arc, which means every direction from downtown gives you something different. Here are my 10 favorite hikes and outdoor destinations within a reasonable day trip from Cleveland. Some are quick drives. Others are full-day commitments that justify packing a cooler. ## Close to home (under 1 hour) ### 1\. Nelson Kennedy Ledges State Park **3.0 miles | Easy to Hard | 45 min southeast of downtown** This is the hike. If you live in Cleveland and you haven't been to Nelson Kennedy Ledges, fix that immediately. This compact state park in Portage County packs more geological drama per square foot than anywhere else in Ohio. Massive sandstone blocks — some the size of houses — have split, tilted, and tumbled over millennia, creating a labyrinth of crevices, caves, overhangs, and narrow passages you literally squeeze through sideways. The park has three color-coded trail loops. The easy Yellow Trail follows the rim and gives you the overview. The moderate Blue Trail drops into the gorge. The difficult Red Trail sends you through the tightest passages and over the most challenging terrain — scrambling through Dwarf's Pass, ducking under Fat Man's Peril, climbing over roots and wet rock. It's a full-body experience. I bring everyone here. Hikers love it. Non-hikers love it. Kids lose their minds. The rock formations are genuinely jaw-dropping, and the whole park fits into a few-hour visit. Go on a weekday if you can — weekends get busy, and the narrow passages create bottlenecks. **Best season:** Fall for the colors filtering through the canopy above the gorge. Spring for the dramatic moss and fern growth on wet sandstone. [Read the full Nelson Kennedy Ledges trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/nelson-kennedy-ledges-state-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 2\. James A. Garfield National Historic Site **0.8 miles | Easy | 30 min east of downtown (Mentor)** Lawnfield — Garfield's estate in Mentor — is one of the best-preserved presidential homes in the country, and the grounds offer a pleasant walk through the property. It's not a hike, but the site is worth visiting if you're in Lake County, and the surrounding area has enough to fill a morning. Garfield was the last president born in a log cabin and was assassinated just months into his term. The museum doesn't shy away from the darker parts of the story. Pair this with a drive along the Lake Erie shore. Headlands Beach State Park is 15 minutes east and has Ohio's longest natural beach — worth the detour in any season. **Best season:** Spring through fall for the grounds. The museum is excellent year-round. [Read the full James A. Garfield NHS visitor guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/james-a-garfield-national-historic-site/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 3\. First Ladies National Historic Site **0.5 miles | Easy | 1 hr south of downtown (Canton)** This often-overlooked NPS site in Canton tells the story of America's First Ladies through the lens of the Saxton McKinley House — Ida McKinley's family home. The walking tour through Canton's historic district adds distance and context. Canton itself has a surprisingly walkable downtown, and the Pro Football Hall of Fame is right there if you want to make a whole day of it. Not a trail hike, but a worthwhile stop on any trip south from Cleveland. The interpretive program is thoughtful and covers far more than you'd expect from a small NPS site. **Best season:** Year-round. Check NPS website for seasonal hours. [Read the full First Ladies NHS visitor guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/first-ladies-national-historic-site/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ## Day trip (1-2 hours) ### 4\. Mohican State Park and Memorial Forest **6.5 miles | Moderate | 1.5 hr southwest of downtown** Mohican is the big adventure hike from Cleveland. The Clear Fork Gorge — carved by the Clear Fork of the Mohican River — drops through old-growth hemlock forest with 300-foot walls and a covered bridge at the bottom. The Lyons Falls trail takes you to a cascading waterfall that's genuinely impressive after spring rain. The forest feels different from anything in the metro area. It's darker, older, cooler. The state park connects to the much larger Mohican Memorial State Forest, giving you miles of additional trail options if 6.5 isn't enough. The campground here is popular — book early for weekend stays. And the Clear Fork is one of the best canoeing rivers in Ohio if you want to see the gorge from water level. **Best season:** Spring for the waterfall at peak flow and wildflowers. Fall foliage in the gorge is spectacular — the hemlocks stay green while everything else turns gold and red around them. [Read the full Mohican State Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/mohican-memorial-state-forest-and-state-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 5\. Salt Fork State Park **8.0 miles | Moderate | 1.5 hr south of downtown** Ohio's largest state park — 17,229 acres of forested ridges and valleys surrounding Salt Fork Lake. This is real backcountry by Ohio standards. The trail system offers everything from short loops to an 8-mile ridge trail that rolls through mature hardwood forest with periodic lake overlooks. It's hilly, root-covered, and quiet. On a weekday hike here in October, I saw more deer than people. Salt Fork has a full-service lodge if you want to make it a weekend. The lake is good for fishing and kayaking, and the park's remote location in Guernsey County means dark skies and genuine silence at night. Bigfoot enthusiasts know this park, too — Salt Fork hosts an annual Bigfoot conference. Take that for what it's worth. **Best season:** Fall for the ridge trail colors and empty trails. Spring for wildflowers in the creek valleys. [Read the full Salt Fork State Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/salt-fork-state-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 6\. Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial **0.5 miles | Easy | 1.5 hr west of downtown + ferry (Put-in-Bay)** This isn't a hike — it's a Lake Erie experience. Perry's Victory Memorial on South Bass Island is a 352-foot Doric column commemorating Oliver Hazard Perry's victory in the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812\. You take the ferry from Port Clinton or Catawba Island, and the ride itself is part of the adventure — Lake Erie stretching to the horizon, the Bass Islands emerging from the water. The memorial grounds are compact, but the observation deck near the top of the column offers 360-degree views across the lake. On a clear day, you can see the Canadian shore. Combine it with the island's other attractions — caves, wineries, kayaking — for a full day on the water. South Bass Island is fun in a way that has nothing to do with hiking and everything to do with getting out of the city. **Best season:** Summer for the full island experience. Late September for fewer crowds and beautiful lake light. [Read the full Perry's Victory Memorial visitor guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/perrys-victory-international-peace-memorial/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 7\. Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve **4.3 miles | Easy | 2 hr south of downtown** Worth the drive. The Licking River cut this gorge through Black Hand sandstone over millions of years, and the result is a dramatic walled canyon you walk through on a paved rail-trail. The gorge walls rise 100 feet on either side, the river glides alongside, and the forest canopy arches overhead. It's an easy, flat walk on a converted railroad bed — great for families, cyclists, and anyone who wants big scenery without scrambling. The preserve takes its name from a massive hand-shaped petroglyph that was carved into the sandstone by Native Americans centuries ago. It was destroyed in the 1800s during canal construction. All that remains is the name and a few historical photographs. **Best season:** Spring when the river runs full. Fall for reflections in the water. [Read the full Blackhand Gorge trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/blackhand-gorge-state-nature-preserve/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 8\. Dillon Dam State Park **4.0 miles | Easy | 2 hr south of downtown** Dillon Dam sits on the Licking River near Zanesville, and the reservoir it created — Dillon Lake — is the centerpiece of a quiet state park that rarely makes anyone's top-ten list. That's exactly why I like it. The trails follow forested ridges above the lake, with overlooks that give you the whole reservoir spread out below. The terrain is rolling and wooded, and the fishing is good if you want to bring a rod. Pair this with Blackhand Gorge, about 30 minutes north, for a full day of hiking in the Licking River watershed. Both parks are easy trails with big scenery — good for a low-key day outdoors. **Best season:** Fall for lake reflections and foliage. Summer for fishing and lake access. [Read the full Dillon Dam State Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/dillon-dam-state-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 9\. Alum Creek State Park **4.5 miles | Easy | 2 hr south of downtown** At two hours from Cleveland, Alum Creek is the southernmost anchor of a three-park day that also hits Blackhand Gorge and the Dawes Arboretum near Newark. All three are within 30 minutes of each other and offer completely different experiences. Alum Creek's draw for families is Ohio's largest inland beach — actual sand, actual swimming — but skip the beach and head for the wooded ridge trails above the reservoir if you want solitude. The forest up there absorbs crowds, and the periodic lake views through thinning canopy are the payoff. **Best season:** Summer for the beach. Fall for the reservoir views and quieter trails. [Read the full Alum Creek State Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/alum-creek-state-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 10\. The Buckeye Trail (Northeast Ohio Sections) **Varies | Easy to Hard | Multiple access points** Ohio's 1,444-mile long-distance trail circuits the entire state, and several sections pass through the greater Cleveland region. The Buckeye Trail connects urban parks, rural farmland, state forests, and everything in between. You don't have to thru-hike it — most people section-hike, picking a trailhead and doing 5-10 miles at a time. The northeast Ohio sections pass through some beautiful terrain, including portions near the Cuyahoga Valley and the Portage County ledges area. The blue blazes are distinctive and easy to follow. If you want to feel connected to something bigger than a single park loop, the Buckeye Trail is your trail. **Best season:** Spring and fall for the best weather. Sections with road crossings are less pleasant in summer heat. [Read the full Buckeye Trail overview →](https://hikingohio.blog/buckeye-trail/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ## When to hike: a seasonal guide for Cleveland **Spring (March-May):** Spring comes late to northeast Ohio. Expect mud through March and into April while Columbus and Cincinnati are already blooming. But when it arrives — usually mid-May — the payoff is dramatic. Nelson Kennedy Ledges in spring is something else entirely: wet sandstone, dripping ferns, vivid moss on every surface. Mohican's Lyons Falls runs strongest in April and May. **Summer (June-August):** August in Cleveland is actually survivable compared to southern Ohio. The lake keeps the worst heat at bay. This is the season for the islands — Put-in-Bay, Kelleys Island, the ferry rides that make you forget you're in Ohio. For trails, stick to shaded gorges. Mohican and Nelson Kennedy Ledges stay comfortable under canopy. Bring bug spray. **Fall (September-November):** Peak season for northeast Ohio. The hardwood forests turn brilliant, and the contrast against dark sandstone gorges is stunning. Nelson Kennedy Ledges in October is a photographer's dream. Salt Fork's ridge trail offers miles of uninterrupted fall color. Go midweek to avoid crowds at the popular spots. **Winter (December-February):** Cleveland winters are serious — lake-effect snow, wind, and gray skies. But the ledges and gorges take on a stark beauty when covered in ice. Frozen waterfalls at Mohican are worth the cold. Layer heavily, use traction devices, and watch for ice on exposed rock. The NPS historic sites are good indoor options during the worst weather. ## Before you head out Cleveland's best hikes are spread across a wide area. Nelson Kennedy Ledges should be your first trip — it's the closest big destination and the most unique terrain in northeast Ohio. After that, plan day trips to Mohican, Salt Fork, and the Lake Erie islands. Ohio weather is unpredictable in every season, but especially in the northeast where lake-effect systems can roll in fast. Pack layers and a rain jacket no matter what the forecast says. Cell service is spotty at Salt Fork, Mohican, and the rural Portage County parks. The NPS sites (Garfield, First Ladies) are free. State parks sometimes charge for parking. Nelson Kennedy Ledges has limited parking that fills up fast on fall weekends — arrive early or wait it out. Happy trails. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1775766575129-Nelson-Kennedy-waterfall_hero.jpg) Nelson Kennedy Ledges State Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1775766614227-James-Garfield-Home9.1.17.jpg) James A Garfield National Historic Site ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1775766645741-First-Ladies-Library__ScaleMaxWidthWzYwMF0.jpg) First Ladies National Historic Site ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1775766667357-GettyImages-991131562-61e716d75a094ea9ade3bcef7499b49d.jpg) Mohican State Park and Memorial Forest ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1775766718339-salt fork.jpg) Salt Fork State Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1775766742040-Perry-Monument.jpg) Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1775766780852-blackhand.jpg) Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1775766813364-dillon.jpg) Dillon Dam State Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1775766836925-alum-creek-state-park-1024x585.jpg) Alum Creek State Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1775766853624-buckeye.jpg) The Buckeye Trail Northeast Ohio Sections 🥾 Need some gear for your next great hike? Check out some [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### Best Hikes Near Cincinnati, Ohio: 10 Trails and Day Trips URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/best-hikes-near-cincinnati-ohio-10-trails-and-day-trips/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:19:09.000Z Cincinnati has something most Ohio cities don't — real topography. The city is built on hills above the Ohio River, and the surrounding countryside rolls and folds in ways that flat central Ohio can only dream about. Drive thirty minutes in any direction from Fountain Square and you'll hit gorges, limestone cliffs, lakeside trails, and some of the richest history in the state. The problem? Most people think of Hocking Hills when they think of Ohio hiking. Cincinnati gets overlooked. That's a mistake. The southwest corner of the state has world-class gorge hiking at Clifton Gorge, fossil-hunting adventures at Caesar Creek, and a metro park system with legitimately impressive terrain. And if you're willing to cross the river into Kentucky, the options expand even further. I've spent a lot of time hiking the greater Cincinnati area — more than most people realize exists within a 90-minute drive. Here are my 10 favorite trails, ranked by the ones I'd send a friend to if they texted me on a Saturday morning asking where to go. ## Close to home (under 30 minutes) ### 1\. Sharon Woods Metro Park **3.8 miles | Easy | 15 min north of downtown** The best urban hike in Cincinnati, hands down. Sharon Woods sits in Hamilton County just inside I-275, and the gorge trail is the reason to come. A small creek has carved a surprisingly deep cut through the park's limestone and shale layers, and the trail follows the rim before dropping down to creek level. The loop is shaded, well-maintained, and has enough elevation change to feel like you actually hiked. There's a lake, too — nice for a post-hike stroll. I've done this one a dozen times. Still doesn't feel stale. The gorge changes character with every season — in spring, water pours over cascades that dry up completely by July. In fall, the narrow walls frame the foliage like you're looking through a viewfinder. **Best season:** Spring for the creek at full flow. Fall for gorge foliage. [Read the full Sharon Woods Metro Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/sharon-woods-metro-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 2\. William Howard Taft National Historic Site **0.3 miles | Easy | In the city (Mount Auburn)** I know — a third of a mile isn't a hike. But this is about pairing it with a walk through the Mount Auburn neighborhood, one of Cincinnati's most historic hillside districts. The Taft birthplace is a beautifully restored Victorian home, and the neighborhood itself is full of 19th-century architecture and sweeping views of the basin below. Park at the site, tour the house, then walk the steep neighborhood streets. Your calves will know they worked. **Best season:** Year-round. The house museum is open daily. [Read the full William Howard Taft NHS visitor guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/william-howard-taft-national-historic-site/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 3\. Ulysses S. Grant Birthplace **0.5 miles | Easy | 30 min east of downtown (Point Pleasant)** Another historical site that works better as part of a day out than as a standalone hike. Grant's birthplace sits on the Ohio River in the tiny town of Point Pleasant, Clermont County. The riverside setting is pretty, and the small museum covers Grant's early life before the war. Pair this with a drive along the Ohio River scenic byway — the bluffs and river views between Cincinnati and Point Pleasant are gorgeous, especially in fall. **Best season:** Spring and fall for the river drive. The museum has limited winter hours. [Read the full Ulysses S. Grant Birthplace visitor guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/ulysses-s-grant-birthplace-and-boyhood-home/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ## Worth the drive (45 minutes to 1 hour) ### 4\. John Bryan State Park and Clifton Gorge **5.5 miles | Moderate | 1 hr northeast of downtown** This is the big one. John Bryan and the adjacent Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve together form the best gorge hiking in southwest Ohio — limestone walls dropping 80-100 feet to the Little Miami River below, old-growth cedars clinging to cliff faces, and trail sections that thread along narrow ledges above the water. The full loop connects both areas and takes you through Yellow Springs, one of Ohio's most eclectic small towns. The gorge itself is dramatic enough to rival anything in Hocking Hills, and it's less crowded on weekdays. The North Rim trail has the best views. The South Gorge trail gets you closest to the water. Do both. This is my number one recommendation for anyone in Cincinnati who wants real hiking without driving two-plus hours to Hocking Hills. **Best season:** Spring for the Little Miami running high and wildflowers along the rim. Fall foliage in the gorge is extraordinary. [Read the full John Bryan State Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/john-bryan-state-park-clifton-gorge-yellow-springs-ohio/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 5\. Caesar Creek State Park **5.2 miles | Moderate | 45 min northeast of downtown** Caesar Creek is a do-everything park — hiking, fishing, boating, swimming, and the thing that makes it truly unique: fossil hunting. The park sits on an exposed Ordovician seafloor, and the designated fossil collection area along the emergency spillway is littered with 450-million-year-old brachiopods, trilobites, and crinoid stems. You just pick them up off the ground. My kids still talk about the trilobite we found three years ago. The hiking trails loop through forested ridges above the reservoir, with occasional lake views through the canopy. The Pioneer Village at the park entrance adds a historical dimension — restored 19th-century buildings, open on weekends in season. **Best season:** Fall for foliage around the reservoir. Summer for swimming and fossil hunting after heavy rain exposes new specimens. [Read the full Caesar Creek State Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/caesar-creek-state-park-and-pioneer-village/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 6\. Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument **0.5 miles | Easy | 1 hr northeast of downtown (Wilberforce)** Charles Young was the third African American to graduate from West Point and one of the most remarkable military officers in American history. His restored home near Wilberforce University tells a story that most people don't know — and should. The grounds are small, but the visit is powerful. Pair this with John Bryan State Park and Yellow Springs, both less than 15 minutes away, for a full day trip that mixes history and hiking. **Best season:** Year-round. Check NPS website for seasonal hours. [Read the full Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers NM guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/charles-young-buffalo-soldiers-national-monument/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 7\. Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park **1.0 miles | Easy | 1 hr north of downtown** The Wright Brothers' story starts here — not at Kitty Hawk, here. The Dayton Aviation Heritage sites include the Wright Cycle Company building where Wilbur and Orville built their first aircraft components, and Huffman Prairie Flying Field where they perfected powered flight. The walking tour connects several sites through Dayton's historic west side. It's a light walk, not a hike, but the history per square foot is unmatched in Ohio. **Best season:** Spring and fall for comfortable walking weather. The prairie field is beautiful in late summer. [Read the full Dayton Aviation Heritage guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/dayton-aviation-heritage-national-historical-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ## Day trip destinations (1-2 hours) ### 8\. Deer Creek State Park **3.5 miles | Easy | 1.5 hr northeast of downtown** Deer Creek is a quiet state park built around a 1,277-acre reservoir in Pickaway County. The trails loop through mixed hardwood forest along the lake, with periodic views of the water. It's not dramatic terrain — this is glaciated central Ohio, so the hills are gentle — but the combination of lake scenery, woodland walking, and general solitude makes it a solid day trip. Pack a picnic and eat at one of the lakeside shelters. The campground here is underrated, too. If you want to turn a day trip into an overnight, the sites along the lake are well-spaced and quiet. I've camped here in October and had the entire loop practically to myself. Wake up, hike the trail in the morning mist, pack up, and you're home by lunch. **Best season:** Fall for reservoir reflections and quieter trails. Spring for migrating birds along the water. [Read the full Deer Creek State Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/deer-creek-state-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 9\. Hopewell Culture National Historical Park **2.6 miles | Easy | 1.5 hr east of downtown (Chillicothe)** Two thousand years ago, the Hopewell people built massive geometric earthworks in the Scioto River valley. The scale is hard to grasp until you stand at the center of the Mound City group and realize these perfectly symmetrical mounds were constructed without metal tools, draft animals, or writing. The trail loops through the earthwork complex and the surrounding prairie. The visitor center museum is excellent — don't skip it. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as of 2023, and deservedly so. Pair it with a drive through the scenic Scioto River valley south of Chillicothe. **Best season:** Spring and fall for comfortable walking and fewer crowds. The earthworks are striking in fresh snow. [Read the full Hopewell Culture NHP trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/hopewell-culture-national-historical-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 10\. Camp Nelson National Monument (Kentucky) **1.5 miles | Easy | 1.5 hr south of downtown (Nicholasville, KY)** Cross the river for this one. Camp Nelson was one of the largest recruitment and training centers for United States Colored Troops during the Civil War. More than 10,000 African American soldiers trained here, and the refugee camp that grew up around the fort became a community of freed people seeking safety and agency. The trail loops through the restored fort grounds above the Kentucky River — the bluffs and river views are stunning, and the interpretive panels tell a story that deserves more attention. **Best season:** Spring for wildflowers along the Kentucky River bluffs. Fall for foliage. [Read the full Camp Nelson National Monument guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/camp-nelson-national-monument/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ## When to hike: a seasonal guide for Cincinnati **Spring (March-May):** Start here. Cincinnati sits in the Ohio River valley, which warms up a week or two before northern Ohio — so your wildflower season starts sooner. The gorges at John Bryan fill with trillium and Dutchman's breeches by mid-April, and Sharon Woods' creek cascades run strongest after March rains. Pack waterproof boots. It will rain on you at least once. **Summer (June-August):** Miserable if you pick the wrong trail. The river valley traps humidity like a bowl. But John Bryan's gorge bottom runs 10-15 degrees cooler than the rim — I've hiked down there on 90-degree days and felt comfortable. Caesar Creek's swimming beach is the other answer. Go early, carry extra water, stay out of open sun at midday. **Fall (September-November):** I once drove the Ohio River scenic byway from Cincinnati to Point Pleasant in mid-October and had to pull over three times because I couldn't stop looking at the hillsides. The gorges are even better — narrow walls concentrate the color like stained glass. October weekends at John Bryan get crowded. Go midweek if you can manage it. **Winter (December-February):** The river valley keeps Cincinnati a few degrees warmer than Columbus or Cleveland. Still cold, but manageable. This is when the historical sites earn their keep — Taft, Grant, Camp Nelson all have indoor components that make a cold-weather visit worthwhile. Sharon Woods on a crisp December morning is more pleasant than you'd expect. ## Before you head out Southwest Ohio's hiking is spread across metro parks (free), state parks (sometimes parking fees), and National Park Service sites (free but check seasonal hours). The Yellow Springs area — John Bryan, Clifton Gorge, Charles Young — can fill an entire day and should be your first trip if you haven't been. Cincinnati sits in a valley, so the weather you see downtown might not match what's happening at elevation 30 minutes away. Pack layers. The gorges at John Bryan are cooler than the surrounding terrain, which is great in summer and bracing in winter. The drive times in this guide are from downtown Cincinnati / Fountain Square. If you're starting from the northern suburbs — Mason, West Chester, Lebanon — subtract 15-20 minutes from the northeast destinations. Caesar Creek and John Bryan are practically in your backyard. One more thing: if you're a fossil hunter, Caesar Creek is a pilgrimage. Bring a bag and keep your eyes on the ground at the spillway area. You will find something. Everyone does. Happy trails. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1775668479767-R.jpg) Sharon Woods Metro Park Cincinnati ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1775667899460-049535C5-046A-4086-1D7D193C4C9CD126.jpg) William H. Taft National Historic Site ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1775668051446-P1120603-001.JPG) Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1775668108034-John-Bryan-scenic_gallery3.jpg) john Bryan State Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1775668146156-Caesar-Creek1_hero.jpg) Caesar Creek State Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1775668241932-Colonel_Charles_Young_House,_front_and_western_side.jpg) Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1775668285851-dayton-020-1024x683.jpg) Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1775668345733-Harding+Cabin+01_750.jpg) Harding Cabin at Deer Creek State Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1775668388639-97F012E4-1DD8-B71B-0BFDE955ED68BCF6.jpg) Hopewell Culture National Historical Park ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/04/1775668433563-Press-Release_8.jpg) Camp Nelson National Monument 🥾 Need some gear for your next great hike? Check out some [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### Best Hikes Near Columbus, Ohio: 15 Trails Worth Your Weekend URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/best-hikes-near-columbus-ohio-15-trails-worth-your-weekend/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:19:15.000Z Columbus doesn't look like a hiking city. Flat terrain, sprawling suburbs, a river that's more muddy than majestic. I get it. When I first moved here, I figured my hiking days were limited to occasional road trips down to Hocking Hills. I was wrong. Spectacularly wrong. Columbus sits at the center of one of the best metro park systems in the Midwest. Franklin County alone has more than 20 metro parks, and once you push the radius out to an hour's drive, you're looking at gorges, waterfalls, old-growth forest, and some of the most underrated trails in Ohio. I've been hiking these parks for years, and I'm still finding new routes that surprise me. Here are my 15 favorite hikes near Columbus — ranked by how often I actually go back to them. Not by difficulty, not by distance. By the pull they have on a Saturday morning when I'm lacing up my boots and deciding where to go. ## In the city (under 20 minutes) ### 1\. Highbanks Metro Park **4.2 miles | Moderate | 15 min north of downtown** If I had to pick one Columbus metro park, this is it. The bluffs above the Olentangy River are legitimately stunning — 100-foot drops through old-growth forest that make you forget you're ten minutes from Polaris mall. The main loop winds along the ridge before dropping down to the river and climbing back up. You'll feel it in your legs. The Adena mounds near the trailhead are worth a stop, too. Three thousand years of history right there in the dirt. **Best season:** Fall for the colors along the river bluffs. Winter mornings are surprisingly beautiful here — quiet, frost on the trees, and you might have the whole ridge to yourself. [Read the full Highbanks Metro Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/highbanks-metro-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 2\. Scioto Audubon Metro Park **3.0 miles | Easy | 10 min south of downtown** This one shocks people. You drive through an industrial area south of downtown, park next to what used to be a landfill, and suddenly you're in a birding paradise. The park sits at the confluence of the Scioto River and Big Walnut Creek, and the wetlands attract hundreds of bird species throughout the year. The trails are flat and easy — crushed gravel paths through grasslands and along the river. There's also a massive climbing wall if your kids need to burn energy. Or you do. **Best season:** Spring migration (April-May) brings warblers, herons, and osprey. Fall migration is solid too. [Read the full Scioto Audubon Metro Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/scioto-audubon-metro-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 3\. Quarry Trails Metro Park **3.2 miles | Moderate | 15 min west of downtown** Columbus's newest metro park, and it shows. Opened on the site of a reclaimed limestone quarry near the Hilltop neighborhood, this one has wooded ridgelines, open meadows, and some genuinely varied terrain for an urban park. The trails roll up and down through young-growth forest and wildflower fields. It's still maturing — give it five years and the canopy will fill in beautifully — but right now it's already one of my regular rotation parks. **Best season:** Late spring when the wildflower meadows peak. Summer mornings before the heat sets in. [Read the full Quarry Trails Metro Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/quarry-trails-metro-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 4\. Three Creeks Park **3.0 miles | Easy | 15 min southeast of downtown** Three Creeks sits where Alum Creek, Big Walnut Creek, and Blacklick Creek all dump into the Scioto River. It's a flat, easy walk — perfect for families or days when you want movement without effort. The wildlife viewing is the real draw. I've seen great blue herons, kingfishers, deer, and once a bald eagle cruising low over the water. The paved and unpaved trails loop through bottomland forest and along the creek banks. **Best season:** Year-round. Summer for the creeks. Winter for raptor watching along the river. [Read the full Three Creeks Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/three-creeks-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 5\. Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park **3.8 miles | Easy | 25 min west of downtown** The bison are the headline here. Yes, Columbus has bison — a small herd roams a fenced prairie at Battelle Darby, and you can watch them from an observation deck along the trail. Beyond the novelty, this park has some of the best tallgrass prairie restoration in central Ohio. The Big Darby Creek cuts through the property, and the riparian corridors are gorgeous. Miles of flat trails through grassland, wetland, and old bottomland forest. **Best season:** Fall for golden prairie grasses and active bison. Spring for wildflowers in the meadows. [Read the full Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/battelle-darby-creek-metro-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ## Short drive (20-30 minutes) ### 6\. Blacklick Woods Metro Park **3.2 miles | Easy | 20 min east of downtown** One of the older metro parks, and one of the most forested. Blacklick Woods feels like a pocket of Appalachian woodland dropped into the suburbs. The beech-maple canopy is dense, the understory is lush, and the trails wind through terrain that actually has some gentle hills. The nature center is a great starting point, and the Walter A. Tucker loop is my go-to route here. **Best season:** Fall foliage is spectacular under the hardwood canopy. Spring wildflowers carpet the forest floor. [Read the full Blacklick Woods Metro Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/blacklick-woods-metro-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 7\. Chestnut Ridge Metro Park **2.5 miles | Easy | 20 min southeast of downtown** Near Groveport, tucked behind a residential area you'd never think to explore. But Chestnut Ridge has a forested ridgeline with actual overlooks — unusual for flat Franklin County. The main loop follows the ridge through mixed hardwoods, and there's a spur trail that drops down to a small creek valley. It's compact, but it packs a lot of scenery into a short walk. **Best season:** Year-round. The ridge catches a breeze in summer, and fall colors along the ridge trail are excellent. [Read the full Chestnut Ridge Metro Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/chestnut-ridge-metro-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 8\. Alum Creek State Park **4.5 miles | Easy | 30 min north of downtown** The big draw here is the reservoir — 3,387 acres of water surrounded by rolling hills and mixed forest. The hiking trails loop through wooded ridges above the lake, with occasional views down to the water through the trees. There's also Ohio's largest inland beach if you want to swim after your hike. Dog owners love the dedicated off-leash dog beach area. This one's a full-day destination if you want it to be. **Best season:** Summer for beach access. Fall for reservoir views through thinning foliage. [Read the full Alum Creek State Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/alum-creek-state-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 9\. Glacier Ridge Metro Park **3.2 miles | Easy | 25 min northwest of downtown** Named for the glacial deposits that shaped this corner of Union County, Glacier Ridge is all about open landscape. Prairie grasses, wetland ponds, scattered woodland patches. The trails are flat and wide, great for birding and wildflower walks. It's a quieter park — you won't find the crowds that Highbanks or Scioto Audubon attract. That's part of the appeal. **Best season:** Late summer when the prairie is at peak height and the wetland ponds are buzzing with dragonflies. [Read the full Glacier Ridge Metro Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/glacier-ridge-metro-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 10\. Slate Run Metro Park **4.0 miles | Easy | 25 min south of downtown** Part metro park, part living history museum. Slate Run has a functioning 1880s farm on the grounds — heritage breed livestock, heirloom gardens, period demonstrations on weekends. The trails themselves wind through old farmland being reclaimed by forest, with Slate Run Creek cutting a modest valley through the property. I like bringing visiting family here because the farm gives non-hikers something to do while the rest of us walk the loop. **Best season:** Spring for baby animals at the farm. Fall for the harvest festival and foliage. [Read the full Slate Run Metro Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/slate-run-metro-park-and-living-historical-farm/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 11\. Pickerington Ponds Metro Park **3.0 miles | Easy | 20 min southeast of downtown** The premier birding destination in central Ohio. Period. These restored wetland ponds attract migratory waterfowl, shorebirds, wading birds, and raptors year-round. The observation platforms are well-placed, and on a spring morning you might log 30-40 species without breaking a sweat. The trails are flat gravel paths — this isn't a cardio hike, it's a slow, attentive walk with binoculars. **Best season:** Spring migration (March-May) is prime. Winter for overwintering raptors. [Read the full Pickerington Ponds Metro Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/pickerington-ponds-metro-park-and-state-nature-preserve/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ## Day trip distance (30-60 minutes) ### 12\. Clear Creek Metro Park **5.0 miles | Moderate | 45 min southeast of downtown** This is where Columbus hiking starts to feel like Hocking Hills hiking. Clear Creek sits in Hocking County, right on the edge of the unglaciated Appalachian Plateau, and the terrain shows it. Sandstone gorges, hemlock forests, steep ravines, and one of the most biodiverse areas in Ohio. The trails here are rugged enough to feel like a real hike — roots, rocks, creek crossings. If you've done every metro park in Franklin County and want more, Clear Creek is your next step. **Best season:** Spring for wildflowers — Clear Creek is famous for its trillium and hepatica blooms. Fall for gorge views. [Read the full Clear Creek Metro Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/clear-creek-metro-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 13\. Rising Park **1.5 miles | Moderate | 40 min southeast of downtown** Short but steep. Rising Park in Lancaster takes you up Mount Pleasant to a summit with panoramic views across Fairfield County. On a clear day, you can see for miles across the farmland and forest. The trail is basically a sustained climb up exposed sandstone — nothing technical, just your thighs working. It's a quick hike, so pair it with nearby Wahkeena Nature Preserve or Shallenberger for a full morning. **Best season:** Year-round. The summit views are rewarding in every season. Fall sunrise hikes here are worth the early alarm. [Read the full Rising Park trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/rising-park-lancaster-ohio/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 14\. Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve **4.3 miles | Easy | 45 min east of downtown** The Licking River carved this gorge through Black Hand sandstone over millions of years, and now you get to walk through it on a paved rail-trail. The gorge walls rise 100 feet on either side, and the river glides alongside the path. It's an easy, flat walk — great for families or anyone who wants scenery without scrambling. The name comes from a hand-shaped petroglyph that was carved into the rock by Native Americans — dynamited in the 1800s for canal construction, because of course it was. **Best season:** Spring when the river runs full. Fall colors reflected in the water are incredible. [Read the full Blackhand Gorge trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/blackhand-gorge-state-nature-preserve/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### 15\. The Dawes Arboretum **5.0 miles | Easy | 40 min east of downtown** Not a wilderness hike, but one of the most pleasant walks in central Ohio. The Dawes Arboretum near Newark spans 2,000 acres of gardens, woodlands, prairies, and wetlands. The trail system loops through themed plant collections and natural areas — Japanese gardens, cypress swamps, native oak savannas. It's the kind of place where you start walking and two hours vanish. Bring a camera. **Best season:** Spring for flowering trees and bulb displays. Fall for the sugar maple collection. [Read the full Dawes Arboretum trail guide →](https://hikingohio.blog/the-dawes-arboretum/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ## When to hike: a seasonal guide for Columbus **Spring (March-May):** The best time to hike central Ohio. Wildflowers explode across the forest floor in April — trillium, bloodroot, Virginia bluebells. Waterfalls at Clear Creek and beyond run strongest. Spring migration brings birders to Scioto Audubon and Pickerington Ponds. Mud season is real, though. Bring waterproof boots and expect some trail closures after heavy rain. **Summer (June-August):** Hot, humid, and buggy. Welcome to Ohio. Hit the trails early — sunrise hikes at Highbanks or Rising Park beat the heat. Shade-heavy parks like Blacklick Woods and Blendon Woods stay cooler under their dense canopy. Alum Creek's beach is a legitimate draw when the temperature pushes 90\. Carry extra water and wear sunscreen on exposed sections. **Fall (September-November):** Peak season. October foliage in central Ohio is world-class, especially along the Olentangy River bluffs at Highbanks and through the gorge at Clear Creek. Temperatures drop into the sweet spot — 50s and 60s — and the humidity vanishes. The trails are busy on weekends, but midweek hikes feel private. This is when I hike most. **Winter (December-February):** Underrated. Columbus winters are gray and cold, but a fresh snowfall turns the parks into something magical. The Big Walnut snowfall hike I did in November 2025 was one of the most peaceful walks I've had anywhere. Layer up, wear traction devices if it's icy, and enjoy having the trails to yourself. Highbanks in snow is genuinely beautiful. ## Before you head out Most Columbus metro parks are free — no parking fees, no entry fees. State parks sometimes charge for parking, so check ahead. Download the trail map from our individual guides before you go, especially for the larger parks where cell service can be spotty under heavy canopy. Ohio weather changes fast. I've started hikes in sunshine and finished them in sideways rain more times than I'd like to admit. Pack a rain layer even on blue-sky days, carry more water than you think you need, and tell someone where you're going. These are well-maintained, well-marked trails, but they're still outdoors. If you're new to Columbus hiking, start with Highbanks or Scioto Audubon. Both are close to downtown, well-marked, and give you a real sense of what central Ohio has to offer. Then work your way out. Clear Creek and Blackhand Gorge will change how you think about Ohio terrain entirely. Happy trails. ![Best Hikes Near Columbus, Ohio — Ohio hiking trails](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774638387990-20241109_153232.jpg) Highbanks Metro Park ![Best Hikes Near Columbus, Ohio — Ohio hiking trails](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774632747821-SIO_boardwalk-through-wetland_Sept_-Jim-McCormac-1536x1024.jpg) Scioto Audubon Metro Park ![Best Hikes Near Columbus, Ohio — Ohio hiking trails](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774628290501-QT-waterfall.jpg) Quarry Trails Metro Park ![Best Hikes Near Columbus, Ohio — Ohio hiking trails](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774629294386-IMG_1968.JPG) Three Creeks Metro Park ![Best Hikes Near Columbus, Ohio — Ohio hiking trails](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774627594389-IMG_2039.jpg) Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park ![Best Hikes Near Columbus, Ohio — Ohio hiking trails](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774632585497-R (1).jpg) Blacklick Woods Metro Park ![Best Hikes Near Columbus, Ohio — Ohio hiking trails](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774627801311-GOPR3679.JPG) Chestnut Ridge Metro Park ![Best Hikes Near Columbus, Ohio — Ohio hiking trails](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774632605414-ohio-alum-creek-state-park-lakeside-view.jpg) Alum Creek State Park ![Best Hikes Near Columbus, Ohio — Ohio hiking trails](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774628233586-IMG_4260.JPG) Glacier Ridge Metro Park ![Best Hikes Near Columbus, Ohio — Ohio hiking trails](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774628476586-GP010570.JPG) Slate Run Metro Park ![Best Hikes Near Columbus, Ohio — Ohio hiking trails](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774627697295-IMG_7998.JPG) Clear Creek Metro Park ![Best Hikes Near Columbus, Ohio — Ohio hiking trails](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774632562508-o.jpg) Pickerington Ponds Metro Park ![Best Hikes Near Columbus, Ohio — Ohio hiking trails](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774627906029-IMG_7993.JPG) Rising Park ![Best Hikes Near Columbus, Ohio — Ohio hiking trails](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774629073934-OIP.jpg) The Dawes Aboretum ![Best Hikes Near Columbus, Ohio — Ohio hiking trails](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774628993409-201204_sign-for-lock-16_6984253678.jpg) Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve 🥾 Need some gear for your next great hike? Check out some [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) ## Explore Nearby Trails More Ohio trail guides worth a visit: - [Three Creeks Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/three-creeks-park/) - [Scioto Grove Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/scioto-grove-met/) - [Foundation Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/foundation-park/) - [Deer Creek State Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/deer-creek-state-park/) - [John Bryan State Park & Clifton Gorge](https://hiking-ohio.com/john-bryan-state-park-clifton-gorge-yellow-springs-ohio/) - [Salt Fork State Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/salt-fork-state-park/) - [Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve](https://hiking-ohio.com/rhododendron-cove-state-nature-preserve/) ## More Columbus Metro Park Trail Guides Keep exploring central Ohio with these dedicated metro park guides: - [Homestead Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/homestead-metro-park/) - [Rocky Fork Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/rocky-fork-metro-park/) - [Pine Quarry Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/pine-quarry/) - [Quarry Trails Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/quarry-trails-metro-park/) - [Glacier Ridge Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/glacier-ridge-metro-park/) - [All 20 Columbus & Franklin County Metro Parks](https://hiking-ohio.com/columbus-franklin-county-metro-parks/) ### City of Columbus Parks Letter Z URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/city-of-columbus-parks-letter-z/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:31:37.000Z Here are the City of Columbus, Ohio parks starting with the letter “Z” operated by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, along with their addresses (where available) and amenities. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772816784529-coliumbus city parks.webp) ## 🅩 Columbus Parks — Addresses & Amenities ### **Zollinger Park** **Address:** 3800 Zollinger Rd, Columbus, OH 43221 **Amenities:** - Playground - Open field - Neighborhood green space This is a small community park serving the northwest side, offering basic recreation space and a quiet residential setting. ## How Section Z fits into the larger system - Zollinger Park is the **only** Columbus park beginning with Z. - It functions as a standard neighborhood park with modest amenities and no specialized facilities. - Like Sections X, Y, and V, this is one of the smallest letter groups in the city’s inventory. Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. ### **Please Note:** Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. In those cases, they’re included by name because they appear on the official parks list. ### City of Columbus Parks Letter Y URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/city-of-columbus-parks-letter-y/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:31:30.000Z ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772813974698-coliumbus city parks.webp) Here are the City of Columbus, Ohio parks starting with the letter “Y” operated by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, along with their addresses (where available) and amenities. ## 🅨 Columbus Parks — Addresses & Amenities ### **Yale Avenue Park** **Address:** 700 Yale Ave, Columbus, OH 43223 **Amenities:** - Playground - Open field - Neighborhood green space This is a small community park serving the Hilltop area with basic play and recreation space. ### **Yorkland Parkland** **Address:** Near Yorkland Dr & Livingston Ave, Columbus, OH 43232 (no single postal address) **Amenities:** - Wooded natural areas - Open fields - Passive recreation This is an undeveloped natural‑area parcel with no formal playground or sports facilities. ## How Section Y fits into the larger system - **Yale Avenue Park** is the only developed recreation park beginning with Y, offering standard neighborhood amenities. - **Yorkland Parkland** is a natural‑area corridor typical of Columbus’s greenway parcels, with passive recreation and habitat value. - Like Sections Q, U, and V, this is one of the smallest letter groups in the city’s park inventory. ### **Please Note:** Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. In those cases, they’re included by name because they appear on the official parks list. ### City of Columbus Parks Letter X URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/city-of-columbus-parks-letter-x/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:31:23.000Z Here are the City of Columbus, Ohio parks starting with the letter “X” operated by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, along with their addresses (where available) and amenities. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772814047993-coliumbus city parks.webp) ## 🅧 Columbus Parks — Addresses & Amenities ### **Xenia Park** **Address:** 600 Xenia Ave, Columbus, OH 43207 **Amenities:** - Playground - Open field - Neighborhood green space This is a small community park serving the South Side, offering basic recreation space and play equipment. ## How Section X fits into the larger system - Xenia Park is the **only** Columbus park beginning with X. - It functions as a standard neighborhood park with modest amenities. - Its role is similar to other small community parks in nearby South Side neighborhoods. ### **Please Note:** Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. In those cases, they’re included by name because they appear on the official parks list. ### City of Columbus Parks Letter W URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/city-of-columbus-parks-letter-w/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:31:17.000Z Here are the City of Columbus, Ohio parks starting with the letter “W” operated by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, along with their addresses (where available) and amenities. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772816667295-coliumbus city parks.webp) ## 🅦 Columbus Parks — Addresses & Amenities ### **Waggoner Road Parkland** **Address:** Along Waggoner Rd corridor (no single postal address) **Amenities:** Wooded natural areas, open fields, passive recreation. ### **Walden Park** **Address:** 470 Walden Ave, Columbus, OH 43207 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood green space. ### **Walhalla Ravine Park** **Address:** Near Walhalla Rd & Indianola Ave, Columbus, OH 43202 (no formal postal address) **Amenities:** - Ravine trail - Wooded natural area - Creek access - Scenic natural landscape One of Columbus’s most iconic ravine parks. ### **Walnut Hill Park** **Address:** 5200 Walnut Hill Dr, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### **Walnut View Park** **Address:** 2000 Walnut View Dr, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### **Weinland Park** **Address:** 1280 Summit St, Columbus, OH 43201 **Amenities:** - Playground - Splash pad - Basketball court - Open field A major neighborhood park in the rapidly redeveloping Weinland Park district. ### **Weinland Parkland** **Address:** Surrounding the Weinland Park neighborhood (no single postal address) **Amenities:** Natural areas, open green space, passive recreation. ### **Weinland Woods Parkland** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Wooded natural areas, open fields, passive recreation. ### **Weinland Woods Ravine Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Ravine landscape, wooded areas, creek access. ### **Weinland Woods South Parkland** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Natural area, wooded sections, passive recreation. ### **Weinland Woods West Parkland** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Natural area, wooded sections, passive recreation. ### **Weinland Woods West Ravine Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Ravine terrain, wooded areas, creek access. ### ### ### ## How Section W fits into the larger system - **Weinland Park** is the major recreation park in this group, with a splash pad and strong community use. - **Walhalla Ravine Park** is one of Columbus’s most scenic natural ravines. - **Walnut Hill**, **Walnut View**, and **Walden Park** are mid‑sized neighborhood parks with playgrounds and courts. - **Waggoner Road Parkland** and the extensive **Weinland Woods** parcels form a large natural‑area network with ravines, wooded areas, and passive recreation. ### **Please Note:** Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. In those cases, they’re included by name because they appear on the official parks list. ### City of Columbus Parks Letter V URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/city-of-columbus-parks-letter-v/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:31:11.000Z Here are the City of Columbus, Ohio parks starting with the letter “V” operated by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, along with their addresses (where available) and amenities. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772817307797-coliumbus city parks.webp) ## 🅥 Columbus Parks — Addresses & Amenities ### **Valleyview Parkland** **Address:** Near Valleyview Dr & Hague Ave, Columbus, OH 43204 (no single postal address) **Amenities:** - Wooded natural areas - Open fields - Passive recreation This is a natural‑area corridor with no formal playground or sports facilities. ### **Victory Park** **Address:** 1000 Victory Dr, Columbus, OH 43207 **Amenities:** - Playground - Basketball court - Open field A classic neighborhood park serving the South Side. ## How Section V fits into the larger system - **Victory Park** is the primary recreation park in this group, offering standard neighborhood amenities. - **Valleyview Parkland** is a natural‑area parcel with passive recreation and no developed facilities. - This is one of the smallest letter groups in the Columbus park system, similar in size to Sections Q and U. ### **Please Note:** Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. In those cases, they’re included by name because they appear on the official parks list. ### City of Columbus Parks Letter U URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/city-of-columbus-parks-letter-u/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:31:06.000Z Here are the City of Columbus, Ohio parks starting with the letter “U” operated by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, along with their addresses (where available) and amenities. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772818115698-coliumbus city parks.webp) ## 🅄 Columbus Parks — Addresses & Amenities ### **Ulry‑Schott Parkland** **Address:** Near Ulry Rd & Schott Rd, Columbus, OH 43230 (no single postal address) **Amenities:** - Wooded natural areas - Open fields - Passive recreation This is a natural‑area corridor on the northeast side, with no developed playground or sports facilities. ### **Unity Park** **Address:** 1774 E 25th Ave, Columbus, OH 43219 **Amenities:** - Playground - Basketball court - Open field A classic neighborhood park serving the Linden area. ### **University View Park** **Address:** 2500 Medary Ave, Columbus, OH 43202 **Amenities:** - Playground - Open field - Neighborhood green space Located near the OSU campus area, serving the University View neighborhood. ## How Section U fits into the larger system - **Unity Park** and **University View Park** are the primary recreation parks in this group, each offering playgrounds and open fields. - **Ulry‑Schott Parkland** is a natural‑area parcel with no formal recreational development. - This is one of the smallest letter groups in the Columbus park system. ### **Please Note:** Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. In those cases, they’re included by name because they appear on the official parks list. ### City of Columbus Parks Letter T URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/city-of-columbus-parks-letter-t/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:31:01.000Z Here are the City of Columbus, Ohio parks starting with the letter “T” operated by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, along with their addresses (where available) and amenities. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772818268618-coliumbus city parks.webp) ## 🅣 Columbus Parks — Addresses & Amenities ### **Tamarack Park** **Address:** 2850 Tamarack Cir S, Columbus, OH 43229 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood green space. ### **Taylor‑Bexley Parkland (Columbus portions)** **Address:** Along E Broad St & Bexley border (no single postal address) **Amenities:** Natural area, wooded sections, passive recreation. ### **Taylorsville Parkland** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Natural green space, open field, passive recreation. ### **Tennyson Park** **Address:** 1925 Tennyson Blvd, Columbus, OH 43219 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### **Thurber Park** **Address:** 91 Jefferson Ave, Columbus, OH 43215 **Amenities:** - Public art - Open lawn - Walking paths - Historic neighborhood setting Located in the Discovery District near Thurber House. ### **Thurston Park** **Address:** 2210 Thurston Dr, Columbus, OH 43219 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### **Topsail Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Small neighborhood green space, open lawn. ### **Toth Park** **Address:** 1500 Toth Ln, Columbus, OH 43228 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### **Trabue Woods Parkland** **Address:** Along Trabue Rd corridor (no single postal address) **Amenities:** Wooded natural areas, trails, wildlife habitat. ### **Tremont Park** **Address:** 2400 Tremont Rd, Columbus, OH 43221 **Amenities:** Playground, tennis courts, open field, neighborhood green space. ### **Truro Park** **Address:** 2300 Truro Dr, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### **Tussing Parkland** **Address:** Near Tussing Rd & Brice Rd (no single postal address) **Amenities:** Natural area, wooded sections, passive recreation. ## How Section T fits into the larger system - **Thurber Park** is the most culturally significant park in this group, tied to the historic Thurber House. - **Tamarack**, **Tennyson**, **Thurston**, **Toth**, **Tremont**, and **Truro** are mid‑sized neighborhood parks with playgrounds and courts. - **Taylor‑Bexley Parkland**, **Trabue Woods Parkland**, **Taylorsville Parkland**, and **Tussing Park** ### **Please Note:** Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. In those cases, they’re included by name because they appear on the official parks list. ### City of Columbus Parks Letter S URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/city-of-columbus-parks-letter-s/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:30:56.000Z Here are the City of Columbus, Ohio parks starting with the letter “S” operated by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, along with their addresses (where available) and amenities. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772818344589-coliumbus city parks.webp) ## 🅂 Columbus Parks — Addresses & Amenities ### **Sancus Park** **Address:** 8140 Sancus Blvd, Columbus, OH 43235 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood green space. ### **Saunders Park** **Address:** 1380 Saunders Ave, Columbus, OH 43201 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### **Schiller Park** **Address:** 1069 Jaeger St, Columbus, OH 43206 **Amenities:** - Historic German Village park - Pond - Walking paths - Gardens - Playground - Tennis courts - Outdoor theater (Actors’ Theatre) One of Columbus’s most iconic parks. ### **Scioto Audubon Metro Park (Columbus portions)** **Address:** 400 W Whittier St, Columbus, OH 43215 **Amenities:** - Climbing wall - Trails - Wetlands - Birding areas - River access Note: The Metro Park is operated by Metro Parks; Columbus owns adjacent parcels. ### **Scioto Big Run Parkland** **Address:** Along Clime Rd & Georgesville Rd (no single postal address) **Amenities:** Natural area, wooded sections, creek access, passive recreation. ### **Scioto Greenway Parkland** **Address:** Along Scioto River corridor (no single postal address) **Amenities:** - Multi‑use trails - River access - Scenic overlooks - Wooded natural areas Part of the Scioto Mile and regional greenway system. ### **Scioto Mile (Columbus-managed portions)** **Address:** Downtown riverfront, including Civic Center Dr & Marconi Blvd **Amenities:** - Promenades - Fountains - Event spaces - Riverfront seating - Public art A major downtown attraction. ### **Scioto Trail Park** **Address:** 1441 W Mound St, Columbus, OH 43223 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, trail access. ### **Scottwood Park** **Address:** 1100 Scottwood Rd, Columbus, OH 43206 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood green space. ### **Sequoia Park** **Address:** 5000 Sequoia Dr, Columbus, OH 43229 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### **Shady Lane Park** **Address:** 1444 Shady Lane Rd, Columbus, OH 43227 **Amenities:** Playground, shelter, basketball court, open field. ### **Sharon Meadows Park** **Address:** 1775 Sharon Woods Blvd, Columbus, OH 43229 **Amenities:** Playground, tennis courts, open field, wooded areas. ### **Sheffield Park** **Address:** 2000 Huy Rd, Columbus, OH 43224 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### **Shepard Park** **Address:** 860 N Nelson Rd, Columbus, OH 43219 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### **Sills Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Small neighborhood green space, open lawn. ### **Sills Parkland** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Natural area, wooded sections, passive recreation. ### **Souder Park** **Address:** 2500 Souder Ave, Columbus, OH 43211 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### **Southgate Park** **Address:** 2830 Southgate Dr, Columbus, OH 43207 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### **Southwood Park** **Address:** 1500 Southwood Ave, Columbus, OH 43207 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood green space. ### **Southwood Mile Parkland** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Natural area, wooded sections, passive recreation. ### **Spindler Parkland** **Address:** Along Spindler Rd corridor (no single postal address) **Amenities:** Natural area, open fields, wooded sections. ### **St. Clair Park** **Address:** 1000 St. Clair Ave, Columbus, OH 43201 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### **St. Mary’s Park** **Address:** 700 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43206 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, historic neighborhood setting (German Village). ### **St. Patrick’s Park** **Address:** 3600 St. Patrick’s Dr, Columbus, OH 43227 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### **Stelzer Park** **Address:** 3250 Stelzer Rd, Columbus, OH 43219 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### **Stockbridge Park** **Address:** 4500 Stockbridge Rd, Columbus, OH 43229 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood green space. ### **Sullivant Gardens Park** **Address:** 755 Renick St, Columbus, OH 43223 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### **Sycamore Hills Park** **Address:** 5000 Sycamore Hills Dr, Columbus, OH 43228 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ## How Section S fits into the larger system - **Schiller Park**, **Scioto Mile**, and **Scioto Audubon** are major citywide destinations with extensive amenities and cultural significance. - **Scioto Greenway**, **Scioto Big Run**, **Spindler Parkland**, and **Southwood Mile Parkland** are important natural‑area corridors. - **Shady Lane**, **Sharon Meadows**, **Sequoia**, **Sheffield**, and **Stelzer** are mid‑sized neighborhood parks with playgrounds and courts. - **Sills Park**, **Sills Parkland**, and several others are small local green spaces with limited published details. Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. ### **Please Note:** Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. In those cases, they’re included by name because they appear on the official parks list. ### City of Columbus Parks Letter R URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/city-of-columbus-parks-letter-r/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:30:51.000Z Here are the City of Columbus, Ohio parks starting with the letter “R” operated by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, along with their addresses (where available) and amenities. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772818383695-coliumbus city parks.webp) ## 🅁 Columbus Parks — Addresses & Amenities ### **Rader Park** **Address:** 2599 Brentnell Ave, Columbus, OH 43211 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood green space. ### **Raney Park** **Address:** 5400 Raney Dr, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, small neighborhood recreation area. ### **Rathbone Park** **Address:** 181 Rathbone Ave, Columbus, OH 43207 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### **Raymond Memorial Parkland** **Address:** Adjacent to 3860 Trabue Rd, Columbus, OH 43228 **Amenities:** Wooded natural areas, open green space, passive recreation. Note: This surrounds the Raymond Memorial Golf Course. ### **Redick Park** **Address:** 600 Redick Ave, Columbus, OH 43207 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood green space. ### **Reeb Park** **Address:** 280 Reeb Ave, Columbus, OH 43207 **Amenities:** - Community center (Reeb Avenue Center) - Playground - Open green space - Community programming A major community anchor in the South Side. ### **Remington Park** **Address:** 2400 Remington Rd, Columbus, OH 43221 **Amenities:** Playground, tennis courts, open field, wooded areas. ### **Rhodes Park** **Address:** 1900 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43223 **Amenities:** - Recreation center - Playground - Basketball courts - Athletic fields - Community programs ### **Rickenbacker Woods Park** **Address:** 1330 E Livingston Ave, Columbus, OH 43205 **Amenities:** - Historic site (Eddie Rickenbacker birthplace area) - Walking paths - Open green space - Small play area ### **Ridgeview Park** **Address:** 1380 Ridgeview Rd, Columbus, OH 43221 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### **Ridenour Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Small neighborhood green space, open lawn. ### **Ringer Park** **Address:** 2830 Ringer Rd, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### **Riverbend Park** **Address:** 880 Riverview Dr, Columbus, OH 43202 **Amenities:** - Olentangy Trail access - Wooded natural areas - Open green space - River access A key natural corridor park along the Olentangy River. ### **Riverland Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Natural area, wooded sections, passive recreation. ### **Riverview Park** **Address:** 4100 Riverview Dr, Columbus, OH 43214 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, wooded areas, trail access. ### **Roberts Road Parkland** **Address:** Along Roberts Rd corridor (no single postal address) **Amenities:** Natural area, open fields, passive recreation. ### **Rocky Fork Parkland (Columbus portions)** **Address:** Near Walnut St & Harlem Rd (no single postal address) **Amenities:** Wooded natural areas, trails, wildlife habitat. Note: Adjacent to Rocky Fork Metro Park. ### **Rohr Road Parkland** **Address:** Along Rohr Rd corridor (no single postal address) **Amenities:** Natural area, open fields, passive recreation. ### **Rosewind Park** **Address:** 1400 Brooks Ave, Columbus, OH 43211 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### **Rosslyn Park** **Address:** 2800 Rosslyn Ave, Columbus, OH 43202 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood green space. ## How Section R fits into the larger system - **Rhodes Park**, **Reeb Park**, and **Remington Park** are the major community parks with recreation centers or multi‑amenity facilities. - **Riverbend Park**, **Riverview Park**, and **Rocky Fork Parkland** are important natural‑area corridors with trail and river access. - **Rader**, **Rathbone**, **Redick**, **Ringer**, and **Rosewind** are mid‑sized neighborhood parks with playgrounds and courts. - **Ridenour**, **Riverland**, and **Roberts Road Parkland** are small or natural‑area parcels with limited development. ### **Please Note:** Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. In those cases, they’re included by name because they appear on the official parks list. ### City of Columbus Parks Letter Q URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/city-of-columbus-parks-letter-q/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:30:45.000Z Here are the City of Columbus, Ohio parks starting with the letter “Q” operated by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, along with their addresses (where available) and amenities. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772818432289-coliumbus city parks.webp) ## 🆀 Columbus Parks — Addresses & Amenities ### **Quarry Trails Parkland (Columbus portions)** **Address:** Along Trabue Rd & Dublin Rd, Columbus, OH 43221 (no single postal address) **Amenities:** - Wooded natural areas - Open green space - Trail connections into the larger Metro Parks system Note: The main *Quarry Trails Metro Park* is operated by Metro Parks; Columbus manages adjacent parcels of greenway land. ### **Quay Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** - Small neighborhood green space - Open lawn - Limited play features This is a modest local park serving nearby residential streets. ### **Quigley Park** **Address:** 2255 Quigley Rd, Columbus, OH 43224 **Amenities:** - Playground - Basketball court - Open field - Neighborhood recreation space ## How Section Q fits into the larger system - **Quarry Trails Parkland** is the most significant site here, forming part of a major regional natural corridor. - **Quigley Park** is the primary neighborhood recreation park with standard playground‑and‑court amenities. - **Quay Park** is a small local green space with minimal published details. ### **Please Note:** Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. In those cases, they’re included by name because they appear on the official parks list. ### Cuyahoga Valley National Park: Complete Trail Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/cuyahoga-valley-national-park-complete-trail-guide/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:19:28.000Z ## Brecksville–Northfield High Level Bridge ![https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/92/Brecksville-Northfield_High_Level_Bridge_%2820518847526%29.jpg](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/92/Brecksville-Northfield_High_Level_Bridge_%2820518847526%29.jpg) ![https://historicbridges.org/ohio/brecksville/little_brecksville_1939_40_41vib_stitch.jpg](https://historicbridges.org/ohio/brecksville/little_brecksville_1939_40_41vib_stitch.jpg) ![https://www.airial.travel/_next/image?q=75&url=https%3A%2F%2Fcoinventmediastorage.blob.core.windows.net%2Fmedia-storage-container%2Fgphoto_ChIJ2198GcTgMIgR4xmfhXaKbKQ_0.jpg&w=3840](https://www.airial.travel/_next/image?q=75&url=https%3A%2F%2Fcoinventmediastorage.blob.core.windows.net%2Fmedia-storage-container%2Fgphoto_ChIJ2198GcTgMIgR4xmfhXaKbKQ_0.jpg&w=3840) The massive concrete arch bridge crossing the valley carries Route 82 through the park, soaring 145–175 feet above the river. Built in 1931 with reinforced concrete, it stretches over 1,100 feet in length. Its towering arches and vertical supports span the entire Cuyahoga River valley, creating a dramatic sight—especially from below near the river and trails. One of the park’s most iconic landmarks, it’s best viewed from the Station Road Bridge area in Brecksville, where you can look up from the valley and take in the river, the old iron bridge, and this giant structure all in one breathtaking scene. 🗺️ ****Cuyahoga Valley National Park** — Ohio's only national park 🏔 125+ miles of trails • 33,000 acres • No entrance fee 📍 Between Cleveland & Akron • Open year-round 🥾 Brandywine Gorge (1.4 mi) • Ledges Trail (2.2 mi) • Blue Hen Falls (3 mi) • Towpath Trail (19.5 mi) Ohio has one national park. Just one. And honestly, Cuyahoga Valley National Park punches so far above its weight that the state doesn't need a second. Tucked between Cleveland and Akron in northeast Ohio, this 33,000-acre stretch of forested gorges, sandstone ledges, and river valley trails draws nearly three million visitors a year. That makes it the twelfth most-visited national park in the country — ahead of Glacier, ahead of Grand Teton, ahead of parks most people would consider far more "dramatic." The thing is, Cuyahoga Valley doesn't need dramatic. It earns you with subtlety: the drip of Brandywine Falls echoing off a gorge wall, the cool breath of air rolling out of Ice Box Cave, the way October light filters through 320-million-year-old rock formations at the Ledges. Best of all, there's no entrance fee. You can drive in, park, and start hiking without pulling out a wallet. This guide covers the four trails you should absolutely prioritize on a first visit — or a fifth — plus the history, geology, seasonal tips, and practical logistics you need to plan a solid day in the park. ## Getting There Cuyahoga Valley stretches roughly 20 miles north to south along the Cuyahoga River, with access points scattered all along that corridor. The main visitor center is at Boston Mill, located off Riverview Road near the town of Peninsula. **Boston Mill Visitor Center** 6947 Riverview Road, Peninsula, OH 44264 Coordinates: 41.2563, -81.5578 From Cleveland, take I-77 South to Route 21, then follow signs to Riverview Road. The drive is about 25 minutes from downtown. From Akron, head north on Route 8 to Route 303 West, then turn north on Riverview Road — roughly 20 minutes. Parking is free at all trailheads, but Brandywine Falls and the Ledges fill up fast on weekends, especially during fall foliage season. Plan to arrive before 10 a.m. on Saturdays in October, or you'll be circling. Weekday mornings are golden — half the crowds, twice the parking. Other key parking areas: - **Brandywine Falls Trailhead:** 8176 Brandywine Road, Sagamore Hills (41.2744, -81.5376) - **Ledges Trailhead:** 701 Truxell Road, Peninsula (41.2268, -81.5575) - **Blue Hen Falls / Buckeye Trail:** Park at Boston Mill Visitor Center and hike in - **Towpath Trail (multiple access points):** Lock 29 Trailhead in Peninsula is the most popular The park is open every day, all year, with no gate hours. Visitor centers keep seasonal hours — check the NPS website before you go if you want a map or a ranger chat. ## Brandywine Gorge Trail If you only hike one trail in Cuyahoga Valley, this is probably the one. Brandywine Gorge Trail is a 1.4-mile loop with about 160 feet of elevation change. The star attraction is Brandywine Falls, a 65-foot waterfall that drops over a ledge of Berea Sandstone into a gorge lined with Bedford Shale. You can see the falls from a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk overlook right near the parking lot — a short walk from the car, no scrambling required. But don't stop at the overlook. The full loop takes you down a wooden staircase into the gorge itself, where the sound of falling water amplifies against the rock walls. The trail wraps along the creek at the base of the falls, crosses a footbridge, and climbs back up the opposite ridge through mixed hardwood forest. Plan about 45 minutes to an hour for the full loop, longer if you're stopping for photos. You will be stopping for photos. The terrain is moderate. Rocky in places, with some uneven steps, so wear proper trail shoes rather than sneakers. After a rain, the wooden stairs can be slick, but the payoff is that the falls hit their absolute peak flow after a good soaking. Spring snowmelt and April showers turn Brandywine into a full-on torrent. One detail most visitors miss: look for the orange iron staining on the rocks near the base of the falls. Iron-bearing springs seep through the Bedford Shale and leave those rusty streaks, creating a color contrast against the dark rock that's genuinely striking. It's not something you'll see from the upper boardwalk — you have to take the full loop to catch it. 🥾 ****Brandywine Gorge Trail Stats:** 1.4 mi loop • 160 ft elevation • Moderate • 45-60 min • Partially wheelchair accessible (boardwalk overlook) ## Ledges Trail The Ledges Trail is where the park stops being "nice" and starts being weird. In the best possible way. This 2.2-mile loop sits in the Virginia Kendall unit of the park, about a 10-minute drive south of the Boston Mill Visitor Center. The elevation change is only 80 feet, but that number is deceptive — the trail threads between towering walls of Sharon Conglomerate, a 320-million-year-old rock formation packed with white quartz pebbles and riddled with cross-bedding patterns that mark ancient sand dunes. You'll pass through narrow slots between rock walls, duck under overhangs, and squeeze past boulders that look like they were placed by a sculptor. The most dramatic section is the ledge corridor itself, where joints in the rock have widened over millennia into passages just wide enough to walk through single file. Look closely at the rock faces and you'll spot honeycomb weathering — hollowed-out pits that look like someone took an ice cream scoop to the sandstone. Wind, water, and freeze-thaw cycles do that over thousands of years. About halfway through the loop, watch for Ice Box Cave. It's not a deep cave — more of a recessed overhang that extends about 50 feet into the rock — but even in July, cold air pools inside and the temperature drops noticeably. On a humid summer day, the contrast hits you like opening a refrigerator door. The trail ends (or begins, depending on your direction) at Ledges Overlook, a flat rock platform perched above the Cuyahoga Valley. On a clear day, you can see forested ridgeline stretching to the horizon. During fall foliage, this is the best overlook in northeast Ohio. Not "one of the best." The best. Arrive early — it gets crowded. The Ledges Trail is rated moderate, mostly because of the rocky footing and some stone steps. It's not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers. Dogs are allowed but keep them leashed — the narrow rock passages make passing difficult. Plan about an hour to 90 minutes, depending on how many times you stop to gawk at the rock formations. Budget extra time in autumn. ## Blue Hen Falls via Buckeye Trail Blue Hen Falls doesn't have the stature of Brandywine, and that's part of the appeal. This 15-foot cascade tucked into a narrow ravine sees a fraction of the foot traffic, and the hike to reach it has a rugged, backcountry feel that sets it apart from the park's more groomed paths. The route follows the Buckeye Trail — Ohio's statewide long-distance trail, marked with blue blazes painted on trees. From the Boston Mill Visitor Center, the round trip is about 3 miles with 580 feet of total elevation change. That's a real workout by Ohio standards. The trail climbs immediately from the trailhead, cresting a ridge before dropping steeply down a long staircase of stone steps into the ravine where the falls sit. This is not a paved nature walk. The Buckeye Trail through this section is rooty, rocky, and after rain, genuinely muddy. Good hiking boots are non-negotiable here. Trekking poles help on the descents, especially if the ground is wet. The falls themselves are quiet and intimate. Water slides over a shelf of rock into a shallow pool surrounded by moss-covered boulders and hemlock trees. In spring, the flow picks up and the ravine fills with the sound of rushing water. In winter, the falls sometimes freeze into a blue-white curtain of ice — one of the most photogenic sights in the park, if you're willing to earn it. To get there: park at Boston Mill Visitor Center, walk to the intersection of Riverview and Boston Mills roads, cross Riverview Road carefully, and find the stone staircase that marks the Buckeye Trail entrance. Follow the blue blazes. Plan about 90 minutes to two hours for the round trip. 💡 ****Trail Tip:** You can hike all four of these trails in a single long day. Start with Brandywine Gorge (early morning, best light on the falls), drive to the Ledges mid-morning, grab lunch in Peninsula, then tackle Blue Hen Falls or a Towpath stretch in the afternoon. Total trail mileage: about 8 miles if you do the Towpath section from Lock 29. ## Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail The Towpath Trail is the backbone of Cuyahoga Valley — a 19.5-mile crushed limestone path that follows the route of the old Ohio & Erie Canal from Canal Road in Cleveland south through the park to Akron. This trail is flat. Almost perfectly flat. The total elevation change across the entire 19.5 miles is 135 feet, and the surface is firm, even, and wide enough for side-by-side walking. Wheelchairs, strollers, bikes, joggers, dog walkers — everyone shares the Towpath, and it works because there's room for all of them. You don't need to hike the whole thing. The most popular section runs through the heart of the park between Lock 29 in Peninsula and the Boston Store area, a stretch of about 4 miles that passes restored canal locks, wetland overlooks, and patches of old-growth forest. The Cuyahoga River runs parallel for much of the route, and great blue herons are a common sight along the banks. Ten trailheads provide access along the full length, so you can tailor the distance to your energy level. Park at one end, hike or bike to the other, and take the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad back to your car — the train runs parallel to the trail and offers bike-on service during warmer months. It's one of the most cleverly designed trail-and-transit setups in any national park. For a short walk, the 2-mile stretch from Lock 29 south to the Stumpy Basin area is quiet, scenic, and puts you in the middle of some prime bird habitat. Bring binoculars if you've got them. ## Park History and the Stories Written in Stone Cuyahoga Valley wasn't always a national park. Congress designated it a National Recreation Area in 1974, and it took another 26 years of advocacy before it was redesignated as a full national park in 2000. But the human history here goes back far further than that. The Hopewell Culture inhabited this valley by around 200 AD, constructing burial mounds including the Everett Mound near the small village of Everett inside the park. Before European contact, the Wyandot, Iroquois, Ottawa, Ojibwe, Shawnee, and other nations lived in and traveled through the valley. The 19th century reshaped the landscape. The Ohio & Erie Canal, completed in 1832, turned the Cuyahoga Valley into a commercial highway connecting Lake Erie to the Ohio River. The Towpath Trail follows the exact route that mule drivers walked while towing canal boats. When the canal era ended, railroads took over — the same rail corridor now carries the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. The geology, though, makes the human timescale look like a footnote. The oldest exposed rocks in the park are 400 million years old. The Ohio Shale at the bottom of the sequence formed in an ancient oxygen-poor ocean, and it's packed with fossils of creatures that haven't existed for hundreds of millions of years — including *Dunkleosteus*, a 40-foot armored predatory fish that was the apex predator of its era. You won't find one sticking out of a cliff face, but knowing what's embedded in the rock beneath your boots adds a layer to the experience. Above the Ohio Shale sits the Bedford Shale, then the Berea Sandstone that caps Brandywine Falls. Higher still, the Sharon Conglomerate — 320 million years old, full of white quartz pebbles from ancient rivers — forms the massive ledge formations on the Ledges Trail. Then the glaciers arrived. Between 70,000 and 14,000 years ago, ice sheets advanced and retreated across northern Ohio, carving the valley deeper, depositing boulders carried hundreds of miles from Canada, and leaving behind the rolling moraines and kame terraces visible throughout the park. The Cuyahoga River found its current winding course about 10,000 years ago, after the last glacier retreated. Walk the Ledges Trail and you're walking through 320 million years of geological history. That's not marketing language. That's the actual timeline underneath your feet. ## Tips and Seasonal Notes **Spring (March through May):** Wildflowers bloom along most trails starting in April. Herons return to the Bath Road Heronry — March and April are prime nesting season. Waterfalls hit peak flow from snowmelt and spring rain. The tradeoff: trails are muddy, especially Blue Hen Falls. Wear waterproof boots and bring trekking poles. **Summer (June through August):** Hot. Humid. Crowded. Go early or go late — before 9 a.m. or after 5 p.m. — and you'll be fine. The Towpath Trail offers decent shade, and the Blue Hen Falls ravine stays cool even on the worst days. **Fall (September through October):** This is the season. Temperatures settle into that perfect hiking window — cool mornings, warm afternoons, no humidity trying to suffocate you on the climbs. The foliage peaks around mid-October, and when it peaks, the Ledges Overlook turns into the kind of view that makes people pull out their phones and just stand there for ten minutes. Get to the park before 9 a.m. on October weekends. Seriously. The Ledges parking lot will be full by 10, and Brandywine isn't far behind. Weekday visits in October are the real cheat code. **Winter (November through February):** Cuyahoga Valley averages 61 inches of snow annually — substantially more than most of Ohio, thanks to lake effect from Lake Erie. Brandywine Falls and Blue Hen Falls can freeze into ice sculptures. Snowshoeing is permitted on most trails except the Ledges and Brandywine Falls trail systems. Dress in layers and watch for icy boardwalks. **Year-round tips:** - Bring water. Even on cool days, the elevation changes will dehydrate you faster than you expect. - Cell service is spotty throughout much of the park. Download a trail map before you arrive. - Restrooms are available at most major trailheads and visitor centers. - Dogs are welcome on all trails but must be leashed (six-foot maximum). Clean up after them — rangers do enforce this. - The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad offers a unique way to explore the park without driving between trailheads. Check their schedule at cvsr.org. ## Nearby Trails Worth Exploring If the Ledges Trail lit something in you — that urge to squeeze between rock walls and peer into dark crevices — northeast Ohio has more of that energy to offer. **[Nelson Kennedy Ledges State Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/nelson-kennedy-ledges-state-park/)** is 40 minutes east and will scratch exactly that itch. Tighter passages, more scrambling, and a couple of caves that actually require you to duck. It's the Ledges Trail's wilder cousin. For more Cleveland-area options beyond the park, our **[Best Hikes Near Cleveland](https://hiking-ohio.com/best-hikes-near-cleveland-ohio-10-trails-and-day-trips/)** guide covers ten more trails including gorge hikes and Lake Erie shoreline walks. Loved the waterfalls? Our **[Ohio Waterfall Hikes](https://hiking-ohio.com/ohio-waterfall-hikes-7-best-trails-to-chase-cascades/)** guide rounds up seven more cascades across the state — including Cedar Falls in Hocking Hills, which makes Brandywine look restrained. For fall planning, **[Best Fall Hikes in Ohio](https://hiking-ohio.com/best-fall-hikes-in-ohio-10-trails-for-peak-foliage/)** covers the top trails statewide for peak color. And for the eternal debate between Ohio's two heavyweights, the **[Nelson-Kennedy Ledges vs. Hocking Hills vs. Little Rocky Hollow](https://hiking-ohio.com/nelson-kennedy-ledges-vs-hocking-hills-vs-little-rocky-hollow/)** comparison breaks it all down. 🎒 ****Gear up before you go.** A good pair of hiking boots, trekking poles for the Blue Hen Falls descent, and a quality daypack make all the difference at Cuyahoga Valley. Check out our [WOLF TACTICAL Daypack review](https://hiking-ohio.com/wolf-tactical-molle-daypack-review/) and [trail meal comparison](https://hiking-ohio.com/comparing-backpacking-pouch-meal-brands/) for gear that's been tested on Ohio trails. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774818529817-brandywine-falls-cuyahoga-valley-ohi.jpeg) Brandywine Falls ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774818556410-Ledges-Hike-2000px-4.jpg) The Ledges ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774818576789-Blue-Hen-Falls-200-foot-uphill-trail-1024x768.jpeg) Blue Hen ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774818660710-IMG_4023.JPG) Towpath Trail ## Did you know that the Cuyahoga River caught on fire? The Cuyahoga River, which flows through the national park, was once heavily polluted. For decades, from the 1800s to the 1960s, factories dumped oil, chemicals, and sewage into its waters. In some areas near Cleveland, the surface was literally covered with flammable industrial waste. On June 22, 1969, oil-soaked debris floating on the river caught fire—likely sparked by a passing train. The blaze lasted only about 30 minutes but became internationally famous. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774819159088-cayuhoga-river-fire-image.jpg) June 22, 1969 It wasn’t just a single fire, which surprises many people. The river had actually , caught fire multiple times before—at least a dozen since the 1800s. Locals were used to it, so it didn’t seem remarkable until it made national headlines. The “river on fire” tale remains one of the most iconic stories of environmental recovery in the U.S. Even though the fire was small, it became a powerful symbol of environmental neglect. It helped ignite the modern environmental movement and contributed to the creation of the EPA and the passage of the Clean Water Act in 1972\. It was a wake-up call to the country that our rivers were in seriously bad shape. The river winds through roughly 25 miles of Cuyahoga Valley National Park, and today it’s a completely different scene—teeming with fish, birds, and even bald eagles. Over 40 species of fish now thrive here, and the river has become a favorite spot for kayaking, scenic hikes, and all sorts of outdoor adventures. --- ### **Conclusion** The Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers wonderful trails to explore. I really enjoyed visiting it. I highly recommend that you visit the only national park in Ohio. ### City of Columbus Parks Letter P URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/city-of-columbus-parks-letter-p/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:30:40.000Z Here are the City of Columbus, Ohio parks starting with the letter “P” operated by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, along with their addresses (where available) and amenities. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772818463410-coliumbus city parks.webp) ## 🅿️ Columbus Parks — Addresses & Amenities ### **Parkridge Park** **Address:** 1111 Parkridge Dr, Columbus, OH 43228 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood green space. ### **Parsons Park** **Address:** 845 Parsons Ave, Columbus, OH 43206 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, community green space; located near the Parsons Avenue corridor. ### **Pinecrest Park** **Address:** 2250 Pinecrest Dr, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### **Pingree Park** **Address:** 2800 Pingree Dr, Columbus, OH 43219 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### **Pioneer Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space, small play area, open lawn. ### **Pontiac Park** **Address:** 321 Pontiac St, Columbus, OH 43205 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### **Portman Park** **Address:** 3000 Portman Rd, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood green space. ### **Postlewaite Park** **Address:** 6140 Postlewaite Rd, Columbus, OH 43235 **Amenities:** Playground, tennis courts, open field, wooded areas. ### **Pretzinger Parkland** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Natural area, wooded sections, passive recreation. ### **Pride Park** **Address:** 2480 Hiawatha St, Columbus, OH 43211 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### **Pumphrey Park** **Address:** 2000 Pumphrey Rd, Columbus, OH 43229 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ## How Section P fits into the larger system - **Parkridge**, **Pinecrest**, **Pontiac**, **Pride**, and **Pumphrey** are classic neighborhood parks with playgrounds and courts. - **Postlewaite Park** is one of the larger parks in this group, offering tennis courts and wooded areas. - **Parsons Park** serves a dense urban neighborhood and functions as a community green space. - **Pretzinger Parkland** and **Pioneer Park** are small or natural‑area parcels with limited published details. ### **Please Note:** Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. In those cases, they’re included by name because they appear on the official parks list. ### City of Columbus Parks Letter O URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/city-of-columbus-parks-letter-o/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:30:34.000Z Here are the City of Columbus, Ohio parks starting with the letter “O” operated by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, along with their addresses (where available) and amenities. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772818497894-coliumbus city parks.webp) ## 🅾️ Columbus Parks — Addresses & Amenities ### **Oakland Park** **Address:** 600 Oakland Park Ave, Columbus, OH 43214 **Amenities:** - Playground - Basketball court - Open field - Neighborhood green space Located in the Clintonville/North Linden area, this is a classic mid‑sized community park. ### **Oates Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** - Small neighborhood green space - Open lawn - Limited play features This is a small local park with minimal development. ### **O’Shaughnessy Reservoir Park (Columbus portions)** **Address:** Multiple access points along Glick Rd and Dublin Rd (no single postal address) **Amenities:** - Reservoir shoreline access - Fishing - Boating access (nearby) - Wooded natural areas - Scenic overlooks Note: The reservoir spans multiple jurisdictions; Columbus manages several parcels on the east and south sides. ### **Old Oaks Park** **Address:** 1380 Oakwood Ave, Columbus, OH 43206 **Amenities:** - Playground - Basketball court - Open field - Historic neighborhood setting Located in the Old Oaks Historic District, this park serves as a community gathering space. ### **Olentangy Parkland** **Address:** Extends along the Olentangy River corridor (no single postal address) **Amenities:** - Multi‑use trails (including Olentangy Trail) - Wooded natural areas - River access - Wildlife habitat This is one of Columbus’s most important continuous greenway corridors. ### **Overbrook Ravine Park** **Address:** Near Overbrook Dr & N High St, Columbus, OH 43214 (no formal postal address) **Amenities:** - Ravine trail - Wooded natural area - Creek access - Scenic natural landscape This is one of the city’s historic ravine parks, similar in character to Glen Echo. ## How Section O fits into the larger system - **Olentangy Parkland** and **O’Shaughnessy Reservoir Park** are major natural‑area corridors with regional significance. - **Old Oaks Park** and **Oakland Park** are the primary neighborhood recreation parks with playgrounds and courts. - **Overbrook Ravine Park** is a scenic natural ravine with trails and creek access. - **Oates Park** is a small local green space with limited published details. ### **Please Note:** Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. In those cases, they’re included by name because they appear on the official parks list. ### City of Columbus Parks Letter N URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/city-of-columbus-parks-letter-n/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:30:29.000Z Here are the City of Columbus, Ohio parks starting with the letter “N” operated by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, along with their addresses (where available) and amenities. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772818536327-coliumbus city parks.webp) ## 🅽 Columbus Parks — Addresses & Amenities ### **Nafzger Park** **Address:** 2845 Noe Bixby Rd, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood green space. ### **Nashoba Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space, small play area, open lawn. ### **Nelson Park** **Address:** 200 Nelson Rd, Columbus, OH 43205 **Amenities:** - Recreation center - Playground - Basketball courts - Baseball/softball fields - Walking paths - Open green space Nelson Park is one of the larger and more historic parks in this section. ### **New Beginnings Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### **North Bank Park** **Address:** 311 W Long St, Columbus, OH 43215 **Amenities:** - Riverfront views - Event pavilion - Walking paths - Open lawn - Scioto Mile access This is a major downtown riverfront park. ### **Northcrest Park** **Address:** 505 E North Broadway, Columbus, OH 43214 **Amenities:** Playground, tennis courts, open field, wooded areas. ### **Northgate Park** **Address:** 4570 Morse Centre Rd, Columbus, OH 43229 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### **Northmoor Park** **Address:** 4150 Indianola Ave, Columbus, OH 43214 **Amenities:** - Playground - Shelter - Open field - Olentangy Trail access - Wooded natural areas A popular park in Clintonville with trail connectivity. ### **Northwood Park** **Address:** 2231 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201 **Amenities:** - Community center - Meeting/event spaces - Open green space Located near OSU campus. ### **Norton Park** **Address:** 5200 Norton Rd, Columbus, OH 43228 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ## How Section N fits into the larger system - **North Bank Park** and **Nelson Park** are the major destination parks in this group, offering event spaces, recreation centers, and riverfront or historic amenities. - **Northmoor Park** is a key trail‑connected park along the Olentangy corridor. - **Northcrest**, **Northgate**, and **Norton** are mid‑sized neighborhood parks with playgrounds and courts. - **Nafzger**, **Nashoba**, and **New Beginnings** are smaller neighborhood parks with limited published details. ### **Please Note:** Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. In those cases, they’re included by name because they appear on the official parks list. ### City of Columbus Parks Letter M URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/city-of-columbus-parks-letter-m/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:30:23.000Z Here are the City of Columbus, Ohio parks starting with the letter “M” operated by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, along with their addresses (where available) and amenities. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772818667886-coliumbus city parks.webp) ## 🅼 Columbus Parks — Addresses & Amenities ### **Madison Mills Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space, open field, small play area. ### **Madison Parkland** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Natural area, passive recreation, wooded sections. ### **Maloney Park** **Address:** 1701 Joyce Ave, Columbus, OH 43219 **Amenities:** - Recreation center - Playground - Basketball courts - Athletic fields - Community programming This is one of the major recreation‑center parks in the M‑section. ### **Marion Franklin Park** **Address:** 2801 Lockbourne Rd, Columbus, OH 43207 **Amenities:** - Recreation center - Playground - Basketball courts - Baseball/softball fields - Community programs ### **Maybury Park** **Address:** 2630 Maybury Rd, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### **McCoy Park** **Address:** 3840 Sullivant Ave, Columbus, OH 43228 **Amenities:** Playground, shelter, basketball court, open field. ### **McFerson Commons** **Address:** 218 W Nationwide Blvd, Columbus, OH 43215 **Amenities:** - Large open lawn - Public art (Union Station Arch) - Event space - Walking paths Located in the Arena District and used for festivals and gatherings. ### **McKinley Park** **Address:** 1970 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43223 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood green space. ### **Meadowbrook Park** **Address:** 3420 Kohr Blvd, Columbus, OH 43224 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### **Medal Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space, small play area. ### **Mifflin Park** **Address:** 2200 Noe Bixby Rd, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, wooded areas. ### **Millbrook Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### **Millstone Creek Parkland** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Natural area, wooded sections, passive recreation. ### **Mock Park** **Address:** 6000 Mock Rd, Columbus, OH 43219 **Amenities:** - Recreation center - Playground - Basketball courts - Athletic fields - Community programs ### **Moler Park** **Address:** 1200 Moler Rd, Columbus, OH 43207 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood green space. ### **Morse Road Parkland** **Address:** Along Morse Rd corridor (no single postal address) **Amenities:** Natural area, wooded sections, passive recreation. ### **Mountview Park** **Address:** 2140 W Mound St, Columbus, OH 43223 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### **Muirfield Parkland (Columbus portion)** **Address:** Northern Columbus boundary near Dublin (no single postal address) **Amenities:** Natural area, wooded sections, passive recreation. ## How Section M fits into the larger system - **Maloney Park**, **Marion Franklin Park**, and **Mock Park** are the major recreation‑center parks with full amenities and community programming. - **McFerson Commons** is a signature downtown green space used for events and public gatherings. - **Mifflin**, **McCoy**, **Meadowbrook**, and **Mountview** are mid‑sized neighborhood parks with playgrounds and courts. - **Madison Parkland**, **Millstone Creek Parkland**, **Morse Road Parkland**, and **Muirfield Parkland** are natural‑area parcels with limited development. ### **Please Note:** Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. In those cases, they’re included by name because they appear on the official parks list. ### City of Columbus Parks Letter L URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/city-of-columbus-parks-letter-l/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:30:17.000Z Here are the City of Columbus, Ohio parks starting with the letter “L” operated by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, along with their addresses (where available) and amenities. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772818702604-coliumbus city parks.webp) ## 🅻 Columbus Parks — Addresses & Amenities ### **Lakeside Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space, open lawn, small play area. ### **Lambton Park** **Address:** 5400 Lambton St, Columbus, OH 43229 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### **Lazelle Woods Park** **Address:** 8140 Sancus Blvd, Columbus, OH 43235 **Amenities:** - Recreation center - Playground - Walking trails - Athletic fields - Wooded natural areas This is one of the larger and more amenity‑rich parks in the L‑section. ### **Leawood Park** **Address:** 480 Leawood Ave, Columbus, OH 43228 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### **Linden Park** **Address:** 1254 Briarwood Ave, Columbus, OH 43211 **Amenities:** - Recreation center - Playground - Basketball courts - Athletic fields - Community programming ### **Lindbergh Park** **Address:** 254 Lindbergh Dr, Columbus, OH 43223 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood green space. ### **Linwood Park** **Address:** 3000 E 6th Ave, Columbus, OH 43219 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### **Liv Moor Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Small neighborhood green space, open lawn. ### **Livingston Park** **Address:** 760 E Livingston Ave, Columbus, OH 43205 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, community green space. ### **Llewellyn Park** **Address:** 1500 Llewellyn Ave, Columbus, OH 43227 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### **Ludlow Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space, small play area. ## How Section L fits into the larger system - **Lazelle Woods Park** and **Linden Park** are the major community anchors in this group, each with a recreation center and full amenities. - **Lambton**, **Leawood**, **Linwood**, and **Livingston** are mid‑sized neighborhood parks with playgrounds and courts. - **Lakeside**, **Liv Moor**, and **Ludlow** are small local green spaces with limited published details. ### **Please Note:** Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. In those cases, they’re included by name because they appear on the official parks list. ### City of Columbus Parks Letter K URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/city-of-columbus-parks-letter-k/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:30:12.000Z Here are the City of Columbus, Ohio parks starting with the letter “K” operated by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, along with their addresses (where available) and amenities. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772818744212-coliumbus city parks.webp) ## 🅺 Columbus Parks — Addresses & Amenities ### **Keller Park** **Address:** 2320 Wilson Ave, Columbus, OH 43207 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood green space. ### **Kenlawn Park** **Address:** 2855 Kenlawn St, Columbus, OH 43211 **Amenities:** Playground, shelter, basketball court, open field. ### **Kenney Park** **Address:** 3001 Kenny Rd, Columbus, OH 43221 **Amenities:** - Multi‑use trails - Open fields - Wooded areas - Olentangy Trail access This is one of the larger parks in the K‑section and a key green corridor along the river. ### **Kingsrowe Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### **Kingswood Park** **Address:** 2500 Kingsrowe Ct, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### **Kirkwood Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Small neighborhood green space, open lawn, limited play features. ## How Section K fits into the larger system - **Kenney Park** is the standout here, offering trail access and a large natural corridor along the Olentangy River. - **Keller**, **Kenlawn**, and **Kingswood** are mid‑sized neighborhood parks with playgrounds and courts. - **Kingsrowe** and **Kirkwood** are small local parks with minimal published details. ### **Please Note:** Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. In those cases, they’re included by name because they appear on the official parks list. ### City of Columbus Parks Letter J URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/city-of-columbus-parks-letter-j/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:29:56.000Z Here are the City of Columbus, Ohio parks starting with the letter “J” operated by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, along with their addresses (where available) and amenities. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772818781496-coliumbus city parks.webp) ## 🅹 Columbus Parks — Addresses & Amenities ### **Jeffrey Parkland (Columbus portion)** **Address:** Near 132 N Cleveland Ave, Columbus, OH 43215 (Columbus‑managed parcels around the historic Jeffrey site) **Amenities:** - Wooded natural areas - Open green space - Walking access Note: Much of the historic Jeffrey property is privately redeveloped; Columbus manages surrounding green parcels. ### **Jenkins Park** **Address:** 1700 E 17th Ave, Columbus, OH 43219 **Amenities:** - Playground - Basketball court - Open field - Neighborhood recreation space ### **Jerome Park** **Address:** 1045 Scott St, Columbus, OH 43222 **Amenities:** - Playground - Basketball court - Open green space - Community gathering area ### **Joan Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** - Small neighborhood green space - Open lawn - Limited play features ### **Johnson Park** **Address:** 920 Miller Ave, Columbus, OH 43206 **Amenities:** - Playground - Basketball court - Open field - Neighborhood park amenities ### **Jones Park** **Address:** 2100 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43223 **Amenities:** - Playground - Basketball court - Open field - Community green space ## How Section J fits into the larger system - **Jenkins**, **Jerome**, **Johnson**, and **Jones** are classic Columbus neighborhood parks with playgrounds and courts. - **Jeffrey Parkland** is primarily natural green space surrounding a historic redevelopment area. - **Joan Park** is a small local green space with minimal published details. ### **Please Note:** Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. In those cases, they’re included by name because they appear on the official parks list. ### City of Columbus Parks Letter I URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/city-of-columbus-parks-letter-i/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:29:50.000Z Here are the City of Columbus, Ohio parks starting with the letter “I” operated by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, along with their addresses (where available) and amenities. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772818816296-coliumbus city parks.webp) ## 🅸 Columbus Parks — Addresses & Amenities ### **Indian Mound Park** **Address:** 3901 Indian Mound Dr, Columbus, OH 43214 **Amenities:** - Historic Adena mound site - Wooded natural areas - Walking paths - Open green space This is one of Columbus’s culturally significant archaeological park sites. ### **Innis Park** **Address:** 3000 Innis Rd, Columbus, OH 43224 **Amenities:** - Formal gardens - Nature trails - Prairie and pollinator habitats - Birding areas - Photography areas Innis Park is one of the city’s most notable horticultural and nature‑focused parks. ### **Inniswood Parkland (Columbus portion)** **Address:** Adjacent to 940 S Hempstead Rd, Westerville, OH 43081 (Columbus‑managed parcels) **Amenities:** - Wooded natural areas - Trails - Wildlife habitat Note: The main Inniswood Metro Gardens is operated by Metro Parks; Columbus manages surrounding parcels of parkland. ## How Section I fits into the larger system - **Innis Park** is the standout destination in this group, known for gardens and nature trails. - **Indian Mound Park** preserves an important prehistoric mound and offers quiet wooded space. - **Inniswood Parkland** is primarily natural habitat surrounding the larger Metro Gardens. ### **Please Note:** Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. In those cases, they’re included by name because they appear on the official parks list. ### Hocking Hills State Park: Every Trail Ranked URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/hocking-hills-state-park-every-trail-ranked/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:24:45.000Z > 🗺️ Hocking Hills is the one. If you've hiked anywhere in Ohio — or even just thought about it — this park has crossed your radar. It's the most visited state park in Ohio by a wide margin, pulling in over three million visitors a year. And for good reason. Sandstone gorges, recess caves the size of concert halls, waterfalls dropping into hemlock-shaded pools. It's the kind of scenery you'd expect to find in West Virginia, not an hour south of Columbus. But here's the thing about Hocking Hills: most visitors only see one or two areas. They park at Old Man's Cave, snap some photos, and drive home thinking they've done it. They haven't. Not even close. Hocking Hills State Park and its adjacent preserves contain seven major hiking areas, each with its own personality, its own terrain, and its own reason to exist. You could spend a long weekend here and still not cover everything. So let's break it all down — every trail, ranked from bottom to top by a combination of scenery, trail quality, and overall hiking experience. No entrance fee. No parking fee. Just show up and walk. **Visitor info (as of September 2026, ODNR):** Hocking Hills State Park is about **2,356 acres** (not \~14,000 — that figure mixes park, forest, and nearby preserves). Main address: **19852 State Route 664, Logan, OH 43138**. Park office / visitor center phone: **(740) 385-6842**. Trails and picnic areas: roughly a half hour before sunrise to a half hour after sunset. Confirm alerts on the [ODNR Hocking Hills page](https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/hocking-hills-state-park?ref=hiking-ohio.com) (property URL intermittently 404'd from this runner — re-verify at Ghost push). ## How the rankings work Every trail here is worth hiking. Getting ranked seventh at Hocking Hills is like finishing last in an Olympic final — you're still world-class. The ranking weighs three factors: scenery and wow factor (50%), trail variety and engagement (30%), and crowd-to-payoff ratio (20%). A gorgeous trail that's always packed loses points to an equally gorgeous trail with breathing room. Coordinates for each area are included so you can plug them straight into your GPS. The seven major areas are spread across roughly 15 miles of Hocking County road, so plan for some driving between trailheads. ## #7: Whispering Cave Trail **Distance:** \~0.75–2 mi out-and-back from the Lodge spur, or **4.5 mi** on ODNR's Whispering Cave / Hemlock Bridge Trail (Difficult) | **Elevation:** \~400 ft on longer routes | **Difficulty:** Moderate to Difficult | **Trailhead:** Near Hocking Hills State Park Lodge Whispering Cave is the newest addition to the Hocking Hills trail system, opening for public access in 2017 via the Hemlock Bridge Trail. The cave itself is legitimately impressive — roughly 300 feet wide and 100 feet tall, making it the second-largest recess cave in the region behind Ash Cave. A seasonal waterfall pours over the lip when water is running. The trail descends through hemlock forest and crosses a suspension bridge over a ravine. Coming back out is the hard part — plan for a solid uphill climb on the return. So why is it ranked last? Two reasons. The waterfall is seasonal and often dry by midsummer. And the cave, while big, doesn't have the dramatic framing that Ash Cave or Old Man's Cave delivers. You won't regret hiking it, but if you're picking three or four trails for a day trip, this one gets cut first. **Best for:** Hikers who've already done the classics and want something quieter. ## #6: Cantwell Cliffs **Distance:** about **2 miles** for both Rim and Gorge loops (ODNR; as of September 2026) | **Elevation:** \~223 ft | **Difficulty:** Difficult (ODNR) / Moderate-Hard | **Trailhead:** \~39.54, -82.58 (off SR 374) Cantwell Cliffs is the most remote of the seven areas, sitting about 10 miles north of Old Man's Cave. That distance keeps the crowds thin — sometimes you'll have the gorge to yourself entirely. The 150-foot sandstone cliffs tower over Buck Run, a creek that trickles into a seasonal waterfall. The signature feature here is a narrow rock passage called Fat Woman's Squeeze. You'll wedge yourself through a gap in the cliff face and descend over 150 feet into a deeply shaded hemlock gorge. It's the most physically engaging trail at Hocking Hills. You're climbing, ducking, squeezing, and scrambling in ways that no other trail in the park demands. Two loops are available — the Rim Trail (red blazes) along the clifftops and the Gorge Trail (yellow blazes) through the bottom. Do both. Plan about 60 to 80 minutes for each loop. The reason it sits at six is that the overall scenery, while solid, doesn't quite match the top-tier trails. The waterfall is modest. The gorge is narrow rather than dramatic. But the physical experience is unmatched. If you want to earn your views, Cantwell Cliffs is where you go. **Best for:** Adventurous hikers who want to scramble and squeeze through rock formations. ![Sandstone cave overhang with rock cairns in Hocking Hills State Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774376017925-hocking-hills-section-break-1.png) ## #5: Rock House **Distance:** about **1 mile** (ODNR Rock House listing, as of September 2026; older guides sometimes quote \~0.5 mi to the cave mouth) | **Elevation:** Moderate (stairs) | **Difficulty:** Moderate (ODNR) / Easy-Moderate | **Trailhead:** 39.4558, -82.5169 (off SR 374) Rock House is the only true cave in Hocking Hills. Not a recess cave, not an overhang — an actual enclosed corridor carved 150 feet up a sandstone cliff face. Light pours through natural "windows" in the rock wall, creating an atmosphere that feels more gothic cathedral than Ohio state park. The trail itself is short. A flight of stone steps leads you up the cliff to the cave entrance, and then you walk through the corridor. The whole thing takes maybe 30 minutes. But the cave is genuinely unlike anything else in the park — or in the state. The ceiling arches overhead, columns of rock divide the space, and the windows frame the forest canopy outside in a way that feels almost designed. What holds Rock House back from the top tier is the brevity. It's an incredible 15-minute experience inside the cave, but the trail getting there and back doesn't offer much. You park, you climb stairs, you see the cave, you come back down. There's no gorge walk, no waterfall, no extended hike to complement the main attraction. Pair Rock House with Cedar Falls or Old Man's Cave on the same day. It's on the way and adds a completely different texture to your trip. **Best for:** Anyone who wants to see something genuinely unique. Kids especially love it. ## #4: Cedar Falls **Distance:** about **1 mile** (ODNR, as of September 2026) | **Elevation:** \~177 ft | **Difficulty:** Moderate | **Trailhead:** 39.4308, -82.5303 (off SR 374) Cedar Falls is the largest waterfall by volume in all of Hocking County. Water drops about 50 feet over a wide sandstone ledge into a pool below, and in spring or after heavy rain, it thunders. The name is a historical mistake — early settlers confused the hemlock trees surrounding the falls with cedars. The hemlocks are still there, towering over the gorge and blocking most of the sunlight from reaching the trail below. The hike down is a steady descent on well-maintained stairs and packed gravel. You'll cross a bridge at the bottom and come face-to-face with the falls. The rock amphitheater behind the waterfall creates natural acoustics — you can hear the water echo off the sandstone from a surprising distance. Cedar Falls ranks fourth because it delivers the best single waterfall moment in the park. The falls are more consistently flowing than Whispering Cave's seasonal cascade, and the hemlock-shaded gorge setting makes the whole area feel cool even on an August afternoon. The trail itself is straightforward — down and back up — but the payoff at the bottom is first-rate. Cedar Falls also sits along the Grandma Gatewood Trail, which connects it to both Old Man's Cave and Ash Cave. If you're hiking the full 6-mile connector, Cedar Falls is your midpoint reward. **Best for:** Waterfall chasers. Best visited in spring or after rain for peak flow. ## #3: Ash Cave **Distance:** Ash Cave Gorge about **1/4 mile** (ODNR; Rim also \~1/4 mile) | **Elevation:** Minimal (wheelchair accessible on the gorge path to near the cave) | **Difficulty:** Easy (Gorge) | **Trailhead:** 39.3983, -82.5417 (off SR 56) Ash Cave is the single most dramatic natural feature in Ohio. The numbers alone tell you why: 700 feet from end to end, 100 feet deep, with a horseshoe-shaped waterfall dropping 90 feet over the lip. It's the largest recess cave in the state, and walking into it feels like entering some ancient amphitheater carved by a patient giant. The trail to get there is a flat, paved, roughly quarter-mile walk through a gorge (ODNR Ash Cave Gorge listing). It's wheelchair accessible nearly to the cave itself, making it one of the few truly accessible natural wonders in Ohio's park system. There's a final set of stairs at the end to reach the cave floor, but even from the accessible overlook, the scale is staggering. The cave gets its name from the massive ash deposits found inside — evidence of centuries of use by Native Americans, who used the cave as a shelter. The ash pile was reportedly several feet deep when early European settlers first explored the area. What keeps Ash Cave from the top spot is the trail itself. It's a paved path to a destination. There's no climbing, no gorge scrambling, no sense of earning the view. You walk, you arrive, and your jaw drops. For pure scenery, Ash Cave is a 10 out of 10\. For overall hiking engagement, it's closer to a 6\. That combination still puts it third, because the cave is just that good. **Best for:** First-time visitors, families with small children, anyone with mobility concerns. The single best introduction to Hocking Hills. > 🥾 ## #2: Conkle's Hollow (Rim Trail) **Distance:** Rim loop about **2.5–2.6 mi**; Gorge about **0.7–1 mi** out-and-back (ODNR notes two trails totaling \~3.5 mi) | **Elevation:** \~427 ft (Rim) | **Difficulty:** Moderate-Hard / strenuous (Rim), Easy (Gorge) | **Trailhead:** 39.4472, -82.5672 (off SR 374 / Big Pine Rd) Conkle's Hollow is a State Nature Preserve adjacent to Hocking Hills State Park, and it contains the deepest gorge in Ohio. The vertical sandstone walls rise 200 feet straight up from the narrow canyon floor. Two trails give you two completely different perspectives. The Gorge Trail is a flat, easy, three-quarter-mile walk along the canyon bottom. Ferns and moss coat the lower walls, and so little sunlight reaches the floor that the temperature drops noticeably as you walk deeper. It's beautiful, quiet, and accessible. But the Rim Trail is where Conkle's Hollow becomes something special. The 2.6-mile loop follows both edges of the gorge, with cliff-edge viewpoints that drop 200 feet straight down. No guardrails in most spots. Just you, the trail, and a long way down. The path is uneven, rooty, and requires steady footing — especially on the sections where the trail runs within a few feet of the edge. The views from the rim are the best in Hocking Hills, and it's not particularly close. You're looking straight down into a slot gorge with sheer sandstone walls, old-growth hemlock clinging to ledges, and nothing but forest canopy stretching to the horizon. In fall, the golden canopy against grey-white sandstone cliffs gives you a photo that looks fabricated — like someone cranked the saturation in post. Two important notes: dogs are not allowed (it's a Nature Preserve, not a state park trail), and the rim trail is not suitable for young children or anyone uncomfortable with exposed heights. Take it seriously. Conkle's Hollow sits at number two because the rim trail delivers the most exhilarating hiking experience in the entire Hocking Hills region. The only thing keeping it from the top spot is that it's a single gorge — spectacular, but a single visual theme. **Best for:** Experienced hikers looking for the best views in the park. The rim trail is a must-do. ## #1: Old Man's Cave **Distance:** about **1 mile** for the main Old Man's Cave area (ODNR); longer options via Grandma Gatewood (\~6 mi through the park) | **Elevation:** \~200 ft | **Difficulty:** Moderate | **Trailhead:** 39.4342, -82.5383 (off SR 664) Old Man's Cave takes the top spot because it delivers the complete Hocking Hills experience in a single trail. Upper Falls, Lower Falls, the Devil's Bathtub, the cave overhang, stone bridges, hemlock gorge — every signature element of the park appears here in a mile-and-a-half loop. No other trail in the region packs that density of landmarks into such a compact distance. The trail starts at the kiosk near Upper Falls, where the water spills over a wide sandstone ledge into a pool below. From there, you descend into the gorge past the cave — named for Richard Rowe, a hermit who lived in the recess cave in the 1800s and whose remains were found there after his death. The Devil's Bathtub is a swirling pool carved into the rock by centuries of water erosion, and Lower Falls is a multi-tiered cascade that might be the single most photographed spot in the entire Ohio state park system. The trail is well-maintained with stone stairs, bridges, and marked paths. It's moderate in difficulty — the stairs can be steep and slippery when wet, but there's nothing technical here. Plan about 60 to 90 minutes for the main loop. The one honest downside: crowds. Old Man's Cave is by far the busiest area in the park. Weekend mornings in spring and fall can feel like a highway. Arrive before 9 AM or visit on a weekday if you want breathing room. Even with the crowds, Old Man's Cave earns the top ranking. The variety is unbeatable, the landmarks are iconic, and the trail quality is the best in the park. If you only have time for one hike at Hocking Hills, this is it. **Best for:** Everyone. The essential Hocking Hills experience. ## 340 million years of sandstone Every gorge, cave, and waterfall in Hocking Hills exists because of Blackhand sandstone. This rock formed roughly 340 million years ago during the Mississippian Period, when southeastern Ohio sat beneath a vast inland sea. Sand and silt accumulated on the sea floor, compacted under immense pressure, and eventually hardened into sandstone with a high quartz content. The name comes from a black hand-print petroglyph left by Native Americans on a sandstone cliff face near what is now Newark, Ohio — about 60 miles northeast of here. The petroglyph was destroyed during road construction in the 1800s, but the name stuck. What makes this sandstone so scenic is also what makes it so fragile. The Blackhand formation has three distinct layers. The top and bottom layers are hard and weather-resistant. The middle layer is softer and more porous — and that's where water does its work. Over thousands of years, seeping water dissolved minerals in the middle layer, carving out the recess caves and overhangs that define the park. About 10,000 years ago, glaciers pushed just north of the Hocking Hills region. Their meltwater poured south through the valleys, cutting the gorges deeper and wider. The result is a landscape that looks like it belongs in Appalachia, not 50 miles from Columbus. ## Tips and seasonal notes **Spring (March–May):** The best season. Waterfalls run at full volume, wildflowers carpet the gorge floors, and the hemlock canopy hasn't fully leafed out yet, giving you more light. Trails can be muddy and the stone stairs slippery — wear boots with grip. **Summer (June–August):** The gorges stay noticeably cooler than surrounding areas thanks to hemlock shade and sandstone walls. Waterfalls slow or stop entirely by late July in dry years. Crowds peak in June and July. **Fall (September–November):** The second-best season. Fall color against grey sandstone is photogenic beyond belief, especially from the Conkle's Hollow rim. October weekends are packed — arrive early. **Winter (December–February):** Frozen waterfalls and ice formations make winter the most dramatic season for photography. Trails can be icy and dangerous. Traction devices recommended. Parking lots may not be plowed after snowfall. **Hours (as of September 2026):** Trails/picnic areas roughly a half hour before sunrise to a half hour after sunset per ODNR. **Parking:** Each of the seven areas has its own parking lot. Old Man's Cave fills up fast on weekends — the upper lot near the visitor center is larger. Cedar Falls has three lots. Cantwell Cliffs rarely fills. **Dogs:** Welcome on all state park trails (Old Man's Cave, Cedar Falls, Ash Cave, Rock House, Cantwell Cliffs, Whispering Cave) with a 6-foot leash. Not allowed at Conkle's Hollow or any state nature preserve. **Time to plan:** A focused day trip covers the Big Four — Old Man's Cave, Cedar Falls, Ash Cave, and Rock House — in about six to eight hours including drive time between trailheads. A full weekend adds Cantwell Cliffs, Conkle's Hollow, and Whispering Cave. ## Nearby trails worth exploring Hocking Hills isn't the only hiking in Hocking County. These trails make excellent additions to a weekend trip: - [**Whispering Cave**](https://hiking-ohio.com/whispering-cave/) — Our full trail guide to the newest Hocking Hills hiking area, with maps and detailed directions from the Lodge trailhead. - [**Ash Cave Fire Tower**](https://hiking-ohio.com/ash-cave-fire-tower/) — A short detour near Ash Cave leads to a historic fire lookout tower. Learn how fire towers worked and who staffed them. - [**Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve**](https://hiking-ohio.com/boch-hollow-state-nature-preserve/) — 607 acres of forested hills and ponds just minutes from Hocking Hills, with a fraction of the crowds. - [**Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve**](https://hiking-ohio.com/rhododendron-cove-state-nature-preserve/) — Scenic wildflowers and wildlife in a quiet Hocking County preserve. A perfect complement to the busier state park trails. - [**Nelson-Kennedy Ledges vs. Hocking Hills vs. Little Rocky Hollow**](https://hiking-ohio.com/nelson-kennedy-ledges-vs-hocking-hills-vs-little-rocky-hollow/) — Can't decide between Ohio's best gorge hikes? Our head-to-head comparison breaks it down. ### \*\*Conclusion: \*\* It is amazing to have these wonderful locations in Hocking County. We have visited every season. Each location is great to see every season. **So get out there!** ![Hocking Hills sandstone and trail scenery](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774708875286-IMG_5629.JPG) ![Hocking Hills gorge and rock formations](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774708878704-IMG_5630.JPG) ![Hocking Hills winter or cave detail](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774708878916-IMG_5655.JPG) ![Hocking Hills trail in winter](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774708937496-20210215_104236.jpg) ![Hocking Hills ice and rock detail](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774708939393-20210215_105345.jpg) ![Hocking Hills winter waterfall or ice](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774708952797-20210215_105348.jpg) ![Hocking Hills waterfall and gorge](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774709044388-IMG_4897.JPG) ![Hocking Hills hemlock gorge view](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774709047289-IMG_4903.JPG) ![Hocking Hills sandstone overhang](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774709049728-IMG_4913.JPG) ![Hocking Hills trail overlook](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774709252898-IMG_1784.webp) ![Hocking Hills forest canopy](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774709254000-IMG_1813.webp) ## Explore Nearby Trails More Ohio trail guides worth a visit: - [Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve](https://hiking-ohio.com/rhododendron-cove-state-nature-preserve/) - [Little Rocky Hollow](https://hiking-ohio.com/little-rocky-hollow-state-nature-preserve/) - [Cedar Falls (Hocking Hills)](https://hiking-ohio.com/cedar-falls/) - [Ash Cave Fire Tower](https://hiking-ohio.com/ash-cave-fire-tower/) - [Whispering Cave](https://hiking-ohio.com/whispering-cave/) - [Conkle's Hollow](https://hiking-ohio.com/conkles-hollow-state-nature-preserve/) ### City of Columbus Parks Letter H URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/city-of-columbus-parks-letter-h/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:29:44.000Z Here are the City of Columbus, Ohio parks starting with the letter “H” operated by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, along with their addresses (where available) and amenities. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772818861002-coliumbus city parks.webp) ### **Hamilton Park** **Address:** 5120 Godown Rd, Columbus, OH 43235 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, wooded areas, neighborhood green space. ### **Harding Park** **Address:** 3471 Sullivant Ave, Columbus, OH 43204 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, shelter. ### **Harrison Park** **Address:** 575 W 1st Ave, Columbus, OH 43201 **Amenities:** - Playground - Walking paths - River overlook - Public art Located in the Harrison West neighborhood along the Olentangy River. ### **Hauntz Park** **Address:** 480 Norton Rd, Columbus, OH 43228 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### **Hayden Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space, small play area. ### **Heathrow Park** **Address:** 5125 Heathrow Dr, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, walking paths. ### **Hiawatha Park** **Address:** 2431 Hiawatha St, Columbus, OH 43211 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### **Highland Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space, small play area. ### **Hilltonia Park** **Address:** 2349 W Mound St, Columbus, OH 43204 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball courts, open field, shelter. ### **Hoffman Park** **Address:** 5865 Hoffman Rd, Columbus, OH 43228 **Amenities:** Playground, open field, wooded areas. ### **Holton Park** **Address:** 303 N Champion Ave, Columbus, OH 43203 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### **Hoover Reservoir Park (Columbus portions)** **Address:** Multiple access points along Sunbury Rd and Central College Rd **Amenities:** - Boating access - Fishing - Trails - Scenic overlooks - Wooded natural areas Note: Hoover Reservoir spans multiple jurisdictions; Columbus manages several parcels. ### **Howard Park** **Address:** 2505 Hamilton Ave, Columbus, OH 43211 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### **Hubbard Park** **Address:** 104 W Hubbard Ave, Columbus, OH 43215 **Amenities:** Small urban green space, benches, shade trees; located in the Short North. ### **Huntington Parkland** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Natural area, passive recreation, wooded green space. ## How Section H fits into the larger system - **Harrison Park** and **Hoover Reservoir Park** are the most significant parks in this group, offering river or reservoir access and scenic amenities. - **Hilltonia**, **Harding**, and **Hoffman** are mid‑sized neighborhood parks with playgrounds and courts. - The remaining parks are **local neighborhood greenspaces** with limited published details. ### **Please Note:** Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. In those cases, they’re included by name because they appear on the official parks list. ### City of Columbus Parks Letter G URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/city-of-columbus-parks-letter-g/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:29:32.000Z Here are the City of Columbus, Ohio parks starting with the letter “G” operated by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, along with their addresses (where available) and amenities. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772819246493-coliumbus city parks.webp) ### **Galloway Road Parkland** **Address:** Not individually published (west Columbus corridor) **Amenities:** Natural green space, wooded areas, passive recreation, walking access. ### **Gantz Parkland (Columbus portion)** **Address:** Near 2255 Home Rd, Grove City, OH 43123 (Columbus‑managed parcels) **Amenities:** Trails, natural areas, open fields; part of a larger regional greenway. ### **Glen Echo Park** **Address:** 510 Cliffside Dr, Columbus, OH 43202 **Amenities:** - Ravine trail - Wooded natural area - Creek access - Scenic overlook areas This is one of Columbus’s historic ravine parks. ### **Glenview Park** **Address:** 1881 Glenview Blvd, Columbus, OH 43219 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood green space. ### **Goodale Park** **Address:** 120 W Goodale St, Columbus, OH 43215 **Amenities:** - Large pond - Walking paths - Playground - Tennis courts - Gazebo - Gardens and historic monuments Goodale is one of the oldest parks in the United States and a major Short North landmark. ### **Granville Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### **Griggs Reservoir Park** **Address:** 2933 Riverside Dr, Columbus, OH 43221 **Amenities:** - Boating access - Fishing - Trails - Picnic areas - Scenic river overlooks - Shelters This is one of Columbus’s largest and most visited riverfront parks. ### **Griggs South Park** **Address:** Along Riverside Dr south of the main reservoir area **Amenities:** Trails, river access, picnic areas, wooded natural spaces. ### **Groveport Parkland (Columbus portion)** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Natural area, open fields, passive recreation; part of a multi‑jurisdiction greenway. ## What stands out in Section G - **Goodale Park** and **Griggs Reservoir Park** are the major destination parks with extensive amenities and historical significance. - **Glen Echo Park** is a unique ravine park with natural trails and creek access. - **Galloway Road**, **Gantz Parkland**, and **Groveport Parkland** are primarily natural or undeveloped green spaces. - **Glenview** and **Granville** are neighborhood parks with standard playground‑and‑field amenities. ### **Please Note:** Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. In those cases, they’re included by name because they appear on the official parks list. ### City of Columbus Parks Letter F URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/city-of-columbus-parks-letter-f/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:29:23.000Z Here are the City of Columbus, Ohio parks starting with the letter “F” operated by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, along with their addresses (where available) and amenities. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772819207313-coliumbus city parks.webp) ## 🅵 Columbus Parks — Addresses & Amenities ### **Fairwood Park** **Address:** 1392 Fairwood Ave, Columbus, OH 43206 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood green space. ### **Feddersen Park** **Address:** 3911 Dresden St, Columbus, OH 43224 **Amenities:** Playground, shelter, basketball courts, open field, walking paths. ### **Fisher Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space, small play area, open lawn. ### **Flint Park** **Address:** 4900 Flint Rd, Columbus, OH 43229 **Amenities:** Playground, shelter, tennis courts, open field, wooded areas. ### **Forest Park** **Address:** 4900 Antelope Dr, Columbus, OH 43229 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball courts, tennis courts, open fields, walking paths. ### **Freedom Park** **Address:** 2830 S James Rd, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, shelter, basketball court, open green space. ### **Friendship Park** **Address:** 1775 Avalon Ave, Columbus, OH 43224 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood recreation. ## What stands out in Section F - **Forest Park** and **Flint Park** are the largest and most amenity‑rich parks in this group, each offering multiple courts and open fields. - **Fairwood**, **Feddersen**, and **Freedom** are mid‑sized neighborhood parks with playgrounds and courts. - **Fisher Park** is a small local green space with limited published details. ### **Please Note:** Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. In those cases, they’re included by name because they appear on the official parks list. ### City of Columbus Parks Letter E URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/city-of-columbus-parks-letter-e/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:29:17.000Z Here are the City of Columbus, Ohio parks starting with the letter “E” operated by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, along with their addresses (where available) and amenities. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772819175816-coliumbus city parks.webp) ## 🅴 Columbus Parks — Addresses & Amenities ### **East Columbus Park** **Address:** 3650 Allegheny Ave, Columbus, OH 43219 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood green space. ### **East Linden Park** **Address:** 1935 Briarwood Ave, Columbus, OH 43211 **Amenities:** Playground, shelter, basketball courts, open field. ### **Easthaven Park** **Address:** 4111 Noe Bixby Rd, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, open green space, walking paths. ### **Edgewood Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space, small play area, open field. ### **Eldon Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### **Elk Run Park** **Address:** 6600 Schott Rd, Columbus, OH 43068 (Reynoldsburg area; Columbus‑managed land) **Amenities:** Trails, wooded areas, creek access, natural habitat. ### **Elk Run Parkland** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Natural area, passive recreation, wildlife habitat. ### **Elliott Park** **Address:** 5460 Olentangy River Rd, Columbus, OH 43235 **Amenities:** Trails, wooded areas, river access, natural green space. ### **Emerson Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### **English Park** **Address:** 2840 English Rd, Columbus, OH 43207 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### **Eureka Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space, small play area. ## What stands out in Section E - **East Columbus**, **East Linden**, and **Easthaven** are the larger neighborhood parks with full amenities. - **Elk Run** and **Elliott Park** are primarily **natural areas** with trails and wooded landscapes. - The remaining parks are **small neighborhood greenspaces** with limited published details. ### **Please Note:** Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. In those cases, they’re included by name because they appear on the official parks list. ### City of Columbus Parks Letter D URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/city-of-columbus-parks-letter-d/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:29:10.000Z Here are the City of Columbus, Ohio parks starting with the letter “D” operated by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, along with their addresses (where available) and amenities. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772819143095-coliumbus city parks.webp) ## 🅳 Columbus Parks — Addresses & Amenities ### **Deshler Park** **Address:** 1041 Deshler Ave, Columbus, OH 43206 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood green space. ### **Devonshire Park** **Address:** 3146 Noe Bixby Rd, Columbus, OH 43232 **Amenities:** Playground, shelter, open field, walking paths, wooded areas. ### **Dodge Park** **Address:** 667 Sullivant Ave, Columbus, OH 43215 **Amenities:** - Recreation center - Indoor gym - Playground - Basketball courts - Community programs ### **Driving Park** **Address:** 1100 Rhoads Ave, Columbus, OH 43206 **Amenities:** - Recreation center - Playground - Basketball courts - Athletic fields - Community programming ### **Duranceau Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space, open field, small play area. ### **Duxberry Park** **Address:** 1218 Atcheson St, Columbus, OH 43203 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field, neighborhood recreation. ## Additional context for Section D - **Dodge Park** and **Driving Park** are the major community anchors in this section, each with a recreation center and full amenities. - **Deshler**, **Devonshire**, and **Duxberry** are mid‑sized neighborhood parks with playgrounds and courts. - **Duranceau Park** is a small local green space with limited published details. ### **Please Note:** Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. In those cases, they’re included by name because they appear on the official parks list. ### City of Columbus Parks Letter C URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/city-of-columbus-parks-letter-c/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:29:04.000Z Here are the City of Columbus, Ohio parks starting with the letter “C” operated by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, along with their addresses (where available) and amenities. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772819279399-coliumbus city parks.webp) ## Clintonville–Northside and Westside Parks (C‑section overview) The parks in this section range from major community parks like **Clinton-Como** to small neighborhood greenspaces. Amenities vary widely, so each entry includes the most complete information available. ## 🅲 Columbus Parks — Addresses & Amenities ### **Canini Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space, small play area, open lawn. ### **Carriage Place Park** **Address:** 4900 Sawmill Rd, Columbus, OH 43235 (adjacent to Carriage Place Community Center) **Amenities:** Playground, basketball courts, open field, walking paths, community center access. ### **Cassady Park** **Address:** 2740 Cassady Ave, Columbus, OH 43219 **Amenities:** Playground, shelter, basketball court, open green space. ### **Casto Park** **Address:** 5550 Westerville Rd, Columbus, OH 43081 **Amenities:** Playground, athletic fields, shelter, open field. ### **Cedar Run Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Natural area, wooded sections, walking access. ### **Chaseland Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood park features. ### **Cherry Bottom Park (South)** **Address:** Near Cherry Bottom Rd & Morse Rd (no formal postal address) **Amenities:** Trails, wooded areas, natural green space. ### **City Gate Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Open green space, small neighborhood recreation area. ### **Clinton-Como Park** **Address:** 301 W Pacemont Rd, Columbus, OH 43202 **Amenities:** - Playground - Baseball/softball fields - Basketball courts - Open green space - Olentangy Trail access - Shelterhouse ### **Clintonville Park** **Address:** 330 W California Ave, Columbus, OH 43202 **Amenities:** Playground, shelter, open field, neighborhood recreation. ### **Clime Road Park** **Address:** 4720 Clime Rd, Columbus, OH 43228 **Amenities:** Athletic fields, playground, shelter, open green space. ### **Clover Groff Park** **Address:** 4990 Hayden Run Rd, Columbus, OH 43026 **Amenities:** Trails, natural areas, river access, open fields. ### **Coble Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space, small play area. ### **Cooke Park** **Address:** 2735 Ferris Rd, Columbus, OH 43224 **Amenities:** Playground, basketball court, open field. ### **Cranbrook Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Playground, open green space, neighborhood park. ### **Creekside Woods Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Wooded natural area, walking paths, wildlife habitat. ### **Cumberland Ridge Park** **Address:** Not individually published **Amenities:** Playground, open field, neighborhood recreation. ## What to expect in later sections As the alphabet progresses, the mix of parks shifts between: - **Major destination parks** (e.g., Goodale, Schiller, Whetstone) - **Sports complexes** (e.g., Berliner) - **Nature preserves** - **Small neighborhood parks** with limited published details ### **Please Note:** Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. In those cases, they’re included by name because they appear on the official parks list. ### The Golden Lamb Restaurant & Hotel URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/the-golden-lamb-restaurant-hotel/ Last updated: 2026-08-06T13:38:16.000Z The Golden Lamb dates back to 1803, when Jonas Seaman paid $4 for a license to operate a “house of public entertainment” — basically a tavern and inn — in the newly founded village of Lebanon. Today, it holds the title of the oldest continuously operating business in Ohio. It’s been hailed as Ohio’s “most famous restaurant” and one of the state’s most iconic and classic eateries by national media outlets and food publications. The Golden Lamb also ranks among “10 of the most historic restaurants” in the U.S., celebrated for its deep roots and continuous operation since the early days of the Republic. Thanks to its location between Cincinnati and the historic National Road (U.S. 40), it was a popular stagecoach stop in the 19th century — and later a favored campaign stop for politicians. A simple painted sign of a golden lamb hung outside, allowing early travelers who couldn’t read to recognize it — and that sign eventually became the business’s name. The current four-story brick building incorporates a substantial 1815 rebuild and reflects Federal-era design. It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Federal-era design captures early American elegance with influences from ancient Greece and Rome, but with a simpler, more polished approach than earlier colonial designs. It’s all about symmetry, balance, and understated luxury, featuring perfectly symmetrical buildings, brick or wood exteriors, fanlights above doors, and slim columns with decorative trim. Interiors are light and airy, with smooth plaster walls, elegant fireplaces, and tasteful moldings that avoid heaviness. Soft, refined colors complete the look. --- ## **Location:** ### The Golden Lamb **Address:** 27 S. Broadway St., Lebanon, OH 45036 **Phone:** (513) 932-5065 ### Hours Monday–Saturday: 11:00/11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM The Golden Lamb functions as both a restaurant and a boutique hotel, with 17 guest rooms and several dining spaces including The Black Horse Tavern and multiple private dining rooms. We are open year-round with historic overnight accommodations. All have antique furnishings, private bath, television, air conditioning, telephone and are named after a famous guest of the Inn. They are located on the second, third and fourth floors of the building with **no elevator**. All rooms are non-smoking. Its menus now blend classic comfort food with seasonal and locally sourced ingredients — including produce from its own farm. The inn has a museum space on the fourth floor displaying artifacts and history of its innkeepers and local culture. --- ### Famous People and the Golden Lamb Over its more than two centuries, the Golden Lamb has hosted a remarkable list of figures, including: **The Golden Lamb has hosted these presidents:** 1. John Quincy Adams 2. Martin Van Buren 3. William Henry Harrison 4. Benjamin Harrison 5. Ulysses S. Grant 6. Rutherford B. Hayes 7. James A. Garfield 8. William McKinley 9. Warren G. Harding 10. William Howard Taft 11. Ronald Reagan 12. George W. Bush **Writers:** 1. Charles Dickens 2. Harriet Beecher Stowe 3. Mark Twain 4. Alex Haley 5. James Whitcomb Riley ![A framed biography plaque for Charles Dickens with his portrait and bio text at the Golden Lamb](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774473818709-55.webp) ![A framed biography plaque for President William Henry Harrison with his portrait](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774473811396-99.webp) ![A framed biography plaque for President Benjamin Harrison with his portrait](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774473811496-222 - Copy.webp) ![A framed biography plaque for President Benjamin Harrison with his portrait](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774473816196-222.webp) ![A framed biography plaque for President Ulysses S. Grant with his portrait](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774473814494-333 - Copy.webp) ![A framed biography plaque for President Ulysses S. Grant with his portrait](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774473811492-333.webp) ![A framed biography plaque for President George W. Bush with his photo and an American flag](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774473811295-444.webp) ![A framed biography plaque for President Warren G. Harding with his portrait](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774473817991-666.webp) ![A framed biography plaque for statesman Henry Clay with his portrait](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774473818292-IMG_20251111_135815800.webp) **Other Famous Visitors** 1. Neil Armstrong 2. Barbara Bush 3. Mitt Romney 4. Charles Laughton 5. Kesha 6. And many more --- **Rooms (including historic overnight rooms)** - Total rooms: 17 guest rooms - These are historic-style rooms, many: - Named after famous guests (including presidents) - Furnished with antiques - Located on upper floors (no elevator) - Some additional spaces in the building are preserved as museum-style historic rooms, not all used for overnight stays. ![An antique wooden hutch filled with collectible figurines at the Golden Lamb](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774473890894-22.webp) ![A dining room with a set table and framed portraits on the wall](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774473891229-44.webp) ![A hotel guest room with a four-poster bed and curtained windows](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774473885394-66.webp) ![A dining room set with white tablecloths and framed art on the walls](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774473878192-77.webp) ![A dining room decorated with holiday wreaths and exposed wood ceiling beams](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774473878495-88.webp) ![A hotel room with a four-poster bed draped in red canopy curtains](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774473878194-555.webp) ![Display shelves filled with a collection of small porcelain figurines](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774473873995-777.webp) ![A dining room decorated with floral arrangements around a fireplace mantel mirror](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774473885487-999.webp) ![A view from a balcony overlooking a street lined with historic brick buildings](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1774473889589-9999.webp) ### President Rooms you can stay in - Ulysses S. Grant Room - William Howard Taft Room - Ronald Reagan Room - George W. Bush Room - Rutherford B. Hayes Room - Warren G. Harding Room --- **Literary & Famous Guest Rooms** - Charles Dickens Room - Mark Twain (Samuel Clemens) Room - Harriet Beecher Stowe Room - Clement L. Vallandingham Room - Charles R. Sherman Room ### **Ghost Stories** With more than 220 years of history, it’s no surprise the Golden Lamb has accumulated its share of ghost stories and folklore. Staff will sometimes share stories if you ask Here are the most well-known legends: 1. Sarah’s Room (Room 16) The inn’s most famous “haunted” room is linked to Sarah Stubbs, a child who once lived there. Guests have reported hearing footsteps, seeing objects move, and sensing the presence of a child. It’s easily the most well-known ghost story at the inn. 1. Harriet Beecher Stowe Room Frequently noted for its paranormal activity, with some guests claiming to experience strange sensations or unexplained disturbances. 1. Clement L. Vallandingham Room One of the darkest tales tells of a man who accidentally shot himself in this very room, which is still said to be one of the most haunted spots. 1. Charles R. Sherman Room An Ohio Supreme Court justice who passed away suddenly at an inn is said by some to still have his spirit lingering there. **The Rocking Chair That Moves** Staff and guests have shared stories of a rocking chair in one of the historic rooms that seems to move on its own. Legend has it the chair rocks when no one’s around, objects sometimes shift slightly, and lights occasionally flicker for no clear reason. While there’s no solid proof, the tales continue to circulate among employees and overnight visitors. Guests sometimes mention feeling watched or hearing breathing and footsteps, while others notice nothing at all—it’s a mixed bag. Even the historian says most people report sensing “a presence” rather than seeing full apparitions. Plenty of guests experience nothing at all. The building is very old (creaks, pipes, uneven floors) so it makes sounds. There are enough consistent stories exist that staff won’t dismiss it either. --- ### **Hiking** The Golden Lamb does not have specific hiking trails. Although it has plenty of steps to get to the upper floors. However, you can visit nearby Caesar Creek State Park and or Fort Ancient Earthworks and Nature Preserve. I have completed a blog for each. So, there are many options for hiking in the area. --- ### **Conclusion** I always wanted to visit the Golden Lamb and thankfully I was able to go there in December, 2025\. The restaurant's food was really good. It was fund to explore the building. If you get a chance to go there, I highly recommend that you do. ## ### City of Columbus Parks Letter B URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/city-of-columbus-parks-letter-b/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:28:55.000Z Here are the City of Columbus, Ohio parks starting with the letter “B” operated by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, along with their addresses (where available) and amenities. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772819316315-coliumbus city parks.webp) --- ## **B Parks in Columbus, Ohio** ### **1\. Beatty Park** **Address:** 247 N Ohio Ave, Columbus, OH 43203 **Amenities:** - Basketball courts - Tennis courts - Pickleball overlays - Playground - Community garden - Parking lot - Beatty Community Center (park facility) --- ### **2\. Bicentennial Park** **Address:** 233 Civic Center Dr, Columbus, OH 43215 **Amenities:** - Interactive fountain (Scioto Mile Fountain) - Performance pavilion/stage - Restaurant and terrace with downtown skyline views - Plaza spaces and walkable green areas along the Scioto Mile riverfront --- ### **3\. Beechcroft Park** **Address:** *(Address not individually published on official site)* **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space and passive recreation; part of the Columbus parks list. --- ### **4\. Beechwold Park** **Address:** *(Address not individually published)* **Amenities:** Neighborhood park features and community green space. --- ### **5\. Berliner Sports Park** **Address:** *(Exact address not published)* **Amenities:** Athletic fields and courts typical of a sports park. --- ### **6\. Berwick Park** **Address:** *(Address not listed separately)* **Amenities:** Local parkland with recreation space. --- ### **7\. Big Run Park** **Address:** *(Address not separately published)* **Amenities:** Green space and natural area for neighborhood use. --- ### **8\. Big Walnut Park** **Address:** *(Exact published address not available)* **Amenities:** Neighborhood green space and walking areas. --- ### **9\. Blackburn Park** *(commonly listed under B parks)* **Address:** *(Park address details vary; main access on Carpenter St)* **Amenities:** Playground, basketball and tennis courts, sprayground (seasonal), indoor recreation center, picnic space and green space for community events (description based on broader local resources). --- ### **10\. Brandywine Park** **Address:** *(No principal address published separately on official parks site)* **Amenities:** Neighborhood park with green space and passive recreation. --- ### **11\. Brentnell Park** **Address:** *(Exact address not separately listed)* **Amenities:** Local community parkland and green space. --- ### **12\. Brevoort Park** **Address:** *(Address not individually listed)* **Amenities:** Neighborhood open space. --- ### **Other B-Name Parks (natural/open parkland)** These are included in the city’s parks list but detailed addresses and amenity information are *not fully published individually on the Recreation and Parks site*: - **Brookside Woods Park** – woods and green space. - **Battelle Riverfront Park** – downtown riverfront space with memorials and sculptures (Scioto Mile). --- ## **Notes** - Some parks (especially smaller neighborhood parks) do not have dedicated web pages with full addresses and amenity lists but are included in the official park listing. - **Riverfront parks** such as Bicentennial and Battelle Riverfront are part of the broader Scioto Mile downtown park system but are city-owned parks. ### **Please Note:** Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. In those cases, they’re included by name because they appear on the official parks list. ### City of Columbus Parks Letter A URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/city-of-columbus-parks-letter-a/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:28:48.000Z Here are the City of Columbus, Ohio parks starting with the letter “A” operated by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, along with their addresses (where available) and amenities. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772819359493-coliumbus city parks.webp) --- ### **1\. Academy Park** **Address:** 276 S Nelson Rd, Columbus, OH 43205 (17.044 acres) **Amenities:** - Athletic Facilities (ball diamonds, basketball courts) - Greenway Trail access & trailhead - Water frontage & parking lot - Picnic space and nature areas --- ### **2\. Albany Crossing Park** **Address:** Listed as a city park by Columbus Recreation and Parks (exact address not listed) **Amenities:** Typical parkland features (green space, trails/play areas) — specific amenities not detailed on the official parks list. --- ### **3\. Albany Wetlands** **Address:** Parkland noted by the Columbus Parks list (exact address not published) **Amenities:** Likely natural wetland habitat areas — official specific amenities not listed. --- ### **4\. Alexander Park** **Address:** 215 W Long St, Columbus, OH 43215 (2.779 acres) **Amenities:** - Greenway Trail access & paved paths - Water frontage & wildlife area - Natural wooded area --- ### **5\. Alkire Lakes Park** **Address:** 2020 Winding Hollow Dr, Grove City, OH 43123 (5.826 acres) **Amenities:** - Pond/lake - Parking lot - Pollinator habitat & natural areas --- ### **6\. Alkire Woods Park** **Address:** Listed by the parks list (exact address not published) **Amenities:** Likely woodland/natural habitat area — specific info not detailed online. --- ### **7\. Alton Parkland** **Address:** Listed as parkland by Columbus Parks (exact address not available) **Amenities:** Green space — specific developed features not listed. --- ### **8\. Alton Road Parkland** **Address:** Listed in parks list (no published address) **Amenities:** Open parkland/open space area. --- ### **9–16\. Alum Creek-related Parklands** These parks are mostly open natural or habitat areas along the Alum Creek corridor: - Alum Creek / Hanford Parkland - Alum Creek / Koch Parkland - Alum Creek / Livingston Parkland - Alum Creek / Miller Parkland - Alum Creek Drive Parkland - Alum Creek North Tributary Parkland - Alum Creek Parkland - Alum Crest Park **Address/Amenities:** These are predominantly natural/open parklands without robust facility lists posted individually; many provide access to trails, habitat areas, and passive recreation. --- ### **17\. Amberfield Parkland** **Address:** Listed in parks list (exact address not shown) **Amenities:** Natural/open space. --- ### **18\. Ambos Park** **Address:** Listed by parks department (no dedicated webpage found) **Amenities:** Likely neighborhood green space; specific facilities not published. --- ### **19\. Amvet Park** **Address:** 6339 Argyle Dr, Columbus, OH 43219 (2.548 acres) **Amenities:** - Basketball courts - Open air shelter - Playground - Paved path --- ### **20\. Anderson Farms Parkland** **Address:** Parkland noted on parks list (address not listed) **Amenities:** Open/agricultural green space. --- ### **21\. Anheuser-Busch Sports Park** **Address & Amenities:** Included in Columbus parks list; likely sports fields and athletic facilities, though a dedicated park page isn’t published on the official site. --- ### **22\. Antrim Park** **Address:** Listed as city park (no official page with address) **Amenities:** Typically, neighborhood park features. --- ### **23\. Argus Park** **Address:** 3589 Kirkwood Rd, Columbus, OH 43227 (1.825 acres) **Amenities:** Open green space suitable for casual recreation (small neighborhood park). --- ### **24\. Audubon Park** **Address:** 2745 Audubon Rd, Columbus, OH 43211 (7.346 acres) **Amenities:** - Basketball courts - Playground - Picnic tables --- ### **25\. Avalon Park** **Address:** 2235 Avalon Pl, Columbus, OH 43219 (1.828 acres) **Amenities:** - Woods and wildlife area (natural space) --- ### **Please Note:** Some of the parks listed by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department may not yet have dedicated web pages with full amenity lists and exact addresses published online. In those cases, they’re included by name because they appear on the official parks list. ### Columbus City Parks: 422 Parks and 14,000 Acres of Urban Green Space URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/columbus-ohio-city-parks/ Last updated: 2026-06-26T20:26:04.000Z The Columbus Recreation and Parks Department over sees 422 parks across 14,069 acres, making it one of the largest city park systems in the Midwest. I have compiled a list of the parks and since there are so many I am breaking it down by letter of the alphabet **A to Z** with each letter having its own blog. If no address or amenities are listed, I have included that note in my lists. **Here is an example of the 422 parks in Columbus have to offer:** **Trail hiking:** Head for parks with greenway trailheads like Academy, Alexander, and Portman, which connect to broader networks. **Immersive nature:** Visit any of the 25 designated nature preserves or conservation areas such as Abbie Trails Parkland and Albany Wetlands. **Water views:** Parks like Albany Crossing, Alkire Lakes, and Airport Golf Course feature lakes, ponds, or riverfronts. **Wildlife watching:** Seek out “woods and wildlife areas” and visit early morning or evening for best sightings. **Quick escapes:** Small parks such as 15th Avenue Street Park (0.4 acres) offer instant relaxation on busy days. For more detailed information about the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, here is the website: [Home | Columbus Recreation and Parks DepartmentColumbus Recreation and Parks Department offers a variety of nature, wellness and creativity programming for residents of all ages and interests.![](https://static.ghost.org/v5.0.0/images/link-icon.svg)Columbus Recreation and Parks Department![](https://columbusrecparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Spark-Event-Graphic-scaled.jpg)](https://columbusrecparks.com/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) Most parks are free to visit and are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Entry is free, though golf courses may charge fees. Pets are generally welcome if leashed, but it’s best to check the specific rules for each park. --- ### **Conclusion:** Columbus is home to one of Ohio’s best urban park systems, featuring hundreds of parks, miles of scenic trails, and dozens of nature preserves to discover. These aren’t just ordinary city spaces—they’re true natural escapes that bring people together, protect wildlife, and offer endless opportunities for adventure. ### ### Spring Hiking Gear Giveaway 2026 URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/spring-hiking-gear-giveaway-2026/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:42:36.000Z We're excited to announce our first Spring Hiking Gear Giveaway! One lucky winner will receive a complete hiking starter pack worth $150. ## The Prize REI Trail Pack + Hydration System + Trail Snack Box — everything you need to hit the trails this spring. ## How to Enter Use the entry form below. Earn bonus entries by visiting our trail guides, answering a trivia question, or sharing with friends! Good luck, and happy trails! ### Shallenberger State Nature Preserve URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/shallenberger-state-nature-preserve/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:18:23.000Z Trail FactsShallenberger State Nature Preserve Shallenberger State Nature Preserve covers approximately **88 acres** of protected land in Fairfield County, Ohio (common ODNR-aligned listings as of September 2026). The preserve is about 4 miles southwest of downtown Lancaster. **Visitor info (as of September 2026):** **2470 Becks Knob Road, Lancaster, OH 43130**. Open roughly **½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset**. **Pets are not allowed.** No restrooms. Stay on designated trails. ODNR property HTML intermittently 404’d from this runner — re-check before Ghost push. --- ### **How Shallenberger Nature Preserve Came to Be:** Jay M. Shallenberger, the original owner and guardian of the area, wanted it preserved while remaining open for Ohioans to enjoy and learn from. After his death in 1971, the Fairfield County Commissioners inherited the land and, in early 1973, transferred it to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. On May 15, 1973, it was officially dedicated as a scenic state nature preserve, now managed by the Division of Natural Areas and Preserves. --- ### **Geological History:** Over 300 million years ago, this part of Ohio lay beneath a vast inland sea, where streams carried sand into massive deltas. Over time, the sand hardened into what we now know as Black Hand sandstone. Long after the sea disappeared, wind, water, and temperature carved the rock into gorges, overhangs, cliffs, waterfalls, and rock shelters, with the Hocking Hills being the most famous example. At Shallenberger, these forces shaped Allen Knob (often described as a \~240-foot Black Hand sandstone knob with views of the central Ohio plains) and the smaller Ruble Knob. The landscape also shows signs of the last ice age, when glaciers over a mile thick reached just northwest of here. While the tops of the knobs likely stayed ice-free, their bases were buried under glacial debris called an end moraine. The thin, rocky, nutrient-poor soils atop the knobs support plants like chestnut oak, mountain laurel, and ferns such as polypody, ebony spleenwort, and walking fern—species more common in the Appalachians—while few other woody plants manage to grow there. ![Black Hand sandstone outcrop at Shallenberger SNP](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772573855193-1V3A0429.webp) ![Forest trail at Shallenberger State Nature Preserve](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772573874391-1V3A0430.webp) ![Sandstone ledge along Shallenberger trails](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772573896510-1V3A0431.webp) ![Wooded slope at Shallenberger near Lancaster Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772573880391-1V3A0436.webp) ![Knob trail scenery at Shallenberger SNP](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772573890093-1V3A0452.webp) ![Mixed hardwood forest at Shallenberger](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772573896300-1V3A0467.webp) ![Rock and fern habitat on Shallenberger knobs](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772573877994-1V3A0473.webp) ![Trail junction near Allen or Ruble Knob](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772573867097-1V3A0474.webp) Hours and rules are summarized above: **½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset**, stay on trails, **no pets**, **no restrooms** (as of September 2026). --- ### Hiking Trails: Shallenberger offers a scenic **\~1.5-mile** figure-eight loop that winds around and climbs both Allen and Ruble Knobs (ODNR program notes / preserve materials as of September 2026). Paths are typically marked with painted symbols on trees and feature optional side trails to viewpoints. Easy to moderate, with some elevation gain. Expect uneven terrain with roots and rocks, so boots or sturdy shoes are a good idea. The figure-eight-shaped trail takes you through mixed hardwood forests, past boulder outcroppings, and over gentle to moderately steep slopes. In spring, colorful wildflowers and blooming mountain laurel add extra charm to the walk. Vista points on Allen Knob offer views west over the Fairfield County countryside, rewarding the climb. ![Vista from Allen Knob at Shallenberger](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772573810492-1V3A0414.webp) ![Overlook view west from Shallenberger knobs](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772573790896-1V3A0415.webp) ![Fairfield County countryside from Shallenberger](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772573782386-1V3A0416.webp) ![Summit approach on Shallenberger loop](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772573761704-1V3A0417.webp) ![Sandstone viewpoint at Shallenberger SNP](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772573789789-1V3A0419.webp) ![Forest canopy below Shallenberger overlook](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772573808995-1V3A0420.webp) ![Knob trail rocks at Shallenberger](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772573789691-1V3A0421.webp) ![Figure-eight trail section at Shallenberger](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772573814088-1V3A0425.webp) ![Shallenberger State Nature Preserve trail view](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/03/1772573815823-1V3A0426.webp) --- ### Conclusion: Shallenberger State Nature Preserve packs a lot into a small space, offering fascinating geology and history linked to early conservation efforts. Its scenic rock knobs and wooded trails provide a peaceful escape, while birding, wildflowers, and beautiful vistas make it a treat for casual hikers and nature lovers. For a short but scenic hike with a touch of natural history and elevation in the Lancaster, OH area, it’s hard to beat Shallenberger. ### Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/boch-hollow-state-nature-preserve/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:16.000Z Trail FactsBoch Hollow State Nature Preserve7 miDistance Boch Hollow became an official Ohio State Nature Preserve in 2008, designated to protect its rich ecosystems and serve as an environmental education site for Appalachian Ohio ecology. Formerly private land owned by local families, the preserve was transferred to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) with an endowment to support education and conservation programs. It also hosts the largest known population of the federally endangered Running Buffalo Clover (Trifolium stoloniferum) in Ohio — a rare plant that once depended on bison-disturbed soils. --- ### Size & Setting The preserve is about **703 acres** of forested hills, ridges, ponds, and riparian corridors near the edge of the Hocking Hills region (ODNR Boch Hollow materials as of September 2026; older secondary guides often still say \~607). It lies north of Hocking Hills State Park and offers a quieter forest experience. **Visitor info (as of September 2026):** Open **½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset**. **Pets are not permitted.** No restrooms. Stay on designated trails. Three trailheads: - **North:** 31893 Beach Camp Road, Logan, OH 43138 (use other lots if full) - **East:** 7793 Bremen Road, Logan, OH 43138 - **West:** 7100 State Route 664, Logan, OH 43138 (bus parking) Laurel Falls viewing requires a free ODNR access permit. Re-check ODNR (property HTML intermittently 404’d from this runner). --- ### Boch Hollow History The preserve’s name comes from the Boch family, who had once owned property. In the 1960s, Dr. Francis Kessler (an anatomy and physiology professor at The Ohio State University) and his wife Joyce began acquiring land in what is now Boch Hollow. Dr. Kessler grew up in the area and was deeply interested in preserving its natural character. The Kesslers envisioned protecting the woodlands, streams, and ecological diversity of the hollow, and using it as a site for nature study and conservation — a purpose that shaped its long-term mission. Eventually the Kesslers donated the land to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) — formally transforming private property into a public State Nature Preserve. They also helped establish an endowment fund to support preservation and educational programming, ensuring not just protection of the land but active learning opportunities for school groups and visitors. While the broader Hocking Hills has a long timeline of Native American presence and early settlement use, Boch Hollow’s recorded historical identity focuses more on 20th-century conservation efforts and modern public stewardship rather than early human habitation. --- ### **Geology** Boch Hollow sits along the southeastern fringes of the Appalachian Plateau, sharing geological characteristics with Hocking Hills — including sandstone outcrops, slopes carved by ancient water action, and forested valleys. You’ll find riparian corridors, steep wooded hills, ponds, and seeps (wet slopes where groundwater emerges), making the terrain both scenic and ecologically varied. ![Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve trail or waterfall scene](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1772044790517-G0010417_ALTA135513440970979008.webp) ![Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve trail or waterfall scene](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1772044790513-GOPR0416_ALTA135513440970979008.webp) ![Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve trail or waterfall scene](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1772044804912-GOPR0419_ALTA135513440970979008.webp) ![Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve trail or waterfall scene](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1772044807620-GOPR0420_ALTA135513440970979008.webp) ![Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve trail or waterfall scene](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1772044799118-IMG_6216.webp) ![Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve trail or waterfall scene](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1772044802017-IMG_6231.webp) ![Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve trail or waterfall scene](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1772044801315-IMG_6243.webp) ![Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve trail or waterfall scene](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1772044793118-IMG_6251.webp) ![Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve trail or waterfall scene](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1772044788910-IMG_6282.webp) ![Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve trail or waterfall scene](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1772045123919-IMG_6233.webp) ![Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve trail or waterfall scene](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1772045120015-IMG_6250.webp) ![Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve trail or waterfall scene](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1772045109715-IMG_6260.webp) ![Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve trail or waterfall scene](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1772045114014-IMG_6262.webp) ![Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve trail or waterfall scene](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1772045129047-IMG_6281.webp) ![Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve trail or waterfall scene](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1772045251757-IMG_6265.webp) ### **Water Features** Laurel Falls (also known locally as Robinson or Corkscrew Falls): A rare example of a canyon waterfall in Ohio. Visiting this feature requires a free access permit from ODNR. [State Nature Preserves Access Permit](https://ohiodnr.gov/buy-and-apply/special-use-permits/nature-preserve-access/nature-preserve-access-permit?ref=hiking-ohio.com) Small ponds and streams are scattered throughout the preserve, adding to its ecological diversity and seasonal interest. ![Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve trail or waterfall scene](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1772044199114-IMG_6228.webp) ![Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve trail or waterfall scene](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1772044200817-IMG_6229.webp) ![Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve trail or waterfall scene](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1772044956232-IMG_6219.webp) --- ## Hiking Trails There are about 7 miles (11+ km) of interconnected trails weaving through varied terrain like ridges, woods, old fields, pond edges, and sandstone outcrops. A section of the famous Buckeye Trail (Ohio’s 1,444-mile loop trail) runs through the preserve for roughly 4 miles, linking different trailheads. ### Key Trails & Routes ODNR lists **about 7 miles of trails** and three trailheads (Beach Camp / Bremen / SR 664). A Buckeye Trail segment runs through the preserve. Community GPS loops (Boch Hollow Loop \~6–7 mi, meadow/pond connectors, cemetery loop) are useful planning sketches but are **not** a substitute for the official preserve map — match distance/elevation to the signed trails on site. Occasional guided/history hikes are offered by DNAP; check current programs. Laurel Falls remains **permit-only**. > ⚠️\* Dogs and pets are not permitted on Ohio State Nature Preserve trails.\* --- ### Mission The preserve’s mission emphasizes hands-on environmental education, with programs geared toward school groups, civic organizations, and visitors. --- ### Conclusion We enjoyed hiking Boch Hollow and seeing Laurel Falls. It is really nice and peaceful compared to Old Man's Cave and the other well-known Hocking County spots. You won't regret a visit to Boch Hollow. ## ### Where Did Neil Armstrong Live? His Wapakoneta, Ohio Boyhood Home URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/neil-armstrong-boyhood-home/ Last updated: 2026-06-27T21:50:08.000Z Neil Armstrong’s boyhood home refers to the house where Neil A. Armstrong, the first person to walk on the Moon, lived as a teenager and young adult in Wapakoneta, Ohio. The home is located at 601 West Benton Street, Wapakoneta, Ohio. Armstrong’s family moved there in 1944 when he was in high school, and he lived there through his late teens. Armstrong lived there while attending Blume High School and taking flying lessons nearby — experiences that helped shape his future as an aviator and astronaut. The home is a well-kept two-story structure in a residential neighborhood and remains a private residence; the current owners maintain Armstrong memorabilia inside and honor its history. ![Neil Armstrong boyhood home in Wapakoneta, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1772041305144-IMG_9038.webp) The home is often referred to locally as *“*Eagle’s Landing, Boyhood Home of Neil Armstrong, First Man to Walk on the Moon,*”* and a historical marker stands outside commemorating its significance. Neil studied aeronautical engineering at Purdue University on a U.S. Navy scholarship. Later earned a master’s degree from the University of Southern California. Wapakoneta celebrates Armstrong’s legacy with the Armstrong Air & Space Museum, which highlights his achievements and the history of space exploration. The town also includes other historic sites tied to his early life, such as the farm where he was born near Wapakoneta and the local airfield where he learned to fly. --- ### Neil Armstrong History Neil Alden Armstrong was born on August 5, 1930, in Wapakoneta. He grew up in several Ohio towns due to his father’s state job, but Wapakoneta was home. Fascinated by flight from a young age, he earned his pilot’s license at 16—before he had a driver’s license. He later studied aeronautical engineering at Purdue University. Armstrong served as a U.S. Navy pilot during the Korean War, flying 78 combat missions. After the war, he became a test pilot with the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), the forerunner of NASA. He flew experimental aircraft, including the X-15 rocket plane, helping advance high-speed flight research by reaching speeds over 4,000 mph and altitudes above 200,000 feet. Selected as a NASA astronaut in 1962, Armstrong first flew in space on Gemini 8 in 1966, where he successfully handled a dangerous in-orbit spacecraft malfunction. The mission performed the first docking of two spacecraft in orbit. He solved a dangerous in-space emergency and safely returned to Earth. In 1969, he commanded Apollo 11, the first mission to land humans on the Moon. On July 20, 1969, Armstrong became the first person to step onto the lunar surface. The mission collected lunar samples. Famous quote: > “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Apollo 11 fulfilled President Kennedy's goal of landing a man on the moon before the end of the 1960s. ![Neil Armstrong boyhood home in Wapakoneta, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1772041377809-IMG_9058.webp) ![Neil Armstrong boyhood home in Wapakoneta, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1772041365117-IMG_9046aa.webp) ![Neil Armstrong boyhood home in Wapakoneta, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1772041377520-IMG_9047.webp) ![Neil Armstrong boyhood home in Wapakoneta, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1772041371614-IMG_9049.webp) ![Neil Armstrong boyhood home in Wapakoneta, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1772041369709-IMG_9050.webp) ![Neil Armstrong boyhood home in Wapakoneta, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1772041369620-IMG_9053.webp) After leaving NASA in 1971, Armstrong became a professor of aerospace engineering at the University of Cincinnati. He later served on corporate boards and participated in investigations, including the Challenger shuttle disaster review. He received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, Congressional Space Medal of Honor, and Congressional Gold Medal. Despite worldwide fame, he remained known for his humility and private nature. Neil Armstrong died on August 25, 2012, at age 82. His legacy continues to inspire space exploration around the world. --- ## **Armstrong Air & Space Museum** ### It is located: - **Address:** 500 Apollo Drive, Wapakoneta, Ohio 45895, USA. - The museum is located just off Interstate 75 in Wapakoneta, in northwest Ohio — the hometown of astronaut Neil Armstrong. ### History The museum was created to honor Neil Armstrong, the first person to walk on the Moon during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969, and to celebrate Ohio’s significant contributions to aviation and space exploration. Shortly after the Apollo 11 landing, Ohio’s governor proposed building a museum in Armstrong’s hometown, and local residents enthusiastically raised funds to make it happen. The museum was formally dedicated on July 20, 1972, three years after the Moon landing, drawing visitors to learn about Armstrong’s career and the broader story of space travel. Over the years, the facility has expanded and updated exhibits. In 2019, the museum added the Neil Armstrong STEM Inspiration Center to support hands-on learning, reflecting its mission to inspire future generations. ### What to See The museum features a variety of historic aircraft, spacecraft, and space artifacts connected to the history of flight and exploration: - Gemini VIII spacecraft — flown by Neil Armstrong and David Scott during the first successful docking of two spacecraft in Earth orbit. - Apollo 11 Moon rock — a sample collected by Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin on the Moon. - Neil Armstrong’s spacesuits from the Gemini and Apollo programs, showcasing authentic gear used during historic missions. - Early aircraft that Armstrong piloted, including planes from his youth and test flight career. - Interactive exhibits and simulators — like lunar landing and shuttle landing simulators — and a dome theater playing space documentaries. - The museum’s architecture is designed to evoke a futuristic lunar base and often includes outdoor displays of aircraft and aerospace artifacts. - It places special emphasis not only on Armstrong but also on other Ohioans who played key roles in aviation and space exploration, making it both a local and national tribute to aerospace history. --- ## **Hiking in Wapakoneta** Here are the main hiking & walking trails in Wapakoneta, Ohio, with approximate distance and difficulty ratings: **Heritage Trails Park District (Wapakoneta)** **Distance:** \~1.4 miles total of connected nature trails **Difficulty:** Easy **Terrain:** Wooded dirt paths, mostly flat **Good For:** Casual hiking, birdwatching, families **Notes:** Shaded trails with benches and native plants. Can be slightly muddy after rain. **Wapakoneta Riverwalk (Belcher Park area)** **Distance:** \~1 mile (point-to-point sections connect parks) **Difficulty:** Very Easy **Terrain:** Paved, flat riverside path **Good For:** Strollers, wheelchairs, biking, relaxed walks **Notes:** Great scenic river views; ideal for beginners. **Wapakoneta Community Nature Center** **Distance:** \~0.5–1 mile (informal loops) **Difficulty:** Easy **Terrain:** Natural ground, lightly wooded **Good For:** Short quiet walks, wildlife viewing **Notes:** Smaller and less developed than Heritage Trails. **School Woodland Trails (Blackhoof Street area)** **Distance:** \~0.5–1 mile network **Difficulty:** Easy **Terrain:** Dirt woodland path **Good For:** Quick shaded hikes **Notes:** Peaceful local favorite; mostly flat. There are several nearby larger hiking options about 15–30 minutes away including **Lake Loramie State Park**. I wrote a blog about that state park and **Annie Oakley's birthplace.** It is worth a read. --- ### Conclusion Neil Armstrong's birthplace in Wapakoneta is worth seeing. Although there is not a lot of hiking, there is several hiking trails nearby. It is enlightening to see information about the first man to walk on the moon. ## ## ### **Visiting — Neil Armstrong’s Boyhood Home** | **Where he lived** | 601 East Benton Street, Wapakoneta, Ohio | | ------------------ | ---------------------------------------------------------- | | **Town** | Wapakoneta, Auglaize County, west-central Ohio | | **Status** | Private residence — view from the public sidewalk only | | **Born** | August 5, 1930, near Wapakoneta, Ohio | | **Nearby** | Armstrong Air & Space Museum, 500 Apollo Drive, Wapakoneta | ## Explore Nearby Trails More Ohio trail guides worth a visit: - [Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/dayton-aviation-heritage-national-historical-park/) - [Best Hikes Near Dayton, Ohio](https://hiking-ohio.com/best-hikes-near-dayton-ohio-10-trails-and-day-trips/) - [Lake Loramie State Park & Annie Oakley Birthplace](https://hiking-ohio.com/lake-loramie-state-park-and-annie-oakley-birthplace/) - [Hiking in Ohio: Complete Guide](https://hiking-ohio.com/hiking-in-ohio/) ### Mount Craig: Hiking Guide & Trail Overview URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/mount-craig/ Last updated: 2026-04-19T19:19:10.000Z Mount Craig is a must see when traveling through Yancey County, North Carolina. It is located in the Mount Mitchell State Park and the Pisgah National Forest in the Black Mountains which are part of the Appalachian mountain range. It is about 1 mile north of Mount Mitchell. The elevation of Mount Craig is 6,647 feet which makes it the second-highest mountain east of the Mississippi River after Mount Mitchell. It was named for Locke Craig, governor of North Carolina from 1913 to 1917\. He was instrumental in creating Mount Mitchell State Park. ## **Locke Craig-the good, the bad and the ugly** He was born August 16, 1860, in Bertie County, North Carolina.He married Annie Burgin in 1891 and had four sons. Mr. Craig died on June 9, 1924, in Asheville, North Carolina, and is buried there.He graduated from the University of North Carolina in 1880\. After teaching briefly, he studied law, was admitted to the bar in 1882, and established a legal practice in Asheville. Craig gained prominence as a skilled public speaker and Democratic organizer in western North Carolina. After earlier unsuccessful bids for U.S. Senate and governor nominations, Craig was nominated in 1912 and elected governor of North Carolina later that year. ### **The Good** As governor he expanded public education and reforms. He created the State Highway Commission and oversaw major growth in the state’s road system — from about 5,000 to 15,000 miles — bringing national recognition for North Carolina’s roads. Craig established the State Fisheries Commission. Locke Craig led the foundation of Mount Mitchell State Park in 1915\. It was the first state park in North Carolina, helping protect mountain forests. He also played a leadership role in the development of Pisgah National Forest. ### **The Bad and the Ugly** Like many white Southern politicians of his era, Craig participated in politics that supported white supremacist policies, including efforts that contributed to Black disenfranchisement around the turn of the 20th century. This context is an important part of evaluating his legacy within the social and racial history of the region. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1771870757644-Screenshot 2026-01-14 204555.webp) ## **Hiking Trails** ### Deep Gap Trail - Main route to the summit: The Deep Gap Trail which is also part of the Black Mountain Crest Trail is the most common access. It is approximately 2.0–2.2 miles round trip from the Mount Mitchell summit parking area. Out-and-back or part of the longer ridge walk on the Black Mountain Crest Trail. - For experienced hikers, the Black Mountain Crest Trail continues over multiple summits north of the peak, making for a much longer and more strenuous route. - In addition, you can combine the Deep Gap Trail with other nearby trails for longer hikes and potential camping. - It is considered to be a moderate difficulty trail. The hike to Mount Craig’s summit from Mount Mitchell is not technically difficult but involves elevation changes and typical mountain trail roots and rocks. - The Deep Gap/Black Mountain Crest Trail continues north to other high peaks (e.g., Big Tom, Balsam Cone, Winter Star Mountain) for longer, more challenging backpacking routes. - Late spring through early fall are the best times to go. Winter can bring snow and ice, making conditions much more difficult. High-elevation plant communities including rare species and typical mountain wildlife can be seen along the trail. - Well-marked and maintained, beginning just north of the Mount Mitchell picnic area. The trail traverses lush, high-elevation spruce and fir forest, with intermittent clearings and panoramic views near the summit. - Elevation Gain of about 300 feet from the gap between Mount Mitchell and Mount Craig. - The summit offers sweeping views of the surrounding Black Mountains and a triangulation marker/plaque marking the high point. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1771870801619-Screenshot 2026-01-14 204520.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1771870801710-Screenshot 2026-01-14 205220.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1771870863410-Screenshot 2026-01-14 205313.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1771870863413-Screenshot 2026-01-20 213134.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1771870863525-Screenshot 2026-01-20 213838.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1771870966211-Screenshot 2026-01-14 204359.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1771870966620-Screenshot 2026-01-14 205443.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1771870966613-Screenshot 2026-01-20 213355.webp) ## **Personal Experience** We went to Mount Mitchell State Park in 2022\. The trail was awesome. It was very windy and we were walking through clouds. Though we were there in the middle of summer, it was not hot at all on the trail. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1771868113044-GOPR0109.webp) The trail was a little difficult for me because I carry about 80 pounds extra on my body. But it was well worth the effort! ### **Conclusion** If you happen to visit Yancey County in North Carolina, be sure to stop by for a quick hike. You won't regret it. ### Nelson-Kennedy Ledges vs. Hocking Hills vs. Little Rocky Hollow URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/nelson-kennedy-ledges-vs-hocking-hills-vs-little-rocky-hollow/ Last updated: 2026-08-06T13:20:38.000Z In this blog I am comparing three different Ohio state parks/preserves. All three of some features in common but also differ in many aspects. The three parks are listed below: **Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park** Sandstone: Pennsylvanian (about 300 MYA) Cliff Height: 40-50 feet Landscape: Tight Ravines, narrow passages Permit Required: No Size: 167 acres Trails: 1.5 miles rugged Infrastructure: Very limited Crowd Level: Low-Moderate Waterfalls: Seasonal (e.g. Minnehaha Falls) Streams: Small ravines Moss & Ferns: Abundant Early Tourism: 1800s scenic curiosity CCC Development: None Preservation Style: Leave-it-wild ![A Welcome to Nelson Ledges State Park entrance sign among autumn trees](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1770845548310-IMG_9066.webp) ![A green interpretive sign explaining the geologic history of the Nelson Ledges rock formations](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1770845538906-IMG_9068.webp) ![A leaf-covered trail beside tall rock ledges casting long shadows](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1770845548309-IMG_9080.webp) ![A dedication plaque for the Nelson-Kennedy Ledges Falls Edge Glass Walkway](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1770845545016-IMG_9111.webp) ![A hiker looking down through the glass-floored observation walkway over the gorge](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1770845559413-IMG_9117.webp) ![A large balanced boulder formation in misty autumn woods](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1770845560321-IMG_9126.webp) **Hocking Hills State Park** Sandstone: Pennsylvanian (about 300 MYA) Cliff Height: Up to 200ft in places Landscape: Deep gorges, waterfalls, caves Permit Required: No Size: 25,000+ acres (park + forest) Trails: 25+ miles, engineered Infrastructure: Extensive (steps, bridges, parking) Crowd Level: Very high Waterfalls: Numerous, reliable Streams: Major gorge systems Moss & Ferns: Abundant Early Tourism: 1800s-1900s resort area CCC Development: Extensive (1930s) Preservation Style: Designed scenic access ![The Hocking Hills State Park logo badge featuring a waterfall](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1770845672602-hocking hills state park.jpg) ![A trail map of Hocking Hills State Park and the surrounding region](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1770845672908-hockingfullmap.jpg) ![A frozen waterfall with ice formations in a snowy Hocking Hills gorge](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1770845721619-20210215_104236_1.jpg) ![Large icicles hanging from a snow-covered rock ledge](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1770845790556-IMG_4908.JPG) ![A snow-covered stone staircase built into the gorge wall](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1770845794806-IMG_4911.JPG) ![Snow-covered woods with a rock outcrop and evergreen trees](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1770845795030-IMG_4902.JPG) ![A Hemlock Bridge Trail sign pointing toward Whispering Cave](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1770845933509-IMG_5627.JPG) ![A directional sign for Old Man's Cave Visitor Center, Whispering Cave, and Hemlock Bridge trail access](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1770845930310-IMG_5629.JPG) ![Small stacked stone cairns balanced on a boulder inside a rock shelter](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1770845935710-IMG_5655.JPG) **Little Rocky Hollow State Nature Preserve** Sandstone: Pennsylvanian (about 300 MYA) Cliff Height: 40-50 feet Landscape: Compact gorge and box canyon Permit Required: Yes [State Nature Preserves Access PermitRequired to enter some state nature preserves, go off trail, or for paddling at Old Woman Creek NERR.![](https://static.ghost.org/v5.0.0/images/link-icon.svg)Ohio Department![](https://dam.assets.ohio.gov/image/upload/f_auto,q_auto/ohiodnr.gov/assets/Logo_Assets/cobrand-ODNR-Ohio.png)](https://ohiodnr.gov/buy-and-apply/special-use-permits/nature-preserve-access?ref=hiking-ohio.com) Size: 167 acres Trails: 1 mile, minimum Infrastructure: Almost none Crowd Level: Very low Waterfalls: Seasonal cascade Streams: Intermittent creek Moss & Ferns: Present but lighter Early Tourism: Minimal CCC Development: None Preservation Style: Natural preserve **What is CCC?** The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), launched in 1933 as part of the New Deal, was designed to give young men jobs and practical training during the Great Depression. It centered on environmental projects like replanting forests, preventing soil erosion, and developing national parks, all while boosting the economy and tackling unemployment. ![A red Ohio Division of Natural Areas sign marking the entrance to Little Rocky Hollow State Nature Preserve](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1770846087708-IMG_8370.JPG) ![A leaf-covered forest floor beneath tall trees with fall color](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1770846096708-IMG_8374.JPG) ![A wooded area with fallen logs among hemlock trees](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1770846089710-IMG_8384.JPG) ![A sunlit hillside trail through evergreen trees and leaf litter](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1770846087608-IMG_8389.JPG) ![A dense forest with leaf-covered ground in soft misty light](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1770846096514-IMG_8396.JPG) ![A forest trail with ferns catching sunlight beside a tree stump](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1770846098548-IMG_8452.JPG) ### --- All three feature Black Hand sandstone, but erosion and exposure differ greatly. ### Black Hand Sandstone differences: Nelson Ledges compresses dramatic geology into a very small footprint, while Hocking Hills spreads it across miles of watershed. ### **Scale & Trail Development:** Nelson Ledges feels wild despite being small; Hocking Hills feels grand but managed; Little Rocky Hollow feels quiet and secluded. ### Historic Use & Preservation: Nelson Ledges is historically closer to Little Rocky Hollow in philosophy than to Hocking Hills. --- **Conclusion:** All 3 are amazing places to visit. I love them all. The Best Analogy for Comparison: - **Hocking Hills** \= a national-park-style showpiece - **Nelson Ledges** \= Hocking Hills geology in a pocket-sized, rugged setting - **Little Rocky Hollow** \= a quiet, stripped-down echo of both So hike on fellow explorers and enjoy!! ### Comparing Backpacking Pouch Meal Brands URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/comparing-backpacking-pouch-meal-brands/ Last updated: 2026-06-26T20:26:10.000Z Here’s a head-to-head comparison of the four popular brands of backpacking meals: **Mountain House, Good To-Go, Peak Refuel, and Backpacker’s Pantry.** ## **Mountain House** ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1770489627233-55451-breakfast-skillet-pouch_2000x.webp) - Simply add boiling water to the pouch, wait about 8–10 minutes, and enjoy. It’s super easy and perfect for quick meals. Being freeze-dried, it’s incredibly lightweight and rehydrates consistently. --- ## **Good To-Go** ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1770489687308-GTG_Granola_Single_Front_S22_750x.webp) - Just add hot water, but since these are dehydrated instead of freeze-dried, preparation might take a little longer and require occasional stirring. The packaging is chef-designed and includes helpful rehydration instructions. --- ## **Peak Refuel** ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1770489890345-Biscuits_Gravy_New_Resize.webp) - With the same add-water prep time of about 10–12 minutes, many meals rehydrate nicely with real chunks of ingredients. The slightly higher protein and calorie content makes them feel more satisfying after rehydration. --- ## **Backpacker’s Pantry** ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/02/1770489749622-Backpacker-Pantry-BCP1026609-2-Serve-Gluten-Free-Mango-Sticky-Rice_3649f8e4-ecd0-4f82-8756-64f553847e90.4d1e58a59872f52a7eb0f18bba8815b3.webp) - For standard freeze-dried meals, just add boiling water and wait about 10–15 minutes. Some varieties include extra packets, like nuts or sauces, to mix in after rehydrating. --- ### NOTE: All four are easy “just-add-water” meals, but Good To-Go’s dehydrated style can be a bit slower; Mountain House is simplest and most reliable. ### Taste & Flavor Profiles **Mountain House** - Classic comfort-food favorites like chili mac and stroganoff are tasty and reliable, even if they’re not exactly “gourmet.” Some note the texture can be a little soft or slightly chalky in certain dishes, but overall they deliver a satisfying, familiar experience. - Best classic/tried-and-true: Mountain House. - Mountain House: \~$8–$12 per pouch. - Most budget-friendly but still quality: Mountain House. - Classic picks include Beef Stroganoff, Chili Mac, and Breakfast Skillet — easy favorites for repeat trips. - If you want familiar, reliable comfort food: Mountain House is a classic that hikers trust. **Good To-Go** - Frequently praised as best-in-class for flavor, these chef-driven dishes feature clean ingredients and bold tastes. Favorites like curry, quesadillas, and mushroom risotto earn rave reviews for tasting like truly “real food.” - Best overall taste (\~gourmet): Good To-Go. - Good To-Go: often \~$10–$16 per serving, depending on portion size. - Premium taste and ingredients: Good To-Go typically sits at the higher price end. - Dishes like Chicken Pho, Thai Curry, Mushroom Risotto, and diverse bowls in kit assortments are widely praised. - If taste matters most: Good To-Go is often considered the most flavorful and chef-quality option. **Peak Refuel** - Rich, meaty flavors packed with protein and indulgent sauces offer a comforting taste people love after a long day. Some meals even earn “restaurant-quality” praise, though a few note the sweetness or seasoning can be more prominent. - Best hearty/satisfying: Peak Refuel. - Peak Refuel: \~$13–$15 per pouch. - Higher calories and protein per pouch (value for serious hikers)*:* Peak Refuel offers more fuel for the cost. - Chicken Coconut Curry and Beef Pasta Marinara are both highly rated for rich flavors. - Sweet Pork & Rice also gets often-recommended reviews. - If you need high fuel/calories/protein for strenuous treks: Peak Refuel hits hard with hearty meals. **Backpacker’s Pantry** - Known for its mix of international and comfort flavors, like Pad Thai, it offers a pleasant balance of veggies and spices. While not as rich as some Good To-Go recipes, it’s still a solid and satisfying choice for a wide range of tastes. - Best global/vegetarian variety: Backpacker’s Pantry. - Backpacker’s Pantry: \~$9–$13. - Good mid-range option with variety: Backpacker’s Pantry balances cost and flavor diversity. - Pad Thai with chicken, Three Cheese Mac & Cheese, and Kathmandu Curry are top community choices. - If you want variety and dietary options (veg/gluten-free): Backpacker’s Pantry can shine. --- ## Quick Summary | Feature | Mountain House | Good To-Go | Peak Refuel | Backpacker’s Pantry | | ------------------- | ----------------- | ------------- | ----------------- | ------------------- | | **Preparation** | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | | **Taste** | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | | **Flavors Variety** | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | | **Cost-to-Value** | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | | **Best For** | Classic, reliable | Gourmet taste | High-calorie fuel | Global/veg options | --- ### **Common dislikes or complaints based on user reviews, forum feedback, and meal rankings:** ### **Mountain House** Some meals get flak for being too salty (Beef Stroganoff with Noodles) or having a “processed” taste compared to other brands. Flavors like scrambled eggs with bacon or chicken fried rice are sometimes seen as less tasty than other Mountain House options. Lighter-calorie dishes, like certain dinner entrees, can leave you feeling under-fueled after a long day. Overall, most Mountain House meals offer classic, dependable flavors, but a few are noted for their saltiness or “old school” taste that some hikers don’t love. ### Mountain House Example List of Meals Mountain House has many freeze-dried pouch meals (classic) and breakfasts — here are common ones you’ll find in their lineup and **the ones bolded are favorites:** **Entrees & Dinners** - Beef Stroganoff with Noodles - **Biscuits and Gravy** - Italian Pepper Steak - **Chicken and Mashed Potatoes** - Chicken and Dumplings - Lasagna with Meat Sauce - **Fettuccine Alfredo With Chicken** - Chili Mac with Beef - Chicken Fajita Bowl - Spaghetti with Meat Sauce - Chicken Teriyaki with Rice - **Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bowl** - **Cheesy Beef Enchilada Bowl** - Other pasta, rice, or comfort-food style entrees **Breakfasts & Light Meals** - Granola with Milk & Blueberries - Scrambled Eggs with Bacon - **Breakfast Skillet** - Veggie Chorizo Breakfast Scramble - Other breakfast bowl varieties --- ### **Common dislikes or complaints based on user reviews, forum feedback, and meal rankings:** ### **Good To-Go** On backpacking forums, some people mention that certain meals, like a few curry options, fall short of expectations—coming across as underwhelming or too mild. Good To-Go dinners are dehydrated rather than freeze-dried, which can mean longer rehydration times or a slightly different texture, though many still find the flavor excellent. One reviewer described the Pad Thai as “terrible” or lackluster, and some Reddit users have noted that certain curries didn’t work for them, especially if the texture felt off or the seasoning was weak. While Good To-Go generally earns praise, a few meals draw mixed feedback for odd textures or inconsistent seasoning. Overall, most meals are enjoyed, but a small number of flavors don’t live up to the hype, particularly some international or textured dishes that may not suit every palate. ### Good To-Go Example List of Meals Good To-Go’s site lists a chef-crafted dehydrated meal menu (exact products vary over time), with many gluten-free or vegan options. **the ones bolded are favorites:** Common meals include: - **Thai Curry / Thai Yellow Curry** - **Pad Thai** - **Mushroom Risotto** - Mexican Quinoa Bowl - Cuban Rice Bowl - Indian Vegetable Korma - Smoked Three Bean Chili - **Three Cheese Mac & Cheese** - **Kathmandu Curry** - Chicken Pho - Korean Bibimbap - Pasta Marinara (Classic) - Breakfast Hash - Single-serving and double-serving meal versions Good To-Go is well-loved for its authentic flavors and variety of recipes. The Mushroom Risotto stands out as one of their top meals, praised for its rich taste and satisfying texture. Thai Curry and Thai Yellow Curry are favorites for their spice and depth of flavor, perfect on the trail. The Cuban Rice Bowl and other hearty grain bowls offer higher calories and strong appeal for backcountry adventures. These chef-crafted meals are often considered more flavorful and “real” tasting than many traditional freeze-dried options. --- ### **Common dislikes or complaints based on user reviews, forum feedback, and meal rankings:** ### **Peak Refuel** Some hikers find Peak’s meals a bit too calorie-dense, with portions that can be hard to finish in one sitting. There are occasional mentions of texture issues, especially with rehydrated meat that doesn’t fully soften unless you adjust the water amount. Rich or chewy flavors may not appeal to lighter eaters, though that’s often a matter of appetite. Overall, they’re tastier and more filling than many others, but a few hikers think some meals feel heavy or tricky to rehydrate just right. Specific dishes that get mixed reviews include Chicken Teriyaki for its underwhelming flavor and lower calories, Beef Pasta Marinara for grainy texture and lack of flavor, and Sweet Pork & Rice, which some find overly sweet. Peak Refuel gets *far fewer negative calls* than Backpacker’s Pantry or some MH meals — most of its lineup is generally well-liked — but a few flavors don’t land for everyone. ### Peak Refuel Example List of Meals Peak Refuel’s official offerings include (availability can change) The ones bolded are favorites: **Entrées & Dinners** - **Biscuits & Sausage Gravy** - Chicken Alfredo - **Chicken Coconut Curry** - Homestyle Chicken & Rice - Backcountry Bison Bowl - White Chicken Chili - MeatEater American Buffalo Goulash - MeatEater American Buffalo BBQ Mac & Cheese - Three Bean Chili Mac - **Beef Stroganoff** - Beef Pasta Marinara - **Sweet Pork and Rice** - **Chicken Pesto** **Breakfast & Other** - Breakfast Skillet - Mountain Berry Granola - Strawberry Granola - Other dessert or “sweet” cereals --- ### **Common dislikes or complaints based on user reviews, forum feedback, and meal rankings:** ### **Backpacker’s Pantry** Backpacker’s Pantry tends to get mixed reviews, with many people finding the flavor and texture of several meals underwhelming. Some think the Pad Thai is too sweet and not very authentic, while other curry or mixed dishes are often described as bland, mushy, or chemical-tasting. Texture issues after rehydration come up a lot, and certain flavor profiles get called “muddy.” While the brand offers a wide variety, plenty of backpackers skip multiple options altogether, feeling the taste just isn’t for them. Global-inspired dishes can be hit or miss—some enjoy them, but others find they fall flat compared to the competition. ### Backpacker’s Pantry Example List of Meals Backpacker’s Pantry has a fairly broad range of freeze-dried meals inspired by global recipes (current inventory changes). **The ones bolded are favorites:** Common offerings include: - **Pad Thai (with Chicken option)** - Fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken - **Three Cheese Mac & Cheese** - **White Bean, Chicken & Green Chile Stew** - Risotto with Chicken - Beef Pho - **Drunken Noodles** - Caribbean Coconut Curry - Mexican Cowboy Beans & Brown Rice - Kung Pao Rice with Chicken - Jamaican Jerk Rice & Beans with Chicken - Other international and comfort-food entrées This brand has some mixed reviews — but its variety (international flavors, vegetarian/gluten-free options) is appealing if you’re looking for something different. --- ## **Summary of Negative Feedback, Disliked Meal Flavors, Top Meals to Try** | Brand | Typical Negative Feedback | | ----------------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------- | | **Mountain House** | Some flavors too salty/processed; underwhelming texture on a few dishes | | **Good To-Go** | Occasional unimpressive flavors according to some hikers | | **Peak Refuel** | Meals very filling; a few texture/re-hydration quirks | | **Backpacker’s Pantry** | More reports of bland or “off” flavors and texture issues | | **Brand** | **Meal Flavors People Often Dislike** | | ----------------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------- | | **Mountain House** | Beef Stroganoff (salty/artificial), generic salty comfort meals | | **Good To-Go** | Pad Thai (mixed feedback), some less-seasoned curries | | **Peak Refuel** | Chicken Teriyaki, Beef Pasta Marinara (some reviewers didn’t like them) | | **Backpacker’s Pantry** | Pad Thai too sweet, many meals described as bland/chemical tasting | | **Brand** | **Top Meals to Try** | | ----------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------- | | **Mountain House** | Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza, Breakfast Skillet, Fettuccine Alfredo | | **Good To-Go** | Mushroom Risotto, Thai Curry, Cuban Rice Bowl | | **Peak Refuel** | Chicken Pesto, Chicken Coconut Curry, Beef Stroganoff | | **Backpacker’s Pantry** | Pad Thai, Three Cheese Mac & Cheese, White Bean Stew | --- **Note:** Test trail meals at home first to avoid unpleasant surprises later. Check specific reviews for each flavor, as preferences often depend on individual dishes rather than the brand as a whole. Enhance taste with extras like hot sauce, seasoning packets, or cheese flakes if you’re prone to finding food bland. --- **Conclusion:** I have the most experience with Mountain House, but I plan to try other brands in the future. My personal favorites are Chicken and Dumplings and Sausage Biscuits and Gravy. I like the trail meals because they are light weight and don't take a lot of space. Also, the meals cook in their bag. You just need to add boiling water! ## Where to Buy These Meals Ready to stock your pack? Compare current prices, flavors, and multi-pack bundles on Amazon: - [Mountain House freeze-dried meals](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Mountain+House+freeze+dried+meals&tag=darkcitadel-20&ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [Good To-Go dehydrated meals](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Good+To-Go+backpacking+meals&tag=darkcitadel-20&ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [Peak Refuel high-protein meals](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Peak+Refuel+meals&tag=darkcitadel-20&ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [Backpacker's Pantry meals](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Backpacker%27s+Pantry+meals&tag=darkcitadel-20&ref=hiking-ohio.com) 🥾 Need some gear for your next great hike? Check out some [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### Nelson Kennedy Ledges State Park URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/nelson-kennedy-ledges-state-park/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:18:08.000Z Trail FactsNelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park1 miDistanceEasyDifficultyLoopTypeKid-friendly Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park is a 167-acre Ohio state park (as of September 2026) known for unique sandstone rock formations, deep rock fissures (some \~60 ft deep), waterfalls, narrow passageways, and scenic hiking trails. The terrain includes features with names like Devil’s Icebox, Cascade Falls, Old Maid’s Kitchen, The Narrows, and Minnehaha Falls. --- ### **Brief Description of the Some of the Features** ### Cascade Falls - Falls drop roughly 40 feet down a rock face (approximate measure). - It’s not a huge, high-volume waterfall like those in mountainous regions, but it’s one of the more prominent water features in the park. - Reached by the Yellow Trail --- ### The Narrows A tight sandstone corridor where towering cliff walls close in on both sides. - Cool, shaded, and dramatic - Feels canyon-like despite being in northeast Ohio - One of the park’s most photogenic stretches --- ### Old Maid’s Kitchen A shallow rock shelter carved into the cliff face. - Name comes from old folklore—early settlers liked giving playful names to natural features - Likely used historically as a temporary shelter or resting spot - Good example of erosion along weaker rock layers --- ### Gold Hunter’s Cave A small cave and overhang area. - Linked to local legends of would-be gold seekers (no real gold was ever found) - Classic Ohio sandstone cave formed by water and freeze-thaw action - Fun stop, especially if you like park folklore --- ### The Squeeze Exactly what it sounds like - A very narrow passage between rock walls - Short but memorable—great for adventurous hikers - Not ideal if you’re claustrophobic or carrying a big pack --- ### Devil’s Icebox One of the park’s most fascinating natural features. - A deep crevice that traps cold air - Historically reported to hold ice well into summer - Cool temperatures even on hot days—hence the “devil” nickname --- ### Minnehaha Falls Small seasonal waterfall - Late winter through spring, or after heavy rains - \~15–20 feet (varies with rainfall) - Often just a trickle (or totally dry) in midsummer - The name “Minnehaha” comes from a Dakota word meaning “laughing water”—a 19th-century poetic favorite, not a Native name specific to Ohio --- ![Rock formations at Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769630160081-IMG_9092.webp) ![Rock formations at Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769630191683-IMG_9093.webp) ![Rock formations at Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769630173777-IMG_9094.webp) ![Rock formations at Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769630176478-IMG_9096.webp) ![Rock formations at Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769630196177-IMG_9098.webp) ![Rock formations at Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769630175275-IMG_9102.webp) ![Rock formations at Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769630173881-IMG_9108.webp) ![Sandstone ledge passage at Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769630199183-IMG_9112%201.webp) ![Rock formations at Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769630196779-IMG_9115.webp) --- ### Where is Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park Located? - Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park is in Portage County in northeastern Ohio. - Located at 12440 OH-282, Garrettsville, OH 44231, it’s technically in Nelson Township, just outside the Garrettsville postal area. - It is about 45 miles east of Cleveland, it’s easy to reach via U.S. Route 422 or State Route 305 to State Route 282. - The park is **day-use only (open dawn to dusk)** with **no entrance fee** (all Ohio state parks are free). - **Park office contact (as of September 2026, ODNR):** (330) 235-0030 — Lake Milton State Park office manages Nelson-Kennedy Ledges; hours typically 8 a.m.–4 p.m. Mon/Tue/Thu/Fri. Confirm on the [ODNR Nelson-Kennedy Ledges page](https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/nelsonkennedy-ledges-state-park?ref=hiking-ohio.com). - About 3 miles of main hiking trails are available, with trail difficulty ranging from easy to very rugged and involving rock scrambles. - The park’s trails vary from easy scenic loops to rugged and challenging rock scrambles. --- ### **Trail System Overview** Trails are marked with colored blazes on trees and rocks to guide hikers. | **Trail Name** | **Approx Length** | **Difficulty** | **Notes / Features** | | ------------------------------------ | ---------------------------- | --------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ | | **White Trail** | \~0.4–1.0 miles (short loop) | *Easy* | Scenic loop to **Minnehaha Falls**, park’s easiest trail (good for families). | | **Yellow Trail** | \~0.2–0.75 miles | *Moderate* | Passes **Cascade Falls**, narrow ledges and groves. | | **Blue Trail** | \~0.75–0.8 miles | *Moderate* | Runs along the base of cliffs, includes rock features like **Devil’s Icebox**. | | **Red Trail** | \~0.2–0.5 miles | *Difficult / Extreme* | Short but **most challenging**, with tight rock squeezes and climbs. | | **Looped Trail System** | \~≈3 miles total main trails | *Varied* | Combined network for multiple routes and experiences. | | **Nelson’s Ledges Loop (AllTrails)** | \~1.4 miles loop | *Moderate* | Reviewers rate this loop moderate; route may combine segments. | ### **Difficulty Levels Defined** - **Easy (White):** Good for most hikers, mostly level terrain and scenic viewpoints. - **Moderate (Yellow/Blue):** Uneven ground, some climbing and roots/rocks. - **Difficult/Extreme (Red):** Narrow passages, rock scrambling, requires sure footing and agility. --- ![Trail and cliffs at Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769630108284-IMG_9069.webp) ![Trail and cliffs at Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769630096877-IMG_9070.webp) ![Trail and cliffs at Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769630107778-IMG_9072.webp) ![Trail and cliffs at Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769630114277-IMG_9074.webp) ![Trail and cliffs at Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769630124277-IMG_9080.webp) ![Trail and cliffs at Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769630108470-IMG_9082.webp) ![Trail and cliffs at Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769630129178-IMG_9087.webp) ![Trail and cliffs at Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769630088075-IMG_9088.webp) ![Trail and cliffs at Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769630129177-IMG_9089.webp) Trails are not highly formalized or paved—many are natural and rugged. The area has deep fissures and cliffs, so caution is important; night hiking isn’t recommended. Because of steep rocky sections and deep crevices, stay on marked trails and wear good footwear. --- ## **Historical Information** **Indigenous Presence (Pre-1800s)** The ledges were used by Native American peoples for shelter and for hunting and travel corridors. Tribes associated with the region include: Erie, Wyandot, Delaware (Lenape). While no large permanent villages are documented directly at the ledges, archaeological evidence shows regional seasonal use. --- \*\*Early Settlement \*\* In the early 19th century, European American settlers arrived, and by 1818, the nearby village of Nelson was founded. The striking rock formations, soon called Nelson Ledges, became well-known for their scenic beauty and unique character. ![A green interpretive sign explaining the geologic history of the Nelson Ledges rock formations](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1768428234238-IMG_9068.webp) --- **Late 1800s–1900s** Before it became a state park, the land that’s now the Nelson Ledges area was owned by the Industrial Silica Company. For decades, much of the land remained in private hands. Unlike other sandstone regions, large-scale quarrying never really took off, likely because of the difficult access, the rock’s scenic rather than industrial appeal, and growing efforts by local citizens and nature advocates to push for its preservation. The State of Ohio bought that property around 1920, then picked up more nearby land in the 1940s, eventually creating what is now Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park. In 1949, the state officially combined all the parcels into the park we know today. The site became **Nelson–Kennedy Ledges State Park**, named in part for: - The nearby village of Nelson - Early local families and landholders associated with preservation efforts - The “Kennedy” name refers to local private landowners (the Kennedy family) whose property included part of the ledge system before state acquisition—*not* to a national political family and not to a single famous individual. --- ### Naming Convention - Preserves the layered land-use history - Signals that conservation came after private ownership - Aligns with Ohio’s pattern (e.g., Conkles Hollow, Rockbridge, Cantwell Cliffs) --- ### **Conclusion** I didn't get to visit this state park yet. My mother-in-law and her friend visited it the fall of 2025\. My mother-in-law is 90 and her friend is in her mid-eighties. They did the difficult trails and had a really good time. They said it was beautiful. I hope I can go this year. ### Hiking Ohio Updates 2026: New Trails & Changes URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/hiking-ohio-updates-2026/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:42:53.000Z Hi Subscribers, We hope your 2025 was a great year for you! We appreciate you! This is about a month late but better late than never. As you probably noticed, we have expanded our blog to include hiking areas that are not located in Ohio. As we travel and hike, we take pictures and research the places we visit. We hope that you enjoy the historical information as much as the information about the hiking trails. For 2026 we are planning to have a blog every 2 weeks if possible. This should be a good year for our traveling. We completed the Franklin County Metro Park series that described each metro park and its amenities. There are about 20 Franklin County Metro Parks. It was a fun project. I started a series on City of Columbus Parks and Nature Preserves. It will take a while because there are 422 parks and 25 nature preserves. We plan to go on a trip out west this June. My plan is to write a blog about each place we stop at. Some of the highpoints planned are the Grand Canyon, Mesa Verde, Route 66, and Carlsbad Caverns. As we move forward with this blog, please share this site with your friends and family. We really enjoy putting the blog together. We would really like to have more readers/subscribers. Also, please give us input on how we are doing. If you have any hiking trails you would like us to blog about, let us know. Happy Hiking! Rob and Lori Jordan Email: arkykeatszoeymom@gmail.com ### City of Columbus Nature Preserves URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/city-of-columbus-nature-preserves/ Last updated: 2026-08-06T12:50:18.000Z The City of Columbus, Ohio, has a mix of City-designated nature preserves, and operates 422 parks throughout the greater Columbus region, providing 14,069 acres of parkland to the residents and visitors of Columbus. These parks contain many amenities and provide access to 230 miles of regional trails, 171 playgrounds and 25 nature preserves. --- **Brief History of City of Columbus Nature Preserves** **1988** – Designation of Hoover Meadows, Hoover Nature Preserve, Hoover Oxbow and Mud Hen Marsh nature preserves. **1989** – Creation of Waterway Task Force for consideration of additional parkland areas. **2004** – Designation of Griggs, Hayden Falls, Kiwanis Riverway Park, O’Shaughnessy and Woodward nature preserves. Formal adoption of the Nature Preserve Advisory Council. **2016** – Designation of Beechwold Park, Gertrude S. Lawrence Woods, Hickory Woods Parkland, Hoover Prairie, Kenney Park, Lazelle Woods, Mock Park, Rush Run, Sawmill and Webster Park nature preserves. **2022** – Adoption of nature preserve code by Columbus City Council. **2024** – Designation of Coronet, Islandview, Overbrook, Warner Woods and Woodstream nature preserves. If you want to search for a nature preserve by name, please use the site search function in the main menu of the website. [Nature | Columbus Recreation and Parks DepartmentWith over 400 parks, 230 miles of regional trails, and 30 pollinator gardens, there is tons to explore in the City of Columbus!![](https://static.ghost.org/v5.0.0/images/link-icon.svg)Columbus Recreation and Parks Department![](https://columbusrecparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/CRPD_Logo_277x62.png)](https://columbusrecparks.com/nature/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) These areas are officially protected for their ecological value. Many have walking paths and are great for birdwatching, nature study, and peaceful outdoor time. --- **Visiting Suggestions** - Check access: Not all preserves have formal trail signage or parking. Look up the preserve on the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department website before visiting. - Stay on paths: These are protected habitats — staying on established paths (where present) helps protect sensitive plants and animals. - These preserves vary in accessibility: some have formal walking paths or boardwalks (e.g., Hayden Falls, Kiwanis Riverway), while others are more natural habitat areas with minimal trails. - Parking availability also varies — some have small lots or neighborhood street access, others do not have dedicated parking lots. The City site or individual preserve pages on the Columbus Recreation and Parks website often list access details. - A few preserves (like Hamilton Road Wetland) may require **permits for access** due to sensitive habitat and rookery protection — check before planning a visit. - Ecological value: These preserves protect forests, prairies, wetlands, waterways, migratory bird habitat, and endangered plant and animal species. Many were acquired over decades and designated to save habitat amid urban development. - Habitat types: Forested ravines, floodplain wetlands, marshes, small prairie remnants, creek corridors and riparian areas. - Wildlife: Amphibians, reptiles, waterfowl, migratory birds and diverse native plants. For example, Hamilton Road Wetland preserves a large heron rookery. - Trails & access: Some preserves (like Hayden Falls, Rush Run, and Kiwanis Riverway) have accessible paths or boardwalks and are suitable for quiet walks and nature observation. Others may be more undeveloped and primarily for conservation and habitat protection. - Note: These preserves vary in developed trail mileage and signage. Many are maintained for conservation first — hiking may be less formal than in Metro Parks. --- ### **Riparian-what does it mean?** Riparian forests grow mainly along rivers and streams, sometimes close to the water, sometimes a bit farther away. They’re shaped by flowing water and changing soil conditions, with plants adapted to the moisture. Many animals depend on these areas for food and shelter. Moisture-loving trees dominate the landscape, giving these forests a distinct look, especially in savanna regions. They’re also home to plant species that thrive in wet conditions. --- ### City of Columbus Nature Preserves Each of these is officially a nature preserve — many protect forests, wetlands, streams, ravines, grasslands, or riverfront habitat. The City of Columbus Nature Preserves I visited on November 13, 2025, are **bolded.** --- **Beechwold Nature Preserve — 101 W. Beechwold Blvd., Columbus, OH 43214 11 acres** ![Bare autumn trees on a wooded hillside with brown leaves covering the ground](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366314619-IMG_7554.webp) ![Street signs for Riverview Park Drive and Beechwold Boulevard framed by red autumn maple leaves](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366327524-IMG_7558.webp) ![Wooden entrance sign for Beechwold Nature Preserve at 101 West Beechwold Boulevard](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366314915-IMG_7559.webp) ![Informational sign explaining how the Old Beechwold bioretention basin filters stormwater](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366299617-IMG_7563.webp) ![A small rocky creek with stepped ledges and pooling water in the preserve](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366308221-IMG_7565.webp) ![Trees lining the edge of a wooded ravine above a stream](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366329221-IMG_7566.webp) ![A stone bench beside a boulder engraved with Jastram Grove in a grassy clearing](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366322324-IMG_7567.webp) **A riparian forest lines the Olentangy River, with a forested ravine in the Beechwold neighborhood. This area is home to mature native trees like beech, oak, and hickory, along with a mix of woodland wildflowers and native shrubs.** --- **Coronet Woods Nature Preserve — 1790 Coronet Dr., Columbus, OH 43224 3.7 acres** ![Dense brush and bare shrubs along a wooded preserve trail](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366340314-IMG_7518.webp) ![Yard sign announcing a litter clean-up event at Coronet Woods on November 15th](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366339433-IMG_7539.webp) **Coronet Woods is mostly an upland forest with a small wetland by both rainfall and groundwater. Once used for agriculture until around the 1950s, the land was left unoccupied, allowing natural forest succession to take place and shape the woods as they are today.** --- **Gertrude S. Lawrence Woods Nature Preserve** — 4748 Red Bank Rd., Galena, OH 43021 29 acres This forested area sits high above two ravines that flow into the Hoover Reservoir. Along the loop trail, you can take in views of the flooded ravines from two scenic overlooks. In the fall, the water recedes, revealing mudflats that help filter the water and trap sediment, nutrients, and pollutants. --- **Griggs Nature Preserve** — 6245 Riverside Dr., Dublin, OH 43017 41 acres The area boasts diverse terrain, with hillside slopes, steep cliffs, and river bottomlands. Situated along the 6-mile-long Griggs Reservoir, Griggs Nature Preserve can be reached through Kiwanis Riverway Nature Preserve or via the Scioto River. --- **Hamilton Road Wetland Nature Preserve** — 6135 N Hamilton Rd., Columbus, OH 43081 78 acres The Nature Preserve is made up of mature woodlands with vernal pools, offering a home to the largest great blue heron rookery in Franklin County. In the beech-dominated heart of the woods, you can find as many as 50 nests. --- **Hayden Falls Nature Preserve** — 4325 Hayden Run Rd., Columbus, OH 43221 3 acres Hayden Falls Nature Preserve has a beautiful limestone gorge with a breathtaking 35-foot waterfall on the western shore of the Scioto River. This spot has been a destination in central Ohio for over a century, valued for its historical and geological significance. --- **Hickory Woods Nature Preserve** — 2485 Willis Rd., Dublin, OH 43016 5 acres Hickory Woods Nature Preserve is made up entirely of upland forest, filled with mature hickory and beech trees. Its dotted with native spicebush, adding to its charm. Forests like these play a key role in the local ecosystem, helping to regulate water flow in the area. --- **Hoover Meadows Nature Preserve** — 3715 Sunbury Rd., Westerville, OH 43082 76 acres This area boasts a variety of habitats, including woodland, wetland, vernal pool, grassland, and stream. The wetlands offer excellent refuge for migrating birds like soras and bitterns, while a large vernal pool tucked in the woods serves as an important breeding spot for amphibians. --- **Hoover Nature Preserve** — 33 Front St., Galena, OH 43021 2,204 acres Hoover Nature Preserve was created after the construction of the Hoover Dam and reservoir in 1954\. It’s now a favorite spot for birdwatchers, especially in spring and fall when migratory waterfowl and shorebirds pass through. The preserve also boasts Ohio’s largest breeding population of warblers. --- **Hoover Oxbow Nature Preserve** — 8401 Oxbow Rd., Westerville, OH 43082 16 acres Hoover Oxbow Nature Preserve offers a blend of upland forest and wooded wetlands along the western shore of Hoover Reservoir. It’s a favorite spot for boating, fishing, and birdwatching, especially in winter when migrating waterfowl flock to the waters just east and south of the preserve. --- **Hoover Prairie Nature Preserve** — 7445 Cubbage Rd., Westerville, OH 43081 40 acres Hoover Prairie Nature Preserve features an upland forest and a prairie habitat. The 100-year-old prairie provides habitat to the state’s only known population of the state-threatened Gattinger’s-foxglove. **Gattinger’s-foxglove (*Agalinis gattingeri*)** Annual hemiparasitic herb; flowers and fruits Aug.-Oct. Two other long-pedicled species, A. tenuifolia and A. skinneriana (which is also rare in Ohio) may be confused with A. gattingeri. A. gattingeri can be distinguished from all other members of the genus except A. skinneriana by the distinctive reticulate veins on its calyx. It also has single terminal flowers on abundant branches; the flowers have pink corollas with two yellow lines and many red spots inside. A. skinneriana, on the other hand, has less branching and flowers in terminal racemes; the corollas have few or no internal markings. Post-1990 records from Darke, Delaware, Franklin, and Lucas counties. This species has only been collected once in Ohio before 1990, in 1929 from Delaware County. Moist to dry, open to semi-open habitats, especially in acidic soils; barrens, prairies and open woods. Overgrowth by woody species as a result of succession. In 1973, Naturalist John Thomas discovered the first wild indigo dusky wing skipper here. --- **Island View Nature Preserve — 403 Westview Ave., Columbus, OH 43214 10 acres** ![A paved path curving through the woods past trash and recycling bins](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366415420-IMG_7546.webp) ![Wooded trail with fall color and an orange marker post near the base of the trees](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366418426-IMG_7547.webp) ![A narrow stream winding through the wooded preserve](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366415415-IMG_7548.webp) ![Bare winter trees and brushy underbrush in the preserve woods](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366396120-IMG_7549.webp) ![A tree still holding yellow autumn leaves amid the bare forest](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366398227-IMG_7550.webp) ![Fall woods carpeted in orange and brown fallen leaves](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366418516-IMG_7555.webp) ![A dense stand of slender bare trees in the preserve](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366402121-IMG_7568.webp) ![Wooded hillside with bare trees and dry underbrush](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366425223-IMG_7570.webp) **Island View Nature Preserve is a key part of the riparian zone along the Olentangy River. These areas form the transition between land and water, with soil and vegetation shaped by the constant presence of water. This environment boosts plant growth and sustains diverse, interconnected food webs.** --- **Kenney Nature Preserve** — 369 Graceland Blvd., Columbus, OH 43224 22 acres Kenney Nature Preserve features upland forests, forested wetlands, and streams that feed into the Olentangy River, with roughly 3,850 feet of flowing water. Its mix of habitats provides a home for an array of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. --- **Kiwanis Riverway Nature Preserve** — 6245 Riverside Dr., Dublin/Columbus border 10 acres Kiwanis Riverway Nature Preserve offers a variety of habitats and streams that flow into Griggs Reservoir. It’s a convenient gateway to an area full of natural beauty and ecological significance. Stroll along its wooden boardwalk and enjoy the peaceful forest, colorful wildflowers, and picturesque views. --- **Lazelle Woods Nature Preserve** — 8140 Sancus Blvd., Columbus, OH 43081 10 acres Lazelle Woods Nature Preserve offers acres of mature forest filled with native wildflowers and visiting migratory birds. Its rich plant diversity draws a variety of wildlife, making it a vibrant natural habitat. Conveniently located beside the Lazelle Woods Community Center, it’s an easy spot to explore. --- **Mock Nature Preserve — 2520 Mock Rd., Columbus, OH 43219 83 acres** ![Rules sign for the nature preserve listing park hours and prohibited activities like pets, feeding wildlife, and fires](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366439317-IMG_7505.webp) ![A metal-roofed picnic shelter beside a paved path through a grassy area](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366446229-IMG_7507.webp) ![A blue Columbus Nature Preserve trail marker post on a grassy hillside](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366441222-IMG_7510.webp) ![A curved metal-roofed building on a mowed lawn surrounded by trees](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366448531-IMG_7511.webp) ![A rocky stream flowing through bare winter woods](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366441515-IMG_7571.webp) ![Entrance sign for Mock Park's Willis Athletic Complex Nature Preserve on Mock Road](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769368064813-IMG_7534.webp) **Mock Nature Preserve boasts wooded ravines, floodplains, and streams with beautiful views of Alum Creek. The upland forest is rich with oak and hickory trees, offering shelter to a variety of wildlife. However, the steep terrain can make access challenging for some visitors**. --- **Mud Hen Marsh Nature Preserve** — 8742 Big Walnut Rd., Westerville, OH 43082 54 acres Mud Hen Marsh Nature Preserve features an upland forest, a high quality forested wetland and numerous streams that feed into the Hoover Reservoir. Wetlands are characterized by areas covered or saturated with water. Mud Hen Marsh provides excellent birding opportunities from trails located throughout the preserve. --- **O’Shaughnessy Nature Preserve** — 9280 Dublin Rd., Powell, OH 43065 80 acres O'Shaughnessy Nature Preserve offers a mix of upland forest, pollinator habitat, wetlands, and a large pond connected to the Scioto River. Nicknamed Twin Lakes, it sits beside two large lakes and lies along a migratory path, providing a haven for over 100 species of migrating birds and 45 species of breeding birds. --- **Overbrook Nature Preserve — 300 Overbrook Dr., Columbus, OH 43214 13 acres** ![A green wooded gorge with a rocky stream and a fallen log](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366499915-IMG_7541.webp) ![The Overbrook Drive street sign beside a utility pole and autumn trees](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366503321-IMG_7542.webp) ![Street signs marking Overbrook Drive and the Adena Brook Olentangy Watershed](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366500521-IMG_7543.webp) ![Dense dry brush and thin branches at the preserve edge](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366503325-IMG_7544.webp) ![A curving road with a guardrail running along a wooded hillside](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366510124-IMG_7545.webp) **Overbrook Nature Preserve acts as a riparian buffer, protecting the Adena Brook ravine by filtering out harmful pollutants before they can reach the Olentangy River. The trees and shrubs lining the ravine form a natural barrier between the water and surrounding land use, helping to safeguard the stream’s habitat.** --- **Rush Run Nature Preserve** — 370 Broad Meadows Blvd., Columbus, OH 43085 39 acres Rush Run Nature Preserve is home to wooded ravines, wetlands, and streams that flow into the Olentangy River. Just south of Antrim Lake in a quiet residential area, it maintains its charm as a mature forest filled with diverse plant life. --- **Sawmill Nature Preserve** — 2650 Starford Dr., Dublin, OH 43016 17 acres Sawmill Nature Preserve features a mix of emergent and forested wetlands, upland forests, grasslands, and a pond. Scattered throughout are mature hardwood trees and vernal pools, also called seasonal depressional wetlands. The wetlands here are rich with swamp white oak and a variety of sedge species. --- **Warner Woods Nature Preserve** — 4790 Warner Rd., Westerville, OH 43081 15 acres Warner Woods Nature Preserve is home to several vernal pools that attract large populations of early spring amphibians. Blending seamlessly with the surrounding Warner Woods Park, it’s a perfect spot for both enjoying the outdoors and supporting conservation efforts. --- **Webster Nature Preserve — 230 Webster Park Ave., Columbus, OH 43214 1.6 acres** ![Street signs for Webster Park Avenue and Delta Drive in front of a white house](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366528823-IMG_7551.webp) ![Wooden entrance sign for Webster Nature Preserve at 230 Webster Park Avenue](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366528119-IMG_7552.webp) ![The nature preserve rules sign posted among the trees at Webster Nature Preserve](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2026/01/1769366529143-IMG_7553.webp) **Webster Nature Preserve is one of the oldest parks in Columbus. The land was gifted to the city in 1909 and officially dedicated in 1926 as a “bird sanctuary and flower preserve.” This charming spot is a small forested haven, complete with an unnamed tributary of the Olentangy River.** --- **Woodstream Nature Preserve** — 4535 Big Walnutview Dr., Columbus, OH 43230 31 acres Woodstream Nature Preserve boasts a rich understory of trees and pristine wetlands. Once just a field, it transformed into a meadow and eventually grew into a forest, showcasing ecological succession in action. Today, it’s home to a wide variety of plants and wildlife. --- **Woodward Nature Preserve** — 1230 Fahlander Dr. N., Columbus, OH 43229 34 acres Woodward Nature Preserve boasts a beautiful oak-hickory and beech-maple forest that’s full of life. In spring and summer, the ground bursts with colorful wildflowers, while the towering trees provide a home for salamanders, warblers, owls, and even flying squirrels. --- ### My plan: I have lived in the Columbus, Ohio, area all of my 61 years. I am aware of many of the parks, recreation centers, etc. that City of Columbus manages. I was not aware of the City Nature Preserves. So, I pulled up the list of 25 city nature preserves and decided to visit each one and write a review. My husband and I went out on November 13, 2025, to explore some of the nature preserves. We were able to find 6 of the nature preserves. The ones we visited are **bolded** in the list above. My first observation was that the city nature preserves are not well-marked. When we did find one, there was no parking or marked trails. Some of the preserves do have parking but not many of them. Some don't have easy access and no trails. Others have partially marked trails. It appears the nature preserves are not visited frequently. There are no restrooms or picnic tables. Many of the areas are isolated next to bodies of water or wetlands. Also, some of the riparian areas are inhabited by people that may not want you to explore. So don't go alone. As always, be aware of your surroundings. --- ## ### ### ### First Snowfall 2025: Winter Hiking in Ohio URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/first-snowfall-november-2025/ Last updated: 2026-03-22T22:51:29.000Z The City of Columbus Recreation and Parks Department manages the public parks inside the city limits. The city operates 410 parks with 14,069 acres of land, including trails, playgrounds, conservation areas, and natural spaces. My goal in 2026 is to get each park in a blog. Starting with Big Walnut Park. I really did not plan on a city park blog, but we had a sizeable snow in November that I want to share. We live within walking distance of Big Walnut Park. We actually lost our first drone in the pond. The park is maintained very well. - Location: 5000 E. Livingston Ave., Columbus, OH 43227 - Size & features: 136+ acres, sports courts and fields, playgrounds, shelterhouse, dog park, paved trail access, pond, woods and wildlife areas. - It’s a community park in Columbus’s Mid-East area and one of the main parks connected to the Big Walnut Trail. ### ### ### **Big Walnut Creek** Big Walnut Creek is a natural waterway that rises roughly 20 miles northeast of Columbus and runs southwest toward the Scioto River. It feeds into Hoover Reservoir, which serves as a major water supply and recreation area for northeast Franklin County. --- ## **Trails** **Big Walnut Trail** The Big Walnut Trail is a developing multi-use greenway that follows the creek through central Ohio. It isn’t yet one continuous trail, but completed segments run from Hoover Reservoir through Gahanna and parts of Columbus, connecting parks and neighborhoods. Once finished it’s planned to stretch nearly 26 miles from Hoover Reservoir in the north to Three Creeks Park in the south. Trail expansions currently underway include segments in southeast Columbus between Nafzger Park and East Main Street, linking green spaces including Big Walnut Park and Helsel Park. **Regional Importance and Ecology** The creek corridor is significant not just recreationally, but ecologically, forming part of important riparian habitat that supports diverse wildlife and migratory birds in the region. --- ### Summary The Big Walnut Park is a very nice park to visit. We also use the connected Far East Recreation Center for basketball and baseball. There is a nice area for children to ride bikes. There is a dog park. There is also a nice pond for fishing. I highly suggest you visit this park. ### Little Rocky Hollow State Nature Preserve URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/little-rocky-hollow-state-nature-preserve/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:18:01.000Z Trail FactsLittle Rocky Hollow State Nature Preserve1 miDistance Little Rocky Hollow is a **\~259-acre** state nature preserve in Hocking County, Ohio (ODNR Division of Natural Areas and Preserves access-permit directory as of September 2026; older secondary guides often round to 256 acres), in the Hocking Hills region of the Allegheny Plateau. The Hocking Hills region is famous for its deep sandstone gorges, waterfalls, and forested hollows. It’s home to several protected areas and striking geological formations shaped by the Blackhand sandstone. **Visitor info (as of September 2026):** **Permit only** — apply through ODNR DNAP at least **14 days** ahead; permits may cover up to a **10-day** visit window. Exact parking/map directions are emailed with the permit. Community guides often point to an unsigned pull-off near **Kreashbaum Road, Rockbridge, OH 43149** (sometimes listed as 17440 Kreashbaum Rd) — treat that as approximate until your permit packet arrives. Scientific preserve: stay off unmarked private land approaches. Pets are generally **not** allowed on Ohio State Nature Preserves. Confirm on the [ODNR access-permit page](https://ohiodnr.gov/buy-and-apply/special-use-permits/nature-preserve-access/nature-preserve-access-permit?ref=hiking-ohio.com) (HTML intermittently 404’d from this runner). ### **Location and Parking** Directions and parking come with your ODNR permit. Field reports describe a small unsigned lot on Kreashbaum Road near Rockbridge — easy to miss (often only a blue/yellow post). ![Unsigned Kreashbaum Road parking approach for Little Rocky Hollow](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765985376329-IMG_8360.webp) ![Parking pull-off near Little Rocky Hollow trailhead](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765985376334-IMG_8361.webp) ![Blue and yellow post marking Little Rocky Hollow parking](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765985375122-IMG_8362.webp) *The little blue and yellow post is the only marker for the parking lot.* --- ### **State Nature Preserve Designation** Little Rocky Hollow was one of the early acquisitions by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) in the state’s nature preserve program. It became part of the collection around the time the Natural Areas Act of 1970 went into effect, expanding protections for rare and important natural areas across Ohio. This preserve is among Ohio’s State Nature Preserves, lands protected by law to safeguard unique ecological, geological, and biological features. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources, through its Division of Natural Areas and Preserves (DNAP), owns and manages the preserve. Little Rocky Hollow is designated as a **scientific** preserve (neighboring Sheick Hollow is the interpretive one in Hocking State Forest), where protecting ecological integrity comes first and public access is carefully regulated. Little Rocky Hollow is one of several preserves in the Hocking Hills that safeguard delicate ecosystems and rare species within rugged landscapes. While places like Conkle’s Hollow are open for regular public visits, access to Little Rocky Hollow is much more limited. --- ### Trails **Permit-Required Entry** Access to Little Rocky Hollow is by permit only. Visitors must apply for and receive a permit from the Ohio DNR Division of Natural Areas and Preserves before visiting. It is recommended to submit permit applications at least 14 days before your planned visit to ensure processing time. [State Nature Preserves Access Permit](https://ohiodnr.gov/buy-and-apply/special-use-permits/nature-preserve-access/nature-preserve-access-permit?ref=hiking-ohio.com) Little Rocky Hollow’s permit requirement exists to protect fragile ecology and geological features and to minimize human impact in sensitive areas. There is only a short access trail (about \~1 mile) from the trailhead into the preserve. ![Access trail into Little Rocky Hollow State Nature Preserve](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765985533520-IMG_8363.webp) ![Sandstone gorge scenery in Little Rocky Hollow](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765985540020-IMG_8364.webp) ![Forest and rock along Little Rocky Hollow access](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765985539330-IMG_8366.webp) ![Stream corridor in Little Rocky Hollow preserve](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765985538424-IMG_8368.webp) ![Waterfall cascade in Little Rocky Hollow gorge](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765985532020-IMG_8371.webp) ![Trail-less hollow terrain at Little Rocky Hollow SNP](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765985531726-IMG_8372.webp) Once inside, there are no formal marked trails — you’ll be hiking through rugged terrain and narrow gorge sections. The hollow itself features multiple small waterfalls and cascading stream segments if water is present — best after rainfall. Because the interior is trail-less and rugged, this area is recommended only for experienced hikers comfortable with off-trail navigation and uneven, wet ground. Little Rocky Hollow State Nature Preserve is a highly protected natural area in Hocking County, Ohio, prized for its rugged gorge, waterfalls, and ecological value. Because it is scientifically sensitive and ecologically fragile, access is controlled through a permit system managed by the ODNR Division of Natural Areas and Preserves. Trails within the preserve are very minimal and mostly unmarked, making it most suitable for prepared and experienced hikers who plan ahead and respect strict conservation rules. --- ### **History** The ODNR launched its State Nature Preserve acquisition program in the early 1970s under Ohio’s Natural Areas Act. Historic records show that Little Rocky Hollow was acquired in 1971 as one of the first preserves added to the system during this initial effort. Much of the Hocking Hills region was once privately owned for farming, timber, or small-scale holdings before being merged into state forest and preserve lands. Early acquisitions often came from small purchases from multiple owners or as part of larger forest sales, making it harder to trace exact prior ownership without detailed county-level deed research. --- ### **Conclusion** We have visited Little Rocky Hollow State Nature Preserve two times and loved it. So many places require hikers to "stay on the trail"; it is really refreshing to be able to explore and make your own trails. It is rugged and it stays pretty wet and some places are slippery. However, it is worth the trip. ### Ash Cave Fire Tower: Hocking Hills Trail Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/ash-cave-fire-tower/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:06.000Z Trail FactsHocking State Forest2 miDistanceOut & BackType The Ash Cave Fire Tower was constructed in 1934\. The 80-foot tall Aermotor tower has a 7-foot by 7-foot metal cab. The Aermotor Company has built windmills since 1888\. However, from the nineteen-teens to the mid-twenties, Aermotor diversified to include the design and production of most of the nation’s forest observation towers. ![Ash Cave Fire Tower exterior in Hocking State Forest, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765992755961-R%20%281%29.jpg) After logging and subsequent fires devastated hills near Portsmouth, the Forestry Bureau established Shawnee State Forest in 1922 and erected its first fire tower there on Copperhead Hill in 1924\. Similarly, the Ohio Agricultural Experiment Station began acquiring land in Hocking County in 1924 with the intent to demonstrate the practical value of forestry. The lands at the time were in poor condition because of extensive logging, with the remaining forest stands in poor condition. ![View from near Ash Cave Fire Tower in Hocking Hills](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765992136923-GP010279.webp) ![Forest canopy near Ash Cave Fire Tower](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765992147420-GP010270.webp) ![GP010272.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765992148824-GP010272.webp) ![GP010273.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765992149724-GP010273.webp) ![GP010274.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765992136834-GP010274.webp) ![GP010275.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765992131830-GP010275.webp) ![GP010276.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765992133430-GP010276.webp) Fire wardens and foresters used wildfire lookout towers to spot blazes on Ohio lands. Ohio's fire towers were staffed by lookouts and equipped with binoculars, maps, a radio, telephone, and an alidade – a device used to pinpoint a wildfire location. Aerial surveillance of wildfires by aircraft began in the 1940s, and Ohio’s fire towers were slowly phased out. The last tower was closed in 1978\. While surveillance from fire towers is a thing of the past, they remain a proud symbol of forest conservation and a monument to the people who worked to preserve our natural resources. --- ### Climbing the Fire Tower When weather conditions allow, visitors can climb the stairs of the tower at their own risk. From the top of the tower, the Ash Cave Fire Tower provides a magnificent 360-degree view of the surrounding forests and hills. --- ### Hiking Fire Tower Parking Lot: SR 374 South, Logan, 43138, (740)-279-4927 A parking area is located north of the Ash Cave Fire Tower at the corner of OH-374 and Chapel Ridge Road. The tower is then an approximate 550-feet hike south along Grandma Gatewood Trail. There are many trails in the area of the Ash Cave Fire Tower. Fire Tower to Ash Cave Hike is an approximately 2-mile round trip hike from the Ash Cave Fire Tower to Ash Cave and back. --- ### Conclusion We went to explore the Ash Cave Fire Tower in the spring of 2025\. It is taller than I thought it would be. I climbed several sections, but I got shaky at the last level I achieved. It was a beautiful view even though I didn't make it to the top. I actually climbed farther than I used to. Next time I will make it to the top......maybe. ### WOLF TACTICAL Molle Daypack Review: A Rugged Option for Trail Adventures URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/wolf-tactical-molle-daypack-review/ Last updated: 2026-06-10T10:36:34.000Z 🥾 Looking for a reliable daypack? Check out the [WOLF TACTICAL Molle Backpack on Amazon.](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B088899FPD?ref=t%5Fac%5Fview%5Frequest%5Fproduct%5Fimage&campaignId=amzn1.campaign.1HRLOPHT6RJQY&linkCode=tr1&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkId=amzn1.campaign.1HRLOPHT6RJQY%5F1766268416370) *Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission on purchases made through these links at no additional cost to you.* When it comes to day hikes, having the right pack can make all the difference between an enjoyable outing and a frustrating one. We have been testing the WOLF TACTICAL Molle Backpack over the past few months on various Ohio trails, and it has become one of our go-to options for day trips. If you are looking for something rugged, well-organized, and built to last, this 24-liter daypack might be exactly what you need. --- ## **First Impressions** Right out of the box, you can tell this pack means business. The weather-resistant nylon feels substantial without being overly heavy. At 24 liters, it hits that sweet spot for day hikes where you need room for snacks, water, a first aid kit, and extra layers without carrying a full expedition pack. The pack comes in four colors: Black, Mcblack, OD Green, and Tan. We went with the OD Green which blends nicely on the trail and does not show dirt as easily as lighter colors might. ![Tactical hiking backpack on a wooded trail in Ohio](https://cdn.llitd.com/images/1920x1080/ohio-trail-autumn_ryPxA.jpg) The OD Green color blends naturally with Ohio's forest trails. --- ## **Testing It on Ohio Trails** We took this pack out to Hocking Hills, Zaleski State Forest, and several Columbus metro parks over the past couple of months. On longer hikes like the Grandma Gatewood Trail, we appreciated how well the weight distributed across our shoulders even when fully loaded with water bottles, snacks, and camera gear. ![Scenic overlook at Hocking Hills State Park with hiking gear](https://cdn.llitd.com/images/1920x1080/hocking-hills-overlook_haUHi.jpg) Testing the pack at one of our favorite Hocking Hills overlooks. One thing we really liked was having enough room for our dog Luther's supplies when he comes along. His collapsible water bowl, treats, and extra leash fit easily in the front pocket without taking up space in the main compartment. ![Dog hiking on an Ohio trail with owner carrying tactical backpack](https://cdn.llitd.com/images/1920x1080/dog-hiking-trail_dZZsJ.jpg) Luther approves of the extra pocket space for his supplies. --- ## **What We Liked** **Organization** The multiple compartments really shine on the trail. Having dedicated spots for your phone, snacks, maps, and first aid supplies means you are not digging through one big cavity looking for your trail mix. The MOLLE webbing on the exterior lets you attach additional pouches or gear if you need to expand your carrying capacity. We added a small carabiner clip for our keys and it worked perfectly. **Comfort** The padded mesh back panel keeps air flowing during those warmer hiking days. We tested this on several summer hikes and appreciated not having a completely soaked back at the end. The adjustable straps distribute weight well, even when we packed it fairly heavy with multiple water bottles. For reference, my Dad borrowed it for a trip to Mohican and said it was more comfortable than his old Kelty pack. **Durability** This pack is built to take some abuse. The stitching is solid, the zippers feel heavy-duty, and the material shrugs off light rain without issue. We got caught in a drizzle at Salt Fork and everything inside stayed dry. If you hike in areas with thick brush or rocky terrain, this pack can handle getting bumped and scraped without showing much wear. ![Tactical backpack in rainy weather conditions showing water resistance](https://cdn.llitd.com/images/1920x1080/rainy-forest-hike_rozcm.jpg) The weather-resistant nylon held up great during unexpected rain at Salt Fork. --- ## **Considerations** The tactical styling is not for everyone. If you prefer gear that looks more like traditional hiking equipment, the military-inspired aesthetic might feel out of place at a nature preserve. That said, we found it functional first and fashionable second, which is what matters on the trail. At around $72, it sits at a mid-range price point. You can find cheaper daypacks, but you will likely sacrifice durability. For the build quality you get here, we think it represents good value for hikers who want something that will last several seasons. --- ## **Best Uses for Ohio Hikers** - **Day hikes at state parks** \- The 24L capacity is ideal for 4-8 hour outings at places like Hocking Hills or John Bryan - **Metro park exploring** \- Enough room for essentials plus a camera for wildlife photography - **Fall and winter hikes** \- Fits extra layers, gloves, and a thermos easily - **Hiking with dogs** \- Plenty of pockets for pet supplies without digging through the main compartment --- ## **Final Thoughts** The WOLF TACTICAL Molle Backpack is a solid choice for hikers who value organization and durability over ultralight minimalism. It has handled everything we have thrown at it on Ohio trails and continues to hold up well after months of regular use. If you are in the market for a rugged daypack that can do double duty for hiking and everyday carry, we highly recommend giving it a look. You can find the WOLF TACTICAL Molle Backpack on Amazon where it currently holds a 4.5 out of 5 star rating from other buyers. It is well worth considering for your next trail adventure. Happy trails! 🥾 Ready to upgrade your hiking gear? [Get the WOLF TACTICAL Molle Backpack on Amazon.](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B088899FPD?ref=t%5Fac%5Fview%5Frequest%5Fproduct%5Fimage&campaignId=amzn1.campaign.1HRLOPHT6RJQY&linkCode=tr1&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkId=amzn1.campaign.1HRLOPHT6RJQY%5F1766268416370) ### AmeriFlora '92: Columbus Garden Festival History URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/ameriflora-92/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:43:22.000Z AmeriFlora was established on November 14, 1986, and in 1989 it was recognized as an official 1992 commemorative event by the United States Christopher Columbus Quincentenary Jubilee Commission. The organizers aimed to draw national attention and give the otherwise quiet city a spot “on the map.” Touted as the first International Floral and Garden Exhibition in the U.S., it brought together central Ohio residents, event planners, and horticultural experts who began planning in the mid-1980s. By 1992, the team had grown to over 200 full-time staff members. [](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Ameriflora01.JPG?ref=hiking-ohio.com)Franklin Park was part of AmeriFlora's bid for use of the site. It required not only cleaning it up for the exposition but removing all traces of the event and returning it to the city as a public park. --- ### Franklin Park Conservatory The Franklin Park Conservatory, built in 1895 and inspired by the Glass Palace from the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago, stands proudly on its grounds. A $16 million renovation and expansion turned the Victorian landmark into the highlight of AmeriFlora and Franklin Park. Today, the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a beautiful destination in Columbus, Ohio, located at: 1755 E. Broad St., Columbus, Ohio 43203. Hours of operation: 7 a.m.-11 p.m. Parking at Franklin Park is available in lots located off E Broad St and Franklin Park W. It is open daily, and an admission fee is charged. Today, it is a horticultural and educational institution showcasing exotic plant collections, special exhibitions, and Dale Chihuly artworks. The conservatory contains more than 400 plant species. Biomes representing global climate zones include: . Himalayan Mountains, . Tropical Rainforest, . Desert, . And Pacific Island Water Garden. . Additional plant collections include a Bonsai Courtyard, Showhouse with seasonal displays, orchids and tropical bonsai collections, and Palm House with more than 40 species of palms. The conservatory is set within the Franklin Park neighborhood, and surrounded by Franklin Park, the 88-acre city park of the same name. Built in 1895, the conservatory was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974 and became part of the new Columbus Near East Side District in 1978. In 1852, the Franklin County Agriculture Society bought 88 acres of land just two miles east of downtown Columbus to host the first Franklin County Fair. By 1874, recognizing its value, they expanded it to 93 acres and officially designated it as the site of the Ohio State Fair. The state fair was held on the site until 1884, when it moved to a new location north of Columbus, leaving the lot abandoned. Then, on May 17, 1886, the Ohio State Legislature officially brought it back to life by declaring it open for use as a public park. In 1893, the Chicago World’s Fair and Columbian Exposition was a hugely influential social and cultural event. It inspired Columbus to build a horticulture hall modeled after the fair’s Glass Palace. This grand Victorian-style glass structure was constructed in Franklin Park and opened to the public in 1895 as the Franklin Park Conservatory. From 1895 to 1989, Columbus Recreation and Parks Department owned and operated the conservatory. Unfortunately, little is known about the conservatory's earliest days, as a fire in Columbus City Hall destroyed its records in 1921\. Much of the conservatory's history has been documented from newspapers and personal written accounts. For a short period starting in 1927, animals were kept in the lower rooms of the conservatory. In 1929, these animals left the conservatory and became part of the first Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. Over the years, the facility earned a reputation for its outstanding horticulture and its collection of rare, unique plants. The conservatory also grew into a favorite spot for family gatherings, weddings, and other special occasions. In 1974, in recognition of the conservatory's historic and architectural merit, the original glass structure, today known as the Palm House, was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. [![AmeriFlora 92 - Hiking Ohio photo](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/fb/Ameriflora_%2792%2C_Franklin_Park_01.jpg/250px-Ameriflora_%2792%2C_Franklin_Park_01.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Ameriflora%5F%2792,%5FFranklin%5FPark%5F01.jpg?ref=hiking-ohio.com) The conservatory and park during AmeriFlora '92 ### Ameriflora '92 In 1992, Columbus hosted Ameriflora '92, selecting Franklin Park and its conservatory as the venue for the six-month international horticultural exposition. Renovations to the historic Palm House and a $14 million expansion kicked off in 1989, adding 58,000 square feet to the conservatory with new plant collections, classrooms, a library, gift shop, café, and administrative offices. ![AmeriFlora 92 - Hiking Ohio photo](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765987655238-Ameriflora-Colombus-August-1992-7.jpg) ![AmeriFlora 92 - Hiking Ohio photo](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765987655743-b75b772a-707c-43b0-91dc-a795d8b359ad-AMERIFLORA_1992.webp) ![AmeriFlora 92 - Hiking Ohio photo](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765987655123-d1f43cebb6f96e89f233cc4a11a7be21.jpg) ![AmeriFlora 92 - Hiking Ohio photo](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765987654428-R.jpg) After AmeriFlora, the future of Franklin Park Conservatory was uncertain. To ensure its long-term management, the Ohio Legislature established the Franklin Park Conservatory Joint Recreation District. The conservatory and its surrounding 28 acres were handed over to a new 10-member board of trustees and an executive director. With a small but dedicated team of staff and volunteers, and a $500,000 operating budget, the institution began to rebuild its identity and momentum. The Topiary Park in downtown Columbus was also created as an exhibit for the festival. Check out my recent blog on the Topiary Park. [](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Ameriflora02.JPG?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### Why AmeriFlora '92 Was Not an Economic Success Despite years of heavy publicity and marketing, AmeriFlora failed to draw enough visitors to cover expenses, especially as costs soared even before the gates opened. Also cited as reasons for low attendance were: . Torrential rain of about 14 inches in July that flooded the lagoons, . A lack of interest from the surrounding black community, . A boycott by Native Americans due to its celebration of Christopher Columbus, . The exhibition's unclear image as a flower show vs. as a theme park, a lack of enthusiasm for it by professional horticulturalists, . And its $20 admission which would be$45 in 2024. What was originally planned to be a two-week floral festival evolved into a six-month extravaganza, with the idea being that more tickets could be sold in 26 weeks than two. As operating costs mounted and corporate sponsorships failed to materialize, the attendance projections—and ticket prices—rose accordingly. After the costly flop of the 1989 Son of Heaven Chinese art show, which left city and state governments covering $1.6 million in losses, AmeriFlora’s organizers took a different approach. They secured $33 million in public funds before the event even began. But when AmeriFlora underperformed, The Columbus Dispatch stepped in with a $2.6 million check to turn the 88-acre site into a promised public park. While an escrow account was set up for the funds, part of the money was expected to come from ticket sales, which fell short. John F. Wolfe, publisher of the Dispatch, also happened to be President of AmeriFlora’s Board of Trustees. [](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Ameriflora%5F%2792,%5FFranklin%5FPark%5F01.jpg?ref=hiking-ohio.com)AmeriFlora closed on Columbus Day 1992, but the cleanup, demolition of buildings, and conversion of the grounds into a public park extended into the winter months. Franklin Park Conservatory became the property of the non-profit Franklin Park Joint Recreation District, which still operates the facility today. --- ### Conclusion I remember the AmeriFlora '92, but I didn't get to visit it. It was too expensive at the time for my family. However, my husband was able to go on field trips with our sons to visit AmeriFlora. It is a shame that more people didn't get to enjoy it because of the cost. Today, Franklin Park is a very beautiful park with plenty of room to walk and plenty of shade during the hot summer months. There is not an official hiking trail, but the area is a nice place to walk with plenty to see. The conservatory is still there and is open with entry fees that vary by day and season. For example: Wednesday, December 17, 2025 Daily Admission: All In Public Pricing - Adult $24 + Culture Fee $1.20= $25.20 - Senior $20 + Culture Fee $1.00 = $21.00 - Child (3-12 yrs) $16.50 + Culture Fee $.83 = $17.33 The entry to Franklin Park is free. Go visit Franklin Park, you won't regret it! ### Rocky Fork Metro Park: Trails, Map & Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/rocky-fork-metro-park/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T13:01:04.000Z Trail FactsRocky Fork Metro Park2.5 miDistanceEasyDifficulty150 ftElevation1.5 hrsDurationLoopTypeYear RoundDog-friendlyWildlife Rocky Fork Metro Park preserves woodlands, meadows and wetlands around Rocky Fork Creek, with riparian corridors and created/managed wetlands that support wildlife and birding. Riparian means relating to or living or located on the bank of a natural watercourse (such as a river) or sometimes of a lake or a tidewater. Note: there is another “Rocky Fork State Park” (Highland County) with archaeological Hopewell sites — don’t confuse the two. The Metro Park near New Albany is a Franklin-County area park focused on trails, meadows and floodplain/wetland habitat. --- ## History Rocky Fork Metro Park is about 1,096 acres in the Rocky Fork corridor. The Initial land gift: the first \~107–108-acre parcel was donated by the New Albany Company to the City of New Albany, then conveyed to Metro Parks in November 2008\. The initial land gift: the first \~107–108-acre parcel was donated by the New Albany Company to the City of New Albany, then conveyed to Metro Parks in November 2008. Much of the land that became the park was private farmland and large estate/farm parcels including the historic Taylor Farm area that dates back to the 1800s. In the early 1800s, the Taylor family owned about 650 acres of farmland in the area. The brick farmhouse on the site is dated around 1842, having been built by Anthony Wayne Taylor. The homestead was handed down across generations. Local municipalities and developers like the New Albany Company owned or controlled key tracts before donating or selling them for park creation. Acquisition and development were paid for by a mix of Metro Parks funds, municipal contributions from City of Columbus, City of New Albany and Plain Township, Clean Ohio grants and private donations and gifts. Work was completed in time for an official opening of the park in August 2015\. A separate bridle trail and horse corral was completed before the end of the year. --- ![Rocky Fork Metro Park near Westerville and New Albany, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765061586640-Screenshot%202025-12-06%20175146.jpg) ## Getting there Rocky Fork Metro Park 7180 E. Walnut St., Westerville, OH 43081 Horse Trailer Parking Lot 8189 Bevelhymer Road, Westerville, OH 43081 --- ## Trails [Map: 7180 E. Walnut St., Westerville, OH 43081](https://www.google.com/maps/place/7180+E+Walnut+Street,+Westerville+OH+43081?ref=hiking-ohio.com) #### Beech Woodland **1.3 miles** **Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – Paved** Loops through a wooded area with vernal pools and large beech trees. #### Bridle **3 miles** **Easy – Horseback riding only – Grass and paved** Bridle Trail passes through woods and open fields. A bridle trail, approximately 3 miles long, goes through wooded areas and open fields. There is a separate entrance for horse trailer parking only, at 8189 Bevelhymer Road. No pets! #### Dog **0.3 miles** **Easy – Hike, Pets – Gravel** An off-leash pet-friendly trail with two loops through a wooded area and past a wetland. #### Millstone Connector **0.5 miles** **Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – Paved** Path runs parallel to the park road and links from Walnut Street to the Millstone Picnic Area. Connects to the Beech Woodland Trail. #### North Meadow **1 mile** **Easy – Hike – Grass** Passes over a small earthen dam, along a pond and loops around a restored native meadow. #### Bevelhymer **0.5 miles** **Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – Paved** Continues out of park to Bevelhymer Park. ***Domesticated dogs and cats are also permitted in picnic areas, parking lots and on roadways. Pets shall be on a leash no longer than 6 feet.*** --- ## Dog Park Rocky Fork Metro Park has a fenced-in 1.8-acre dog park. One side is for small dogs and the other side is for large dogs. ![Rocky Fork Metro Park near Westerville and New Albany, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765062695979-IMG_7663.webp) ## Picnic Shelters The Dog Park area and the Millstone area have picnic shelters available on a first-come, first-served basis, featuring tables and grills. The Millstone Picnic Area also has a playground and swings. There are also picnic tables and grills scattered throughout the park. **New Albany Village Planner** The idea of creating this park can be traced to Keith Myers, the New Albany Village Planner from 1991 to 2012\. The plan was to create a park that would preserve the rural character of the area and recognize the community’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability. ![Rocky Fork Metro Park near Westerville and New Albany, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765062218872-Photo473237.jpg) *Erected 2015 by The New Albany Community Foundation.* Rocky Fork is managed day-to-day by staff from Blendon Woods Metro Park. ![IMG_7643.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765062639911-IMG_7643.webp) ![IMG_7589.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765062640710-IMG_7589.webp) ![IMG_7597.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765062646364-IMG_7597.webp) ![IMG_7600.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765062644508-IMG_7600.webp) ![IMG_7601.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765062648062-IMG_7601.webp) ![IMG_7608.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765062638148-IMG_7608.webp) ![IMG_7611.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765062647674-IMG_7611.webp) ![IMG_7617.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765062648101-IMG_7617.webp) ![IMG_7621.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765062643619-IMG_7621.webp) ## Conclusion Rocky Fork Metro Park is a very nice park to visit. The trails are easy and well-maintained. Our dog Luther enjoyed it immensely. ![IMG_7604.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/12/1765063113396-IMG_7604.webp) We will definitely return to walk there and bring Luther! **Trail at a Glance — Rocky Fork Metro Park** | **Distance** | More than 3 miles of trails (about a 2.5-mile easy loop) | | ------------------ | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | **Elevation gain** | 150 ft | | **Difficulty** | Easy | | **Best season** | Year-round | | **Dogs** | Leashed dogs welcome; dog park and off-leash trail on site | | **Highlights** | 1,096 acres of woods and fields, a bridle trail, and oversized wooden chairs | | **Address** | 7180 East Walnut Street, Westerville, OH 43081 | ## Explore Nearby Trails More Ohio trail guides worth a visit: - [Homestead Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/homestead-metro-park/) - [Scioto Grove Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/scioto-grove-met/) - [Three Creeks Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/three-creeks-park/) - [Pine Quarry Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/pine-quarry/) - [Best Hikes Near Columbus](https://hiking-ohio.com/best-hikes-near-columbus-ohio-15-trails-worth-your-weekend/) - [All Columbus & Franklin County Metro Parks](https://hiking-ohio.com/columbus-franklin-county-metro-parks/) ### Central Ohio Greenways: Trail Map & Hiking Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/central-ohio-greenways-cog/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:02:10.000Z Trail FactsCentral Ohio Greenways 120 miDistance EasyDifficulty 500 ftElevation 48 hrsDuration Point to PointType Year RoundDog-friendlyScenic view ## The first greenway-style trail in Columbus was built in 1976 along the Scioto River in downtown. Over the years, the trail network expanded beyond the city limits, linking parks, neighborhoods, and cultural landmarks. The Central Ohio Greenways is a regional, multi-municipality effort. The network now includes over 230 miles of multi-use trails. It’s managed via partnerships: Columbus Recreation & Parks Department handles construction and maintenance of trails within the city, while Franklin County Metro Parks oversees many segments. MORPC (Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission) and a Central Ohio Greenways Board support planning. The Columbus Park Foundation has a “People Trail Project,” aiming to fund trail expansion so that a trail is accessible within 7.5 miles (or 15 minutes) for more residents. --- ### **Where Did The Land Come From For The Trails?** In Columbus, many greenways follow old railroad rights-of-way, now mostly public property, transformed into trails through a mix of purchases, donations, and partnerships. Over time, railroads often change hands, with corridors starting under one company before being merged, sold, or abandoned, passing through owners like Penn Central or Conrail. Today, many trails and greenways are owned or managed by public agencies such as cities, park departments, or park districts, rather than active railroads. Some of this land is acquired through conservation grants like the Clean Ohio Trails Fund, while other parcels come from community groups or coalitions that purchase and donate them to parks, or from direct government purchases. **Examples of Trails Following Former Rail Corridor:** **Linden Green Line**\-This is a 7-mile linear park in Columbus that will follow a former rail corridor. According to the project documents, Columbus Recreation & Parks acquired the abandoned rail corridor to build this greenway. The rail corridor had previously been owned by a railroad (or multiple, over time). **Heritage Rail Trail / Heritage Trail Metro Park**\-The Heritage Rail Trail is explicitly converted from an abandoned railroad right-of-way. The right-of-way belonged to older railroad companies: e.g., the Columbus, Piqua, and Indiana Railroad. In the 1990s, after the railroad was abandoned, a coalition (the Heritage Rail-Trail Coalition) raised funds to buy the corridor. Some of that land was donated to Metro Parks for the trail. **Whittier Peninsula / Scioto Audubon Area**\-Historically, the Whittier Peninsula (now part of Scioto Audubon Metro Park) was heavily used by railroads (e.g., Hocking Valley Railroad, Toledo & Ohio Central Railway). Over time, parts of that land changed hands; for example, some parcels were sold off from the railroad companies. Metro Parks and the City of Columbus now own much of the greenway / park land there. --- ### Why Are Greenways Important? Columbus greenways are more than just places to play—they help preserve and restore natural habitats, especially along river corridors. They’re also important transportation routes, with many trails forming part of larger networks like the Ohio to Erie Trail, which stretches across the state. The Scioto Greenways project has been especially transformative, reclaiming land, improving the river’s ecology, and bringing new life to the riverfront. Strong coordination between the city, county, and planning commission keeps the greenways connected and cohesive. Altogether, these trails boost quality of life, support economic growth, and strengthen environmental resilience. --- ### **Directions** To get directions to the Central Ohio Greenways, you can use the following resources: - You can search for "Central Ohio Greenways" on Google Maps to get specific trail directions and nearby spots. - Check out the Central Ohio Greenways website for a detailed map of trails and bikeways. - The trails are managed by Metro Parks, which shares helpful info about locations, and the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department also offers resources on how to access them. - [Greenway Trails Alerts](https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=c671d1b292a793e9435927d35c29580f18f25510cb4318416cad2cf48e6e7374JmltdHM9MTc2NDIwMTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=3fd6a1c9-d048-637b-29f8-b478d1296299&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cubW9ycGMub3JnL2NlbnRyYWwtb2hpby1ncmVlbndheXMv&ntb=1&ref=hiking-ohio.com) Sign up to get text alerts on your cell phone for Greenway Trail closings, hazards and construction information. Text “Greenways” to [1-781-728-9542](tel:17817289542) or go to [https://mobile-text-alerts.com/metroparks](https://platform.mobile-text-alerts.com/subscribe/MetroParks?ref=hiking-ohio.com) and select “Greenways” --- ## Central Ohio Greenway Trails ### Alum Creek Trail **24.5 miles** \- paved – The trail runs south from Westerville to Three Creeks Metro Park. The Alum Creek Trail travels along one of the city’s most scenic river corridors, from Westerville through Columbus to Three Creeks Park. Sections of the Alum Creek Trail are also designated as part of the [Ohio to Erie Trail](https://www.ohiotoerietrail.org/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) and [U.S. Bicycle Route 50](https://www.transportation.ohio.gov/programs/active+transportation/resources/state-us-bike-route-system?ref=hiking-ohio.com). *Metro Parks manages a 22-mile section of the trail south of I-270 in Westerville to its end in Three Creeks, where it meets with the Blacklick Creek Trail.* ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1764260209820-Screenshot 2025-11-20 184545.png) ### Big Walnut Trail There’s a project to connect a segment along Big Walnut Creek to the Alum Creek Trail. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1764260247473-Screenshot 2025-11-20 184602.png) ### Blacklick Creek Trail **16 miles** \- paved – This scenic trail weaves users through the Blacklick Creek greenway corridor. Users of this trail can travel to three Metro Parks: Pickerington Ponds, Blacklick Woods and Three Creeks. *Metro Parks manages all sections of the Blacklick Creek Greenway Trail, except for a short section north of Blacklick Woods Metro Park.* ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1764260285059-Screenshot 2025-11-20 184731.png) ### Camp Chase Trail (part of the Ohio to Erie Trail) **12.5 miles** \- paved – This bike trail takes users from Wilson Road in Madison County, weaves through Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park and continues to Sullivant Avenue in Columbus. It is also part of the more extensive Ohio to Erie Trail and US Bicycle route 50. *Metro Parks manages the Camp Chase Trail.* ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1764260838859-Screenshot 2025-11-20 184615.png) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1764260839147-Screenshot 2025-11-20 184818.png) ### **Darby Creek Trail** **8.3 miles** \- crushed gravel – A 4.9-mile section of the trail runs through Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park. A 3.4-mile section runs through Prairie Oaks Metro Park. *Metro Parks manages all of the Darby Creek Trail.* ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1764260324928-Screenshot 2025-11-20 184511.png) ### Downtown Connector Trail **5 miles** \- paved – The bike trail travels from Fort Hayes, east along I-670, following Leonard Avenue. It connects to the Alum Creek Trail at Nelson Road. *Metro Parks manages a 0.75-mile section of the trail.* ### Genoa Trail The Genoa Trail is part of the regional greenway network and appears on the Central Ohio Greenways site as a section of the larger Ohio to Erie Trail. This stretch runs from Big Walnut Road to Plumb Road and covers about 2.13 miles, offering an almost entirely wooded path with plenty of shade and opportunities to spot wildlife. Trailheads and parking can be found near the Hoover Nature Preserve and McNamara Park in Genoa Township. As part of the Ohio-to-Erie network, it serves both long-distance connections and local access. ### Hayden Run Trail The Hayden Run Trail, listed by Columbus Recreation and Parks as a developing Central Ohio Greenway, runs from Northwest Columbus to Hilliard along Hayden Run. Right now, about 1.97 miles of the trail exist in two separate sections. Once fully built as part of the Greenbelt Network, it will serve as a scenic link between the Heritage and Scioto Trails. It’s included in local transportation and trail planning, with ongoing projects like the funded “Hayden Run Trail Extension,” which will connect neighborhoods east of Leppert Road to Hilliard’s trail system, linking the Heritage Rail Trail, Hellbranch Trail, and more. Since it’s still in progress, the trail is in segments, so it’s best to check for closures and current connections before heading out for a ride or walk. ### Hellbranch Trail The Hellbranch Trail is part of the Central Ohio Greenways, running from Spindler Road Park to the Heritage Trail corridor, with a mix of asphalt and gravel sections. While shorter and more modest than some main spine trails, it plays an important role in connecting the Hilliard, Plain City, and northwest suburban areas. The Heritage Trail links directly with Hellbranch, stretching from historic Old Hilliard to Plain City, offering access to neighborhoods and parks along the way. Regional planning documents note that the Hellbranch corridor is slated for future connections and improvements, including potential extensions along Broad Street (US 40) to Roberts Road, so trail users should watch for gaps. ### Heritage Trail **6.1 miles** \- paved – The trail runs from the historic Old Hilliard district to Plain City. *Metro Parks manages a 3.7-mile section of the trail.* #### ### Olentangy Trail **15 miles** \- paved – This scenic trail takes users through the Olentangy greenway corridor, from Worthington Hills Park south to Confluence Park in downtown Columbus. Recently (2024–2025), parts of the Olentangy Trail are under construction for improvements. *Metro Parks manages 11 miles of the trail, from Worthington Hills to I-270 on the north side, Antrim Park to Lane Avenue, and King Avenue to Confluence Park.* ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1764260397989-Screenshot 2025-11-20 184531.png) ### Rocky Fork Trail The Rocky Fork Trail is an evolving Central Ohio Greenway along Rocky Fork Creek, connecting areas between Northeast Columbus, Gahanna, and New Albany. According to the COG site, about 3.57 miles of the trail currently exist, spread across five separate sections. Trailheads and nearby parks include Rocky Fork Metro Park, New Albany’s Bevelhymer Park, and Thompson Park, among others. Rocky Fork Metro Park features beautiful natural areas and scenic views along the creek, making parts of the trail great for walking or hiking. Since the trail is still segmented, keep in mind that it isn’t yet fully continuous across the corridor. ### Scioto Mile and Scioto Trail **10 miles** \- paved – The trail stretches through the heart of Columbus alongside the Scioto River and runs through Scioto Audubon Metro Park. It is a great trail for commuting downtown. *Metro Parks manages 8 miles of the trail, from SR 104 north to Bicentennial Park, Veteran’s Memorial west to Souder Avenue, and Confluence Park west through Marble Cliff to Fifth Avenue, and patrols to other parts of the trail.* ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1764260864482-Screenshot 2025-11-20 184653.png) The *Scioto Mile* is the connected network of riverfront parks and promenades in downtown Columbus opened in July 2011\. The Scioto Greenways Project in downtown Columbus was part of the city’s 2010 Downtown Strategic Plan, with a major highlight being the removal of the low-head Main Street Dam. This change revealed land along the Scioto River that had been submerged, allowing for ecological restoration that reshaped the river, narrowed its channel, and created a more natural flow. Completed in November 2015, the project added 33 acres of greenspace, 1.5 miles of multi-use trails, and several river access points. Funded by a public-private partnership at a cost of about $36 million for the greenways portion, it has earned awards for design, sustainability, and implementation. Beyond recreation, it enhances river ecology and offers access for kayaks, canoes, and other non-motorized boats. --- ### COG Board Established in 2015, the COG Board’s mission addresses the demand to expand the number of trail miles, increase access to trails, and encourage the use of trails for everyone. In 2018, COG developed a Regional Trail Vision to add more than 500 miles of trails to its existing 230-mile network across seven counties. These proposed miles extend existing trails, fill gaps in trail corridors, connect neighborhoods to job centers, and create a truly interconnected network serving as the backbone of the region’s active transportation and outdoor recreation network. As Central Ohio’s population is projected to reach 3.1 million by 2050, trails will play an increasingly critical role in providing transportation alternatives, access to nature, and a sense of communal connection. --- ### Outdoor Trails Pass Resources A partnership between Experience Columbus and the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission created the Columbus Outdoor Trail Pass. This program encourages residents and visitors to explore various Central Ohio destinations by utilizing Central Ohio Greenways and local trails. Participants are incentivized by being automatically entered into local gift card drawings whenever they check in at a destination with their pass. For details on this program and how to enroll, the Outdoor Trails Pass Resource Page serves as a valuable source. Additionally, the page features two maps outlining the pass’s curated itineraries. These thoughtfully crafted routes guide users on exciting adventures along the greenways, facilitating stops at various engaging destinations along the way. [Click Here to Access the Columbus Outdoor Trails Pass Resource Page.](https://www.morpc.org/outdoor-trails-pass-resources/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) [Click Here to Access the Columbus Outdoor Trails Pass.](https://www.experiencecolumbus.com/marketplace/outdoortrails/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### **Conclusion** The Central Ohio Greenways "COG" are a wonderful way to explore the Columbus area. As more and more trails are finished, there is so much more to see. I highly suggest either a hike or biking on these trails. You won't regret it. ## ## ### Camp Nelson National Monument: Trail & History URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/camp-nelson-national-monument/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:02:06.000Z Trail FactsCamp Nelson National Monument 1.5 miDistance EasyDifficulty 100 ftElevation 45 minDuration LoopType Year RoundScenic view Camp Nelson was established by the US Army back in April 1863\. Originally, it served as a fortified supply depot during the Civil War. But as time went on, it evolved into a recruitment and training center for African American soldiers—known as the United States Colored Troops. It even became a refuge for families and civilians fleeing the turmoil of war. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1763586333876-nelson.jpg) --- ### **Camp Nelson Timeline (Civil War → Present)** ### **1863** - **June:** Union Army establishes Camp Nelson as a major supply depot, logistics hub, and training center to support operations in Tennessee. ### **1864** - **January–June:** Expansion of warehouses, hospitals, stables, and defensive works. - **June:** Camp Nelson begins recruiting U.S. Colored Troops (USCT). - **Summer–Fall:** Thousands of enslaved men enlist. Their families come seeking freedom, forming informal refugee communities. - **November:** Union authorities expel hundreds of women and children in cold weather; many die. Outcry leads to reforms. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1763586368267-Refugee-Tents.jpg) ### **1865** - **February–March:** Refugee housing and services expand; Camp Nelson becomes one of the largest wartime emancipation centers. - **April:** Civil War ends; demobilization begins. - **Fall:** Camp operations shrink drastically. ### **1866** - Camp officially closed and abandoned by the Army. ### **1860s–1900s** - Many camp buildings are dismantled; farmland returns. ### **Late 20th century** - Local historians and preservation groups begin protecting surviving structures and landscapes. ### **1990s–2010s** - The museum and interpretive center open; archaeological studies expand understanding of the camp. ### **2018** - Camp Nelson becomes an official **U.S. National Monument** (National Park Service). ### **Today** - The site preserves critical Civil War and African American history, with trails, restored structures, and interpretive exhibits. Camp Nelson played a significant role in the abolition movement and the fight for civil rights. Check out any informational plaques or signs along the trails to learn more about this important chapter in history. --- ![](https://www.nps.gov/common/uploads/structured_data/119F3F0E-B0B2-A7CA-B9FAEA96181BD118.jpg) ## Location 6614 Danville Loop 2 Road Nicholasville, KY 40356 #### Visitor Center Hours From Memorial Day to Labor Day: Monday-Sunday 9:00am-5:00pm The rest of the year: Wednesday-Sunday 9:00am-5:00pm #### **Email us:** [Camp Nelson National Monument](https://home.nps.gov/common/utilities/sendmail/sendemail.cfm?o=6884D5BEA2FAA1BA9B9B1DBFEA59ACA250&r=/cane/contacts.htm&ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ### Historical Overview Camp Nelson was located in Jessamine County, south of Lexington along the Kentucky River palisades and it was one of the most important Union Army installations in the Civil War. Camp Nelson was established by the U.S. Army in April 1863\. It started as a fortified supply depot during the Civil War but quickly transformed into a vital recruitment and training center for African American soldiers. This camp became a refuge for families and individuals looking for safety, freedom, and a new beginning. The full wartime installation covered approximately 4,000 acres, with: - Fortifications - Barracks - Stables - Supply depots-It became the third-largest Union supply installation, after Louisville and Nashville. - Hospitals- It operated large medical facilities for troops in Kentucky and Tennessee. - Refugee camps-Enslaved men who enlisted brought wives, children, and elderly relatives seeking freedom. Camp Nelson became one of the war’s largest emancipation and refugee centers. - Army Recruitment Center-A major site for enlisting U.S. Colored Troops (USCT) beginning in 1864. The preserved federal park today is around **525 acres** (expanding slightly as new acreage is added). --- ### History of the Oliver Perry House (“White House”) It’s the only remaining Civil War–era building in Camp Nelson’s core, making it historically significant, as many key decisions about supply, training, and refugee support were made there. It is a historic 1850s home used as officers’ quarters and headquarters. The structure helps illustrate the contrast between civilian Kentucky and the bustling military camp around it. The house was built around 1855–1856 by Oliver Perry and his wife, Fannie Scott Perry, on land owned by Fannie’s mother, Mary Scott. It’s a two-story Greek Revival frame home. In 1863, when Camp Nelson became a major Union Army supply, training, and recruitment center, the army took over the Perry House as headquarters. Major General George L. Hartsuff used it before his East Tennessee Campaign in August 1863, and later Captain Theron E. Hall and other quartermaster and commissary officers worked there. During the occupation, the detached kitchen burned (1865–1866) and was replaced with a two-story addition that still stands. The house overlooks Officers’ Spring, which supplied water for officers, and restoration uncovered graffiti from Captain Hall, offering a personal link to its wartime past. After the war, the Perrys regained the home, which stayed in the family until 1948\. Jessamine County bought it in 1997 for preservation, and it later became part of the Camp Nelson National Monument under the National Park Service in 2018\. Restorations included a Historic Structure Report and paint analysis to identify the original colors. --- ### **Why site was chosen** - High bluffs / river palisades: Situated on dramatic limestone cliffs above the Kentucky River, providing natural defense. - Rolling uplands: The main camp area rests on gently rolling plateau terrain. - Karst landscape: Includes sinkholes, limestone outcrops, and caves typical of Kentucky’s Inner Bluegrass region. - Ravines and steep slopes: Natural ravines helped define defensive perimeters. - Around 800–900 feet above sea level, with the cliffs dropping sharply toward the river. - Fortifications & Earthworks-Original earthen defensive positions built along the high bluffs. Walking trails take you along: - Rifle pits - Artillery positions - High-ground overlook of the Kentucky River Palisades --- ## **Visitor Center & Museum** ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1763586399261-10036532_06ff8322-74fb-4e33-9650-a9d00184413a_700.jpeg) Features exhibits, artifacts, and immersive displays covering: - African American enlistment - Refugee life at the camp - Logistics, supply operations, and the camp’s vast infrastructure - Short orientation film available. --- ### **The Home for Colored Refugees Site** One of the most historically important areas. Here, families of Black soldiers found protection and began new lives in freedom. Exhibits and wayside signs explain: - How the refugee community grew - The struggles during the 1864 expulsion - Daily life in the temporary housing “shanty towns” --- ### Graveyard No. 1 (Military Cemetery) Resting place for Union soldiers and refugees who died at the camp. Quiet, reflective space with interpretive markers explaining the medical operations and losses during winter 1864. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1763586576590-CEM73283_e91996e5-ffe2-4698-8fdf-b343771cc8d4.jpeg) --- ### Quartermaster Depot Area Though buildings are gone, signs show where the huge warehouses, stables, and shops once stood. This area was the heart of: - Wagon and mule operations - Distribution of clothing, equipment, and weapons - Transportation logistics into Tennessee ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1763586628706-Bakery-for-PR-960w.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1763586628544-Camp-Nelson-National-Monument-US-Sanitary-Commission-Soldiers-Home-sm.webp) --- ### Archer House Ruins and Hospital Sites These areas help interpret the enormous medical complex once present: - Infantry hospitals - Cholera wards - Quarantine areas Waysides describe treatments and medical challenges of the 1860s. --- ![](https://www.nps.gov/common/uploads/structured_data/090E9C4A-FC3A-4F38-7EB194A4A38CA49C.png) ## Trails Lengths and Difficulty ### Depot Trail .5 miles A loop starting at the Visitor Center. Goes through sites connected to the supply function of the camp. (Warehouse, prison, bakery, merchants row) ### Fort Trail .5 miles Fort Jackson, reconstructed barracks and meadow trail with views of infantry entrenchments. ### Fort Putnam Loop .3 miles Short loop behind the Visitor Center. ### Long Fort Trail 1.3 miles East of Fort Putnam, trail goes through open fields to other earthworks. (Fort Pope, Fort Taylor, Fort McKee) Also engineers' quarters, corrals, and stables. ### Fort Jones/Overlook Trail 1.2 miles Starts via Long Fort Trail. Leads to Fort Jones and two stone forest, plus a lookout over Hickman Creek Valley. There are over 4 miles of trails, generally ranging from easy to moderate. Slopes are gentle, especially on Depot Trail, though some sections like Fort Trail and Long Fort Trail run through open fields with little shade. Since parts of the area are fragile earthen fortifications, walking or climbing on them is prohibited. The Fort Jones / Overlook Trail winds through shaded woods, making it more comfortable in hot weather, though reaching its trailhead requires some exposed walking. The park is open from dawn to dusk for foot traffic, and leashed pets are welcome. Start at the Visitor Center — from there, you can access most of the trails, and there are interpretive signs to learn about the history. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1763586662431-Camp-Nelson-Trail-Map.jpg) --- ### **Conclusion** Camp Nelson Park is a fantastic place to spend the day. There is plenty of history to discover. I never thought too much about logistics for the Civil War. I never knew about the recruiting U.S. Colored Troops (USCT).Or that thousands of enslaved men enlisted and their families came seeking freedom and formed informal refugee communities at Camp Nelson. It is well worth the trip and a beautiful place to hike. --- [Google MapsGo and hike the trails at Camp Nelson National Monument!![](https://www.nps.gov/common/uploads/structured_data/11851AF9-CE35-640C-9C9DEA64AADA7062.jpg)](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=37.7970179913%2C--84.598168306&ref=hiking-ohio.com) If you have something you would like to submit to have posted on this website, such as a blog submission or a new hiking trail you think we should check out, please contact us below! ### Marietta Ohio: River Trails & Hiking Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/marietta/ Last updated: 2026-08-06T12:57:10.000Z Trail FactsMarietta 2.5 miDistance EasyDifficulty 50 ftElevation 1 hrDuration Out & BackType Year RoundKid-friendlyScenic view Marietta, Ohio, has a rich history connected to river exploration, early American expansion, and outdoor recreation. Founded in 1788, Marietta was the first permanent settlement in the Northwest Territory, making it the oldest city in Ohio. It was established by the Ohio Company of Associates, a group of Revolutionary War veterans led by Rufus Putnam. The city’s name honors Marie Antoinette of France, recognizing France’s assistance during the Revolutionary War. Marietta became a key hub for western expansion and early frontier life, with ties to the spirit of exploration that also characterized the Lewis and Clark Expedition (though the expedition itself launched from St. Louis, Marietta was a major stopover for settlers moving westward around the same time period). --- ### **Ohio River & Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge** The Ohio River defines Marietta’s southern border, where it meets the Muskingum River. Buckley Island, located in the Ohio River just south of Marietta, is part of the Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge. Buckley Island lies in the Ohio River between Marietta, Ohio (on the Ohio side) and Williamstown, West Virginia (on the West Virginia side). The main access point for the nearby refuge chap is the visitor center of the Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge, located at 3982 Waverly Road, Williamstown, WV. There’s a public boat ramp under/near SR 14 bridge in Williamstown, WV, which is noted as one of the access ramps for Buckley Island. Boat or kayak/canoe access is needed. The island is not accessible by car. Wear sturdy footwear, expect underbrush and steep banks/rocky shore when landing. The refuge warns of “steep banks and rock dikes” on islands. Visit in daylight only: the refuge states its lands (including islands) are open from one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset. Bring water, sun protection, and insect repellent. Since the island has no facilities (no restrooms on the island) you’ll need to be self-sufficient. Observe refuge rules: No camping, no open fires, no cutting firewood, no permanent structures, no collecting artifacts. ![https://ohioriverparksproject.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/websize-wva-natl-wildlife-refuge-middle-island_0003.jpg](https://ohioriverparksproject.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/websize-wva-natl-wildlife-refuge-middle-island_0003.jpg) For easier trails/less challenge: stay on the mainland tract (near visitor center) where there are maintained trails like the Upland Trail (≈1.2 miles) and Riverview Trail. ## Buckley Island History ![https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/52/Buckley_Island.jpg](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/52/Buckley_Island.jpg) There was an amusement park on Buckley Island (on the Ohio River between Marietta, Ohio and Williamstown, West Virginia). Historically known by several names (DeVoll’s, Kerr, Marietta and Meigs Island) before becoming known as Buckley Island. In 1897, the Buckeye and Eureka Pipeline Company (BEPC), also known as Buckeye-Eureka Park. purchased the island and developed an amusement park on the southern end. The park featured a dance pavilion (about 80×60 ft), bowling alleys, horseshoe pits, swings, picnic grounds, and even a merry-go-round. Despite having the name “amusement park,” this island didn’t have the thrill rides that modern-era parks like Cedar Point or Kings Island do. Rather, the Buckeye-Eureka Park had more of a local charm featuring simpler forms of entertainment like bowling alleys, horseshoe pits and a dancing pavilion, which was two stories tall and “built in a Victorian style.” ![A historic black-and-white photograph of the Buckley Pavilion on the riverbank with a fountain spray in front of it](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1762286148134-DSCN5589-Buckley-Pavillion.webp) Buckley Island Dance Pavilion Opening on July 15, 1897, the park initially just served local employees of the company and their families, but as word spread, workers from oil fields deeper into Ohio and West Virginia came to see the park. Contrary to modern theme parks that operate seasonally or year-round, Buckeye-Eureka Park was not an everyday attraction and only operated on set days that the BEPC elected to hold a “picnic,” according to local historian Ben Blaine. A flood in 1907 washed away much of the park: “The pavilion, where thousands had danced for years, was tilted, battered and broken. The park was never rebuilt after that disaster.” The land became farmland under the Buckley family. In 1998, it was sold to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and included in the Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge. --- ## **Marietta as the Gateway to the West** Founded in 1788, Marietta was the first permanent American settlement in the Northwest Territory, established by the Ohio Company of Associates — Revolutionary War veterans granted western lands for their service. The city quickly became a launch point for westward migration into the Ohio Valley and beyond. Many soldiers, explorers, and surveyors passed through Marietta en route to new territories. By the time of the Lewis and Clark Expedition (1803–1806), Marietta was already a well-established frontier hub known for boat building, navigation skills, and exploration — exactly the kinds of expertise that supported westward ventures like theirs. --- ## **Marietta’s Shipbuilding Connection** Marietta was a major shipbuilding center in the early 1800s. The city produced flatboats, keelboats, and barges used to travel the Ohio and Mississippi rivers. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and frontier militias relied on these vessels for moving men and supplies — including the same types used by Lewis and Clark. The confluence of the Muskingum and Ohio rivers made Marietta a natural spot for trade, travel, and shipbuilding in the 1800s. ![A call-out box linking to recommended hiking gear](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1762292451235-Screenshot%202025-01-26%20131129.png) --- ![An Ohio Historical Marker sign titled Letter to the President, describing Meriwether Lewis's 1803 letter from Marietta](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1762291492138-Image1.webp) ![An Ohio Historical Marker sign describing the Lewis and Clark Expedition's stop in Marietta](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1762291522963-IMG_20250807_142911597_HDR.webp) ## **Lewis & Clark Heritage Walking Tour — Marietta, Ohio** Approx. **2.5 miles (4 km)** — easy walking loop Plan for **1.5–2 hours**, including museum visits and river views. ### **Stop 1: Campus Martius Museum Start** **601 Second Street, Marietta, OH** Open year-round; admission required. Free parking is available at the rear of the museum and on-street. Campus Martius Museum’s three floors of exhibits are wheelchair accessible, excluding the second floor of the Rufus Putnam House. ### Campus Martius Museum Hours | **Monday-Saturday** | 9:30 to 5 | | ------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------ | | **Sunday** | Noon to 5 | | **Closed** | New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day | Rufus Putnam House Tour Times: 10AM, 11AM, Noon, 1PM, 2PM, 3PM, 4PM ### Admission | | *Museum admission* | | ------------------------------------------------------------ | ------------------ | | **Friends of the Museums or Ohio History Connection Member** | Free | | **Adult** | $10.00 | | **Students K to College (with ID)** | $5.00 | | **Children 5 and under (excludes groups)** | Free | | **Active Duty Military & Veterans (with ID)** | $5.00 | Campus Martius Museum was built on the site of the original stockade, built by the Ohio Company between 1788 and 1791\. The name, Campus Martius, chosen by the Ohio Company, comes from Latin for Field of Mars, the military camp where the legions of ancient Rome once trained. Known by the early settlers as the stockade or Campus Martius, the original fortification was built to house and protect the members of the Ohio Company during the Ohio Indian Wars of 1790 to 1794\. By 1795, after the signing of the Treaty of Greeneville, the stockade was no longer necessary. Buildings were then dismantled, the wood planks used in the construction of some of the homes located throughout Marietta. Marietta's founder was Rufus Putnam, a Revolutionary War general who surveyed much of the Northwest Territory. His surveying and mapping efforts laid groundwork for future exploration beyond the Mississippi — paving the way for Lewis and Clark’s mission of charting the Louisiana Purchase. Of horizontal plank construction, the Rufus Putnam House, part of the original stockade, is enclosed inside the museum. Rufus Putnam and his wife, Persis, remained in this house on its current site until their deaths. The house was restored by the Ohio Historical Society (currently the Ohio History Connection) between 1966 and 1972\. The museum is also the present site of the Ohio Company Land Office, which was moved there in 1953 to insure its future preservation. In this office, land deeds were allotted for the original Ohio Company Purchase. Here, Rufus Putnam, the first surveyor- general of the United States, made some of the earliest maps of the Northwest Territory. ### **Stop 2: Mound Cemetery .4 miles** **Fifth and Scammel Streets** It is home to one of the largest conical Adena mounds in the Ohio Valley — a visible link to the ancient Indigenous cultures that Lewis and Clark later described in the West. Lewis and Clark’s journals later recorded similar features and cultures farther west — showing continuity in early American encounters with Indigenous peoples. The Mound Cemetery and Ancient Earthworks Park in Marietta preserve these connections. The cemetery contains graves of Revolutionary War veterans and early settlers who helped open the Northwest Territory. ### **Stop 3: Ancient Earthworks Park (Capitolium Mound Site) .3 miles** **Between Third and Sacra Via Streets** The site preserves one of Marietta’s ancient Hopewell ceremonial mounds. Early settlers — including the founders of Marietta — carefully mapped and preserved it, an early example of archaeological respect. When Lewis and Clark later documented mounds and artifacts along the Missouri River, they built on this same emerging interest in America’s prehistoric cultures. ### **Stop 4: Ohio River Museum .7 miles** **601 Front Street (next to the river)** Focuses on the Ohio and Muskingum Rivers, the main highways of early western exploration. You’ll see models and full-sized flatboats and keelboats — the same that Lewis and Clark used on their expedition. The museum includes the W.P. Snyder Jr., the last intact steam-powered sternwheel towboat in the U.S. There are maps showing how Marietta connected by river to Pittsburgh, the Lewis & Clark departure city. Also on display are navigation tools and river charts similar to those carried by Lewis and Clark. ### **Stop 5: Marietta River Trail (Start behind the museum) .1 miles** **Trailhead: Ohio River Museum area** This scenic path follows the Muskingum and Ohio Rivers, where early settlers launched boats westward. Imagine early river explorers outfitting their journeys here before heading to the Mississippi — just like Lewis and Clark did a few hundred miles downstream. The riverfront is still active today, with historic bridges and the Valley Gem Sternwheeler, offering river cruises that echo those early voyages. **Optional add-on:** Take a short Valley Gem riverboat ride for the full historical atmosphere — trips last about 1–2 hours and depart near the museum. ![A red powerboat speeding along the river past docked boats](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1762291975884-IMG_6845.webp) ![A mayfly insect resting on a red painted railing](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1762291972527-IMG_6867.webp) ![Passengers seated at tables under a red-and-white striped canopy aboard a riverboat](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1762291979445-GP010461.webp) ![The wooden paddlewheel of the historic steamboat W.P. Snyder Jr. of Pittsburgh, PA](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1762291978899-IMG_6786.webp) ![A wide view of the Muskingum River lined with trees and docked boats](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1762291980321-IMG_6788.webp) ![A view of a steel truss bridge over the river from the deck of a passenger boat](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1762291974283-IMG_6801.webp) ![A rusted railroad truss bridge crossing the river, seen from the boat railing](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1762291974686-IMG_6803.webp) ![A calm stretch of river bordered by tree-lined banks](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1762291981780-IMG_6808.webp) ![A wide bend of the river with dense green trees along both shores](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1762291980986-IMG_6810.webp) [VALLEY GEM STERNWHEELER AND MAJOR/RIVIERAValley Gem Sternwheeler![](https://static.ghost.org/v5.0.0/images/link-icon.svg)VALLEY GEM STERNWHEELER AND MAJOR/RIVIERA![](https://www.valleygemsternwheeler.com/uploads/1/3/1/5/131535446/editor/gift-card.png?1743098451)](https://www.valleygemsternwheeler.com/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) 0:00 /0:12 1× The Ohio River Sternwheel Festival (held each September), showcasing classic paddlewheel boats, music, and fireworks. [Home - Ohio River Sternwheel Festival50th Annual OHIO RIVER STERNWHEEL FESTIVAL Ohio River Levee, Marietta, OH September 11-13, 2026 Volunteer 2025 Program Donate Festival Schedule View Schedule Festival Map View Map Festival Program View Program Vendors Fireworks Queen Genevieve History Car Show HIGHWAY 96Saturday, Sept. 9 — 9:00 to 9:30 PM; 10:00 to 11:00 PMLearn MoreTina – Tribute to The… Continue reading Home![](https://static.ghost.org/v5.0.0/images/link-icon.svg)Ohio River Sternwheel Festival![](https://sternwheel.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Wheel-Icon_orange.svg)](https://sternwheel.org/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### **Optional Stop 6: Harmar Village & Train Bridge Walk .5 miles** **Cross the Harmar Railroad Bridge (pedestrian walkway)** to the west side of the river. Use the Putnam Street Bridge. ![A historical plaque for Harmar Lodge No. 390, Free and Accepted Masons](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1762291371406-IMG_20250807_131350966_HDR.webp) ![A historical marker describing the B&O Harmar Bridge, built as a covered bridge in 1856](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1762291370149-IMG_20250807_131503409_HDR.webp) ![A red B&O railroad caboose numbered C-173 parked near the depot](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1762291705163-GP010480.webp) ![A vintage blue and white passenger railroad car displayed on the grass](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1762291705568-GP010482.webp) ![A chain-link fence with Save Harmar Bridge posters and a Bridge Closed sign](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1762291751163-IMG_20250807_131542380_HDR.webp) ![A view down the closed Harmar Bridge truss walkway toward the river](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1762291751585-IMG_20250807_131553372_HDR.webp) ![A building with an exterior metal stairway and historic photos posted on its wall](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1762291751320-IMG_20250807_142722245_HDR.webp) ![A black Fort Harmar historical marker sign near the street with pink flowers nearby](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1762293791502-IMG_20250807_142508378_HDR.webp) This area was part of early Marietta’s industrial and riverfront history — the kind of frontier craftsmanship (shipbuilding, carpentry, ironwork) that supplied western expeditions. Offers one of the best panoramic views of the Ohio and Muskingum Rivers’ confluence — the gateway to the American West. --- ### **Other Hiking and Walking** Marietta, Washington County and Williamstown, WV, offer several scenic trails: **River Trail** – 3.5 mile a paved walking and biking path along the Muskingum River from downtown to Indian Acres Park. **Marietta Trail Network** – 18.5 mile long system includes paths through **Kroger Wetlands**, **Lookout Point**, and **Mound Cemetery**, where many Revolutionary War veterans are buried. The Network is open to bicycle and foot traffic only and use during wet or muddy conditions is discouraged **Wayne National Forest** (just outside Marietta) – provides miles of hiking, biking, and horseback trails through Appalachian foothills and river valleys. [Wayne National ForestThe Wayne National Forest is a patchwork of public land that covers over a quarter million acres of Appalachian foothills of southeastern Ohio.![](https://static.ghost.org/v5.0.0/images/link-icon.svg)Wayne National Forest![](http://www.fs.usda.gov/sites/default/files/r09/wayne/image/Hero%20-%20Lake%20Vesuvius%20in%20the%20Fall.jpg)](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r09/wayne?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ### Trailhead Location for Williamstown, West Virginia 3982 Waverly Road, Williamstown, WV (ORINWR Visitor Center) Directions from Marietta: - Cross the Williamstown Bridge into West Virginia - Take the first left after a local landmark (DaVinci’s Restaurant) onto Waverly Road (E. 4th St.) - Continue \~2 miles to the Visitor Center parking lot. - Restrooms and potable water only available at the Visitor Center (the “Buckley Mainland” tract) - From the Visitor Center parking lot the Birds & Butterflies Trail branches off; the **Upland Trail** and **Riverview Trail** both start from near this parking area. ### Upland Trail - Length: \~1.2 miles. - Trail surface: Starts gravel, then turns into single‑track footpath; hilly, passes through \~3 ravines and climbs to a ridge before looping back. - Difficulty: Moderate due to elevation change and terrain. - Recommended starting point: Visitor Center parking lot; follow the short Birds & Butterflies Trail to the junction, then take Upland Trail branch. ### Riverview Trail - Length: \~0.7 miles. - Trail surface & terrain: After branching from the Birds & Butterflies path (near Visitor Center), the trail descends to the floodplain, begins on gravel then shifts to mowed grass in riparian forest near the river. - Difficulty: Easy — mostly flat, suitable for a relaxed walk. - Starting point: Same Visitor Center parking lot; take the Birds & Butterflies path, then branch onto Riverview Trail. --- ## **Underground Railroad** ### ![An Ohio Historical Marker describing the Muskingum River's role in the Underground Railroad](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/11/1762291890265-IMG_20250807_130444160_HDR.webp) We found this historical marker while we were in Marietta. ## **Conclusion:** There is a great amount of historical information connected to Marietta, Ohio. I have visited Marietta for work and pleasure. We used to race standardbred horses at the Washington County Fair every summer. So, I was familiar with the fairgrounds. As an auditor I visited the downtown area often. It was a sincere pleasure to take the Valley Gem Riverboat ride and to explore Marietta. There is plenty of walking and hiking to be found and it is a beautiful place to visit. I highly suggest you put Marietta on your list. ### Whispering Cave: Hocking Hills Trail Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/whispering-cave/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:18:39.000Z Trail FactsHocking Hills State Park\~0.8–4.5 miDistanceMod–HardDifficulty400 ftElevation2 hrsDurationOut & BackTypeSpringScenic viewWaterfall Whispering Cave is a spectacular geologic formation. It is approximately 300 ft. wide and 100 ft tall. The cave is located within Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio. It opened for more public access in 2017 with the Hemlock Bridge Trail system. It is considered the second-largest recess cave in the Hocking Hills region behind Ash Cave. A seasonal waterfall cascades from the ledge above the cave — ODNR lists about a **105-foot** seasonal waterfall (as of September 2026). ![Whispering Cave and Hemlock Bridge Trail, Hocking Hills](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1761772534196-IMG_5628.JPG) ![Whispering Cave and Hemlock Bridge Trail, Hocking Hills](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1761772535411-IMG_5630.JPG) ![Whispering Cave and Hemlock Bridge Trail, Hocking Hills](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1761772532869-IMG_5633.JPG) ![Whispering Cave and Hemlock Bridge Trail, Hocking Hills](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1761772540828-IMG_5638.JPG) ![Whispering Cave and Hemlock Bridge Trail, Hocking Hills](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1761772541755-IMG_5641.JPG) ![Whispering Cave and Hemlock Bridge Trail, Hocking Hills](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1761772541376-IMG_5648.JPG) ![Whispering Cave and Hemlock Bridge Trail, Hocking Hills](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1761772537286-IMG_5655.JPG) ![Whispering Cave and Hemlock Bridge Trail, Hocking Hills](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1761772535255-IMG_5659.JPG) We noticed a bunch of cairns in the cave. Obviously, the cairns are not directional and were constructed by hikers for enjoyment only. Man made stacked rocks on a trail is called a *cairn.* The term cairn comes from the Scottish Gaelic word *càrn*, which translates in English as *‘heap of stone’.* Stacks of rocks have been used since ancient times and serve as navigational aids to make sure that you are following the correct path. Rock cairns are often located in areas of the trail where the path might fork, and hikers would potentially be unsure which direction to walk. Historically, they were also used to mark the location of a cache of supplies like food and water. It can provide a leave-no-trace way of keeping hikers on a trail. However, directional cairns are discouraged by Park Rangers as it may lead hikers a wrong direction. Also, never touch or add or remove rocks from a cairn. It may hold spiritual significance to the person that assembled it. ## The Spiritual Significance As well as being stacked for practical reasons, found in Japanese Zen gardens, or stacked as an art form, the practice can hold spiritual meaning. Some people also make stacked stones to mark “vortexes,” which are areas where they believe that the energies of the universe are in complete harmony and balance. Stacked rocks are also present throughout some Native American cultures. These hold a wide variety of meanings, including being a symbol of strength, a physical representation of prayer, or a sign about the location of food or water. In Mongolia, stacked rocks are placed atop of burial sites and in cemeteries to honor the deceased. In some Buddhist traditions, stacking stones has a spiritual meaning of a form of meditation or worship and an offering to Buddha. Other people are known to stack rocks as a way to bring them good luck to the stacker and their family. ### History of Whispering Cave Whispering Cave is a recess cave formed in the Hocking Hills region’s characteristic “Black Hand” sandstone by erosion of the softer middle layer, leaving the over-hanging ledge and cave space beneath. It lies within the broader Hocking Hills region whose park lands began state acquisition in the 1920s. ![Whispering Cave and Hemlock Bridge Trail, Hocking Hills](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1761773884172-IMG_5634.JPG) ![Whispering Cave and Hemlock Bridge Trail, Hocking Hills](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1761773888640-IMG_5639.JPG) ![Whispering Cave and Hemlock Bridge Trail, Hocking Hills](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1761773887480-IMG_5640.JPG) ![Whispering Cave and Hemlock Bridge Trail, Hocking Hills](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1761773888088-IMG_5646.JPG) ![Whispering Cave and Hemlock Bridge Trail, Hocking Hills](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1761772536292-IMG_5637.JPG) ![Whispering Cave and Hemlock Bridge Trail, Hocking Hills](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1761773885276-IMG_5662.JPG) The cave and its trails were previously inaccessible. It only recently opened for public use. The Hemlock Bridge trail and Whispering Cave access opened in May 2017. The name “Whispering Cave” comes from the acoustic effect: a whisper at one end could be heard across the recessed cave span. --- ### Location The cave is located near the central area of Hocking Hills State Park, in Hocking County, Ohio. Coordinates are approximately 39.425878, -82.551861. From Columbus: about 1 hour. --- --- ### Hiking Trails The Hemlock Bridge Trail which opened 2017 provides the most direct access to the cave. There is a short spur called the “Whispering Cave Trail”. The trailhead is located near the Hocking Hills State Park Lodge and Conference Center. There is plenty of parking and signage explaining how to access the trail. ![Whispering Cave and Hemlock Bridge Trail, Hocking Hills](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1761772447604-IMG_5627.JPG) ![Whispering Cave and Hemlock Bridge Trail, Hocking Hills](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1761772447127-IMG_5629.JPG) From the Lodge parking area it is commonly about **0.7–0.9 miles** to the cave on the spur. **ODNR lists the Whispering Cave Trail (including the Hemlock Bridge) at about 4.5 miles, Difficult (as of September 2026).** Some guides describe a longer \~5-mile loop option connecting toward Old Man’s Cave / the visitor-center side — treat those as strenuous and confirm the current one-way blaze pattern before you go. It includes a swinging rope/bridge (on Hemlock Bridge Trail) over a ravine, sections with stairs and steeper terrain, hemlock forest canopy, and then the cave itself with its overhang and waterfall. The area is open year-round; trails/picnic areas are generally a half hour before sunrise to a half hour after sunset (ODNR, as of September 2026). Trails are marked with blazes. Park contact: **(740) 385-6842**; HQ **19852 State Route 664, Logan, OH 43138**. The terrain is challenging as it is steep in some places and narrow. It’s an alternative to the more crowded, most famous Hocking Hills spots, making it a great option if you’re looking for something a little off the beaten path. --- ### Conclusion I actually noticed the Whispering Cave signage several years ago but never had a chance to hike it until this year. We came in from the Lodge (replacement lodge opened in **2022** after the 2016 fire). My Dad had taken me in the early 70's to the original Hocking Hills Lodge which opened in 1970\. It burned to the ground in 2016\. We found out that they kept the original flagpole, a memorial stone, and a plaque commemorate the 1970 lodge. Also, pieces of retaining wall from the preexisting lodge, along with other significant geological and historical stones were preserved in the structure of the fireplaces. I was really upset that the Lodge had burned in 2016 because it was a sweet memory of my Dad who died in 1978, so I was very happy to see the new Lodge was fantastic. We really enjoyed the hike. The beginning was downhill a bunch of steps and then a gradual downhill to the cave. It made a long uphill climb back to the car. But it was worth the trip. I highly suggest you visit it. I plan to return to do the long loop of 5 miles soon. ### ### Topiary Garden Columbus: Visitor Guide & Park Map 2026 URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/topiary-garden-at-old-deaf-school-park-columbus-ohio/ Last updated: 2026-08-06T13:32:37.000Z Trail FactsTopiary Garden 0.5 miDistance EasyDifficulty 10 ftElevation 30 minDuration LoopType FallSpringSummerKid-friendlyScenic view Topiary Park is a 9.2-acre public park and garden in Columbus, Ohio's Discovery District. The park's topiary garden, officially the Topiary Garden at Old Deaf School Park, is designed to depict figures from Georges Seurat's 1884 painting. A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte. It is the only park based entirely on a painting. ![A reproduction of Georges Seurat's painting A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760744240695-pic.jpg) The original is shown at the Art Institute of Chicago. --- The park is officially named Old Deaf School Park, as it was part of the campus of the Ohio Institution for the Deaf and Dumb, known today as the Ohio School for the Deaf. It is owned by the city of Columbus and maintained by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department. It is located in downtown Columbus. It features topiaries trimmed into life-size shapes of men, women, children, animals, and boats and arranged to resemble a painting. Specifically, there are topiaries of 54 people, eight boats, three dogs, a monkey, and a cat. It also hosts 220 trees, including 35 different species. A cast-iron fence surrounds the space. ![Sculpted topiary figures beneath tree canopy at the edge of the pond](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760745513370-IMG_8730.webp) ![Sculpted topiary shrubs beside a flower bed in the garden](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760745518921-IMG_8736.webp) ![Topiary figures near the pond with benches in the garden](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760745519047-IMG_8744.webp) ![A row of sculpted topiary figures on the lawn near the pond](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760745516385-IMG_8745.webp) ![Topiary shrubs sculpted into human and dog figures on the lawn](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760745517906-IMG_8751.webp) ![Multiple sculpted topiary figures scattered across the open lawn](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760745518728-IMG_8752.webp) ![Large topiary figures sculpted to resemble a group of people](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760745514969-IMG_8753.webp) ![Sculpted topiary figures on the lawn with city buildings in the background](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760745516388-IMG_8755.webp) ![Sculpted topiary figures spread across the lawn beneath trees](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760745516440-IMG_8759.webp) ![A single umbrella-shaped topiary figure on the lawn](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760745570758-IMG_8760.webp) ![A wide view of the topiary garden with the city street and parked cars beyond](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760745569877-IMG_8762.webp) ![A topiary shrub sculpted into the shape of a reclining dog](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760745567172-IMG_8764.webp) ![Varied topiary figures including a tall spiral-shaped hedge](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760745565680-IMG_8768.webp) ![A tall column-shaped topiary hedge beside a dog-shaped shrub](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760745565381-IMG_8770.webp) ![Human-shaped topiary figures on the lawn under a cloudy sky](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760745563108-IMG_8771.webp) ![A close-up of a dog-shaped topiary shrub on the lawn](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760745571197-IMG_8773.webp) ![A close-up cluster of sculpted topiary figures beneath a tree branch](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760745571056-IMG_8774.webp) ![A wide view of the topiary garden with trees and sculpted figures under a cloudy sky](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760745568380-IMG_8776.webp) --- The gatehouse, near the southeast corner of the park, is the park's main entrance. The 2,400-square-foot building holds offices, restrooms, and an information desk and gift shop. It was constructed in 1998, designed in brick and resembling a French countryside house to match the park's theme. The building was funded by the City of Columbus, Motorists Mutual Insurance, and the Friends of the Topiary Park. --- ## **Location:** Admission to Columbus Topiary Garden & Park is free. - Open: Daily from sunrise to sunset - Location: 480 E. Town St. in ‎Columbus, Ohio - Phone: 614-645-0197 - The park is adjacent to the Main Branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library system. The branch was renovated around 2015, with one of the architect's goals being to join the library to the park. --- ## **Ohio Institution for the Deaf and Dumb** Founded in 1829 as the Ohio Institution for the Education of the Deaf and Dumb, the school purchased 10 acres on East Town Street within a few decades. Initially, it operated in small buildings at various locations due to a lack of funds. In 1832, a new three-story building was constructed on the East Town Street property, and the school moved into it in 1834\. Over the years, several additions were made, and in 1868, a new building replaced the original main structure. Another building, now Cristo Rey Columbus High School, was added in 1899\. By 1941, with the facilities in poor condition, the school administrators bought a new campus and relocated there in 1953\. By 1981, the old main building had suffered at least fifteen fires, prompting fire officials to recommend its demolition. The school, art, and gymnasium building were also targeted for demolition, though preservationists managed to save the school building by occupying it until architects and officials agreed it could be preserved. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1984\. This designation includes all 10 acres of the former campus. --- ## **Historical Context of Deaf and Dumb** In the past, "dumb" referred to being "unable to speak," rather than "stupid," as it's often interpreted today. Deaf individuals, particularly before the advent of sign language education and speech therapy, often did not speak verbally—not due to a lack of thought or communication ability, but because they lacked access to hearing-based spoken language. So, "deaf and dumb" originally meant "unable to hear and unable to speak." Today, the term "dumb" is more commonly used to mean "stupid" or "lacking intelligence," which reinforces harmful stereotypes. The phrase suggests that deaf individuals are intellectually inferior, which is completely untrue. It also disregards the fact that deaf people have rich and complex languages, such as American Sign Language (ASL) or British Sign Language (BSL), and many are fully capable of speaking or writing. Respectful and accurate terms today include "Deaf" (with a capital "D" for cultural identity) or "hard of hearing." When relevant, people may also use terms like "nonverbal" or "uses sign language," but only when necessary. --- ## **Park Development** The park, initially developed in the mid-1980s as Old Deaf School Park, became Topiary Park through the vision of Columbus artists James and Elaine Mason. It was sculpted in 1989 as a garden exhibit for the 1992 AmeriFlora exhibition. Held at Franklin Park in Columbus from April 20 to October 12, 1992, the $95 million AmeriFlora '92 event covered 88 acres, attracted 5.5 million visitors, and was promoted as the first international flower show in the U.S. James T. Mason created the only topiary garden inspired by a work of art, while Elaine Mason was the first of many topiarists to maintain the topiaries. At the top of the hill, a bronze easel stands alongside an image of Seurat’s original painting. Seurat, who pioneered pointillism, used dots of color to create light effects. From this vantage point, the 3-D version of the painting comes to life, with the tallest topiary standing at 12 feet, adding depth and perspective. --- ## Trail / Path Features The park features paved paths that loop through the garden and around the pond, making it both accessible and stroller friendly. There’s a circular path within the park, along with offshoots leading out on the east side. The grounds include hills and a pond, and given the park’s size, you can likely complete a circuit in 15–30 minutes, depending on how often you pause to take in the scenery. --- ## **Conclusion** The Topiary Park is a very serene place to visit, especially from April to November. It is peaceful and a good place to bring a book to read. I love the park and always look forward to visiting it. ### Slate Run Metro Park and Living Historical Farm URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/slate-run-metro-park-and-living-historical-farm/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:18:28.000Z Trail FactsSlate Run Metro Park4 miDistanceEasyDifficulty150 ftElevation2 hrsDurationLoopTypeYear RoundDog-friendlyKid-friendlyWildlife Slate Run Metro Park in Pickaway County, Ohio, spans **1,705 acres** (as of September 2026, Metro Parks) and gives visitors a chance to experience 19th-century rural life at the Slate Run Living Historical Farm. The park features a mix of landscapes, including forests, wetlands, grasslands, meadows, ravines, bluffs, and Slate Run Creek. The park's origins trace back to 1963, when the Columbus & Franklin County Metro Parks identified the Slate Run area as a potential site for a large metropolitan park. Between 1964 and 1968, they acquired about 1,662 acres of land, much of which was former farmland. The goal was to preserve the area's natural beauty and provide educational opportunities. The name “Slate Run” originates from one of the two streams flowing through the ridge in the area. Slate Run Creek carves dramatic ravines into the ridge. Early settlers mistook the dark rock along the creek for slate, but geologically, it’s shale, formed from ancient sediment about 350 million years ago. Slate Run Metro Park, which opened in 1981, features the Living Historical Farm. In 1971, Camp Starview, a primitive day camp, was established on the land later developed into the park. Buzzard’s Roost Lake, a 14-acre lake with a picnic area and shelter, was constructed in 1993 and opened in 1994. Starting in 1999, a 156-acre wetland area was restored in partnership with state and federal conservation agencies, leading to the addition of trails, observation decks, and boardwalks. Among the acquired land, a notable 212-acre parcel purchased from the White family had been continuously farmed since 1805 and included buildings suitable for a living-historical farm. In the 1960s, Metro Parks allowed the previous owners to continue farming under lease agreements until plans were finalized, making the White family the last private owners of the site's historically agricultural core. The Gothic-Revival farmhouse on the property was originally built in 1856 by Isaac Fridley. The farmhouse was a wood-frame structure made primarily of poplar and walnut timber. By the time Metro Parks took ownership, much of the siding had deteriorated. During restoration, Metro Parks replaced the rotted siding with milled redwood siding that matched the original and rebuilt the front porch, including its decorative woodwork. Inside, the parlor had been turned into a bathroom and bedroom over time, and the fireplace was bricked up. Metro Parks restored it by removing the partition, reopening the fireplace, reconstructing the woodwork, and applying reproduction 19th-century wallpaper. ![GP010570.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760740266971-GP010570.webp) ![GP010573.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760740269417-GP010573.webp) ![GP010575.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760740269851-GP010575.webp) ![GP010579.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760740268852-GP010579.webp) ![IMG_7113.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760740263278-IMG_7113.webp) ![IMG_7131.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760740262264-IMG_7131.webp) The barn, built in 1881 under Samuel Oman, the farm's fourth owner, underwent restoration by Metro Parks. They worked with architectural historians to rebuild or replace siding, doors, the roof, louver windows, animal stalls, and reattach a cupola. The barn’s original north-south passage was restored after previous owners had changed it to east-west. Additional buildings from 1880-1910, like sheds, poultry yards, hog sheds, root cellars, and smokehouses, were restored or reconstructed for an authentic 1880s farm complex. The summer kitchen, likely built with the farmhouse, was in poor condition when acquired. It featured a long roof overhang for workspace and was rebuilt in 1976 using a grant. Today, it is used for laundry, sausage-making, canning, butchery, cheese-making, and storage. The granary, which had been relocated, was moved closer to the barn and refurbished with new bins, siding, doors, roof, and ventilation slats. Metro Parks restored the farmhouse, barn, and granary to reflect a functioning 1880s farm. Operations like planting, harvesting, livestock care, and food preservation are done using 19th-century methods, with staff and volunteers in period clothing creating an immersive experience. Children can participate in chores, and heritage breeds like Merino sheep are raised on the farm. ![GP010586.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760740405317-GP010586.webp) ![GP010596.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760740400938-GP010596.webp) ![Image5.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760740396977-Image5.webp) ![Image6.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760740393577-Image6.webp) ![IMG_7116.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760740404545-IMG_7116.webp) ![IMG_7130.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760740403595-IMG_7130.webp) ![IMG_7134.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760740396719-IMG_7134.webp) ![IMG_7157 -1.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760740405209-IMG_7157%20-1.webp) ![GP010596.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760743864054-GP010596.webp) ![Image29.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760743855788-Image29.webp) ![IMG_7145 -1.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760743864296-IMG_7145%20-1.webp) ![IMG_7146 -1.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760743861731-IMG_7146%20-1.webp) ![IMG_7161 -1.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760743862076-IMG_7161%20-1.webp) ![IMG_7164 -1.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760743862514-IMG_7164%20-1.webp) ![IMG_7171 -1.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760743861219-IMG_7171%20-1.webp) ## **Visitor Information:** **Park (trails & picnic areas, as of September 2026, Metro Parks):** - **Address:** 1375 St. Rte. 674 North, Canal Winchester, OH 43110 - **Park hours:** Year-round **6:30 a.m.–dark** - **Park phone:** 614-329-1392 - **Official park page:** [Slate Run](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/slate-run/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) **Living Historical Farm (separate hours):** - April 1–September 30: Tuesday–Thursday & Sunday 9 a.m.–6 p.m.; Friday–Saturday 9 a.m.–7 p.m. - October 1–March 31: Tuesday–Thursday & Sunday 9 a.m.–5 p.m.; Friday–Saturday 9 a.m.–sunset - Closed Mondays. From January–March, farm grounds and barn are open but some buildings/activities are limited. - **Farm page:** [Slate Run Living Historical Farm](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/slate-run-historical-farm/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - **Admission:** Free Acres confirmed **1,705** (as of September 2026). --- ## **Educational Information:** ![IMG_7183 -1.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760742925092-IMG_7183%20-1.webp) ![IMG_7184 -1.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760742919958-IMG_7184%20-1.webp) ![IMG_7185 -1.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760742926263-IMG_7185%20-1.webp) ![IMG_7186 -1.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760742930511-IMG_7186%20-1.webp) ![IMG_7187 -1.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760742929430-IMG_7187%20-1.webp) ![IMG_7188 -1.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760742929067-IMG_7188%20-1.webp) ![IMG_7189 -1.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760742929914-IMG_7189%20-1.webp) ![IMG_7190 -1.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760742926254-IMG_7190%20-1.webp) --- ## Covered Bridge: Blackburn Covered Bridge, originally built 1895 was moved and restored at Slate Run in 1998, and placed along the Covered Bridge Trail. ![IMG_7355.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760740099340-IMG_7355.webp) ![IMG_7357.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760740095971-IMG_7357.webp) ![IMG_7361.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760740099055-IMG_7361.webp) ![IMG_7367.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760740098594-IMG_7367.webp) ![IMG_7370.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760740097831-IMG_7370.webp) ![Color trail map of Slate Run Metro Park showing loops and facilities](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760743290813-Screenshot%202025-10-10%20122036.png) --- ## Hiking and Horseback Riding Trails: The park features over 7 miles of hiking trails, including the 2.5-mile Sassafras Trail for horseback riding, and the 2-mile Camp Starview Trail in the reservable day camp area. #### Bobolink Grassland **1.5 miles** **Easy – Hike – Grass – ADA** Winds through grassland and leads to an observation deck overlooking the wetlands. #### Camp Starview **1.7 miles** **Moderate to difficult – Hike – Grass, dirt and gravel** Goes through ravines and over steep hills. Open only to groups renting the Youth Camp. #### Covered Bridge **0.5 miles** **Easy – Hike, Pets – Gravel** Goes through a covered bridge and connects with the Shagbark Trail. #### Five Oaks **1.5 miles** **Moderate to difficult – Hike – Gravel** Goes through a steep ravine with black shale outcrops. #### Kokomo **1.5 miles** **Easy – Hike – Grass, dirt and boardwalk** Winds through the wetlands with numerous observation decks for watching wildlife. #### Lake **0.3 miles** **Easy – Hike, Pets – Paved** Leads to Buzzard’s Roost Lake #### Sassafras **2.1 miles** **Horseback riding only – Grass, dirt and gravel** Goes through forest and meadows. #### Shagbark **0.5 miles** **Easy – Hike, Pets – Gravel** A loop trail at the end of the Covered Bridge Trail. Goes through forest and meadows. #### Sugar Maple **1.3 miles** **Moderate to difficult – Hike – Gravel** Crosses Slate Run Creek and several steep hills. ![IMG_7202.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760742544917-IMG_7202.webp) ![IMG_7333 - Copy.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760742544857-IMG_7333%20-%20Copy.webp) ![IMG_7336 - Copy.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760742540143-IMG_7336%20-%20Copy.webp) ![IMG_7343 - Copy.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760742546714-IMG_7343%20-%20Copy.webp) ![IMG_7344 - Copy.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760742547086-IMG_7344%20-%20Copy.webp) ![IMG_7351.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760742548250-IMG_7351.webp) ![IMG_7353.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1760742548675-IMG_7353.webp) --- ## Conclusion: We visited this park a lot in the 1990's when our sons were small. We would run and hike the trails. At the time we were living in Canal Winchester, so this park was easy to get too. When we moved to Pataskala, we didn't get out to Slate Run Metro Park. I was really glad we made this fall. It really is a beautiful park. I have fond memories of our time spent there. ### Walnut Woods Metro Park: Trails, Map & Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/walnut-woods-metro-park/ Last updated: 2026-07-31T13:15:55.000Z Trail FactsWalnut Woods Metro Park 2.8 miDistance EasyDifficulty 80 ftElevation 1.2 hrsDuration LoopType Year RoundDog-friendlyKid-friendly Walnut Woods Metro Park, at 6723 Lithopolis Road in Groveport, Ohio, spans 1,458 acres and offers plenty of recreational options. The Tall Pines Area showcases stunning stands of pines and sweetgum trees, while the Buckeye Area is lined with old nursery trees like serviceberries, crab apples, and red maples. The park also boasts restored wetlands and vernal pools. ![Interpretive panel about pine and spruce plantings at Walnut Woods Metro Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758666518294-IMG_7056.webp) ![Photo strip of sweetgum and white pine trees planted in rows along a road](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758666518125-Image4.webp) ![Trail map of Walnut Woods Metro Park on a wooden post](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758666518396-IMG_6986.webp) ### History Over a century ago, Walnut Woods Metro Park was split between two farms: the Miller and Klamfoth farms. The Pin Oak tree in the park marked the central boundary of these farms, standing on the Klamfoth side. ![Historic black-and-white photo of the former Miller Twila May Farm homestead](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758666475147-IMG_7055.webp) The “Central Area” of Walnut Woods was once part of Eastside Nursery, Inc., where rows of nursery trees like serviceberry, crabapple, and red maples were grown. The Tall Pines section was previously owned by the City of Columbus, which ran a city nursery west of Richardson Road. The pine and spruce trees there had grown too large to transplant, so Metro Parks acquired the land through a trade, exchanging a 32-acre parcel near Pickerington Ponds for approximately 247 acres of Tall Pines land. In December 2008, Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks acquired a 481-acre area south of Walnut Creek and west of Lithopolis Road in Groveport, marking the start of the park's development. By 2010, an additional 146 acres were added, expanding the park to 1,032 acres. The Tall Pines Area of Walnut Woods Metro Park officially opened on July 25, 2011. On February 28, 2024, an EF0 tornado struck the Tall Pines Area, causing severe damage. It uprooted and split large white pine trees, scattering limbs and branches throughout the area. The Sweetgum Trail was especially impacted, with debris blocking the path. Cleanup efforts included removing tree trunks and limbs, chipping them, and spreading wood chips along the trail. The park is managed by Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks, a regional system focused on conserving natural spaces and offering recreational activities. --- ## Location and Directions 6723 Lithopolis Rd., Groveport, OH 43125 From I-270, take US 33 East toward Lancaster. Go about 1.3 miles then turn right on Hamilton Road/SR 317\. Go 2.7 miles and turn left onto Main Street/Groveport Road. **Buckeye Area** ![Walnut Woods Metro Park entrance sign on Lithopolis Road](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758665345923-IMG_7087.webp) 6716 Lithopolis Rd., Groveport, OH 43125 Go 2 miles to Lithopolis Road and turn right. Entrance is 0.75 miles on left. Park office is across the road at 6723 Lithopolis Road. **Tall Pines Area** ![Walnut Woods Metro Park Tall Pines Area sign on Richardson Road](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758665307454-IMG_7066.webp) 6833 Richardson Rd., Groveport, OH 43125 Go 1.4 miles to Richardson Road and turn right. Entrance is about 1.1 miles on right. **Park hours:** approx. 6:30 am until dark. For more information, you can contact the park at 614-357-9375 or visit their official website. ![Color trail map of Walnut Woods Metro Park with loops and water features](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758645507524-Screenshot 2025-09-23 123729.png) ## **Hiking Trails:** Walnut Woods features several trails catering to different interests: - **Buckeye Trail:** A 2-mile, easy, paved trail suitable for hiking, biking, and pets. It runs alongside Walnut Creek and loops through stands of old nursery trees. ![Buckeye Trail sign marking two miles and pet leash rules](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758665805144-IMG_7107.webp) - **Kestrel Trail:** A 1.3-mile, easy, grass and dirt trail suitable for hiking and pets. It runs through wetlands and joins the Monarch Trail. ![Directional trail sign for Kestrel Trail and Maintenance Shop](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758665774847-IMG_7075.webp) - **Monarch Trail:** A 1.4-mile, easy, paved trail suitable for hiking, biking, and pets. It runs alongside Walnut Creek and connects with the Sweetgum Trail. - **Pin Oak Trail:** A 0.4-mile, easy, grass trail suitable for hiking and pets. It runs through a stand of sweetgum trees and connects two sections of the Sweetgum Trail. - **Sweetgum Trail:** A 2.6-mile, easy, paved and gravel trail suitable for hiking, biking, and pets. It loops around the Tall Pines Area and goes through stands of sweetgum, pine, and oak trees. ![Tall Pines Area trail sign beside a paved path](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758666235636-IMG_6972.webp) ![Close-up of a hole in the asphalt trail surface](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758666158259-IMG_7058.webp) ![Green maple leaf and acorn cap on a paved trail](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758666155087-IMG_7059.webp) ![Purple wildflowers among green foliage along the trail edge](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758666159046-IMG_7060.webp) ![Wooden picnic shelter with open-air benches in a clearing](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758666162328-IMG_7064.webp) ![Squirrel climbing a tree trunk among green leaves](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758666187826-IMG_7046.webp) ![Open lawn with large shade trees and a distant picnic table](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758666186924-IMG_6967.webp) ![Park information kiosk with maps and notices under a shingled roof](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758666183221-IMG_6969.webp) ![Paved path through a pine stand with filtered sunlight](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758666658521-GP010525.webp) ![Gravel side path leading into a grassy meadow and woods](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758666658147-IMG_6959.webp) ![Tree-lined paved trail with long shadows at Walnut Woods](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758666658246-IMG_7062.webp) ## **Other Attractions** - **Dog Park**: - Buckeye Area: 3‑acre dog park for large dogs, and a 1‑acre dog park for small dogs. ![Fenced dog park with a circular dog agility tunnel on grass](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758665759192-IMG_7106.webp) ![Walnut Woods Dog Park rules sign for the small dog area](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758665753420-IMG_7089.webp) ![Dog park water fountain and hose station with a green hose](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758665760124-IMG_7090.webp) ![Paved path to a picnic shelter and fenced area in the dog park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758665760640-IMG_7092.webp) ![Chain-link dog park entrance gates with green privacy webbing](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758665760125-IMG_7098.webp) ![Walnut Woods Dog Park large dog area rules sign on the fence](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758665755635-IMG_7099.webp) ![Row of bare saplings planted in a fenced nursery plot](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758665756582-IMG_7100.webp) ![Chain-link fence along a raised walkway beside brush](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758665761316-IMG_7101.webp) - **Picnic Areas**: Equipped with shelters, grills, and playgrounds, offering spaces for gatherings and relaxation.​ - **Fishing and Canoeing/Kayaking**: Opportunities available in Big Walnut Creek, accessible from the Buckeye Area.​ - **Shelters / Picnic Areas** - Buckeye Area: one non‑reservable shelter (seats \~50), restroom, two grills. ADA accessible. ![Picnic pavilion with a red metal roof on a grassy slope](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758665608381-IMG_7112.webp) - Tall Pines Picnic Area: smaller facility (three tables, one grill). Not ADA accessible. ![Large tree and conifer on a sunny lawn near a parking lot](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758666799347-GP010516.webp) ![Clear blue sky with a faint contrail over the park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758666795928-IMG_6977.webp) ![Pine Stand Area directional trail sign on a wooden post](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758666799757-IMG_6987.webp) ![Young tree and open lawn with a wooded edge at the park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758666800497-IMG_6988.webp) - **Playground** in the Buckeye Area. ![Green playground spiral slide between beige support poles](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758665571338-IMG_7109.webp) ![Climbing net playground structure with a rock wall feature](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758665571019-IMG_7110.webp) ![Rope climbing web over a sand play surface under trees](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758665572733-IMG_7111.webp) - **Fishing, Canoeing / Kayaking** - Big Walnut Creek in Buckeye Area: two access points for canoeing/kayaking (with portage) and fishing. - **Sledding** - A small hill in the Buckeye Area provides sledding in winter for kids. - **Restrooms** - At Buckeye Area and main entrance; some temporary or smaller restroom facilities near certain trails. ![Restroom building with red doors and stone base at Walnut Woods](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758666288341-IMG_6971.webp) - **ADA accessibility** - Some trails and shelter areas in Buckeye are ADA accessible; others (e.g. Tall Pines picnic) are not. --- ## Conclusion I didn't really know about this metro park until I started to do some research. I was really pleasantly surprised by the park(s). I especially liked the hammocks and wooden swings at Tall Pines. The hiking trails are easy to navigate and very beautiful. I recommend that you visit this park! ### Glacier Ridge Metro Park: Trails, Map & Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/glacier-ridge-metro-park/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:40.000Z Trail FactsGlacier Ridge Metro Park3.2 miDistanceEasyDifficulty100 ftElevation1.5 hrsDurationLoopTypeYear RoundDog-friendlyScenic viewWildlife The Glacier Ridge Metro Park was officially opened on September 22, 2002, becoming the 14th park in the Metro Parks system. The development of Glacier Ridge Metro Park was a collaborative effort between the Metro Parks and the City of Dublin. The park was designed to include nature trails, a bridle trail, picnic areas, and restored wetlands. Glacier Ridge Metro Park, located in Plain City, Ohio, is a **1,037-acre** park managed by Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks (as of September 2026; some Metro Parks pages round to \~1,032). The park is named after the glacial end moraine, or terminal moraine, that formed the ridge-like accumulation of glacial debris when the glaciers retreated approximately 12,000 to 17,000 years ago. Before its establishment in 2002, much of the park's land was used for farming. Glacier Ridge Metro Park has grown into a popular spot for outdoor fun and learning about the environment. Highlights include the Honda Wetland Education Center, featuring a 200-acre restored wetland, and the Wind and Solar Learning Center, which focuses on renewable energy. The park also boasts various trails, an 18-hole disc golf course, a 5-mile bridle path, and a 3-acre challenge course. --- ## HISTORY Before its establishment as a metro park, much of the land that now comprises Glacier Ridge Metro Park was utilized for agricultural purposes. In 1995, Metro Parks began planning for a new park in the northwest quadrant of Franklin County. An advisory group was formed in 2000, consisting of community volunteers and representatives from the City of Dublin, Union County's Soil and Water Conservation District, and Metro Parks. This group developed a conceptual master plan for the park, which included nature trails, a bridle trail, picnic areas, and restored wetlands. ​ The park officially opened on September 22, 2002, becoming the 14th park in the Metro Parks system. At that time, only the northern section of the park was open to the public, featuring a 3-mile bridle trail, a picnic shelter, a nature trail, and a 2.5-mile paved multiuse trail. Subsequent developments expanded the park's amenities, including the addition of the Honda Wetland Education Center, the Wind and Solar Learning Center, and various recreational facilities. ​ --- ![IMG_4259.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554084119-IMG_4259.webp) ![IMG_4261.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554083410-IMG_4261.webp) ![IMG_4289.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554074158-IMG_4289.webp) ![IMG_4301.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554085486-IMG_4301.webp) ![IMG_4304.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554083752-IMG_4304.webp) ![IMG_4308.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554076841-IMG_4308.webp) ![IMG_4322.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554084159-IMG_4322.webp) ![IMG_4350.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554079161-IMG_4350.webp) ![IMG_4352.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554079173-IMG_4352.webp) ## **Location** - **Address**: 9801 Hyland Croy Road, Plain City, OH 43064​ - **Hours**: Open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (April 1–September 30); 6:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (October 1–March 31)​ - **Phone**: 614-216-8859 (as of September 2026; confirm on the [official Glacier Ridge page](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/glacier-ridge/?ref=hiking-ohio.com)) --- ## **Hiking Trails, Etc**. ## ![Glacier Ridge Metro Park trail map showing loops and wetlands](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758391780885-Screenshot%202025-09-20%20140915.png) Glacier Ridge Metro Park has many trail options. #### Ironweed **2.8 miles** **Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – Paved – ADA** Goes through woods and fields and leads to Honda Wetland Education Center. #### Marsh Hawk **3.7 miles** **Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – Paved – ADA** Goes through woods and fields. #### Bluestem **0.6 miles** **Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – Paved** Encircles the 3-acre challenge course. #### Cardinal **0.3 miles** **Easy – Hike, Pets – Grass** Mowed trail through the meadows and a reforested area. #### Red Oak **0.8 miles** **Easy – Hike – Natural** Passes through an old forest. #### Savannah **5.2 miles** **Horse riding – Grass and dirt** Loops through woods and fields (cross-country skiing when conditions permit) ![GOPR3752.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554143263-GOPR3752.webp) ![IMG_4260.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554145650-IMG_4260.webp) ![IMG_4263.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554145863-IMG_4263.webp) ![IMG_4349.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554143059-IMG_4349.webp) --- ## **Obstacle Course** The 3-acre obstacle course features 12 challenging stations surrounded by a half-mile paved trail. Visitors can crawl through tunnels, climb poles and ropes and go over logs and more. ![IMG_4337.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554246511-IMG_4337.webp) ![IMG_4324.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554235513-IMG_4324.webp) ![IMG_4329.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554240004-IMG_4329.webp) ![IMG_4330.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554236341-IMG_4330.webp) ![IMG_4331.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554247041-IMG_4331.webp) ![IMG_4332.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554243903-IMG_4332.webp) ![IMG_4334.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554244938-IMG_4334.webp) ![IMG_4335.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554245011-IMG_4335.webp) ![IMG_4336.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554244072-IMG_4336.webp) ![IMG_4326.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554311956-IMG_4326.webp) ![IMG_4338.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554316855-IMG_4338.webp) ![IMG_4339.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554315659-IMG_4339.webp) ![IMG_4340.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554318641-IMG_4340.webp) ![IMG_4341.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554320182-IMG_4341.webp) ![IMG_4342.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554321214-IMG_4342.webp) ![IMG_4343.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554319200-IMG_4343.webp) ![IMG_4344.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758554320579-IMG_4344.webp) ## **Honda Wetland Education Area** Within the 1,000-acre Glacier Ridge Metro Park lies the Honda Wetland Education Area with over 200 acres of restored wetland habitat. This site lies 2 miles south of the main park entrance and is connected by a greenway trail for pedestrians and bicyclists. Honda of America contributed funds to the development of the Wetlands Education Area and Union County Soil and Water Conservation District helped Metro Parks with habitat restoration projects. The education area opened in 2005 and is a wonderful birding spot in central Ohio. Wetlands provide many vital functions including habitat, recreation, biological production, flood control, sediment traps, and groundwater recharge. Both plants and animals who make wetlands their home have adapted to environments that can be both aquatic and terrestrial. As a result, some species migrate to other areas, while others have physical or biological adaptations that allow them to live in wetlands. Shallow water combined with the high levels of nutrients creates a biologically productive habitat that forms the basis for the diverse, complex food web that is known as a wetland ecosystem. ![Tall wooden observation tower with spiral stairs against a blue sky](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758392300419-Screenshot%202025-09-20%20141740.png) ## **Conclusion** Except for the fact that a metro park includes the word "ridge" in it and has no ridges, it is a great metro park to visit. The obstacle course is a nice addition. I wanted to try several obstacles, but it was before I had my knee replaced. The trails are easy though and very enjoyable. ![Website contact form screenshot with owl artwork banner](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758393753488-Screenshot%202025-04-04%20173754.png) ### Night Sky Hocking County Campground URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/night-sky-hocking-county-campground/ Last updated: 2026-03-20T12:14:11.000Z It was in early May of 2025 that my husband and I planned a camping trip and hiking in the Hocking Hills. Unfortunately, about 3 days before our trip, I fell in our garage. My right knee went one way; the kneecap went the other way with my body. I was able to crawl into my house...cursing my stupidity all the way. We decided to go ahead with the camping trip. Instead of hiking (I could barely make it to the bathroom.) We hung out in the tent and set up our Go-Pro camera for on top of the car for a time lapse video. My husband had to go out twice to change the battery. If we do this again, I think we will use an external battery charger, so the battery won't need changed. Anyway, I loved the results, and I wanted to share them so here we go...... The video below is short but really cool. 0:00 /0:12 1× ![Night Sky Hocking County Campground - Hiking Ohio photo](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1759335360095-GP010340.webp) ![Night Sky Hocking County Campground - Hiking Ohio photo](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/10/1759335360111-GP010342.webp) 0:00 /0:08 1× 0:00 /0:04 1× I was really bummed about my knee, but I did decide to go ahead and have it replaced. It was really so hard to be in an area for hiking and not be able to hike. Enjoy! ### Highbanks Metro Park: Trails, Map & Hiking Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/highbanks-metro-park/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:47.000Z Trail FactsHighbanks Metro Park4.2 miDistanceModerateDifficulty250 ftElevation2 hrsDurationLoopTypeYear RoundDog-friendlyScenic viewWildlife Highbanks Metro Park, located in Lewis Center, Ohio, is renowned for its rich natural and cultural history. Established in 1973, the park encompasses 1,204 acres of diverse landscapes, including dense forests, meadows, ravines, and the distinctive 100-foot shale bluffs along the Olentangy River. Highbanks Metro Park became the fifth park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. In 1980, the park was designated as a National Natural Landmark by the National Park Service, acknowledging its exceptional natural features.​ In 2017, the park expanded with the opening of the River Bluff Area, providing additional trails and river access points for visitors. **Visitor info (as of September 2026, Columbus & Franklin County Metro Parks):** Main entrance 9466 Columbus Pike (US 23 N), Lewis Center, OH 43035; phone 614-906-3149\. Seasonal park hours are typically 6:30 a.m.–10 p.m. (April–September) and 6:30 a.m.–8 p.m. (October–March). Confirm current hours and closures on the [official Highbanks page](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/highbanks/?ref=hiking-ohio.com). --- ## **Features** - **Shale Bluffs and Ravines**: The park's bluffs are composed of Ohio black shale and Olentangy shale, with tributary streams carving deep ravines. These geological formations are approximately 350 million years old and offer scenic views of the river below. !\[An arched stone bridge crossing a wooded gorge surrounded by golden autumn foliage\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758396897706-Screenshot 2025-09-20 153438.png) - **Edward F. Hutchins State Nature Preserve**: Designated in 1972 and named after a former Metro Parks director, this 206-acre preserve is part of the park and is recognized as a National Natural Landmark for its outstanding natural beauty.​ !\[Sunlight filtering through yellow autumn leaves onto a shaded forest trail\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758396849544-Screenshot 2025-09-20 153318.png) - **Bald Eagles**: Since 2010, a pair of bald eagles has nested in the park, making it one of the few Metro Parks locations to host these majestic birds. !\[A bald eagle perched on a bare branch near its large stick nest\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758396731283-Screenshot 2025-09-20 153133.png) --- ![20241109_145138.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758553647298-20241109_145138.webp) ![20241109_153232.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758553646257-20241109_153232.webp) ![IMG_4364.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758553639935-IMG_4364.webp) ![IMG_4368.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758553637014-IMG_4368.webp) ![IMG_4371.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758553638348-IMG_4371.webp) ![IMG_4381.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758553640326-IMG_4381.webp) ![IMG_4429.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758553633996-IMG_4429.webp) ![IMG_4425.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758553725232-IMG_4425.webp) ## **History** Before European settlers arrived in Ohio, the area around Highbanks was inhabited by Native American cultures. The Adena culture, which flourished around 1000 BCE to 100 CE, left behind burial mounds in the area, including two prominent mounds in the park, now protected as part of the Highbanks Metropolitan Park Mounds I and II. These burial mounds and other earthworks, such as the Highbank Park Works, are key archaeological features that offer insight into the lives of these ancient peoples. In the 1800s, the land began to be settled by European Americans. Like much of the region, the area was part of a larger pattern of homesteading, agriculture, and industrial development. The land that is now Highbanks Metro Park was privately owned until the mid-20th century. During this period, farming and logging were common activities in the area, and some of the original settlements were likely agricultural. ## Formation of Highbanks Metro Park In the 1960s and 1970s, after years of increased urban growth in Columbus and surrounding areas, the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system was established to preserve natural spaces and protect ecological areas from urban sprawl. In 1973, Highbanks Metro Park officially opened as the fifth park in the system, thanks to the combined efforts of the city and county government and the Metro Parks system. The acquisition of the land was made possible by private citizens, funding, and conservation efforts to preserve the unique shale bluffs and natural features of the park. ### The Wright and Craycraft Families The specific land that became Highbanks Metro Park was owned by the Wright and Craycraft families in the 19th and early 20th centuries. These families were typical of the landowners in the area during the time. As farming became less profitable and land use shifted toward urbanization in the mid-20th century, the region began to be eyed for conservation efforts. I could not find definitive information about these families and their relationship to Highbanks Metro Park. ### **Pool Family** The recreated cemetery can be found just off the Overlook Trail. It belongs to some of the area’s earliest settlers. Joseph and Sally Pool arrived from New York in 1812, and they and their 13 children farmed the land that is now part of Highbanks. No one knows where they’re buried. The headstones were found stacked just south of the park and moved to this location in 1981. ### **Mulzer Mill Complex** Herman Mulzer’s sawmill and grist mill, seen in this circa 1900 photograph, sat on the west bank of the Olentangy River, across from the river from where you are now. The grist mill came into existence around 1817, and was operated by Mulzer from 1877 until his death in 1906\. Mulzer’s home sat on the hillside just across Olentangy River Road from the mill. Mulzer’s success with his sawmill was in large part based on sales of kegs and wood chips to brewers in the German Village area. Herman Mulzer was an accomplished woodworker, having learned his trade in Germany. Mulzer frequently entertained his clients with card parties and live music in the grape arbor behind his home. He transported his clients from the Powell railroad depot in a horse-drawn wagon. ![20241109_144742.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758553795015-20241109_144742.webp) ![20241109_144822.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758553788716-20241109_144822.webp) ![20241109_145026.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758553797137-20241109_145026.webp) ![20241109_145033.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758553797365-20241109_145033.webp) ![IMG_4361.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758553780271-IMG_4361.webp) ![IMG_4369.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758553784598-IMG_4369.webp) ![IMG_4370.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758553787951-IMG_4370.webp) ### **Case Family Historical Marker and Olentangy River Road** The Case family purchased 950 acres--Ambrose, George, Jonathan, Seth, and Silas. George and Seth were Revolutionary War veterans who did not claim their bounty lands. George purchased lot 11, a part of which is in northwest Highbanks Park today, and Seth purchased 300 acres north of this site. By 1849 the Case family owned over 1,000 acres. ![IMG_4356.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758553850976-IMG_4356.webp) ![IMG_4358.webp](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758553851058-IMG_4358.webp) *Olentangy River was formerly known as Whetstone River* --- ## **Highbanks Metro Park Mounds** The Adena and Hopewell culture mounds were designated and preserved as a National Historic Landmark in 1978 due to their archaeological importance. The park’s historical significance, coupled with its rich natural landscapes, makes it a unique combination of both natural and cultural history. - **Highbanks Metropolitan Park Mounds I and II**: These Adena culture burial mounds, dating back over 2,000 years, are located within the park and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. - **Highbank Park Works**: An ancient earthwork constructed by the Cole culture between 700 and 1,300 years ago, this semi-elliptical embankment is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. !\[A trail map of Highbanks Metro Park showing paths, parking, and park boundaries\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758395805763-Screenshot 2025-09-20 151620.png) --- ## **Trails** #### Big Meadows Path **1 mile** **Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – Paved** Goes through meadows and playfields. #### Coyote Run **3.5 miles** **Moderate – Hike, Pets, Cross-country ski – Grass and dirt** Goes through woods and fields. Reserved for cross-country skiing when conditions are suitable. #### Dripping Rock **2.5 miles** **Moderate to difficult – Hike – Gravel** Goes through forest and passes steep ravines #### Multiuse **2.3 miles** **Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – Paved** Goes through woods and fields. #### Oak Coves Path **0.4 miles** **Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – Paved** Passes meadows and playfields. #### Overlook **2.3 miles** **Moderate to difficult – Hike – Gravel** Goes through a state nature preserve to an observation deck 100 feet above the Olentangy River. #### Scenic River **0.6 miles** **Easy – Hike, Pets – Gravel – ADA** Goes through forest and alongside the Olentangy River. #### Sycamore **0.9 miles** **Easy – Hike – Gravel – ADA** Winds through a forest of sycamore, buckeye and cottonwood and alongside the river. #### Wetland Spur **0.4 miles** **Easy to moderate – Hike – Grass and dirt** Goes through forest to a wetland with an observation deck. --- ## **Conclusion** We really enjoyed our visit to Highbanks Metro Park. It is a beautiful park with great trails and awesome views. We definitely plan to return to this park. !\[A screenshot of a bookmark-card contact box preview with an illustrated character riding a motorcycle\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1758396972239-Screenshot 2025-04-04 173754.png) ### Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/rhododendron-cove-state-nature-preserve/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:03:32.000Z Trail FactsRhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve 2.5 miDistance ModerateDifficulty 300 ftElevation 1.5 hrsDuration Out & BackType SpringScenic viewWildlife This 75-acre preserve, located in the Sugar Grove Region of the Hocking Hills, offers a challenging hike to the top of a dry ridgeline with stunning views of the Hocking River Valley to the east. The horseshoe-shaped ridge is home to a thriving chestnut oak community, along with Virginia and pitch pine, sourwood, and a rich heath layer featuring mountain laurel, blueberry, deerberry, and the state-listed flame azalea (Rhododendron calendulaceum). **Trail at a Glance — Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve** | **Distance** | 2.5 miles (out-and-back) | | ------------------ | --------------------------------------- | | **Elevation gain** | 300 ft | | **Difficulty** | Moderate | | **Best season** | Spring (rhododendron bloom) | | **Dogs** | Pets prohibited (state nature preserve) | | **Highlights** | Wildflowers, sandstone cliffs, wildlife | | **Location** | Lancaster, Hocking County, Ohio | The cooler, north-facing slopes below the cliffs provide an ideal environment for eastern hemlock, black birch, and a state-listed member of the heath family—the great rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum). This area likely hosts the largest native population of this rhododendron in Ohio. The peak blooming period usually occurs in late June to early July. This nature preserve required a permit until recently. Now there is no permit required. The preserve is adjacent to [Wahkeena Nature Preserve](https://www.fairfieldcountyparks.org/parks/wahkeena-nature-preserve/?ref=hiking-ohio.com). --- ## **History** The preserve was officially established in **2006** by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). The land was acquired in partnership with Appalachia Ohio Alliance and the Ohio Chapter of The Nature Conservancy. The pre‑acquisition ownership is not well documented in the sources I found. I did not find a clear record of who held title to the land just before Appalachia Ohio Alliance and The Nature Conservancy acquired it. There was no detailed account I located about prior private use (e.g. farming, logging, any settlement) of the specific area that is now Rhododendron Cove. Visit Fairfield County notes that the area was “dedicated in April of 1996” as “Rhododendron Cove” for its biodiversity, particularly its rhododendron concentration. [Visit Fairfield County](https://visitfairfieldcounty.org/listings/rhododendron-cove-nature-preserve/?utm%5Fsource=chatgpt.com) --- ![Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve, Hocking County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1757511669573-GP010214.webp) ![Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve, Hocking County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1757511672081-GP010222.webp) ## **Trails** The website mentions 1.2 miles of trail, but it actually measured 2.25 miles, including a stroll through the pollinator gardens near the parking lot. Technically, there are 3 trails: the orange loop, the blue loop, and the nature walk thru the flower area. ![Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve, Hocking County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1757969471919-GP010242.webp) ![Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve, Hocking County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1757969469823-GP010243.webp) ![Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve, Hocking County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1757969470989-GP010244.webp) ![Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve, Hocking County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1757969472840-GP010246.webp) ![Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve, Hocking County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1757969471158-GP010247.webp) ![Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve, Hocking County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1757969466299-GP010257.webp) ![Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve, Hocking County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1757969467158-GP010265.webp) ![Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve, Hocking County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1757969465098-GP010266.webp) ![Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve, Hocking County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1757969465947-IMG_5224 -1.webp) The trails are labeled as "strenuous," so sturdy hiking shoes are a must (flip-flops definitely won't cut it). Depending on your fitness level, you might find them more moderate. The path includes some uphill climbs and a tight squeeze through rocky cliffs. There are a few steep drop-offs. ![Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve, Hocking County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1757969925498-201204_map-gps-trace-of-trail-at-rhododendron-cove_7593582566-320x180.jpg) ![Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve, Hocking County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1757968965169-GP010253.webp) ![Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve, Hocking County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1757968969548-GP010218.webp) ![Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve, Hocking County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1757968968484-GP010221.webp) ![Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve, Hocking County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1757968971560-GP010225.webp) ![Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve, Hocking County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1757968968674-GP010234.webp) ![Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve, Hocking County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1757968970312-GP010237.webp) ![Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve, Hocking County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1757968964895-GP010243.webp) --- ## **How to Get to Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve** The easiest way to reach Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve is by following the brown signs off Highway 33\. Avoid relying on Google Maps, as it might mislead you. 2730 Pump Station Rd SE, Lancaster, OH 43130 After passing the compressor station, turn into the small gravel lot that appears to be for utility workers. Look down the lane, and you’ll spot the preserve’s sign, almost hidden from view. ![Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve, Hocking County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1757975801896-IMG_5222 -1.jpg) --- ## **Conclusion** We hiked this state nature preserve earlier this year. I wish we had made it back for the rhododendron blooms in June/July, but I was unable to go because my right knee was replaced in June. So next year, I guess. I really enjoyed the hike and the solitude. It is very peaceful and beautiful. It is definitely worth the trip. Also, check out Wahkeena Nature Preserve. I completed a blog last year about Wahkeena; look it up. ![Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve, Hocking County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1757969746230-Screenshot 2025-04-04 173754.png) ## Explore Nearby Trails More Ohio trail guides worth a visit: - [Hocking Hills: Every Trail Ranked](https://hiking-ohio.com/hocking-hills-state-park-every-trail-ranked/) - [Cedar Falls (Hocking Hills)](https://hiking-ohio.com/cedar-falls/) - [Conkle's Hollow](https://hiking-ohio.com/conkles-hollow-state-nature-preserve/) - [Wahkeena Nature Preserve](https://hiking-ohio.com/wahkeena-nature-preserve/) - [Little Rocky Hollow](https://hiking-ohio.com/little-rocky-hollow-state-nature-preserve/) - [Clear Creek Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/clear-creek-metro-park/) ### Heritage Trail Metro Park: Trails, Map & Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/heritage-trail-metro-park/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:02:42.000Z Trail FactsHeritage Trail Metro Park 6.2 miDistance EasyDifficulty 100 ftElevation 2.8 hrsDuration Out & BackType Year RoundDog-friendlyKid-friendly Heritage Trail Metro Park, located at 7262 Hayden Run Road in Hilliard, Ohio, is an 87-acre park that offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. --- ## **History** The Heritage Rail Trail traces the route of the old Columbus, Piqua, and Indiana Railroad, which started construction in the mid-1800s. The first train rolled through Pleasant Valley (now Plain City) on July 4, 1853\. Over time, the railroad changed hands multiple times, being leased to the Pennsylvania Railroad in 1921 and later to Penn Central in 1968, before the tracks were abandoned in 1984. In the early 1990s, the Heritage Rail-Trail Coalition was formed to convert the abandoned railway into a public trail. With fundraising and support from local governments, the first mile of the trail opened in 1995, with more sections added in the following years. Eventually, the trail was handed over to Franklin County Metro Parks, which now oversees the Heritage Trail Metro Park. --- ## **Trails** The park is adjacent to the Heritage Rail Trail, a 6.1-mile multi-purpose trail converted from an abandoned railroad right-of-way. The trail stretches from Old Hilliard to Plain City, providing opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.​ Homestead Metro Park is located approximately 2.5 miles northwest of Hilliard along the trail, this park offers playgrounds, sports courts, and a nature trail.​ ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756856767008-Bike-Path-HIA02482-1170x780.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756856766989-dcbfd558a572074531d4d30805dbf12b.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756856767036-GLR_horse-riders.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756856766771-photo4jpg.jpg) ## ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1757081903575-Screenshot 2025-09-05 101740.png) - **Multi-Use Trail**: The paved trail is suitable for hiking, biking, and walking pets on a leash.​ - **Bridle Trail**: A 3.6-mile sandy trail runs parallel to the multi-use trail, providing a dedicated path for horseback riding.​ - **Hayden Run Trailhead**: Opened in 2002, this trailhead includes parking for vehicles and horse trailers, as well as a corral for horses.​ ## **Other Attractions** - **Birdwatching**: The park is home to over 160 bird species. --- ## **Visitor Information** - **Address**: 7262 Hayden Run Road, Hilliard, OH 43026​ - **Hours**: Open daily from 6:30 a.m. to dark​ - **Contact**: 614-216-8859​ For more information, including trail maps and event schedules, you can visit the [official Heritage Trail Metro Park page](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/heritage-trail-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com). --- ## **Conclusion** ### Heritage Rail Trail Metro Park is a wonderful place to visit. Also, as it connects with Homestead Metro Park, it provides many other activities to do. I highly suggest that you make a visit there. ### Homestead Metro Park: Trails, Map & Hiking Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/homestead-metro-park/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:02:45.000Z Trail FactsHomestead Metro Park 2.5 miDistance EasyDifficulty 80 ftElevation 1.2 hrsDuration LoopType Year RoundDog-friendlyKid-friendly Homestead Metro Park, at 4675 Cosgray Road in Hilliard, Ohio, spans 44 acres and combines historical charm with modern features. It officially joined the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system on September 1, 2015. --- ### History Homestead Metro Park's land was first acquired by Washington Township in 1990, with support from Brown and Norwich Townships. The goal was to create a park celebrating Midwestern rural agricultural life while providing families with recreational space. Historically, the area was part of land granted to Revolutionary War Continental Army veterans, and agriculture has remained a consistent use since its settlement. ![Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756854281477-Screenshot 2025-09-02 190224.png) The park features a railroad-inspired design due to its proximity to the Heritage Rail Trail, which runs along an abandoned railroad line. Highlights include Norwich Junction, a replica train station and rail platform, along with a caboose donated by Consolidated Rail Corporation (Conrail) in 1998\. A replica of Bradley Station, named after local historian Ray Bradley, was also built near the Heritage Trail. ![Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756855242446-Screenshot 2025-09-02 192008.png) ![Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756853742941-Screenshot 2025-09-02 185510.png) --- ### Attractions Homestead Metro Park offers a variety of attractions for visitors - **Fishing Pond**: A 2.5-acre lake stocked for fishing.​ ![Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756854181883-Screenshot 2025-09-02 190146.png) - **Playgrounds**: Multiple play areas, including one of the largest playgrounds among the Metro Parks, featuring tunnels, bridges, and a metal fire truck for children to explore. ![Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756854204956-Screenshot 2025-09-02 185951.png) - **Accessible Playground**: Upgraded in 2022 to include wheelchair-accessible elements like a boat-like glider and musical components, ensuring inclusive play for children of all abilities. ![Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756854226302-Screenshot 2025-09-02 190009.png) - **Elevate Fitness Course**: Introduced in 2022, this obstacle course offers challenges such as the Victory Wall and Summit Bridge, catering to visitors aged 5 and above.​ ![Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756854255961-Screenshot 2025-09-02 190049.png) ![Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756854255739-Screenshot 2025-09-02 190116.png) - **Covered Bridge**: A picturesque structure ideal for leisurely walks and photography.​ ![Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756853612340-Screenshot 2025-09-02 185304.png) - **Shelters and Picnic Areas**: Including reservable shelters like the Lakeside Pavilion, which features fireplaces, electrical outlets, and a balcony overlooking the pond. ![Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756854595638-Screenshot 2025-09-02 190911.png) ![Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756854595699-Screenshot 2025-09-02 190919.png) - **Nature Center**: The Nature Center, which offers engaging and educational activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a parent looking for fun and interactive ways to teach your kids about nature, or just someone who appreciates the natural world, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. With a wide range of age-appropriate activities, including puzzles, puppets, coloring sheets, reptile and amphibian exhibits, and DIY hands-on projects, the Nature Center is a must-see destination for anyone visiting this beautiful park. ![Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756853451911-Screenshot 2025-09-02 185014.png) --- For more information about Homestead Metro Park, including current events and programs, you can visit the [official Metro Parks page](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/homestead/?ref=hiking-ohio.com). ![Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756853263136-Screenshot 2025-08-27 123310.png) #### Multiuse Trail **0.8 miles** **Easy – Hike, Bike, Inline skate, Pets – Paved – ADA** Encircles the main activities area and connects to the 6.1-mile Heritage Trail --- ### **Conclusion** Homestead Metro Park is a hidden gem of the Metroparks. It is worth a visit! ![Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756854963340-Screenshot 2025-04-04 173754.png) **Trail at a Glance — Homestead Metro Park** | **Distance** | 0.8-mile paved loop (links to the 6.1-mile Heritage Trail) | | ------------------ | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | **Elevation gain** | 80 ft | | **Difficulty** | Easy — paved and ADA accessible | | **Best season** | Year-round | | **Dogs** | Leashed dogs welcome | | **Highlights** | Covered bridge, stocked fishing pond, Norwich Junction rail replicas, large playground | | **Address** | 4675 Cosgray Road, Hilliard, OH 43026 | ## Explore Nearby Trails More Ohio trail guides worth a visit: - [Scioto Grove Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/scioto-grove-met/) - [Rocky Fork Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/rocky-fork-metro-park/) - [Three Creeks Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/three-creeks-park/) - [Pine Quarry Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/pine-quarry/) - [Best Hikes Near Columbus](https://hiking-ohio.com/best-hikes-near-columbus-ohio-15-trails-worth-your-weekend/) - [All Columbus & Franklin County Metro Parks](https://hiking-ohio.com/columbus-franklin-county-metro-parks/) ### Inniswood Metro Gardens: Trails, Flowers & Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/inniswood-metro-gardens/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:02:49.000Z Trail FactsInniswood Metro Gardens 2 miDistance EasyDifficulty 50 ftElevation 1 hrDuration LoopType Year RoundKid-friendlyScenic view ​Inniswood Metro Gardens in Westerville, Ohio, is a beautiful 123-acre botanical garden and nature preserve. Thanks to the vision and generosity of sisters Grace and Mary Innis, this space has become a community treasure, combining stunning cultivated gardens with natural woodlands. ## **Location** 940 S. Hempstead Road Westerville OH 43081 From I-270, take the Route 3/Westerville Rd exit south to Dempsey Rd and turn left. Go about 1 mile to Hempstead Rd and turn left. Turn again on Hempstead Rd as it jogs right just past the Blendon Township Community Complex. The entrance is approximately 100 yards on the right. **April 1-September 30:** 6:30am-9pm **October 1-March 31:** 6:30am-7pm **Phone (cell):** 614-208-4301 **Phone (office):** 614-895-6216 --- ## **History** In 1960, Grace and Mary Innis purchased a 38-acre parcel of land known as Brookwood. Grace, an Ohio State University graduate with a passion for horticulture, and Mary, who appreciated the natural beauty of the woods, developed extensive gardens while preserving the area's natural features. After Grace's passing in 1966, Mary initiated plans to donate the estate to the Metro Parks system, with the condition that she could continue to reside there until her death. The donation was formalized in 1972, and additional adjacent land was acquired to protect the site from development. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/08/1755971736033-Grace-Innis5.jpg) In 1984, Inniswood Metro Gardens officially opened to the public as the eighth park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The former Innis residence, now known as Innis House, serves as the park's administrative center and houses a horticultural library and multipurpose room for educational programs and community events. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/08/1755970765784-050.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/08/1755970767449-2011-03-24_08-1536x2048.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/08/1755970764375-26893939454_88133c85dd_b.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/08/1755970766492-f3d8ea54f2bd8e01676115280ce563ae.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/08/1755970766531-IMG_5142.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/08/1755970764281-inniswood-metro-gardens-woodland-rock-garden.jpeg) ## Development and Features Over the years, Inniswood has expanded and developed into a renowned botanical garden. The park features more than 2,000 plant species across various themed gardens, including the Rose Garden, Herb Garden, Conifer Garden, and the Woodland Rock Garden. The Sisters' Garden, dedicated in 2002, encompasses 2.8 acres and includes interactive spaces designed to "nurture the nature of the child in everyone," reflecting the Innis sisters' legacy. ## Detailed Description of the Gardens **Brookwood Trail Garden:** Seasonal display garden transitions into shade plantings, a host collection and a sunny perennial border. **Circle Garden:** Four mixed planting points create a compass of seasonal color inviting visitors to choose a path of discovery. **Conifer Garden:** Collection of evergreen and deciduous conifers, including dwarf varieties. **Cutting Garden:** Annual and perennial plants suitable for use as cut flowers. **Fern Garden:** A test site of the Hardy Fern foundation, featuring a collection of rare and unusual hardy ferns. **Herb Garden:** A wide variety of herbs grouped by uses, featuring a thyme collection. **Memorial Garden:** Shade gardens featuring island beds of mixed perennial and woody plants, location of signature Inniswood gate and site where the Innis hosta was discovered. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/08/1755971863882-J247-08.jpg) **Rose Garden:** Collection of hybrid tea, floribunda, climbing and Earth-Kind™ roses. **Sisters’ Garden:** Seven gardens within a 2.8-acre children’s garden honoring Grace and Mary Innis. » [Click here to download the Sisters’ Garden PDF brochure and map](https://inniswood.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/SG-brochure-front-and-map.pdf?ref=hiking-ohio.com) **The Woodland Rock Garden:** Features cascading waterfalls amid conifers and woodland. --- ## **Community Involvement** The development and maintenance of Inniswood Metro Gardens have been significantly supported by community involvement. In 1983, Inniswood Volunteers, Inc. was established, comprising members from various garden clubs and plant societies. This organization has been instrumental in maintaining the gardens and organizing educational programs. Inniswood boasts more than 2,000 species of plants, specialty collections and several theme gardens. You can support Inniswood Metro Gardens by becoming a member of the Inniswood Garden Society. Contact Information Inniswood Garden Society 940 S. Hempstead Rd. Westerville, OH 43081 Telephone: (614) 895-6216 Fax: (614) 895-6352 ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/08/1755971186690-Screenshot 2025-08-23 131646.png) --- ## **Hiking Trails** #### Boardwalk **0.5 miles** **Easy – Hike – Boardwalk and gravel – ADA** Winds through a beech-maple forest. #### Brookwood **0.5 miles** **Easy – Hike – Paved – ADA** Crosses Spring Run and passes the Memorial and Sisters’ Gardens. #### Chipmunk Chatter **0.6 miles** **Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – Paved – ADA** A paved multi-use trail located at the end of the parking lot on the exterior of the gardens. #### Frog Talk Walk **0.1 miles** **Easy – Hike – Boardwalk – ADA** Adjacent to a pond and passes the Rose and Herb gardens. #### Sister’s Garden Loop **0.3 miles** **Easy – Hike – Paved – ADA** Goes through woods and loops around the Sister’s Garden. #### Spring Run **0.3 miles** **Easy – Hike – Gravel** Runs through an oak-hickory forest. ## **Innis House** The former home of sisters, Grace and Mary Innis, is the site for education programs, staff offices, and has a non-lending horticulture library. Work of local artists is featured in the main room on a monthly basis. Public restrooms are located outside of Innis House on the main grounds. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/08/1755965962616-Screenshot 2025-08-23 121705.png) Open Tuesday through Friday, 8am to 4:30pm and from 11am to 4pm on Saturday and Sunday. --- ## **Conclusion** Today, Inniswood Metro Gardens stands as a living tribute to the Innis sisters' dedication to horticulture and conservation, offering visitors a serene environment to explore and appreciate the beauty of nature. It is definitely worth a visit. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/08/1755972025784-Screenshot 2025-04-04 173754.png) ### Quarry Trails Metro Park: Columbus Hiking Guide 2026 URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/quarry-trails-metro-park/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:18:15.000Z Trail FactsQuarry Trails Metro Park3.2 miDistanceModerateDifficulty180 ftElevation1.5 hrsDurationLoopTypeYear RoundDog-friendlyScenic view Quarry Trails Metro Park, located at 2600 Dublin Road, Columbus, Ohio 43228, is a 182-acre park that opened on November 30, 2021. The park is owned and operated by Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks. It was developed on the site of the Marble Cliff Quarry, which was once the largest contiguous quarry in the United States, providing limestone for over a century for structures like the Ohio Statehouse. ## **Visitor Information** - **Address**: 2600 Dublin Road, Columbus, OH 43228​ - **Hours**: Year-round, from 6:30 a.m. until dark (as of September 2026, per Metro Parks) - **Phone**: 614-565-1539 - **Other entrances**: Waterfall Entrance, 2158 Old Dublin Road; Lake Area, 2319 Quarry Trails Drive, Columbus, OH 43228 Confirm current hours and programs on the [official Quarry Trails page](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/quarry-trails/?ref=hiking-ohio.com). --- ## **History of Marble Cliff Quarry** The park occupies part of the former Marble Cliff Quarry, once the largest contiguous quarry in the United States. For over a century, this quarry supplied limestone used in constructing iconic structures like the Ohio Statehouse and Ohio Stadium. The area also holds cultural significance, having been a workplace for many Italian immigrants who settled nearby.​ The Marble Cliff Quarry, located just west of the Grandview Heights and Marble Cliff areas along the Scioto River in Columbus, Ohio, has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. Quarrying activities began as early as the 1840s, with the extraction of Columbus and Delaware limestone, which was approximately 100 feet thick. These limestone deposits were utilized for construction and as flux to purify iron ore. In 2017, Metro Parks, in partnership with Thrive Companies, embarked on a project to redevelop the site. This collaboration led to the creation of both the 182-acre Quarry Trails Metro Park (as of September 2026, per Metro Parks) and the adjacent Quarry Trails mixed-use development. The park officially opened on November 30, 2021, marking the 20th addition to the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system.​ In 1913, the Marble Cliff Quarry Co. was established through the consolidation of several companies, including Casparis Stone Co., Scioto Stone, Kiefer Stone, and Woodruff and Pausch Stone. Under the leadership of John W. Kaufman as president and H.J. Kaufman as vice president, the company expanded its operations, producing up to 3 million tons of stone per year by 1928\. At its peak, the quarry employed as many as 500 men. The quarry's products were integral to various construction projects, including the Ohio Statehouse. The area around the quarry, known as San Margherita, became a significant Italian immigrant community, with many workers employed in the quarrying industry. In 1985, the Kaufman family sold the 2,000-acre quarry to investors who filled in and developed the site for residential use, leading to the creation of Marble Cliff Commons apartments and Marble Cliff Crossing, a subdivision built between 1998 and 2003\. The northern section of the original quarry remained in operation by American Aggregates Co. In 2017, Wagenbrenner Development purchased a section of the former quarry with the intention of remediating the site's brownfields to create a mixed-use development and the region's 20th Metro Park. On November 30, 2021, the first phase of Quarry Trails Metro Park opened to the public (Metro Parks lists the park at 182 acres as of September 2026). Sections of the original quarry remain in operation, now by American Aggregates Co. The remainder of the quarry has since been filled in and developed for residential use, including Marble Cliff Commons apartments and Marble Cliff Crossing, a 100 single-family and 60 double-family subdivision built between 1998 and 2003. --- ## **San Margherita History** San Margherita, situated west of Columbus across the Scioto River, was settled by Italian immigrants between 1880 and 1920 who worked at the nearby Marble Cliff Quarry. Most of these immigrants were from Pettorano sul Gizio in the Province of L'Aquila, Abruzzo, naming the hamlet after their patron, Saint Margaret of Cortona. Initially, quarry workers lived in simple shack-like homes along McKinley Avenue and the railroad tracks. Those who saved enough money eventually built houses along the south side of Trabue Road. Twenty-eight pre-World War II homes were constructed along Trabue Rd, and post-War homes were constructed a few blocks south on Hague Avenue until the site of the new Saint Margaret of Cortona Church. Since then, the neighborhood has been in decline, with many descendants of the original residents moving to nearby neighborhoods like Grandview Heights or Marble Cliff Village. The homes along Trabue Road sit on the 60 ft fronts of one acre lots. The large backyards were used to grow vegetables and cultivate grapes in small vineyards. Early residents of the neighborhood would tend to chickens and hogs, providing help to their neighbors during slaughter and harvest times. Two dozen of the original homes still remain on Trabue Road. Though once a robust and rural community, San Margherita is in danger of vanishing. Many of the original homes and locally owned businesses in the neighborhood have been demolished. In 2003, the City of Columbus acquired three homes and three commercial properties, including a Marathon gas station and Spiro's Lounge, for demolition to widen the road and ease traffic on Trabue Road between Dublin Road and McKinley Avenue. In 2008, The Robert Weiler Company acquired a 10-acre tract of land at 3445 Trabue Rd and was amassing property in San Margherita for commercial development and was looking to develop a supermarket-anchored center along Trabue Rd. to serve both Upper Arlington and the West Side. ## **Geography** ![Map of San Margherita neighborhood boundaries near Marble Cliff Quarry](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/06/Map_of_San_Margherita.jpg/250px-Map_of_San_Margherita.jpg) *The boundaries of San Margherita are shown in yellow, located between Hague and McKinley Avenues along Trabue Rd* Neighborhood boundaries between Penn Central and Conrail train tracks, following Trabue Road and venturing south until 1600 Hague Avenue. The Saint Margaret of Cortona Catholic Church parish boundaries extend north to Roberts Road, east to the Scioto River, south to Fisher Road, and west to Jones Road. ### Saint Margaret of Cortona Catholic Church ![Saint Margaret of Cortona Catholic Church](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a1/San_Margherita_Catholic_Church.jpg/250px-San_Margherita_Catholic_Church.jpg) *The current Saint Margaret of Cortona Church building* Originally located at 3388 Trabue Road, thirteen local families led the effort to establish a church in their predominantly Roman Catholic community. Each family donated $50 toward its construction, while another family contributed the 2.2-acre lot. Built in 1921, the church was debt-free within five years. A frame parish hall was added in 1936, and the rectory was completed in 1955. Starting in 1921, the parish hosted an annual three-day festival in late July to honor the patron saints of the residents' Italian birthplaces. The event included a parade down Trabue Road featuring statues of St. Margaret, St. Anne, St. Lucy, St. Anthony, and St. Joseph. By the 1950s, the parish's boundaries were defined, extending east to the Scioto River, west to Jones Road, north to Roberts Road, and south to Fisher Road. As the congregation grew, a larger church became necessary. The new Saint Margaret of Cortona was constructed in 1968 at 1600 Hague Avenue. In 1987, the original church at 3388 Trabue Road was sold and scheduled for demolition due to disrepair and declining attendance at daily mass. Joseph Baljak, a parish member since 1976, purchased the property under the condition that he could repurpose the rectory and parish hall, while the church itself would be demolished. Until the old church was torn down, daily mass continued at 3388 Trabue Road, while Sunday services and religious ceremonies took place at the new Hague Avenue location. The annual festival also moved to the new church, with the parade evolving into a procession from the old site to the new one. [](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:St.%5FMargaret,%5Ffront,%5F3388%5FTrabue%5FRd.jpg?ref=hiking-ohio.com)The original Saint Margaret of Cortona Catholic Church, viewed from the front on 3388 Trabue [](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:St.%5FMargarets%5FFestival%5FProcession.jpg?ref=hiking-ohio.com)St. Margaret's festival was held even before the construction of the original church, and has always included a procession down Trabue Rd, carrying statues of Italian patron saints --- ## **MAP** ![Quarry Trails Metro Park map](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/08/1755563665550-Screenshot%202025-08-12%20112443.jpg) --- ## **Hiking Trails** The park offers several trails catering to various skill levels: - **Boardwalk:** A 0.1-mile, easy, ADA-accessible trail suitable for hiking and pets. - **Connector Trails:** A 0.4-mile, easy, paved trail in the Lake Area, suitable for hiking and pets. - **Flat Rocks Trail:** A 0.3-mile, easy, paved trail suitable for hiking and pets. - **Trails**: A network of trails, including the Tall Wall Trail, providing scenic views and access to various park areas.​ --- ## Other Attractions Quarry Trails Metro Park offers a blend of natural beauty and recreational amenities:​ - **Millikin Falls**: A picturesque 25-foot waterfall accessible via a limestone-sculpted stairway. ![Millikin Falls at Quarry Trails Metro Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/08/1755563983410-QT-waterfall.jpg) - **Lakes and Water Activities**: Two quarry lakes suitable for kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and fishing.​ ![Canoeist on a quarry lake at Quarry Trails Metro Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/08/1755564005569-canoeist-on-lake-QuarryTrails-Walker-Evans.jpg) - **Mountain Biking**: A rugged 0.75-mile single-track trail designed for intermediate to advanced riders.​ - **Sledding Hill**: One of the area's longest sledding hills - **Via Ferrata**: Opened in May 2023\. Access is **only** available through Metro Parks Outdoor Adventure program registration (not walk-up/free use; confirm current programs on the [official Quarry Trails page](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/quarry-trails/?ref=hiking-ohio.com)). The Quarry Trails via ferrata route includes 1,040 feet of cabled climbing using metal rungs, ladders and fixed cables as a means of climbing over intermediate rocky terrain. The route includes a 90-foot treadway suspension bridge situated 105 feet above a scenic pond, two aerial walkways and a 54-foot steel staircase. Due to the unique nature of the via ferrata, access is \*\*only \*\*available through program registration. Visitors can enjoy the via ferrata on fully guided programs by reservation with the Metro Parks Outdoor Adventure team. - It takes an average of 90 minutes to complete the route. - Users must be at least 14 years of age, weigh between 88 and 265 pounds and be at least 5 feet tall. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. ![Via ferrata at Quarry Trails Metro Park at sunset](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/08/1755563945579-1200px_QTR_ViaFerrataSettingSun_StefanBruch%20%281%29.jpg) - **Sport Climbing** The Sport Climbing area is open without advanced registration, but users must sign a waiver and wear a climbing helmet. There are six climbing routes, reaching more than 50 feet up the sheer cliff walls. The lead climber clips their rope into pre-drilled permanent bolts for their protection while ascending the route, with the rope managed by a belayer at ground level. Minimum gear required to use the Sport Climbing walls is dynamic climbing rope (about 60 to 80 meters), rock climbing harness, climbing shoes, quickdraws, webbing/slings, locking carabiners, climbing helmet, chalk and chalk bag, and belay device --- ## **Conclusion** In 2023, Quarry Trails Metro Park received the Ohio Parks and Recreation Association’s Award of Excellence for Capital Improvements over $2.5 million. Additionally, in 2024, it was named Project of the Year by the Building Columbus Awards, recognizing its transformative impact on the community.​ This metro park is amazing! The history and the beauty of the site is incredible, and it is in the urban Columbus, Ohio, area. The Via Ferrata cabling looks fantastic. I say looks fantastic, but I would be like the recent visitor that got a panic attack halfway up and had to be rescued by the fire department. It is definitely worth a visit, with or without climbing. ![Quarry Trails Metro Park overview graphic](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/08/1755565307533-Screenshot%202025-04-04%20173754.png) ### Squirrel! Ohio Trail Wildlife & Nature Sightings URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/squirrel/ Last updated: 2026-03-24T11:24:06.000Z Squirrels are abundant in central Ohio. I am not sure if this is the same squirrel in the pictures or several different ones. I like the picture at the top of the blog because it looks like the squirrel is staring at me. Again, the dates and times are incorrect on the field camera. Enjoy the squirrel video below: 0:00 /4:40 1× ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1753117079000-weba-flat-icon-of-sad-squirrel-vector.jpg) --- ### **History of Squirrels:** Squirrels belong to the Sciuridae family, which includes tree squirrels, ground squirrels, chipmunks, marmots (like groundhogs), flying squirrels, and prairie dogs. They've been around for over 40 million years, with fossils dating back to the Eocene epoch. Originally native to North America, Eurasia, and Africa, they've spread to other continents due to human activity. Known for their speed and agility, squirrels excel at evading predators and moving through their environment. --- ### **Squirrel Food:** Tree squirrels love munching on nuts like acorns, walnuts, and hazelnuts, along with seeds, fruits, fungi, and sometimes insects or bird eggs. Ground squirrels prefer grasses, roots, seeds, insects, and even small vertebrates. Flying squirrels enjoy mushrooms, lichens, sap, bird eggs, and small insects, especially at night. Many squirrel species also store food to retrieve during the winter months. --- ### **Life Cycle** Squirrels typically mate in late winter to early spring, with some experiencing a second cycle in late summer. Their gestation period lasts about 40–45 days, resulting in litters of 2–8 kits or pups. Born blind and hairless, the babies stay in the nest for about two months. Squirrels reach sexual maturity at 10–12 months. In the wild, their lifespan is usually 3–6 years, often shorter due to predators, but in captivity, they can live over 10 years. --- ### **Fun Facts about Squirrels** **Memory Pros:** Squirrels are great at remembering where they bury nuts, using spatial memory and landmarks. **“Fake Burying”:** To mislead potential thieves, they sometimes pretend to bury nuts while hiding them elsewhere. **Flying:** Flying squirrels don’t actually fly—they glide using a special membrane called a patagium. **Growing Teeth:** Like other rodents, squirrels have continuously growing front teeth that need to be worn down by gnawing. **Urban Adaptation:** They’ve adapted remarkably to city life, often outsmarting bird feeders and navigating traffic. --- ### **Conclusion:** Squirrels are very interesting creatures. Usually, squirrels are noisy. They sound like a lot bigger animals crashing through the forest. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1753196408432-Screenshot 2025-04-04 173754.png) ### Pickerington Ponds Metro Park and State Nature Preserve URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/pickerington-ponds-metro-park-and-state-nature-preserve/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:03:22.000Z Trail FactsPickerington Ponds Metro Park 3 miDistance EasyDifficulty 40 ftElevation 1.2 hrsDuration LoopType Year RoundDog-friendlyWildlife ​Pickerington Ponds Metro Park, located in Canal Winchester, Ohio, is a 1,608-acre natural area renowned for its rich biodiversity and historical significance. It serves as a vital habitat for various bird species and offers a glimpse into the region's ecological history.​ There are about 416 acres are officially dedicated as a State Nature Preserve, featuring wetlands, ponds, buttonbush swamps, and marshes. --- ### Visitor Information - **Address**: 7680 Wright Road, Canal Winchester, OH 43110​ - **Hours**: Year-round, 6:30 a.m. to dark​ - **Contact**: 614-208-4329​ ### **Other areas of Pickerington Ponds** ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1753202745004-Screenshot 2025-07-22 124514.jpg) For more details, visit Pickerington Ponds Metro Parks website. [Pickerington Ponds - Metro Parks - Central Ohio Park SystemPickerington Ponds is a premier spot for birdwatching, with more than 260 species seen. The combination of seasonal ponds and rich wetland vegetation, with bordering woodlands, serve as a magnet for migrating waterfowl, shore birds and land birds. Deer, beaver, fox and other wildlife can be seen near the ponds and adjoining woods and fields of this 1,608 acre park.![](https://static.ghost.org/v5.0.0/images/link-icon.svg)Metro Parks - Central Ohio Park System![](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/PKP_misty-morning-and-oak-at-Arrowhead-Marsh_Ramesh-Rangaswamy-scaled.jpg)](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/pickerington-ponds/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ### **Historical Information** Pickerington Ponds' unique landscape was formed around 18,000 years ago during the Wisconsin Glaciation, creating a wetland depression and a partially wooded natural dam. Before becoming part of the Metro Parks system, the area was mostly privately held in the 19th century by two local families—the Wrights and the Bowens, whose names remain at the park's crossroads. The wetlands became known by names like *Messenger Swamp* or *Wright Road Ponds.* Birdwatchers have been drawn to the wetlands since at least the 1930s. Conservation efforts began in 1974, with groups like The Nature Conservancy and local organizations raising funds to secure the area for public ownership. The first 126-acre parcel was acquired in November 1979, with additional land purchased throughout the early 1980s. By 1989, 413 acres were designated as a state nature preserve and officially opened as Pickerington Ponds Metro Park. Since 2002, Metro Parks has restored nearly 750 acres of wetland and adjacent habitats at Pickerington Ponds. These restored areas are accessible via nature trails and observation decks, providing visitors with opportunities to experience and appreciate the park's ecological diversity.​ --- ### **Trails** ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1753199644539-Screenshot 2025-07-22 115229.jpg) #### Arrowhead **1.7 miles** **Easy – Hike – Grass** Goes through fields and forest and crosses George Creek. #### Blacklick Creek Greenway **16 miles** **Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – Paved** Connects three Metro Parks and several small parks from Reynoldsburg to Groveport. #### Killdeer **1.1 miles** **Easy – Hike – Gravel** Goes around Blue Wing Pond and leads to an observation deck overlooking Pintail Marsh. #### Meadowlark **1 mile** **Easy – Hike – Grass** Follows Pickering Creek and loops around grassland. #### Yellowlegs **0.5 miles** **Easy – Hike – Gravel** Crosses Pickering Creek and goes through a wetland. #### Burning Lake **1.5 miles** **Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – Paved** Loops through wildflower fields and a small woodland, passes wetlands. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1753202548809-272194_be051b1991ac440393cd4368ea807d06~mv2.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1753202548006-28650571570_af7d8d9e71_b.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1753202548261-52646715191_612cc1d3a6_b.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1753202548179-o.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1753202548210-pickerington-ponds-lorianne-DiSabato.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1753202549282-PKP_heron-in-pond-inlet_D-Ferrin.jpg) --- ### **Wildlife at Pickerington Ponds** ### **Birdlife** The park is recognized as an Important Bird Area (IBA) by Audubon Ohio, with over 260 bird species documented, including waterfowl, shorebirds, warblers, and marsh birds. Rare sightings include the glossy ibis, American avocet, marbled godwit, surf scoter, and American white pelican. It is home to a Great Blue Heron rookery that once hosted up to 50 nests near Ellis Pond. Since 2008, a pair of nesting Ospreys has returned annually and can often be spotted from the Glacier Knoll Picnic Area observation deck. Visitors note a high diversity including warblers, sparrows, orioles, sandhill cranes, pheasants, grebes, and more in nearby areas of the park ### **Other Wildlife** White-tailed deer, beavers, and red foxes are commonly spotted in and around ponds, wetlands, woodlots, and fields. Residents and visitors have also noticed that bald eagles have become regular visitors to the park. ### **Other Species & Habitat** The area features glacial kettle lakes, cattail marshes, buttonbush swamps, managed grasslands (spanning about 60–70 acres), and small woodlots, all within its acres. Glacial kettle lakes, formed during the last Ice Age, are incredible natural wonders, and Pickerington Ponds Metro Park hosts several of them. Here's a simple overview: Kettle lakes (or kettle holes) are depressions or hollows left behind after partially buried blocks of glacial ice melted. These basins filled with water over time, becoming lakes or ponds. When glaciers retreated and melted about 12,000–18,000 years ago, they left behind chunks of ice in the sediment. These ice blocks became buried in glacial outwash made of gravel, sand, and silt. Over time, the ice melted, creating voids or pits in the ground. These depressions eventually filled with rainwater, groundwater, or runoff, forming ponds or lakes. Characteristics: | Feature | Description | | ------------ | ------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | **Shape** | Typically round or oval | | **Size** | Varies widely — from small ponds to lakes | | **Depth** | Can be shallow or deep depending on melt volume | | **Ecology** | Support **wetland vegetation**, migratory birds, amphibians, and insects | | **Drainage** | Often **no inlet/outlet**, making them closed systems (some are seasonal) | --- ### Conclusion Pickerington Ponds Metro Park is a wonderful park to visit. It is a sanctuary for all kinds of birds and other wildlife. It is definitely worth a visit or two. ### Ohio Waterfall Hikes: Best Trails & Scenic Falls Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/waterfalls-2023/ Last updated: 2026-06-10T10:30:59.000Z Waterfalls are epic! In 2023 we visited several waterfalls in Canada and the United States. The video has footage and still pictures from the different waterfalls. 0:00 /5:26 1× Below is additional information about each waterfall in the video in order of appearance in the video. ### **Seven Sister Rapids/Chutes Provincial Park** Chutes Provincial Park is a recreational provincial park located just north of Massey, Ontario, along the scenic River aux Sables. P.O. Box 37, 650 Imperial St. N, Massey, ON P0P 1P0 Coordinates: \~46°13′19″ N, 82°04′19″ W The park is located about 1 km north of Hwy 17 (Trans‑Canada Highway) via Highway 553\. It was named for an early 1900s logging chute, a wooden flume built to guide logs around a waterfall on the River Aux Sables. The park protects a 3 km section of the river, centered on the dramatic waterfall and the Seven Sisters Rapids upstream. TheTwin Bridges Trail is a 6 km moderate hike with viewpoints, interpretive panels, and two scenic bridges over the rapids. Visitors can enjoy: - Hiking, swimming at the beach (no lifeguards), fishing (salmon runs in fall), birding, biking on park roads, interpretive programs in summer - Winter access for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and hiking --- ### **Cuyahoga Valley National Park & Cleveland Metroparks (Bridal Veil Falls)** The Falls of Cuyahoga Valley National Park are part of the natural and cultural history of Cuyahoga Valley National Park (CVNP). It is located in northeastern Ohio, between the cities of Cleveland and Akron. When I traveled for audits, I promised myself I would stop there after I retired. I am glad I did! Cuyahoga Valley National Park is centered around the Cuyahoga River. It was once a burning river. An oil slick on the river caught fire the morning of Sunday, June 22, 1969\. The blaze only lasted about 30 minutes, extinguished by land-based battalions and one of the city’s fireboats. It caused damage to railroad bridges spanning the river and earned a small amount of attention in the local press. The river became heavily affected by industrial pollution, so much so that it caught fire at least 14 times. When it did so on June 22, 1969, news coverage of the event helped to spur the American Environmental Movement. Since then, the river has been extensively cleaned up through the efforts of Cleveland's city government and the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (OEPA). Here are the 3 falls: **Brandywine Falls** Location: Near Sagamore Hills, off Brandywine Road. Height: Approximately 65 feet. Accessibility: One of the most visited spots in the park; accessible via a boardwalk and trail. Geological Note: Formed by erosion through layers of sandstone and shale. **Blue Hen Falls** Location: Along Boston Mills Road. Height: About 15 feet. Hike: A short, moderate hike from the trailhead on Boston Mills Road. **Buttermilk Falls (less well-known)** Location: Often referred to unofficially, found on trails such as the Buckeye Trail. Access: Not as developed or marked as Brandywine or Blue Hen History of the area: The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Lenape (Delaware) and Shawnee. The falls and river held spiritual and practical importance. The Ohio & Erie Canal, completed in the 1830s, runs through the valley and helped boost economic development. Small mills and settlements sprang up around waterfalls, especially Brandywine Falls, which powered sawmills and gristmills. The village of Brandywine was an early industrial settlement; remnants still exist near the falls. In the 1970s, conservation efforts led to the creation of Cuyahoga Valley National Recreation Area in 1974\. In 2000, the site was redesignated as Cuyahoga Valley National Park, giving it full national park status. **Bridal Veil Falls** It is located within the Cleveland Metroparks' Bedford Reservation, which is part of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park region. The Bedford Reservation is a forested area was never heavily logged due to its steep gorge terrain, helping preserve its natural beauty. Height: Approximately 20–30 feet tall, a delicate multi-tiered cascade that earned the name "Bridal Veil" for its fine, veil-like appearance. Easy hike (\~0 ft elevation change), suitable for most, but includes stairs and boardwalk—may challenge those with impaired mobility. It is a short \~0.3‑0.5 mile out‑and‑back hike leading downstairs and a wooden boardwalk to a viewing platform over Deerlick Creek --- ### **Lake La Cloche** Lake La Cloche sits within La Cloche Provincial Park, in the unorganized southeast of Algoma District, near Massey, Ontario (approx. 8 km south) Named after a naturally “bell-like” rock—la cloche in French—that echoed when struck; Indigenous peoples allegedly used it as a warning bell. The lake drains via Rivière La Cloche into the North Channel of Georgian Bay, part of the expansive Great Lakes Basin. Surrounding the lake are the rugged La Cloche Mountains, composed of ancient quartzite—one of the oldest mountain ranges in Ontario. Established around 1790 by the North West Company, Fort La Cloche was strategically placed on a fur-trading route between Montreal and the western territories. Became the Hudson’s Bay Company district headquarters after the 1821 merger, staffed with traders, blacksmiths, and voyageurs. The post thrived until the arrival of the Canadian Pacific Railway in the 1880s shifted trade westward; it ultimately closed in 1886. The site later housed a junior ranger camp and lodge before being incorporated into the park in 1985. We visited Lake La Cloche because my husband's grandfather would go there annually to fish in the 1940s. He had pictures from his visits. We were able to locate some of the sites. --- ### **Betsie River** The Betsie River in Benzie County, Michigan is famous for its Salmon Falls—the cascade near the old Homestead Dam, often called Homestead Falls. This location is a prime spot for watching Chinook ("King") and Coho salmon climb the river during their spawning runs. The Betsie River flows from Green Lake through Benzie and briefly Manistee County, emptying into Lake Michigan at Frankfort. It spans about 54 miles in total. Salmon Falls is situated at the Homestead Dam site, just south of Benzonia along U.S. 31\. The remains of the old dam now create the falls and act as a migration barrier without blocking fish entirely. In 1974, most of Homestead Dam was removed, leaving the falls as a fish passage barrier (lamprey barrier), enabling salmon and steelhead to move upstream. Seasonal Chinook salmon begin arriving as early as mid-August, peaking in September, followed by Coho in October Steelhead and lake-run browns also run in the fall and spring. --- ## **Tahquamenon Falls – Upper & Lower** Located in Tahquamenon Falls State Park, in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, these are among the largest and most beautiful waterfalls in the eastern U.S. - Park Address: *41382 W M-123, Paradise, MI 49768* - The Upper Falls is about 4 miles (6.4 km) upstream from the Lower Falls. - Accessed via M-123 Scenic Heritage Route. ### Upper Tahquamenon Falls - Height: \~50 feet (15 m) - Width: \~200 feet (61 m) - One of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River by volume. Over 50,000 gallons of water per second can flow over the falls during peak melt. The water appears a deep brownish-gold due to tannins from nearby cedar and hemlock swamps—earning the nickname “Root Beer Falls.” ### Lower Tahquamenon Falls - A series of five smaller cascading falls around an island. - You can rent rowboats to reach the island or walk along trails for different viewpoints. More accessible and family-friendly for wading, picnicking, and hiking. **History** The name “Tahquamenon” likely comes from Ojibwe (Anishinaabe) words, but its exact etymology is debated. It may refer to “river of red water” due to the tannins.The area is traditional land of the Ojibwe people, who used the falls and river as part of seasonal migration, fishing, and trade routes. In the 19th century, the Tahquamenon River was a key transport route for white pine logs during Michigan’s lumber boom. The Upper Falls area was logged extensively until protected. Tahquamenon Falls State Park was established in 1947, and today encompasses over 46,000 acres, making it Michigan’s second-largest state park. - Trails connect both falls, but it's about a 4-mile hike one-way (or a short drive). - Excellent facilities: paved paths, gift shop, brewpub (*Tahquamenon Falls Brewery & Pub*), restrooms. **Fun Fact** The Upper Falls is famously referenced in Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s 1855 poem *The Song of Hiawatha*, which draws from Ojibwe legend and references “where the mighty falls of Taquamenaw thunder.” --- ### **Bridal Veil Falls – Manitoulin Island, Ontario** It is located near Kagawong on Manitoulin Island, Ontario and is the world’s largest freshwater island. The address: 50–64 Main St., Kagawong, Ontario P0P 1J0, Canada. It is situated just off Highway 540 at the entrance to the village. The waterfall is on the Kagawong River, drops about 11 meters (35 feet). The name Bridal Veil Falls comes from the cascading appearance of the water. It is accessible via a short, scenic trail near the town of Kagawong. The area around Kagawong was a traditional fishing and settlement area for the Anishinaabe people. A sawmill operated above the falls in the 1920s, but the area is now maintained as a park and walking trail. --- ## **Niagara Falls** Niagara Falls is a group of three waterfalls straddling the border between Ontario, Canada, and New York, USA: 1. Horseshoe Falls *(Canada)* – the largest and most iconic. 2. American Falls *(USA)* – dramatic, with large boulders at its base. 3. Bridal Veil Falls *(USA)* – smallest, separated by Luna Island. ### **Canadian Side (Ontario)** - Location: Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada - Main Visitor Address: *6650 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 3E8, Canada* - Managed by: Niagara Parks Commission - Landmarks Nearby: Horseshoe Falls, Table Rock Centre, Journey Behind the Falls ### **American Side (New York)** - Location: Niagara Falls, New York, USA - Main Visitor Address: *Goat Island – Niagara Falls State Park, 332 Prospect St., Niagara Falls, NY 14303* - Managed by: New York State Office of Parks - Landmarks Nearby: American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Cave of the Winds, Maid of the Mist ### **History of Niagara Falls** Indigenous peoples, especially the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois Confederacy) and Neutral Nation, have lived around Niagara for thousands of years. Niagara means "thunder of waters" or "neck" in various Iroquoian dialects. The Falls were considered sacred and used as a boundary and ceremonial site. It was first documented by Europeans in 1678 by French priest Father Louis Hennepin, who traveled with La Salle. It became a natural wonder known throughout Europe and North America by the 1700s. By the 19th century, the area was harnessed for hydroelectric power, especially by inventors like Nikola Tesla and George Westinghouse. In 1895, the first major hydroelectric station was built on the American side. Niagara remains one of the largest sources of hydroelectric power in North America. The Falls became a major tourist attraction in the 1800s, with railroads bringing visitors from across the continent. The Canadian side developed grand hotels and panoramic views; the American side emphasized natural conservation. Niagara Falls State Park (USA) was established in 1885, making it the oldest state park in the U.S., thanks to landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted. **Fun Facts** Niagra Falls played a strategic role in the War of 1812 between the U.S. and British Canada. Famous tightrope walkers like Nik Wallenda and daredevils in barrels have made headlines attempting stunts over the falls. --- ### **Cedar Falls (Hocking Hills State Park)** Blackhand Sandstone formed the falls over 300 million years ago during the Allegheny Plateau uplift. Early 1800s settlers thought hemlocks were cedar trees, giving the falls its name. A small grist mill was built around 1830 at the top. The remnants are still visible. The region was used by Shawnee, Delaware, and Wyandot tribes. It is located along State Route 374, near 21560 OH‑374, Logan, OH 43138 (approx. 39.4187° N, 82.5247° W) Accessible via Gorge Overlook or Grandma Gatewood Trail; about 0.4–0.5 mi one-way (loop) - Height: \~50-foot plunge over Blackhand Sandstone into a scenic pool below - Volume: Highest water volume of any waterfall in Hocking Hills ### **Conclusion** We hope you enjoyed the video and information about the falls! ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1751916386926-Screenshot 2025-04-04 173754.png) ### Animals From the Field Camera: Ohio Trail Wildlife URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/animals-from-the-field-camera/ Last updated: 2026-07-31T13:12:22.000Z We set up the field camera in the field behind our son's house. The dates on the pictures and times are incorrect. I did not see a reason to spend the time to correct all the dates. The only important thing is the pictures. It was really interesting to see coyotes. I have heard coyotes before but had not seen any. It is a little disconcerting that Rob and I camped there a couple of years ago. We did not see any coyotes then. Whew! It is nice to see the different animals on the field camera. Many of the animals are nocturnal so we would not be able to seem them during the day. We have pictures below of skunks, rabbits, raccoons, groundhogs, and possums. ![Cartoon coyote sitting with a red bandana on a transparent background](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752951596339-free-coyote-clip-art-8.jpg) ![Trail camera photo of a coyote walking left across a green field toward a wooden bridge in summer](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752941144110-DSCF0074.JPG) ![Trail camera photo of a coyote standing in tall grass near a wooden footbridge](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752941144023-DSCF0075.JPG) ![Trail camera photo of a coyote walking right past a wooden bridge in a leafy green clearing](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752941143837-DSCF0076.JPG) ![Trail camera photo of an empty green field and wooden bridge with no animal visible](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752941144111-DSCF0077.JPG) ![Night trail camera photo of a coyote walking away into leaf litter under bare trees](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752941138795-DSCF0337.JPG) ![Night trail camera photo of a coyote walking left through a dark winter woods](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752941138964-DSCF0340.JPG) ![Night trail camera photo of a coyote walking right across the forest floor at night](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752941138973-DSCF0341.JPG) ![Night trail camera photo of dense bare trees and leaf litter with no clear animal in frame](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752941138342-DSCF0424.JPG) ![Night trail camera photo of a coyote body close to the camera in dark woods](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752941296321-DSCF0664 - Copy - Copy.JPG) ![Night trail camera photo of a coyote partially filling the frame among bare trees](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752941295883-DSCF0664 - Copy (2).JPG) ![Night trail camera photo of a coyote close-up walking through leaf litter](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752941295622-DSCF0664 - Copy.JPG) ![Night trail camera photo of a coyote rear half and tail moving through dark woods](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752941295613-DSCF0664.JPG) ![Night trail camera photo of a coyote mid-frame walking through bare winter trees](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752941296666-DSCF0665 - Copy.JPG) ![Night trail camera photo of a coyote head and shoulders among dark tree trunks](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752941296675-DSCF0665.JPG) ![Night trail camera photo of a coyote standing alert facing the camera in leaf litter](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752941295600-DSCF0679.JPG) ![Night trail camera photo of a coyote walking left in profile under bare trees](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752941295607-DSCF0680.JPG) ![Night trail camera photo of a coyote rear view walking away into the woods](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752941295581-DSCF0682 - Copy.JPG) ![Night trail camera photo of a coyote rear and tail as it walks away from the camera](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752941330249-DSCF0682.JPG) ![Night trail camera photo of a coyote standing among trees looking to the right](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752941330510-DSCF0683 - Copy.JPG) ![Night trail camera photo of a coyote standing near a tree trunk facing right](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752941330571-DSCF0683.JPG) Coyote short video below 0:00 /0:10 1× ![Small color photo of a groundhog sitting on green grass](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1753111347053-IMG_20250720_125619.jpg) This is the groundhog that lives in our neighborhood, we call him/her Flower because we first saw her in a flowerpot. Picture below. ![Cartoon groundhog sitting on a dirt mound smiling](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752951743163-happy-groundhog-day-cartoon-colored-clipart_576561-5856.jpg) ![Trail camera daytime photo of a groundhog in a leaf-covered field near a fence line](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752372585623-DSCF0379.JPG) ![Trail camera daytime photo of a groundhog farther back in a leaf-strewn field](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752372585844-DSCF0380.JPG) ![Trail camera daytime photo of a groundhog near the right edge of a field by brush](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752372585547-groundhog.JPG) ![Color photo of a young groundhog sitting in a flower pot on a patio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1753110691804-4869030574738435973.jpg) groundhog ![Cartoon opossum sitting with hands clasped and a long pink tail](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1753110571155-clipart-opossum-13.jpg) ![Night trail camera photo of an opossum near the left edge of a dark wooded frame](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752372638981-DSCF0262.JPG) ![Night trail camera photo of an opossum walking left through leaf litter at night](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752372640813-DSCF0263.JPG) ![Night trail camera photo of an opossum on the left side of a bare winter woods](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752372641199-DSCF0364.JPG) ![Night trail camera photo of an opossum walking right across the forest floor](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752372641364-DSCF0641.JPG) ![Night trail camera photo of a small bright eye-shine deep in dark brush](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752372639535-possum.JPG) ![Night trail camera photo of a small bright animal eye-shine in dark woods](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752372639723-possum1.JPG) opossum ![Cartoon gray rabbit with blue eyes sitting and smiling](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1753110739775-Bunny-free-rabbits-clipart-free-clipart-graphics-images-and-photos-2.jpg) ![Night trail camera photo of a rabbit low in brush on the forest floor](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752372738328-DSCF0328.JPG) ![Night trail camera photo of a rabbit sitting among leaf litter in dark woods](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752372738671-DSCF0329.JPG) ![Night trail camera photo of a rabbit near the right side of a wooded clearing](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752372738138-DSCF0367.JPG) ![Night trail camera photo of a rabbit small in the frame among bare trees](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752372738754-DSCF0368.JPG) ![Night trail camera photo of a rabbit on a leaf-covered slope in the woods](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752372739381-DSCF0638.JPG) ![Daytime trail camera photo of a rabbit on a leaf-covered path in a winter woods](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752372739836-DSCF0797.JPG) rabbit ![Cartoon raccoon sitting with large blue eyes and a striped tail](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1753111019979-bef849b88b50101aec1023c8460abc41.jpg) ![Night trail camera photo of a raccoon foraging in a leaf-covered clearing](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752372778865-racoon.JPG) ![Night trail camera photo of a raccoon walking through leaf litter at night](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752372778876-racoon1.JPG) raccoon ![Night trail camera photo of a skunk near a tree trunk in leaf litter](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752372817862-DSCF0307.JPG) ![Night trail camera photo of a skunk walking left past a tree in the woods](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752372817987-DSCF0308.JPG) ![Cartoon skunk standing with a raised bushy black-and-white tail](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1753110780339-9-wild-skunk-cartoon-clipart.jpg) skunk --- **Conclusion:** Field cameras are an easy way to capture animals in their own environment. It is amazing to see the variety of animals in such a small area. ### Scioto Grove Metro Park: Trails, Map & Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/scioto-grove-met/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:03:42.000Z Trail FactsScioto Grove Metro Park 3.5 miDistance EasyDifficulty 100 ftElevation 1.5 hrsDuration LoopType Year RoundDog-friendlyWildlife Scioto Grove Metro Park, located in Grove City, Ohio, is a 620-acre natural area along the Scioto River. **Trail at a Glance — Scioto Grove Metro Park** | **Distance** | 3.5 miles (loop) | | ------------------ | ------------------------------------------------- | | **Elevation gain** | 100 ft | | **Difficulty** | Easy | | **Best season** | Year-round | | **Dogs** | Leashed dogs welcome | | **Highlights** | Scioto River trails, backpack campsites, wildlife | | **Location** | Grove City, Franklin County, Ohio | It officially opened to the public on May 6, 2016, as the 19th park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The park was developed through a combination of land donations, state funding, and partnerships, including a significant contribution from outdoor retailer REI Co-op. ​ **Address:** ![Scioto Grove Metro Park, Franklin County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752363416657-Screenshot 2025-07-12 193504.jpg) **Hours:** April 1-September 30: 6:30am-10pm October 1-March 31: 6:30am-8pm --- ![Scioto Grove Metro Park, Franklin County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752368478895-Screenshot 2025-07-12 193529.png) ### Grove City History Scioto Grove Metro Park: **In 2008,** Grove City offered to donate a **192‑acre** wooded parcel in the Scioto River floodplain to Metro Parks. This land, prone to flooding and unsuitable for development, was deemed ideal for parkland Metro Parks formally accepted Grove City’s donation on June 10, 2010. --- ### Metro Parks History Scioto Grove Metro Park: Franklin County voters approved a levy in October 2009 that financed Metro Parks’ purchase of 66 acres adjacent to the Grove City land. In December 2010, Metro Parks acquired an additional 175 acres to expand the park. Two more purchases closed the park’s “gap”: one for 166 acres and another 22‑acre parcel—bringing the total to 620 acres. The 166‑acre parcel was bought with metro‑parks bonds due to capital gains timing issues; much of the funding came from the Clean Ohio grant. This was December 2012\. --- ### Partnerships: A partnership with **REI**, which helped develop the backpacking trail and campsites. --- ![Scioto Grove Metro Park, Franklin County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752363698571-Screenshot 2025-07-12 194101.png) --- ![Scioto Grove Metro Park, Franklin County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752368404860-rope-bridge-columbus-adventures-1536x1152.jpeg) ![Scioto Grove Metro Park, Franklin County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752368403864-scioto-grove-metro-park-fishing.jpeg) ![Scioto Grove Metro Park, Franklin County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752368404253-scioto-grove-metro-park-trees-scaled.jpeg) ## **Trails:** #### Arrowhead **0.7 miles** **Easy – Hike, Pets – Natural** Goes through woods and connects to the REI River Trail #### Connector **0.2 miles** **Easy – Hike, Pets – Natural** Connects the Overlook and Multipurpose trails. #### Mingo **2.5 miles** **Easy – Hike, Pets – Natural** Loops around the southern section of the park and runs alongside the Scioto River. #### Multipurpose **2 miles** **Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – Paved** Passes through fields and prairies. #### Overlook **1.2 miles** **Easy – Hike, Pets – Natural** Traverses woods and fields. #### REI River **1.8 miles** **Easy – Hike, Pets – Natural** Runs alongside the Scioto River, with stepping-stones across a creek and an adjacent swinging bridge. #### Ridge Top Course **0.3 miles** **Easy – Through 3D Archery Course – Natural** **(For use by archers only)** Runs through the Ridge Top portion of the 3D archery course, with six difficult targets. #### Woodland Course **0.3 miles** **Easy – Through 3D Archery Course – Natural** **(For use by archers only)** Runs through the Woodland portion of the 3D archery course, with six targets starting easy and becoming progressively more difficult. --- ## **Keystone Forest Lookout Tower:** ![Scioto Grove Metro Park, Franklin County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752364629469-SGR_FireTower-crop-1200px_LizChristian-1024x519.jpg) Climb the 111 steep steps to the top of the Fire Tower. August 15, 2023, Metro Parks unveiled a piece of Ohio history as the Keystone Forest Lookout Tower debuted in its new location. By a lucky twist of fate, the 82-foot-tall structure was relocated to central Ohio exactly 82 years after it was originally built as a US Forest Service Fire Tower. Initially installed in Jackson County, Ohio in 1942, the tower helped guard southern Ohio's forests against wildfires. Now, the Fire Tower offers a new experience filled with adventure, thrill, and breathtaking views. From the top, climbers are treated to a stunning panorama of the Ciy of Columbus, roughly 7 miles away, and the surrounding Scioto River parkland. Rising 82 feet to the lookout floor, the climb up its steep but secure steps is not for the faint-hearted. However, the exhilarating ascent is rewarded with spectacular sights and an unforgettable experience. The 82-foot height refers to the floor of the cab, or house, perched atop the steel structure. ![Scioto Grove Metro Park, Franklin County, Ohio](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/SGR_Fire-Tower-and-view-of-downtown-from-top_LizChristian.jpg) The fire tower alongside the view of the Columbus skyline from the house atop the tower. Photos Liz Christian This fire tower was built by the Aermotor Windmill Company, a leading developer of metal windmills in the American Midwest. Before the 1870s, nearly all windmills and fire towers were made entirely of wood. Starting in the early 1920s, the US Forest Service partnered with Aermotor to design fire towers mainly made of galvanized steel, which resists rust due to its zinc coating. Based in Chicago, Aermotor created three types of fire towers: one with an outside ladder, another with an inside ladder, and the most expensive with an inside metal staircase. The Keystone Fire Tower, now located at Scioto Grove Metro Park, features the staircase, making it safer and easier to climb. Weighing 12,000 pounds, this model sold for $970 in 1945. Fire towers were highly effective in spotting and managing forest fires. However, over time, their role was replaced by helicopters and later drones, leading to many being decommissioned. The Keystone Fire Tower’s original site became private property, and Justin Taylor, representing the Taylor family, generously donated the tower to Metro Parks. It actually cost Metro Parks about $140,000 to dismantle it in Jackson Country, transport it in three sections about 75 miles to its new location, galvanize it again and reassemble it onsite, while adding safety fencing and a completely rebuilt lookout structure at the top. But it was certainly worth it! ![Scioto Grove Metro Park, Franklin County, Ohio](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Fire-Tower-in-Jackson-County-and-at-SGR.jpg) The Keystone Forest Lookout Tower in its original location in Jackson County, Ohio, alongside the transported, re-galvanized and reassembled tower at Scioto Grove Metro Park. Photos Dan Kaderly and Liz Christian --- ### **Reagan Stokes Memorial Garden**: Dedicated in 2019 to honor Reagan Tokes, a student whose life was tragically lost near the park entrance. ![Scioto Grove Metro Park, Franklin County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1752366322073-SGR_1200px_Reagan-Tokes-memorial-near-entrance_February_Kerry-Knowles-1024x433.jpg) Reagan Tokes, a 21-year-old Ohio State University student, was tragically murdered on the night of February 8, 2017, at Scioto Grove Metro Park in Grove City, Ohio. She was abducted by Brian Golsby after leaving her job in downtown Columbus. Golsby robbed and raped Tokes, then forced her to drive to the park. There, he made her strip naked and led her into a field where he shot her twice in the head just before midnight. Her body was discovered the next morning. --- ### **Park Amenities:** The park also features a 3D as well as a conventional archery course, a disc golf course, a rope bridge and stone steps across Grant Run, a tributary of the Scioto River, access to the river for kayaking and canoeing, as well as 7 miles of great trails, a fishing pond, a drone flying field, a sledding hill, two picnic areas, and a beautiful reservable lodge. The park also allows overnight backpacking via reservation only. Backpacking is available along the REI River Trail for those just getting into the sport, as well as those seasoned backpackers who want a quick overnight without having to journey several hours. For additional information and to make a reservation visit: [Scioto Grove Backpacking Site Reservation 2025Welcome to the Scioto Grove Metro Park Backpacking Site Reservation Sign-up! Please read through the information below and then select the date and campsite that you would like to reserve. Backpacking at Scioto Grove runs from April thru October, Friday and/or Saturday nights only. Holiday weekends will include the Sunday for reservations. IMPORTANT: This is not a regular camping location, these are hike-in backpack camping sites. Driving up to the sites to unload is prohibited. You must check-in with the Park Ranger and obtain your permit, prior to heading to your backpacking site. Contact the Ranger cell upon arrival and the Park Ranger will meet you at the North Canoe Access. Please call the park if you are going to cancel your reservation so we can open the sites up to others. Rules and Regulations: • Overnight parking for backpacking is only permitted at the North Canoe Access parking lot. Vehicles parked in other lots are subject to towing per park policy. 4994 Jackson Pike, Grove City, OH 43123Click here for the park/trail map: https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/SGR-parkmap2019@2x.png • Backpacking equipment/tent set-up is restricted to the two tent pads provided within the site area. Tent pads will fit a maximum of two tents, 10’x10’. Hammocks can be hung on the designated hammock posts. • Firewood is provided by park staff. Campfires are only permitted in designated fire pits found at the campsites. No cutting of firewood is permitted. • Alcohol is prohibited within the park, including backpacking sites. • Pets must be leashed at all times, except while at the backpacking site. Please be respectful of other trail users and make sure to clean up after your pet. • In the event of inclement or predicted inclement weather, Metro Parks’ staff reserves the right to close the backpacking trail and cancel any reservations. • Potable water is available at the Arrowhead picnic area restroom drinking fountains only. Upon Arrival: • Check-in is between 4pm and 6pm on the day of your reservation, at the North Canoe Access parking lot. Upon arrival, please contact the on-duty Park Ranger at 614-949-1078 to check-in and to obtain your permit. You must meet with the Park Ranger before heading to your backpacking site. • Please allow enough time to hike into your designated campsite. Failure to check in with the Park Ranger will result in your reservation being cancelled. Prior to leaving: • Make sure the campfire is completely extinguished. • Please Carry-in/Carry-out all personal belongings, including trash, food scraps and any other waste. Backpacking sites must be cleaned and vacated by 11am. Emergencies: • If you experience an emergency situation call 911 first, then call an on-duty Park Ranger at 614-949-1078\. Park Rangers are on duty during normal park hours from 630am-10pm (630am-8pm, October 1st - April 1st). After normal hours leave a message on the Park Ranger cell phone number listed above. One member of your group is required to carry a cell phone for emergency purposes, exceptions may be made upon contacting the park manager By making a reservation you are acknowledging to have read and understand the above policies for the backpacking trail at Scioto Grove Metro Park. I acknowledge that these policies are in addition to Metro Parks’ Rules and Regulations, which I am also responsible for upholding. If any policy or rule is violated by myself or a member of my group, I understand that the group will be subject to removal from the Metro Park. A complete list of Metro Parks’ Rules and Regulations can be found here: https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Rules-and-Regulations-2019.pdf![](https://static.ghost.org/v5.0.0/images/link-icon.svg)Privacy Policy![](https://www.signupgenius.com/images/theme/22E504DC638818982E5BC6F8E5957133_0.jpg)](https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0C4AAAAF2CA0FCC43-52772751-scioto?ref=hiking-ohio.com#/) Backpacking is available every weekend (Friday and Saturday nights), from the first weekend in April through the last weekend in October. ### Conclusion: As one of the newer metro parks, it has a lot to offer. It is worth a visit! ## Explore Nearby Trails More Ohio trail guides worth a visit: - [Three Creeks Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/three-creeks-park/) - [Foundation Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/foundation-park/) - [Deer Creek State Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/deer-creek-state-park/) - [Best Hikes Near Columbus](https://hiking-ohio.com/best-hikes-near-columbus-ohio-15-trails-worth-your-weekend/) - [Quarry Trails Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/quarry-trails-metro-park/) - [Walnut Woods Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/walnut-woods-metro-park/) ### Thaddeus Kosciuszko Park: Walking Tour & History URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/thaddeus-kosciuszko-park/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:03:55.000Z Trail FactsThaddeus Kosciuszko Park 1 miDistance EasyDifficulty 50 ftElevation 30 minDuration LoopType Year RoundScenic view Thaddeus Kosciuszko Park is a 36.5-acre wooded park in Dublin, Ohio, named after the Polish American Revolutionary War hero who was granted land in the area for his military service. The park offers a serene natural setting with a rich history, making it a great spot for outdoor activities and reflection. Thaddeus Kosciuszko was a Revolutionary War hero, engineer, and humanitarian. --- ### Location: - **Address**: 4444 Hard Road, Dublin, OH 43016 --- ### Park Features: - **Feather Point Sculpture**: A 20-foot-tall stainless-steel sculpture by artist Olga Ziemska, inspired by Kosciuszko's Polish heritage and the Wyandot Tribe's history. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1750095116379-52153812316_753cf1e039_b.jpg) - **Natural Features**: The park includes fishing ponds, a gazebo, and a sinkhole overlook. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1750095155088-348s.jpg) - **Wildlife**: The area is home to various species, including deer, squirrels, and numerous bird species, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts. --- ### Hours & Access - **Open**: Daily from dawn until dusk. - **Parking**: Free parking is available in a 20-car lot - **Restrooms**: On-site facilities are available for visitor - **Admission**: Free - **Parking**: Free --- ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1750094749418-MJ2-Blog-Header.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1750094749583-thaddeus-kosciuszko-park-in-dublin-ohio-kathy-lyon-smith.jpg) ## **Hiking Trails:** - **Thaddeus Kosciuszko Nature Walk**: A 0.9-mile loop trail considered easy, with an elevation gain of 62 feet. The trail is suitable for hiking, running, and dog walking (dogs must be on a leash). - **Trails**: Approximately 1.7 miles of gravel and paved trails wind through rain gardens, offering a peaceful environment for walking, jogging, and birdwatching. --- ## **Thaddeus (Tadeusz) Kosciuszko** ### ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1750094807637-Kosciuszko-002.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1750094807394-OIP.jpg) ### Birth & Death: - **Born**: February 4, 1746, in Mereczowszczyzna, Polish Lithuanian Commonwealth (present-day Belarus) - **Died**: October 15, 1817, in Solothurn, Switzerland (aged 71) ### Family & Personal Life: - **Marital Status**: Never married - **Children**: No known children - **Romantic History**: - He fell in love with Ludwika Sosnowska, the daughter of a Polish nobleman. They were prevented from marrying due to class differences. - He remained a lifelong bachelor and devoted much of his life to service and reform. ### Career & Achievements: - Military Engineer trained in France. - Fought for American independence (1776–1783) as a colonel in the Continental Army: - Designed fortifications at West Point and key defenses during the Battle of Saratoga. - Returned to Poland and led the Kościuszko Uprising (1794) against Russia and Prussia to defend Polish sovereignty and promote serf emancipation. - A strong advocate for abolition of slavery and human rights. ### Connection with the **Wyandot Tribe**: - While there’s no direct record of long-term involvement with the Wyandot, Kosciuszko's land grant near present-day Dublin, Ohio, placed him historically in Wyandot territory. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1750095556270-500-acres-land-grant.jpg) - During his final stay in the U.S. (1797–1798), he hosted Chief Little Turtle of the Miami people in Philadelphia—evidence of his respect for Native American leaders and efforts to understand Indigenous rights. ### **Legacy:** - In his U.S. will, he directed that his American estate be used to purchase and free enslaved people. He also wanted to educate them—although this was never fully implemented due to legal complications. - Numerous places are named after him: - Kosciuszko, Mississippi - Mount Kosciuszko in Australia - Kosciusko County, Indiana, and parks and memorials across the U.S. and Poland. --- ![](https://www.nps.gov/common/uploads/structured_data/3C7ADDD2-1DD8-B71B-0B128C61D6236420.jpg) ## Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial The Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial is located at: 301 Pine Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106, in the historic Society Hill neighborhood. It is the smallest unit in the U.S. National Park System, encompassing just 0.02 acres. The memorial preserves the home where Thaddeus Kosciuszko, a Polish military engineer and hero of the American Revolution, resided from November 1797 to May 1798\. After leading an unsuccessful Polish uprising against Russian forces, he returned to the U.S. to recuperate from his injuries. During his stay, he hosted notable visitors, including Vice President Thomas Jefferson and Chief Little Turtle of the Miami Nation. --- ### Operating Hours: **Open Season**: April through October - **Days**: Saturdays and Sundays - **Hours**: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM - **Closed**: November through March [Google MapsGo and hike the trails at Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial!![](https://www.nps.gov/common/uploads/structured_data/3C7AE068-1DD8-B71B-0BDCF6A732223CC5.jpg)](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=39.94345312%2C--75.14732045&ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## **Conclusion**: Visit Thaddeus Kosciuszko Park to learn about history. Finding out about historical people and places makes hiking all the better. Happy exploring! If you have something you would like to submit to have posted on this website, such as a blog submission or a new hiking trail you think we should check out, please contact us below! 🥾 Don't get caught in the wilderness wishing you were more prepared. Find great deals on [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/blackhand-gorge-state-nature-preserve/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:12.000Z Trail FactsBlackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve4.3 miDistanceEasyDifficulty150 ftElevation2 hrsDurationOut & BackTypeYear RoundScenic viewWildlife This post was written by my mother-in-law, Nancy Jordan. She turned 90 years old on July 12, 1935\. She is amazing! !\[A smiling hiker in a beanie and sunglasses takes a selfie at the entrance to a rock tunnel, with another hiker walking through it behind her\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1751731861234-IMG\_2724 1.jpg) --- ### \*\*Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve \*\* If you have never hiked Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve, you’re missing out on something special. I’ve hiked there many times in different seasons, and it always feels like there’s something new to discover. During the years of 2021 through 2022, my friend Jan and I traveled quite a few different state parks to hike we tried to pick parks that had really nice trails. Blackhand Gorge was one of the nicest we visited. The gorge is about four miles long. ODNR lists the preserve at 775 acres (as of September 2026). It also boasts the only bike trail in Ohio's state nature preserve system; more than 4 miles of paved bike trail crosses the preserve. --- ### **Location and Hours** Located at 2200 Gratiot Rd. in Licking County, it can also be accessed via Brownsville Rd. off State Route 16. The Preserve is open 1/2 hour before sunrise and closes 1/2 hour after sunset. Also, fishing is permitted along the north shore of the Licking River south of Canal Lock Trail with a valid Ohio fishing license. --- ### **Hiking Trails** ![A trail map of Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve showing the hiking route and trail legend](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1751898549546-Blackhand+Gorge+Trail+Map.jpg) There are about 10 miles of trails: - Blackhand Trail (paved trail) - 4.3 miles - Canal Lock Trail - 0.4 mile - Chestnut Trail - 2.3 miles - Marie Hickey Trail - 2.0 miles - Oak Knob Trail - 0.6 mile - Quarry Rim Trail - 1.0 miles As always, stay on designated trails. Pets are permitted only on the Blackhand Trail (paved bike trail) and must be controlled on a leash no more than 6 feet in length in hand. Bicycles, skates and skateboards are permitted only on Blackhand Trail. --- ### **How the Blackhand Petroglyph Was Destroyed** !\[A wide view of the river bordered by bare trees and a fallen log along the bank\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1751733239027-8100467965771514118 1.jpg) When Native Americans navigated the Licking River for centuries before the arrival of European settlers. When settlers first started coming to Ohio and 1801, there were four different tribes of Indians, the Shawnee, the Wyandotte, Hopewell and the Delaware. It is believed the Indians settled here for the flint which is said to be the finest in the world. There is a cliff made of Blackhand sandstone rising on the north side of the Licking River. In prehistoric times, Native Americans inscribed a petroglyph on this cliff; it looked like a very large, black hand. Not only is the gorge named after this petroglyph, but the class of erosion-resistant sandstone on which the petroglyph appeared has become known as “Blackhand sandstone” throughout Ohio. Early settlers also used the waterway, eventually modifying it for barge traffic in the early 1800’s. This portion of the Licking River was incorporated into the Ohio & Erie Canal. Canal engineers removed the outer surface of the cliff to make room for a tow path. During the canal era, mules or oxen walking on such a path would pull barges along. Sadly, the petroglyph was destroyed to make room for this tow path. Sections of the canal towpath and canal locks may be seen from the trails along the river. ![A wooden trail sign marking Ohio and Erie Canal Lock 16 in the spring woods](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1751733909644-201204_sign-for-lock-16_6984253678.jpg) --- ### **The Tunnel** !\[IMG\_2721 1.jpg\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1751732457702-IMG\_2721 1.jpg) !\[IMG\_2730 1.jpg\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1751732457689-IMG\_2730 1.jpg) !\[IMG\_2738 1.jpg\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1751732458340-IMG\_2738 1.jpg) !\[IMG\_2760 1.jpg\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1751732457892-IMG\_2760 1.jpg) !\[IMG\_2765 1.jpg\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1751732462653-IMG\_2765 1.jpg) In the early 1900s a tunnel was cut through rock formation for a passenger train. It went along the Licking River. The first train passed through in 1851. The Newark & Granville Street Railway, which opened on December 28, 1889, is recognized as the first modern interurban. ![A sepia-toned historic photograph of an old electric trolley car crossing a trestle](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1751898306671-R.jpg) The track was originally started to connect Granville to Zanesville to Newark. in the early 1900s it was extended to Zanesville, Ohio. The trolley provided a passenger service till 1929\. I From 1930 to 1940 the railroad was converted to an auto road. The road was abandoned when Dillon Dam Reservoir was constructed downstream. In 1950s and the early 60s, the old interurban roadbed was replaced by a modern railway which is still active. The Blackhand Gorge trail goes through the abandoned Interurban tunnel leading to the railroad track that is currently in use. The trail is not paved. The railroad crosses the Licking River. Some people cross the railroad track bridge. As with all railroad tracks, trespassing is illegal. I have to admit I tried to cross the bridge, but I was intimidated by the gaps in the railroad tracks. I could see the river way...way...way below. !\[Railroad tracks crossing a trestle bridge with autumn trees and sun flare\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1751898335131-th (1).jpg) --- ### **Toboso** When you turn down Toboso Road. You go through the little village of Toboso to the parking lot where the trails are paved and you can ride a bike. ![A small log cabin with a porch and stone chimney set in an open grassy field](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1751902324698-th.jpg) Toboso was laid out in 1852 when the railroad was extended to that point. The community most likely was named after El Toboso in Spain. A post office was in operation at Toboso from 1854 until 1957. !\[A red barn seen through a screen of bare trees across an open field\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1751732592353-IMG\_2771 1.jpg) --- ### **Things to See** On one of my trips, there was a photographer setting up his camera on the unpaved trail that’s on the other side of the river to take pictures of birds. He was hoping to find a rare bird. He said he was prepared to wait a very long time to get the right shot. On the trail that comes in from Brownsville Road, we saw animal tracks. It was snowing, but the snow was melting. It was not very easy walking, but it was really quite pretty. This particular trail is not real hilly. It’s flat, but still beautiful. !\[5136285513398024715 1.jpg\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1751900251667-5136285513398024715 1.jpg) !\[7660317767685498556 1.jpg\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1751900250654-7660317767685498556 1.jpg) !\[IMG\_2840 1.jpg\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1751900252286-IMG\_2840 1.jpg) The dry hilltops are dominated by oak-hickory mature woods along with Virginia pines, and mountain laurel. Yellow birch, cherry birch, and eastern hemlock grow on northerly exposures. !\[5329361171520703083 1.jpg\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1751900289214-5329361171520703083 1.jpg) !\[IMG\_2720 1.jpg\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1751900292943-IMG\_2720 1.jpg) !\[IMG\_2740 1.jpg\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1751900292340-IMG\_2740 1.jpg) !\[IMG\_2834 1.jpg\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1751900378575-IMG\_2834 1.jpg) !\[IMG\_2848 1.jpg\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1751900378159-IMG\_2848 1.jpg) !\[IMG\_2850 1.jpg\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/07/1751900375330-IMG\_2850 1.jpg) The Preserve is also an excellent site for viewing woodland spring wildflowers. --- ### **Conclusion** The Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve is a great place to visit. I highly recommend it! ### Scioto Audubon Metro Park: Trails & Bird Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/scioto-audubon-metro-park/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:18:21.000Z Trail FactsScioto Audubon Metro Park3 miDistanceEasyDifficulty50 ftElevation1.2 hrsDurationLoopTypeYear RoundDog-friendlyWildlife Scioto Audubon Metro Park, located at 400 W. Whittier St. in Columbus, Ohio, spans 119 acres along the banks of the Scioto River, just south of downtown Columbus (as of September 2026, per Columbus & Franklin County Metro Parks). The park features wetlands, fields and riverbanks, creating an oasis where wildlife and birds are abundant. In addition to the natural habitat created by the conversion to a park, there are also many exciting recreational features for visitors including bocce and volleyball courts, an obstacle course, a dog park, and a rock- climbing wall, all watched over by the water tower viewing deck, a remnant of the industrial landscape that used to dominate the space. The park officially opened on August 28, 2009, after extensive remediation efforts, including the removal of old buildings and underground storage tanks, and soil cleanup. ## Hours and Info **April 1-September 30:** 6:30am-10pm **October 1-March 31:** 6:30am-8pm **Phone:** [614-202-5197](tel:6142025197) --- ## **History:** The land that used to be the impound lot was turned from blighted brownfield to an urban Metro Park with help from the City of Columbus and Ohio Audubon. At the end of the 18th century, Lucas Sullivant traveled up the river to reach central Ohio and establish Franklinton, its first settlement, on the west bank, just south of what is now downtown Columbus. Before Lucas Sullivant platted out Franklinton on the Scioto River’s west bank in the late 1790s, the river corridor was a wild place. Massive cottonwoods and sycamores shaded the free-flowing stream, which teemed with fish. Ohio's new capital city was founded fifteen years later on the east side of the river. A bridge was built to connect the two towns, and Franklinton was soon engulfed and was annexed in 1871\. As Columbus grew, many German immigrants found homes in the Franklinton area. On the other side of the river, the Whittier Peninsula emerged as an industrial district. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, the Whittier Peninsula was a hub of industrial activity. The construction of the Columbus Feeder Canal in 1827 connected Columbus to the Ohio Erie Canal, facilitating transportation and economic growth. The arrival of railroads further boosted the area's industrial prominence, with companies like the Hocking Valley Railroad and Toledo & Ohio Central Railway operating from the peninsula, establishing machine shops, repair facilities, and warehouses. Industries such as sawmills, steel mills, and manufacturing plants were prevalent, leading to significant pollution. Eventually the city’s impound lot was put there. In the city’s early days, the peninsula brought prosperity via its transportation channels. As early as 1827, construction had begun on the Columbus Feeder Canal, running north to south near the eastern boundary of the peninsula. It connected Columbus to the Ohio Erie Canal, joining it at Lockbourne. It was a vital cog that helped the capital city to grow economically. The remaining railroad tracks lie outside the eastern boundary of today’s Scioto Audubon Metro Park, in the area where the feeder canal used to be. The canal had ceased its useful life in 1904. Hocking Valley Railroad Company and the Toledo & Ohio Central Railway Company operated from the Whittier Peninsula, transporting coal and other goods. They built machine shops, repair shops, a railway roundhouse, and massive coal bins, freight and warehouse depot buildings. The entire peninsula hummed with industry. In time, these railroad companies merged; and joined with a third company to become the Columbus, Hocking Valley and Toledo Railway Company. By about 1930, the holdings of the company were acquired by the Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad Company (CSX), which runs the remaining railroad lines today. The western portion of the Whittier Peninsula had long been utilized for industry. Over time, the peninsula buzzed with several sawmills, hosted a steel mill, sand and gravel companies, cement and asphalt manufacturers, and other industrial companies. Lazarus & Company bought land in the central section of the peninsula soon after the end of the Second World War and built a massive warehouse, used for both furniture manufacturing and as a distribution center. In the 1980's, portions of the Maier warehouse were utilized by Harper Industries. Harper Industries was a company involved fabrication and electroplating. ![Whittier Peninsula industrial landscape, 1989](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1750090823432-scioto_audubon_1989-crop_1_1.jpg) *Whittier Peninsula 1989* Several toxic incidents occurred on site. In 1985, Harper Industries caused significant industrial spills of hazardous chemicals, including paints, cutting oils, and solvents. The company filed for bankruptcy, abandoning their sections of the warehouse, which were left in a state of neglect and contamination. The site remained vacant and polluted for until the Maier Foundation announced in 2000 that all of its activities on the peninsula had officially ceased. In 1998, the City of Columbus adopted the Riverfront Vision Plan as developed by Riverfront Commons, a nonprofit organization created for that purpose. The land was polluted and contaminated. By the early 2000s, talks were under way to transform the peninsula. Through a three-way partnership, the city of Columbus, Franklin County Metro Parks and Audubon Ohio planned for urban renewal. --- ### BROWNFIELD REMEDIATION: Brownfields are defined by the Environmental Protection Agency as unused or abandoned sites contaminated by hazardous substances or pollutants, or those with potential such contamination. The Whittier Peninsula was a strong candidate for classification a brownfield. In 2002, there was legislation approved designed to provide grants to local governments to assess, remediate, and revitalize brownfield sites. Metro Parks submitted an application to the Clean Ohio Assistance Fund in August 2004\. The application for remediation funding pledged that the cleanup and of the Lazarus Warehouse and adjacent properties on the Whittier Peninsula would act as a catalyst for the revitalization of the entire area. A grant of $742,000 was awarded. In the early 2000s, efforts began to revitalize the Whittier Peninsula. In 2003, a collaboration between Audubon Ohio, the City of Columbus, and Franklin County Metro Parks was established to reclaim and restore 160 acres of the peninsula. This initiative aimed to transform the area into a green space while addressing environmental contamination. The project involved extensive remediation, including the removal of contaminated soil and the creation of wetlands. The initial plan for the Whittier Peninsula involved the construction of up to 2,000 units of housing. However, developers were reluctant due to the complexities of developing on a brownfield site. By late 2008, the housing development project was abandoned, and a proposal was made for Metro Parks to expand the Scioto Audubon Metro Park by 40 acres. In 2003, Audubon Ohio, Franklin County Metro Parks, and the City of Columbus agreed to collaborate on a project to reclaim and restore 160 acres on the Whittier Peninsula. Of this acreage, Metro Parks will lease 84 acres, and Audubon Ohio will sublease 5 acres from Metro Parks for the Grange Insurance Audubon Center. The Whittier Peninsula was renamed The Scioto Audubon Metro Park in early 2007 and the Grange Insurance Audubon Center opened in August 2009. The city requested that Metro Parks assume responsibility for the maintenance and security patrols of the Central Ohio Greenway Trails, including the Scioto Greenway Trail that passes through the park. After the approval of the 2009 Metro Parks Levy, Parks committed to the expansion plan, which was contingent on relocating the police impound lot from the peninsula. --- ![Scioto Audubon Metro Park landscape](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1750090791443-SAMP+06.jpg) ![Columbus skyline from Scioto Audubon Metro Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1750090791533-SCA_city-skyline_E-F-Johnson.jpg) ![Scioto River at Scioto Audubon Metro Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1750090790990-Scioto_Audubon_-_Scioto_River_1.jpg) ![Boardwalk through wetland at Scioto Audubon](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1750090791320-SIO_boardwalk-through-wetland_Sept_-Jim-McCormac-768x512.jpg) --- ## **Hiking Trails:** #### Scioto Greenway **10 miles** **Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – Paved** Stretches along the Scioto River. Connecting to the Olentangy Trail. #### Connector **2.5 miles** **Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – Paved** Links various areas of the park. #### Hermit Thrush **0.1 miles** **Easy – Hike, Pets – Mulched** Runs from the Scioto Greenway Trail to the Scioto River. #### Columbus Rotary Obstacle Course **0.5 miles** **Easy – Hike, Pets – Paved** ![Columbus Rotary Obstacle Course at Scioto Audubon](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1750090898660-scioto%20audobon.jpg) --- ## **The Grange Insurance Audubon Center:** ## ![Grange Insurance Audubon Center](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1750090679245-0_1382_Recreational_Audubon-15-756x423.jpg) It is an 18,000-square-foot nature center featuring classrooms, a library, a 200-seat auditorium, and demonstration gardens. The Grange Insurance Audubon Center provides vital educational services to central Ohio. The Grange Insurance Audubon Center is the first in the country to be built so close to the heart of a major city. It is only one mile from downtown Columbus. The center is a community gathering place for those who live and work downtown, as well as everyone in the Central Ohio area. | Day | Hours | | ---------- | -------------- | | Sunday\* | 12:00pm-5:00pm | | Monday | CLOSED | | Tuesday | 10am - 5:00pm | | Wednesday | 10am - 5:00pm | | Thursday | 10am - 5:00pm | | Friday\* | 10am - 5:00pm | | Saturday\* | 10am - 5:00pm | | | | \*On Fridays, Saturdays (and some Sundays) the center may close at 3pm (or be closed for the entire day) to accommodate facility rentals. Please call ahead to ensure we will still be open when you plan to visit. The Audubon Center also serves as a model for sustainable design thereby promoting the economic, health and aesthetic benefits of green building. Students and visitors alike can learn first-hand the benefits of "going green." The Center is a green facility of 18,000 net useable square feet built with recycled construction materials. Heating and cooling are provided by alternative energy sources. The Center includes: - Three classrooms - Native plant demonstration gardens - Natural playground area - Habitat areas with its distinctive flora and fauna - Library - 200-seat multipurpose room - Temporary and permanent exhibits - Nature store - Outdoor observation deck and terrace, with bird feeders For more information, here is the website: [grange.audubon.org](https://grange.audubon.org/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## **Bird Species:** Scioto Audubon Metro Park is recognized as an Important Bird Area, hosting over 200 bird species. Notable species include the northern pintail, pied-billed grebe, American bittern, osprey, prothonotary warbler, peregrine falcon, bald eagle, and red-shouldered hawk. Birdwatchers have long known this area as a hot spot. The Greenlawn Avenue dam widens the Scioto River into a slack-water lake attractive to migrant waterbirds. --- ## **Some Other Attractions:** - **Climbing Wall**: The park boasts one of the nation's largest outdoor climbing walls, standing 35 feet high. It offers bouldering, top-rope, and lead climbing opportunities. Climbers must bring their own gear, and the wall is open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. from April 1 to September 30, and from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. from October 1 to March 31. ![Climbing wall at Scioto Audubon Metro Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1750090709027-OIP.jpg) - **Recreational Facilities**: Amenities include sand volleyball courts, bocce courts, picnic shelters, a sledding hill, and an obstacle course with various fitness stations.​ ![Recreational facilities at Scioto Audubon Metro Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1750090726680-32386734878_d1c7f898cc_b.jpg) - **Wildlife Habitat**: The park features restored wetlands and is part of the Scioto River-Greenlawn Important Bird Area, supporting over 200 bird species. --- ## **Community Engagement:** Scioto Audubon Metro Park hosts various events and programs throughout the year, such as Scioto Fest, which includes climbing competitions, outdoor activities, and vendor booths.​ --- ## **Conclusion:** As a downtown Columbus worker, I spent a lot of time walking on my lunches. This metro park was one of my favorite walks. It was easy to escape the city and get some fresh air. I highly recommend you visit this park. You won't be disappointed. ![Scioto Audubon Metro Park overview graphic](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1750091527979-Screenshot%202025-04-04%20173754.png) ### Sharon Woods Metro Park: Trails, Map & Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/sharon-woods-metro-park/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:18:25.000Z Trail FactsSharon Woods Metro Park3.8 miDistanceEasyDifficulty120 ftElevation1.8 hrsDurationLoopTypeYear RoundDog-friendlyKid-friendlyWildlife Sharon Woods Metro Park, on the Columbus–Westerville edge of Franklin County, is the fourth park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system (not the similarly named Great Parks Sharon Woods near Cincinnati). Main entrance: 6911 Cleveland Avenue, Columbus, OH (phone 614-315-5520; hours and details as listed by Metro Parks as of September 2026). The park is a mixture of forests and fields with towering oak, hickory and beech trees and an 11-acre lake. Tucked inside the 761-acre park is the Edward S Thomas State Nature Preserve, named for the renowned Ohio naturalist and one of the founders of the park system. ### Origins and Early Development The park's establishment was influenced by the rapid urbanization of the Columbus area in the mid-20th century. In 1962, the Metro Parks system began acquiring land for Sharon Woods to preserve natural spaces amid growing development pressures. By 1965, the park's boundaries were largely defined through 23 land acquisitions from farmers, private landowners, and developers. Sharon Woods Metro Park officially opened to the public in October 1968. --- ### Edward S. Thomas State Nature Preserve In 1975, a 320-acre area within Sharon Woods was designated as the Edward S. Thomas State Nature Preserve, named after the first chairman of the Metro Parks Board. This preserve features diverse habitats, including oak-hickory woodlands and swamp forests, and is home to some of Ohio's oldest trees, with certain oaks exceeding 250 years old. --- ### Conference and Educational Center Before Park Opened ![](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/1200px-1970_naturalist_observation-platform_SHW.jpg) *A park naturalist leads a program for teachers at the Spring Hollow Outdoor Conference Center (1970). Photo Gordon Kuster snr* As early as June 1961, Metro Parks had developed a plan for a Conference and Outdoor Education Center, to be located on the land that it hoped to acquire soon in Westerville. The Spring Hollow Outdoor Education and Conference Center came into being. By 1964, reservations were being taken for this 150-acre area, to be used by camp groups, conservation organizations and other groups dedicated to outdoor education or the conservation of natural resources. The headquarters for the Center were at Ninde House off Park Road in Westerville (this section of Park Road —named after Flint Park, at the junction of Park Road and Flint Road in Worthington— would later be renamed to West Main Street). Ninde House was a cottage that included an office headquarters, meeting rooms, a library and study hall, dining room and kitchen. It could also accommodate 10 beds in semi-dormitory sleeping rooms. Ninde House, after later improvements, would become Spring Hollow Lodge. A nearby residence hall, known as Dunn House, was also part of the Conference Center. It included meeting rooms, a kitchen and laundry, and semi-dormitory sleeping rooms for 26 more beds. Later on, Dunn House would be remodeled and become Metro Parks Headquarters. --- ### **Interstate Freeways** Sharon Woods Metro Park is linked with plans to build two major Interstate freeways. The preservation or restoration of natural areas was always a guiding principle of the Metro Parks mission. Plans were developed in the late 1950s for both a freeway connecting Cincinnati, Columbus and Cleveland along the Ohio portion of its route (the future I-71), and for the so-called Columbus Outerbelt, the 55-mile-long loop of I-270. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1749512015826-SHW_map_2023_1980px.jpg) A map of Sharon Woods Metro Parks shows how it is bordered by I-71 to the west and I-270 to the south. The creation of I-270 was expected to generate massive development and expansion in the area, as indeed happened. Work began on the construction of I-270 in 1962\. The section between I-71 and Cleveland Avenue opened officially in November 1966\. Parts of I-71 were also established in Ohio in 1962. ### Schrock Lake ![348s.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1749512596910-348s.jpg) ![l.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1749512596966-l.jpg) !\[348s (2).jpg\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1749512596979-348s (2).jpg) Engineers working on construction of the new interstates found themselves in need of huge amounts of soil to grade an interchange between I-71 and I-270 at the southwest corner of the future Sharon Woods. In 1965, they asked Metro Parks for permission to take the needed dirt from park land nearest to the interchange. Metro Parks agreed permission for the engineers to acquire the dirt, but insisted on a location in a more central area of the park. And so, a borrow pit was dug, which became the foundation for the future Schrock Lake. Metro Parks constructed a small dam and spillway, to raise water levels, and shaped the shoreline of the lake with various inlets and coves to create inviting habitat for various species of wildlife. Cottonwoods, cattails, reeds and willows were planted along certain sections of shoreline to further enhance the appeal to wildlife. The 11-acre Schrock Lake quickly attracted animals, with muskrats discovered to be living in lodges amidst the cattails on the banks, and mink seen swimming in the lake or emerging from the shores. Geese are plentiful. Wood duck nesting boxes were installed in the north end of the lake, along with a large purple martin house. Both were successful in attracting these colorful species to the lake, along with dozens of other species of migratory waterfowl. !\[\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1749512730357-348s (5).jpg) --- ### **Recreational and Educational Features** Over the years, Sharon Woods has evolved into a multifaceted recreational destination. The park offers a variety of trails, including the 3.8-mile paved Multipurpose Trail, the 1.8-mile Spring Creek Trail, and the 1.1-mile Edward S. Thomas Trail. These trails wind through forests, fields, and along Schrock Lake, providing opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife observation. ![369ce145b13a97a44ad92a34629ebf61.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1749512652352-369ce145b13a97a44ad92a34629ebf61.jpg) ![201310_p1090661_10162606574.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1749512652584-201310_p1090661_10162606574.jpg) ![R.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1749512652426-R.jpg) !\[348s (3).jpg\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1749512652179-348s (3).jpg) !\[348s (4).jpg\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1749512652215-348s (4).jpg) ## **Hiking Trails** #### Edward S Thomas **1.1 miles** **Easy – Hike – Gravel – ADA** Winds through a state nature preserve and past large burr oaks and an observation deck. #### Spring Creek **1.8 miles** **Easy to moderate – Hike, Pets – Gravel** Crosses two steep hills, runs alongside Spring Creek and goes through a forest. #### Multipurpose **3.8 miles** **Moderate – Hike, Bike – Paved – ADA** Loops around the park and passes through woods and fields. #### Lake **0.4 miles** **Easy – Hike, Pets – Paved** Runs around the southern half of Schrock Lake. Connects Spring Creek and Edward S Thomas trails. #### Oak Openings **0.2 miles** **Easy – Hike – Gravel – ADA** Goes through a forest and fields and connects with the Edward S Thomas Trail. #### Connector **0.3 miles** **Moderate – Hike – Grass** Connects the Spring Creek and Edward S Thomas trails. --- ## **Conclusion** Sharon Woods continues to serve as a vital green space for the Columbus area, balancing recreational use with conservation efforts. The trails are well-maintained. I have walked at Sharon Woods Metro Park many times and it is always enjoyable. It is worth a visit. ### Chestnut Ridge Metro Park: Columbus Trail Guide 2026 URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/chestnut-ridge-metro-park/ Last updated: 2026-07-28T22:01:11.000Z Trail FactsChestnut Ridge Metro Park 2.5 miDistance EasyDifficulty 150 ftElevation 1.2 hrsDuration LoopType Year RoundDog-friendlyKid-friendlyScenic view Chestnut Ridge Metro Park, located in Licking County, Ohio, is part of the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. It covers around 1,000 acres and features a mix of woodlands, meadows, and scenic vistas. Chestnut Ridge is the first ridge in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and it offers beautiful views of the surrounding park. The ridge rises to about 1,116 feet and it’s covered in black oaks, shagbark hickories, and northern red oak trees on the upper slopes. From the top of the ridge, you usually can see the Columbus Skyline to the northeast. Lower slopes have sugar maples and American beech trees. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1749500040460-GOPR3688.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1749500041578-GOPR3693.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1749500046643-GOPR3698.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1749500044955-GOPR3700.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1749500048520-GOPR3701.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1749500047231-GOPR3671.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1749500046460-GOPR3673.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1749500048760-GOPR3678.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1749500048850-GOPR3679.JPG) --- ## **Park and Mountain Bike Trail Locations** Chestnut Ridge Metro Park is open daily from dawn until dusk. The park is located at 8445 Winchester Rd NW, Carroll, OH 43112\. For more info, please visit [Metroparks.net.](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/chestnut-ridge/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) Mountain Bike Trail, 5260 Mason Rd., Canal Winchester, OH 43110 ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1749503021950-chesnut 1.jpg) --- ## **Hiking Trails** Chestnut Ridge features a variety of trails suitable for different activities, including hiking, and biking. Here are the trails: 1. **Chestnut Ridge Trail**: - **Length**: Approximately 2 miles - **Difficulty**: Moderate - **Features**: This trail offers a scenic route through wooded areas with some elevation changes. 2. **Cedar Ridge Trail**: - **Length**: About 1.5 miles - **Difficulty**: Moderate to challenging - **Features**: This trail includes steeper sections and rocky terrain, making it suitable for more experienced hikers. 3. **Meadow Trail**: - **Length**: Approximately 1 mile - **Difficulty**: Easy - **Features**: This is a flatter, more accessible trail that winds through open meadows, perfect for families and beginners. 4. **Limestone Trail**: - **Length**: Roughly 3 miles - **Difficulty**: Moderate - **Features**: Offers a mix of wooded and open sections with some elevation changes. 5. **Homesite Trail**: - **Length**: 0.4 mile trail - **Difficulty**: Moderate - **Features**: The path is gravel and the takes you through woods, fields, past an orchard and the remnants of a homestead, all while connecting the Ridge and Meadows trails. 6. **Milkweed Trail**: - **Length**: 0.5 mile trail - **Difficulty**: Moderate - **Features**: The easiest trail to hike at the park is the Milkweed trail. You’ll see some adorable little animals on this trail as it’s the pet-friendly trail. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1749499394567-IMG_4128 -2.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1749499394311-IMG_4083 -1.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1749499390698-IMG_4114 -1.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1749499394734-IMG_4126 -1.jpg) --- ## **Becoming a Metro Park** A park history records the names of the original government-assigned purchasers of Chestnut Ridge. **Fun fact:** Presidents Jefferson and Madison were apparently listed on the original deeds of sale. Thereafter, ownership of the park property, in different parcels, passed through a succession of hands. One parcel was sold by a Robert Heer to the Metro Parks on April 27, 1975; another, by Ervin and Erie L. Moore, on June 12, 1964; a small parcel, by Warren J. and Ora G. Moore, on April 8, 1966; another parcel, by Catharine and Glenn Laws, on October 18, 1973; and a final parcel, by Louis, George, and John Bovnig and their wives, on January 17, 1963. The park was labeled Chestnut Ridge Park in 1966\. In the 1970s the park land was undeveloped and used as farmland. The park land was held by the Metro Parks for about 13-25 years before the park opened. Chestnut Ridge Metro Park was officially opened December 18, 1988, at 7 a.m. The mountain bike trails, spanning 7.5 miles, opened Sunday, October 16, 2011, at 10 a.m., and were inaugurated with a cookout. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/06/1749500097958-6af69cd31ee4af2cb3ccccb019c10d2d.jpg) --- ## **History** Chestnut Ridge is situated on a narrow outcropping of Blackhand sandstone, deposited more than 300 million years ago when Ohio's ancient ocean drained from the land. Long ago the American chestnut trees covered the slopes of the ridge. ### Early settlement Ebenezer Buckingham performed the initial survey of the land that included Chestnut Ridge in 1801\. The agriculture of the area, in the earlier nineteenth century, included general farms raising corn with plenty of pigs and sheep, and some cows. Area farms became more focused on fruit orchards after mid-century. By 1880, some 75% of park land was improved. The names of the farmers indicate the area was mostly settled by ethnic Germans from Pennsylvania. ### The Wagners In the early 1900s, the ridge was home to orchards and farms, including one established by John Ovid Wagner and Catherine Cleland Wagner, who planted a large apple orchard featuring 40 varieties of apples. The area also had a stone quarry and several homesteads. The chestnut blight arrived with a vengeance on the east coast in the early 1900s. The blight was first reported in the area of New York City in 1904\. In the following decades, the blight devastated the grand old chestnut trees of the whole eastern portion of the country. The blight reached Chestnut Ridge in the 1930s and 40s, wiping out the old trees that gave the place its name. It spread westward moving up to 50 miles a year, killing every chestnut tree along the way. By the 1950s most of the trees that grew in the area were gone and today only a few blight-resistant hybrid chestnut trees can be seen along the Homesite Trail. ### Archaeological Significance Within the park lies the Old Maid's Orchard Mound, an archaeological site dating back to the Adena culture. This 8-foot-tall mound is a burial site and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, highlighting the area's significance to early Native American cultures. ​ --- ## **Things To Do** Chestnut Ridge Metro Park offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking trails, a fishing pond, picnic areas, and a mountain bike trail. The park's trails provide access to the ridge's summit. The park also preserves remnants of its agricultural past, such as the foundations of old homesteads and orchards. ​ ### Pet Areas The Milkweed Trail is pet friendly. Pets also allowed to be in picnic areas, parking lots, and roadways. Dogs and cats are allowed to visit the park, but all pets must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet. ### Birdwatching The park is home to a huge variety of birds. Over 70 species of birds have been counted at the park in a single day. You can see wood ducks, mallards, and green herons by the pond and wetland area. ### Fishing Over at the 2-acre pond, you can fish. Visitors of all ages can fish for bluegill, largemouth bass, and channel catfish. Fishing is permitted in many Metro Parks, and in lakes and ponds, like the one at Chestnut Ridge, you won’t need a fishing license. Note: Fishing at Chestnut Ridge is catch and release and catches cannot be taken away from the park. --- ## **Conclusion:** Chestnut Ridge Metro Park is one of my favorite parks in the Metro Park System. The trails are great, and the scenery is wonderful. I highly recommend hiking and relaxing at Chestnut Ridge Park. You won't regret it. ### Blendon Woods Metro Park: Trails, Map & Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/blendon-woods-metro-park/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:14.000Z Trail FactsBlendon Woods Metro Park2.8 miDistanceEasyDifficulty100 ftElevation1.2 hrsDurationLoopTypeYear RoundDog-friendlyKid-friendlyWildlife Blendon Woods contains spectacular stream-cut ravines with exposed ripple rock sandstone and open fields surrounded by beech-maple and oak-hickory forests. The 653-acre park is a great place to see a variety of songbirds, waterfowl and other wildlife, especially the flock of wild turkeys meandering about in search of food. ![Wooded trail and stream-cut ravine at Blendon Woods Metro Park near Columbus, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1747863147161-IMG_2386-1-1024x623.jpg) This Metro Park is located at: 4265 E. Dublin Granville Road, Columbus, OH 43081 (614) 620-1861 The first 229 acres of the future Blendon Woods Metro Park was purchased in the early months of 1949\. The park opened Labor Day 1951. !\[\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1747858782974-Screenshot 2025-05-21 161256.jpg) --- ### **1979 Aerial Photograph** ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1747861217180-aerial.jpg) This 1979 aerial view of Blendon Woods Metro Park off East Dublin Granville Road, facing east, shows the wooded park surrounded by farmland, a stark contrast to the residential areas surrounding the park today. --- ## History and Land Ownership The land that is now Blendon Woods Metro Park was originally inhabited by Native American tribes and later settled by European Americans in the 19th century. In the mid-20th century, the area was designated as a metro park to preserve its natural beauty and provide recreational opportunities to the public. The park is managed by Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks, which oversees its conservation and development. ### The Hulet Family Legacy The park preserves the legacy of the Hulet family, early settlers in the area. The daffodils blooming at the Hulet Homestead site each spring are a testament to their enduring presence and the deep connection between the land and its stewards. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1747863092425-82171.jpg) The Hulet family, originally from New England, settled in Nelson Township, Portage County, Ohio, in the early 19th century. Sylvanus Hulet, a Revolutionary War veteran, and his descendants established homesteads in the Blendon Woods region. In the 1830s, many members of the Hulet family converted to the Mormon faith and relocated to Missouri. However, their Ohio homesteads remained, and over time, the land became part of what is now Blendon Woods Metro Park. The remnants of their homesteads, including the daffodils, serve as living monuments to their legacy. The daffodils at the Hulet Homestead site are believed to be descendants of those planted by the Hulet family over a century ago. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1747858815011-IMG_2392.jpg) To experience the legacy of the Hulet family firsthand, visitors can explore the Hulet Homestead site within Blendon Woods Metro Park. The best time to witness the daffodils in full bloom is typically in early to mid-spring, around April. --- ## **Thoreau Pond (Lake) Walden Waterfowl Refuge** The 118-acre Walden Waterfowl Refuge with its 11-acre Thoreau Lake provides a sanctuary for hundreds of birds, ducks and other wildlife. Open year-round, it features two elevated observation shelters with spotting scopes for viewing waterfowl. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1747858830632-OIP.jpg) The pond is accessible via the Lake Trail, a 0.5-mile paved path leading from the Nature Center to Thoreau Pond. This trail offers an easy walk suitable for families and provides opportunities for wildlife observation along the way. While the exact date of Thoreau Pond's creation remains unspecified, its establishment reflects the Metro Parks' commitment to preserving natural habitats and providing recreational spaces. Metro Parks chose to honor the legacy of Thoreau, one of the great American naturalists, by naming their new 118-acre refuge as the Walden Wildlife Refuge, and by naming the 11-acre lake at its core as Thoreau Pond. In time, these names were changed to the Walden Waterfowl Refuge, and to Thoreau Lake. --- ## **Hiking Trails** **Brookside** **0.8 miles** **Easy – Hike – Gravel** Passes through woods, crosses Ripple Rock Creek and connects with the Hickory Ridge and Ripple Rock trails. #### Butterfly **0.2 miles** **Easy – Hike, Pets – Grass** Goes through fields and along the edge of a wood. #### Goldenrod **0.9 miles** **Easy – Hike, Pets – Grass** Passes through meadows that are filled with wildflowers in spring. #### Hickory Ridge **0.2 miles** **Easy – Hike – Gravel** Wooded trail that connects the Brookside, Overlook and Ripple Rock trails. #### Lake **0.4 miles** **Easy – Hike – Paved** Leads to the Walden Waterfowl Refuge and Thoreau Lake. #### Overlook **0.6 miles** **Easy – Hike – Gravel** Passes through woods, crosses Ripple Rock Creek and connects with the Hickory Ridge and Ripple Rock trails. #### Ripple Rock **0.4 miles** **Easy – Hike – Gravel** It is a steep trail, goes through woods and connects the Brookside, Hickory and Overlook trails. #### Sugarbush **1.2 miles** **Moderate to difficult – Hike, Cross-country skiing – Grass** Passes through a wood that. The 1.2-mile Sugarbush Trail is reserved for use as a cross-country ski trail when conditions are suitable. opens onto a meadow. Heavily populated with many different species of birds ![trails.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1747861310344-trails.jpg) !\[zipline-at-blendon-woods-natural-play-area-1500x1125 - Copy - Copy.jpeg\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1747861311795-zipline-at-blendon-woods-natural-play-area-1500x1125 - Copy - Copy.jpeg) !\[27576329804\_3b1df70fd3\_b - Copy - Copy.jpg\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1747861310522-27576329804\_3b1df70fd3\_b - Copy - Copy.jpg) !\[blendon-woods-metropark-ohio-2BPC91C - Copy - Copy.jpg\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1747861310677-blendon-woods-metropark-ohio-2BPC91C - Copy - Copy.jpg) --- ## **Nature Center** Discover nature through displays and look through the nature center’s windows to see wildlife at the features and stream. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1747858919685-IMG_2391-1024x768.jpg) **Hours Open:** **April to September:** 9am to 8pm **October to March:** 9am to 6pm --- ## **Various Other Amenities** - **Inclusive Playground**: Opened in April 2025, this $1.5 million playground is designed for children of all abilities. It includes sensory areas, musical instruments, accessible play structures, and facilities such as a universal changing table and hoist. - **Camp Sugarbush**: Scout Troops can reserve this 45-acre Day Camp for day camping or overnight camping. Organized and sponsored youth and church groups can reserve it for day camping only. Call (614) 508-8111 (M-F, 8am to 4pm) - **Natural Play Area**: A 10-acre space where children can engage in unstructured play, featuring elements like a zipline, teeter-totter, basket swing, and cargo climbing net. - **Ice Skating Pond**: A 0.4-acre pond open seasonally for ice skating during colder months. - **Goldenrod Trail**: A 1.3-mile pet-friendly trail that meanders through meadows, offering scenic views and opportunities for wildlife observation. - **Disc Golf Course**: An 18-hole, 3,500-foot course open year-round for disc golf enthusiasts. Please bring your own discs. --- ## **100 Acre Wood** ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1747862581782-100acre.jpg) The **100 Acre Wood** is one of the most dramatic and scenic woodland ravines in the entire park system. The bluffs overlooking Big Walnut Creek are higher than 100 feet in places. There are no trails at 100 Acre Wood, and visitors are invited to create their own adventure. Visitors can use a small pull off or park on the street close to the 100 Acre Wood address at 5280 Cambria Way, Westerville. The area is managed by staff from the nearby Blendon Woods Metro Park. \*\*Please Note: \*\* It has no entry road, parking lot, developed trails, restrooms or recreational facilities. Metro Parks acquired a 99-acre parcel in January 2017, and an adjacent 52-acre parcel five months later, utilizing grants from the Clean Ohio Conservation Fund. --- ## **Conclusion:** Blendon Woods Metro Park, located in northeastern Franklin County, Ohio, is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. So, if you are ever in the area, stop at Blendon Woods Metro Park. You won't regret it! !\[\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1747861129214-Screenshot 2025-04-04 173754.png) ### ### River Raisin National Battlefield Park URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/river-raisin-national-battlefield-park/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:03:35.000Z Trail FactsRiver Raisin National Battlefield 1.2 miDistance EasyDifficulty 30 ftElevation 30 minDuration LoopType Year RoundScenic view [Google MapsFind River Raisin National Battlefield Park on Google Maps!![](https://www.nps.gov/common/uploads/structured_data/3C7C3943-1DD8-B71B-0B82269FC3166010.jpg)](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=41.91291085%2C--83.37620464&ref=hiking-ohio.com) ![](https://www.nps.gov/common/uploads/structured_data/F7A19C50-F779-7838-96ABFFBAC00A806B.jpg) ## River Raisin National Battlefield Battle of Frenchtown River Raisin National Battlefield Park, located in Monroe, Michigan, preserves the site of the Battle of Frenchtown. This was a significant conflict during the War of 1812\. The battle occurred from January 18 to 23, 1813\. It is noted for being one of the bloodiest engagements of the war. It remains the deadliest conflict recorded on Michigan soil and one of the most tragic episodes of the war.​ The area was designated as a Michigan Historic Site on February 18, 1956, and was added to the National Register of Historic Places on December 10, 1982\. It officially became a unit of the National Park System on October 22, 2010, following the passage of the Omnibus Public Land Management Act on March 30, 2009\. It is the only national park the commemorating the War of 1812\. The Battle of Frenchtown, also known as the Battle of the River Raisin, was a significant engagement during the War of 1812, fought from January 18 to January 23, 1813, near present-day Monroe, Michigan. Here is some information about the battle: ### Background: After the American surrender of Fort Detroit in August 1812, the British and their Native American allies gained control over much of the Michigan Territory. In early 1813, the United States aimed to reclaim Detroit and its surrounding areas. Brigadier General James Winchester led a column of approximately 1,000 troops, primarily inexperienced Kentucky volunteers, toward Frenchtown, a settlement along the River Raisin. On January 18, Lieutenant Colonel William Lewis led a detachment across the frozen river, attacking and forcing a retreat of the British and Native American forces, marking the First Battle of the River Raisin. ​ ### Second Battle and Massacre: On January 22, British Colonel Henry Procter, with a force of 1,397 soldiers and Native American allies, launched a surprise counterattack on the American position. The Americans, unprepared and scattered, were overwhelmed. Approximately 397 Americans were killed, and 547 were captured. The following day, January 23, the Native American allies of the British killed dozens of wounded American prisoners who were unable to march, in what became known as the River Raisin Massacre. ​ ### Aftermath and Legacy: The massacre deeply shocked the American public, particularly in Kentucky, which had supplied many of the troops. The rallying cry "Remember the Raisin!" spurred further enlistments and a renewed commitment to the war effort. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1746042352873-eyJidWNrZXQiOiJhc3NldHMuYWxsdHJhaWxzLmNvbSIsImtleSI6InVwbG9hZHMvcGhvdG8vaW1hZ2UvNjY5MjIxNjUvMzFiMmFhY2ZkOGZhMWU2MGM5MTU4MjZiZjZkN2QwYjAuanBnIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsidG9Gb3.webp) ## Address & Directions ### Address & Directions: - **Visitor Center Address**: 333 North Dixie Highway, Monroe, MI 48162 - **Directions**: From I-75, take Exit 15 toward North Dixie Highway. The visitor center is approximately 1.4 miles north on the right. ​ ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1746044894290-988762138f1ad1c3a24c398573fdf126_dscf6037.jpg) ### Hours & Seasons: - **Visitor Center**: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day. - **Park Grounds**: Open year-round from sunrise to sunset. ​ ### Fees: - **Admission**: Free; no entrance pass required. For more information, visit the [official National Park Service website](https://home.nps.gov/rira/index.htm?ref=hiking-ohio.com) or call the Visitor Center at (734) 243-7136.​ ### ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1746042464269-river_raisin_national_battlefield_park.jpg) ## Hiking Trails - **Battlefield Loop Trail**: A 0.6-mile paved loop with historical markers, accessible for walking and biking. Paved and accessible, suitable for all ages and abilities. - **Mason Run Loop Trail**: A 1-mile wood-chip loop trail through the battlefield grounds. Wood-chip surface generally considered easy, with minimal elevation gain. - **River Raisin Heritage Trail**: Part of a 4.4-mile paved loop connecting to Sterling State Park. ​Paved, fully accessible, and ideal for walking and biking. For more information, visit the [official National Park Service website](https://home.nps.gov/rira/index.htm?ref=hiking-ohio.com) or call the Visitor Center at (734) 243-7136.​ ![](https://www.nps.gov/common/uploads/structured_data/3C7C3943-1DD8-B71B-0B82269FC3166010.jpg) ## Other Things to do Spend Time Outdoors! The park offers a variety of things to do:​ - **Visitor and Education Center**: Features exhibits on the Old Northwest Territory, Great Lakes history, Native American culture, French settlement, and the Battles of the River Raisin. The center includes a diorama of the River Raisin settlement, orientation maps, a gift shop, and a theater showing the film "The Untold Legacy of the River Raisin". - **Interpretive Programs**: Ranger-led programs are available to educate visitors about the site's history and significance.​ - **Guided Tours:** Check with the visitor center staff for times and fees. - **Historic Markers and Monuments**: The park features various markers and monuments commemorating the events and individuals associated with the Battle of Frenchtown.​ ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1746042765159-R.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1746042765916-22d64271205907.5bbd703b10357.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1746042765840-imgp0104.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1746042764771-OIP (1).jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1746042765817-OIP.jpg) - **Pet-Friendly Areas**: Pets are allowed in the park and on the hiking trails but must be kept on a leash at all times. - **Picnic:** Bring some refreshments and relax. - **Live Historical Re-enactments**: Check with visitor center staff for times of events. --- ## **Conclusion:** River Raisin National Battlefield Park is definitely worth a visit. I really didn't know about the Battle of Frenchtown during the War of 1812\. It was very enlightening to learn about the War of 1812\. The scenery is great too. Hikes at the battlefield aren't long but there are other trails in the area if you like. If you have something you would like to submit to have posted on this website, such as a blog submission or a new hiking trail you think we should check out, please contact us below! 🥾 Don't get caught in the wilderness wishing you were more prepared. Find great deals on [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### Columbus Metro Parks: Franklin County Trail Guide 2026 URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/columbus-franklin-county-metro-parks/ Last updated: 2026-06-24T19:43:04.000Z Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks (Metro Parks) was established in 1945\. It is a public agency serving the citizens of central Ohio by providing a regional system of parks. Metro Parks features 20 outstanding natural area parks with more than 230 miles of trails and over 28,700 acres of land in seven central Ohio counties. www.metroparks.net This blog describes the origin of the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks and provides an approximate location and description of the hiking trails available at each park. Some parks I have already done a blog for. Some parks I will do in the future. --- ### Origins and Early Development The idea for a metropolitan park system in Franklin County was proposed in a 1945 study, which highlighted the area's rivers and streams as ideal locations for parks, drawing inspiration from the Cleveland Metroparks system. On Tuesday August 14, 1945, the park district was created in law by Franklin County Probate Court Judge Cloys P. McClelland, following a public hearing. This law was a state statute, passed in 1917, which provided for “the conservation of natural resources by the creation, development and improvement of park districts,” and which ultimately led to the visionary foresight of local citizens and environmental groups and the formation of plans for a park district in Columbus and Franklin County. Walter A. Tucker, the first president-secretary of the Metro Parks, negotiated the purchase of the first land parcel in 1947, leading to the creation of Blacklick Woods Metro Park. This park was officially dedicated on October 24, 1948, and became a model for future parks in the system. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1746383065201-image.png) --- ### How is it Funded The Metro Parks system operates as an independent political subdivision under Ohio Revised Code Section 1545\. It is governed by a Board of Park Commissioners appointed by the Judge of the Probate Court of Franklin County. The primary funding source is a 10-year, 0.95 mill levy approved by Franklin County voters in 2018, which supports operations, improvements, and land acquisitions. The 20th Metro Park, Quarry Trails, results from a promise made in the 2018 Levy that we would have a Metro Park or Greenway Trail within five miles of every Franklin County resident. Quarry Trails completes that objective, and about 350,000 Franklin County residents live within five miles of the park ![](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/BLK_sign-for-Blacklick-Woods-Reservation_about-1948_from-slide-scaled.jpg) In the early days after the park opened, Blacklick Woods was known as Blacklick Woods Reservation. Note that in the early days, Metro Parks called its parks “reservations”, following the naming convention used by Cleveland Metroparks. By 1959, when Darby Creek opened, the familiar “Metro Park” became the regular name. n 1971 the Metro Parks Headquarters relocated from East Broad Street in Columbus to its present location, the former Dunn house in Sharon Woods Metro Park. --- ## **List of Metro Parks Alphabetically:** --- ## **Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park** 1. **Location**: Galloway, OH 2. **Opened**: 1959 3. **Highlights**: Restored tallgrass prairie, American bison herd, nature center, Fort Ancient mound, 13 miles of creek trails. Much of the land was donated by the Battelle Memorial Institute. the largest Metro Park in Ohio, currently standing at 7,093 acres. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1746375446153-image.png) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1746375536914-image.png) **Hiking Trails** | **Ancient**\- | | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | **1.7 miles** **Easy to moderate – Hike – Grass and gravel**Runs alongside Big Darby Creek and loops through fields and woods while passing a reconstructed Fort Ancient mound. | | **Camp Chase** | | **12.5 miles** **Easy to moderate – Hike, Bike, Pets – Paved – ADA**West leg of the Ohio to Erie Trail, a multiuse recreation and transportation trail linking Cincinnati, Columbus and Cleveland. | | **Cobshell** | | **0.9 miles** **Moderate to difficult – Hike – Gravel**Hilly trail that loops through woods and features a scenic deck overlooking Big Darby Creek. | | **Darby Creek Greenway** | | **5 miles** **Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – Gravel – ADA**Flat trail through the prairies and woods that intersects the two bison pastures. | | **Dyer Mill** | | **3 miles** **Moderate to difficult – Hike, Cross-country ski – Grass and gravel**Loops through tall grass meadows and a secluded woodlands and dips down to Little Darby Creek. | | **Edgewood, Lake & Prairie Way** | | **2.3 miles** **Easy – Hike, Pets – Grass**Three connected trails that pass through fields and woodlands, around a lake and alongside Big Darby Creek. | | **Harrier Loop, Rail Way & Teal** | | **2.7 miles** **Moderate – Hike – Grass**Three connected trails through prairies and wetlands. | | **Hawthorn** | | **0.8 miles** **Easy – Hike – Gravel**Loop trail in the Cedar Ridge Picnic Area. | | **Indian Ridge** | | **0.6 miles** **Moderate to difficult – Hike – Gravel**Runs alongside Big Darby Creek, goes through fields and woods and connects the Cobshell and Terrace trails. | | **Osprey Lake** | | **0.5 miles** **Easy – Hike – Grass and gravel**Loops around Osprey Lake | | **Riffle Run** | | **0.2 miles** **Difficult – Hike – Gravel**Steep trail down to Big Darby Creek. | | **Terrace** | | **2.1 miles** **Moderate to difficult – Hike – Gravel**Goes along Big Darby Creek for a ways and loops through a forest. | | **Turkey Foot** | | **0.5 miles** **Easy – Hike – Grass**Loop trail through the prairies and grasslands. | | **Wagtail** | | **1.9 miles** **Easy to moderate – Hike, Pets – Grass**Loops through the prairies. | **Note:** Experienced backpackers can enjoy 10 miles of primitive backpacking trails along Big and Little Darby creeks. There are four overnight backpacking sites that are available by reservation only. For additional information and to make a reservation visit www.metroparks.net --- ## **Blacklick Woods Metro Park and Golf Course** 1. **Location**: Reynoldsburg, OH 2. **Opened**: 1948 3. **Highlights**: It is the oldest park in the system, Walter A. Tucker State Nature Preserve, certified Audubon golf course, birdwatching opportunities. In 1967, Stoney Creek Country Club, which ran a 126-acre golf course adjacent to Blacklick Woods, fell into financial trouble and offered its golf course for sale to Metro Parks. A well-run golf course was preferable to housing development, and that’s how Metro Parks entered the golf business. 4. **The Canopy Walk** rises 40 feet into the air at Blacklick Woods, this wide boardwalk loops for an eighth-of-a-mile through the canopy of trees, including maples, beech, shagbark hickory and various oaks. An elevator provides easy access to the Canopy Walk, making it ADA accessible for wheelchair users. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1746377597721-image.png) | **Beech** | | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | 0.7 miles Easy – Hike – Gravel – ADAPasses through a beech-maple forest with beautiful displays of spring wildflowers, and continues past a swamp forest area. | | **Blacklick Creek Greenway** | | 16 miles Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – Paved – ADAConnects three Metro Parks and several small parks from Reynoldsburg to Groveport. | | **Maple** | | 0.9 miles Easy – Hike – Gravel – ADAGood for birding, traversing hardwood forest and passing a small wetland. | | **Buttonbush** | | 0.5 miles Easy – Hike – Gravel – ADARuns through a hardwood swamp forest. | | **Multipurpose** | | 2.6 miles Easy – Hike, Bike – Gravel – ADAPasses through a forest and a meadow. | | **Walter A. Tucker** | | 0.1 miles Easy – Hike – Gravel and boardwalk | --- ## **Blendon Woods Metro Park** - **Location**: Northeast Columbus near Westerville, OH - **Opened**: September 3, 1951 - **Highlights**: Rolling forested land, Walden Waterfowl Refuge, Thoreau Lake, nature center, disc golf course. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1746377860955-image.png) | **Brookside** | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | 0.8 miles Easy – Hike – GravelPasses through woods, crosses Ripple Rock Creek and connects with the Hickory Ridge and Ripple Rock trails. | | **Goldenrod** | | 1.3 miles Easy – Hike, Pets – GrassPasses through meadows that are filled with wildflowers in spring. | | **Hickory Ridge** | | 0.3 miles Easy – Hike – GravelWooded trail that connects the Brookside, Overlook and Ripple Rock trails. | | **Lake** | | 0.3 miles Easy – Hike – PavedLeads to the Walden Waterfowl Refuge and Thoreau Lake. | | **Overlook** | | 0.6 miles Easy – Hike – GravelPasses through woods, crosses Ripple Rock Creek and connects with the Hickory Ridge and Ripple Rock trails. | | **Ripple Rock** | | 0.4 miles Easy – Hike – GravelA steep trail, goes through woods and connects the Brookside, Hickory and Overlook trails. | | **Sugarbush** | | 2 miles Moderate to difficult – Hike, Cross-country skiing – GrassPasses through a wood that opens onto a meadow. Heavily populated with many different species of birds. | --- ## **Chestnut Ridge Metro Park** - **Location**: Near Carroll, OH - **Opened**: 1988-89 - **Highlights**: Overlooks with views of downtown Columbus, picnic areas, mountain biking trails. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1746378180234-image.png) | **Homesite** | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | 0.4 miles Moderate to difficult – Hike – GravelGoes through woods and fields, past an orchard and remnant homestead, connects the Ridge and Meadows trails. | | **Meadows** | | 1 mile Moderate to difficult – Hike – GravelFollows the edge of a high meadow, crosses a stream and passes through the woods. | | **Milkweed** | | 0.6 miles Easy to moderate – Hike, Pets – NaturalPet trail features a half-mile loop around fields with a short section through the woods. | | **Ridge** | | 1 mile Moderate to difficult – Hike – Gravel and boardwalkIncludes a gradual 150-foot ascent through the woods to the top of the ridge. | | **Mountain Bike** | | 10.5 miles Mountain biking only – DirtFeatures steep climbs and descents through deep woods. The 12- to 18-inch-wide trail has a narrow creek bridge, banked turns, and a couple of short sections of sandstone cobble. A 5-mile inner loop is the beginner/intermediate trail and the outer loop is the advanced trail. Virtual Ride: [Gravity Track](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ppmlsv0XV9Y&ref=hiking-ohio.com) | --- ## **Clear Creek Metro Park** - **Location**: Near Rockbridge, OH - **Opened**: 1996 - **Highlights**: A remote park with hemlock stands, deep hollows, wildflowers, designated State Nature Preserve. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1746378417075-image.png) | **Benua** | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ | | **1.9 miles** **Moderate to difficult – Hike ­– Dirt and gravel**Loop trail through woods and fields leading to Lake Emily. | | **Cemetery Ridge** | | **2.5 miles** **Moderate to difficult – Hike ­– Dirt and gravel**Begins with a steep zigzag ascent through the woods peaking at about 700 feet. At the top of the ridge the trail alternates between forest and meadows. | | **Chestnut** | | **2.2 miles** **Difficult – Hike – Dirt and gravel**Goes through valleys with sandstone formations and crosses forested ridges. | | **Creekside Meadows** | | **1.7 miles** **Easy – Hike, Pets – Grass**Follows the banks of Clear Creek through open fields. A 1-mile section of the trail west of Starner Road is also a pet trail. | | **Fern** | | **1.7 miles** **Moderate to difficult – Hike – Dirt**Goes along a steep ridge and through a forest with pines and hemlocks. | | **Good Prairie** | | **0.3 miles** **Easy – Hike – Dirt and gravel**Loops around a prairie. | | **Hemlock** | | **1.5 miles** **Difficult – Hike – Dirt and gravel**Descends and ascends a steep ravine and goes through shady hemlock groves, sandstone outcroppings, a carpet of ferns and ridges topped with hardwood trees. | | **Lake** | | **0.9 miles** **Moderate to difficult – Hike – Dirt**Winds through the woods to an observation deck overlooking Lake Ramona. | | **Prairie Warbler** | | **0.6 miles** **Easy to moderate – Hike – Dirt**Crosses a rolling hilltop, goes around a meadow and through the woods. | | **Tulip Tree** | | **0.6 miles** **Moderate to difficult – Hike – Dirt**Loops through the woods along a rolling hillside. | --- ## **Glacier Ridge Metro Park** 1. **Location**: Northwest of Dublin, OH 2. **Opened**: 2002 3. **Highlights**: Paved multi-use trail, disc golf course, bridle trail, large wetland area. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1746378987219-image.png) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1746379108854-image.png) | **Ironweed** | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | 2.8 miles Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – Paved – ADAGoes through woods and fields and leads to Honda Wetland Education Center. | | **Marsh Hawk** | | 2.3 miles Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – Paved – ADAGoes through woods and fields. | | **Challenge Course** | | 0.5 miles Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – PavedEncircles the 3-acre challenge course. | | **Red Oak** | | 0.8 miles Easy – Hike – NaturalPasses through an old forest. | | **Savannah** | | 5 miles Horse riding – Grass and dirtLoops through woods and fields (cross-country skiing when conditions permit). | The 3-acre obstacle course features 12 challenging stations surrounded by a half-mile paved trail. Visitors can crawl through tunnels, climb poles and ropes and go over logs and more. --- ## **Heritage Trail Metro Park** 1. **Location**: Hilliard, OH 2. **Opened**: 1995 3. **Highlights**: 7-mile multi-use trail. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1746381069415-image.png) | **Multiuse** | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | 6.1 miles Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – PavedStretches from Main Street in Hilliard to Cemetery Pike near Plain City. | | **Bridle** | | 3.6 miles Horseback riding only – SandyRuns parallel to the Multiuse Trail from Hayden Run Road to Cemetery Pike. | --- ## **Highbanks Metro Park** - **Location**: Lewis Center, OH - **Opened**: 1973 - **Highlights**: Shale bluffs, nature center, sledding hill, Adena culture mounds, Edward F. Hutchins State Nature Preserve. Opened in 1973, it is known for its 100-foot shale bluffs and ancient earthworks. Designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1980, it offers trails, a nature center, and a sledding hill. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1746381141899-image.png) | **Big Meadows Path** | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | 1 mile Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – PavedGoes through meadows and playfields. | | **Coyote Run** | | 3.5 miles Moderate – Hike, Pets, Cross-country ski – Grass and dirtGoes through woods and fields. Reserved for cross-country skiing when conditions are suitable. | | **Dripping Rock** | | 2.5 miles Moderate to difficult – Hike – GravelGoes through forest and passes steep ravines | | **Multi-Use** | | 2.3 miles Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – PavedGoes through woods and fields. | | **Oak Coves Path** | | 0.4 miles Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – PavedPasses meadows and playfields. | | **Overlook** | | 2.3 miles Moderate to difficult – Hike – GravelGoes through a state nature preserve to an observation deck 100 feet above the Olentangy River. | | **Scenic River** | | 0.6 miles Easy – Hike, Pets – Gravel – ADAGoes through forest and alongside the Olentangy River. | | **Sycamore** | | 0.9 miles Easy – Hike – Gravel – ADAWinds through a forest of sycamore, buckeye and cottonwood and alongside the river. | | **Wetland Spur** | | 0.4 miles Easy to moderate – Hike – Grass and dirtGoes through forest to a wetland with an observation deck. | --- ## **Homestead Metro Park** - **Location**: Hilliard, OH - **Opened**: 2014-2016 - **Highlights**: Covered bridge, replica train station, outdoor amphitheater, paved trail connecting to Heritage Trail. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1746381549438-image.png) | **Multiuse Trail** | | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | 0.8 miles Easy – Hike, Bike, Inline skate, Pets – Paved – ADAEncircles the main activities area and connects to the 6.1-mile Heritage Trail. | --- ## **Innis wood Metro Gardens** 1. **Location**: Westerville, OH 2. **Opened**: 1984 3. **Highlights**: Managed botanical garden with theme gardens showcasing various plant communities is the 37-acre estate of sisters Grace and Mary Innis. Mary decided to gift the estate to Metro Parks in 1968, with the stipulation that she be allowed to live out her life in her home, and that the sisters’ beloved gardens and woodlands would be preserved for future generations to enjoy. Now a renowned 121-acre botanical gardens, Inniswood honored the memory of Grace and Mary by creating the 2.8-acre Sisters’ Garden in 2002\. Their former home is now Innis House, which provides office space, a library and a meeting room for horticultural groups. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1746381730195-image.png) | **Boardwalk** | | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | 0.5 miles Easy – Hike – Boardwalk and gravel – ADAWinds through a beech-maple forest. | | **Brookwood** | | 0.5 miles Easy – Hike – Paved – ADACrosses Spring Run and passes the Memorial and Sisters’ Gardens. | | **Chipmunk Chatter** | | 0.6 miles Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – Paved – ADAA paved multi-use trail located at the end of the parking lot on the exterior of the gardens. | | **Frog Talk Walk** | | 0.1 miles Easy – Hike – Boardwalk – ADAAdjacent to a pond and passes the Rose and Herb gardens. | | **Sister’s Garden Loop** | | 0.3 miles Easy – Hike – Paved – ADAGoes through woods and loops around the Sister’s Garden. | | **Spring Run** | | 0.3 miles Easy – Hike – GravelRuns through an oak-hickory forest | --- ## **Pickerington Ponds Metro Park** - **Location**: Canal Winchester, OH - **Opened**: 1986-89 - **Highlights**: 1608 acres, several trails, 5 overlooks for bird and wildlife watching, designated Important Bird Area by Audubon Ohio. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1746387672817-image.png) | **Arrowhead** | | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | 1.7 miles Easy – Hike – GrassGoes through fields and forest and crosses George Creek. | | **Blacklick Creek Greenway** | | 16 miles Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – PavedConnects three Metro Parks and several small parks from Reynoldsburg to Groveport. | | **Killdeer** | | 1.1 miles Easy – Hike – GravelGoes around Blue Wing Pond and leads to an observation deck overlooking Pintail Marsh. | | **Meadowlark** | | 1 mile Easy – Hike – GrassFollows Pickering Creek and loops around grassland. | | **Yellowlegs** | | 0.5 miles Easy – Hike – GravelCrosses Pickering Creek and goes through a wetland. | | **Burning Lake** | | 1.5 miles Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – PavedLoops through wildflower fields and a small woodland, passes wetlands. | --- ## **Prairie Oaks Metro Park** - **Location**: Franklin and Madison County border, OH - **Opened**: 2000 - **Highlights**: Restored Oak Savannah, former quarry area offering boating opportunities, canine swimming area. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1746387843966-image.png) | **Alder** | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | 0.6 miles Easy – Hike, Pets – Grass and dirtConnects Darby Bend Lakes area with Sycamore Plains Trail. | | **Beaver Lake** | | 0.9 miles Easy – Hike, Pets – Grass and dirtLoops around Beaver Lake in the natural play area. | | **Bridle** | | 5.7 miles Horseback riding, Cross-country ski – Grass and dirtCrosses Big Darby Creek and goes through woods and prairies. | | **Coneflower** | | 2.5 miles Moderate to difficult – Hike, Cross-country ski – Grass and dirtCrosses two steep hills, goes through prairies and runs alongside Big Darby Creek | | **Darby Creek Greenway** | | 3.5 miles Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – Gravel – ADAWinds through Darby Bend Lakes area and crosses Big Darby Creek. | | **Lakeview Trails** | | 0.9 miles Easy – Hike, Pets – Grass, dirt and gravelPasses a lake at Darby Bend Lakes and circles an Indian Mound. (Includes the Lake and Mound trails | | **River Rock** | | 0.7 miles Easy – Hike, Pets – Grass and dirtLoops around a lake in the Darby Bend Lakes area. | | **Sycamore Plains Trails** | | 2.2 miles Moderate to difficult – Hike, Pets – Grass and dirtPasses large sycamores and winds through grasslands and along Big Darby Creek. (Includes Sycamore Plains, Osage Orange and Tallgrass trails) | --- ## **Quarry Trails Metro Park** - **Location**: Columbus, OH - **Opened**: November 30, 2021 - **Highlights**: Former limestone quarry, 25-foot waterfall, trails, boardwalks, zipline, rock climbing wall, historical significance. A rock-climbing wall utilizing stones from the former Marble Cliff Quarry opened in 2023. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1746387971150-image.png) | **Boardwalk** | | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | 0.1 miles Easy – Hike, Pets –Boardwalk – ADAADA accessible from Lake Area parking lot. | | **Connector Trails** | | 0.4 miles Easy – Hike, Pets – PavedPaved in Lake Area. | | **Flat Rocks Trail** | | 0.3 miles Easy – Hike, Pets – Paved | | **Lake View Trail** | | 0.3 miles Easy – Hike, Pets – Paved | | **Millikin Falls Lower Trail** | | 0.8 miles Easy – Hike, Pets – Paved | | **Millikin Falls Upper Trail** | | 0.05 miles Easy – Hike, Pets – Paved | | **Observation Trail** | | 0.1 miles Easy – Hike, Pets – Paved | | **Tall Wall Trail** | | 0.8 miles Easy – Hike, Pets – Paved | --- ## **Rocky Fork Metro Park** - **Location**: Westerville, OH - **Opened**: 2014-2016 - **Highlights**: Woods and fields, bridle trail, dog park, off-leash dog trail, paved trail, nature trails, picnic shelter, wetlands. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1746388082499-image.png) | **Beech Woodland** | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | 1.3 miles Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – PavedLoops through a wooded area with vernal pools and large beech trees. | | **Bridle** | | 3 miles Easy – Horseback riding only – Grass and pavedBridle Trail passes through woods and open fields. | | **Dog** | | 0.3 miles Easy – Hike, Pets – GravelAn off-leash pet-friendly trail with two loops through a wooded area and past a wetland. | | **Millstone Connector** | | 0.5 miles Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – PavedPath runs parallel to the park road and links from Walnut Street to the Millstone Picnic Area. Connects to the Beech Woodland Trail. | | **North Meadow** | | 1 mile Easy – Hike – GrassPasses over a small earthen dam, along a pond and loops around a restored native meadow. | | **Bevelhymer** | | 0.5 miles Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – PavedContinues out of park to Bevelhymer Park. | --- ## **Scioto Audubon Metro Park** - **Location**: Brewery District, Downtown Columbus, OH - **Opened**: 2008 - **Highlights**: Urban park, major bird migration stopover, Grange Insurance Audubon Center, climbing wall, old water tower with overlook deck.Active recreational features gave Scioto Audubon a slightly different feel to other parks, and include a 35-foot climbing wall, one of the largest outdoor climbing walls in the country, and a 10-stage obstacle course, built in partnership with the Columbus Rotary Club. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1746388247550-image.png) | **Scioto Greenway** | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | 10 miles Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – PavedStretches along the Scioto River. | | **Connector** | | 2.5 miles Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – PavedLinks various areas of the park. | | **Hermit Thrush** | | 0.1 miles Easy – Hike, Pets – MulchedRuns from the Scioto Greenway Trail to the Scioto River. | --- ## **Scioto Grove Metro Park** 1. **Location**: Grove City, OH 2. **Opened**: 2016 3. **Highlights**: Backpacking sites, trails through woods and along the river. For additional information and to make a reservation visit www.metroparks.net ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1746388468893-image.png) | **Arrowhead** | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | 0.7 miles Easy – Hike, Pets – NaturalGoes through woods and connects to the REI River Trail | | **Connector** | | 0.2 miles Easy – Hike, Pets – NaturalConnects the Overlook and Multipurpose trails. | | **Mingo** | | 2.5 miles Easy – Hike, Pets – NaturalLoops around the southern section of the park and runs alongside the Scioto River. | | **Multipurpose** | | 2 miles Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – PavedPasses through fields and prairies. | | **Overlook** | | 1.2 miles Easy – Hike, Pets – NaturalTraverses woods and fields. | | **REI River** | | 1.8 miles Easy – Hike, Pets – NaturalRuns alongside the Scioto River, with stepping stones across a creek and an adjacent swinging bridge. | | **Ridge Top Course** | | 0.3 miles Easy – Through 3D Archery Course – Natural(For use by archers only) Runs through the Ridge Top portion of the 3D archery course, with six difficult targets. | | **Woodland Course** | | 0.3 miles Easy – Through 3D Archery Course – Natural(For use by archers only) Runs through the Woodland portion of the 3D archery course, with six targets starting easy and becoming progressively more difficult. | --- ## **Sharon Woods Metro Park** 1. **Location**: Westerville, OH 2. **Opened**: 1968 3. **Highlights**: Sharon Lake, nature center, picnic areas, trails. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1746388589411-image.png) | **Edward S Thomas** | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | 1.1 miles Easy – Hike – Gravel – ADAWinds through a state nature preserve and past large burr oaks and an observation deck. | | **Spring Creek** | | 1.8 miles Easy to moderate – Hike, Pets – GravelCrosses two steep hills, runs alongside Spring Creek and goes through a forest. | | **Multipurpose** | | 3.8 miles Moderate – Hike, Bike – Paved – ADALoops around the park and passes through woods and fields. | | **Lake** | | 0.4 miles Easy – Hike, Pets – PavedRuns around the southern half of Schrock Lake. Connects Spring Creek and Edward S Thomas trails. | | **Oak Openings** | | 0.2 miles Easy – Hike – Gravel – ADAGoes through a forest and fields and connects with the Edward S Thomas Trail. | | **Connector** | | 0.3 miles Moderate – Hike – GrassConnects the Spring Creek and Edward S Thomas trails. | --- ## **Slate Run Metro Park and Slate Run Farm** 1. **Location:** Canal Winchester, Ohio 2. **Opened**: 1981 3. **Highlights**: In the early 1960s, a 300-acre farmland in Pickaway County closed down. The farm had been cultivated continuously since 1805, and included a farmhouse, built in 1856, and a barn built in 1881\. Metro Parks planners were eager to preserve the agricultural heritage of greater Columbus and purchased the site in 1964\. It would take 17 years of restoration and hard work before the concept of a Living Historical Farm could be made a reality. 4. **The restored farmhouse and barn** were added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975, eight years before the Living Historical Farm was opened to the public. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1746388728249-image.png) | **Bobolink Grassland** | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | 1.5 miles Easy – Hike – Grass – ADAWinds through grassland and leads to an observation deck overlooking the wetlands. | | **Camp Starview** | | 1.7 miles Moderate to difficult – Hike – Grass, dirt and gravelGoes through ravines and over steep hills. Open only to groups renting the Youth Camp. | | **Covered Bridge** | | 0.5 miles Easy – Hike, Pets – GravelGoes through a covered bridge and connects with the Shagbark Trail. | | **Five Oaks** | | 1.5 miles Moderate to difficult – Hike – GravelGoes through a steep ravine with black shale outcrops. | | **Kokomo** | | 1.5 miles Easy – Hike – Grass, dirt and boardwalkWinds through the wetlands with numerous observation decks for watching wildlife. | | **Lake** | | 0.3 miles Easy – Hike, Pets – PavedLeads to Buzzard’s Roost Lake | | **Sassafras** | | 2.1 miles Horseback riding only – Grass, dirt and gravelGoes through forest and meadows. | | **Shagbark** | | 0.5 miles Easy – Hike, Pets – GravelA loop trail at the end of the Covered Bridge Trail. Goes through forest and meadows. | | **Sugar Maple** | | 1.3 miles Moderate to difficult – Hike – GravelCrosses Slate Run Creek and several steep hills. | --- ## **Three Creeks Metro Park** 1. **Location**: Columbus, OH 2. **Opened**: 1998 3. **Highlights**: Confluence of Big Walnut, Alum, and Blacklick Creeks, trails, fishing opportunities. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1746388922074-image.png) | **Alum Creek Greenway** | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | 24.5 miles Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – Paved – ADARuns alongside Alum Creek and crosses a 300-foot bridge below the confluence of the Alum, Big Walnut and Blacklick creeks. Continues north to Westerville. | | **Blacklick Creek Greenway** | | 16 miles Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – PavedConnects three Metro Parks and several small parks from Reynoldsburg to Groveport. | | **Bluebell** | | 1 mile Moderate – Hike – DirtRuns alongside Blacklick Creek with a view of the confluence of Blacklick, Big Walnut and Alum creeks. | | **Confluence** | | 1 mile Moderate – Hike – DirtRuns alongside Alum Creek with a view of the confluence, passing giant sycamores, cottonwoods and American elms. | | **Evergreen** | | 0.5 miles Easy – Hike, Pets – Grass, dirt and boardwalkGoes through a white pine tree grove and loops around the natural play area. | | **Heron Pond** | | 0.6 miles Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – PavedLoops around Heron Pond. | | **Madison Mills** | | 0.2 miles Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – PavedShort loop around a play area for kids. | | **Sycamore Fields and Smith Farm** 1.2 miles Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – PavedLoops around athletic fields, with a spur that crosses the Alum Creek Greenway and leads to Smith Farm. | | **Turtle Pond** | | 0.4 miles Easy – Hike, Pets – GravelLoops around Turtle Pond. | --- ## **Walnut Woods** 1. **Location**: Reynoldsburg, OH 2. **Opened**: 2011 3. **Highlights**: features 1,458 acres of woodlands and fields, bordered by Walnut Creek to the north. The Tall Pines area features dramatic stands of pines and sweetgum trees, and the Buckeye area has long rows of old nursery trees such as serviceberry, crab apple and red maples. The park also features restored wetlands and vernal pools. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1746389064211-image.png) | **Buckeye** | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | 2 miles Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – PavedRuns alongside Walnut Creek and loops through stands of old nursery trees. | | **Kestrel** | | 1.3 miles Easy – Hike, Pets – Grass and dirtRuns through wetlands and joins the Monarch Trail | | **Monarch** | | 1.4 miles Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – PavedRuns alongside Walnut Creek and connects with the Sweetgum Trail. | | **Pin Oak** | | 0.4 miles Easy – Hike, Pets – GrassRuns through a stand of sweetgum trees. Connects two sections of the Sweetgum Trail. | | **Sweetgum** | | 2.6 miles Easy – Hike, Bike, Pets – Paved and gravelLoops around the Tall Pines Area and goes through stands of sweetgum, pine and oak trees. | --- ## **Opening soon** - **Great Southern Metro Park**: A 50-acre site offering water recreation and trail connections to nearby parks and downtown Columbus. Metro Parks also plans on opening another park in the southeast sector of Franklin County, formerly known as Hoover YMCA Park (Hoover Y-Park). - **Bank Run Metro Park**: Located near Rickenbacker Airport, this park features a renovated lodge and event venue, with trails open to the public. --- ## **State Nature Preserves Associated with Metro Parks** Part of Clear Creek Metro Park, Allen F. Beck State Nature Preserve, which, at 4,729 acres, is the largest state nature preserve in Ohio. It is one of five state nature preserves within the park district. The other state nature preserves in Metro Parks are the 54-acre Walter A. Tucker State Nature Preserve at Blacklick Woods, the 206-acre Edward F. Hutchins State Nature Preserve in Highbanks Metro Park (named in honor of a former Director of Metro Parks), the 418-acre Pickerington Ponds (Metro Park) State Nature Preserve, and the 320-acre Edward S. Thomas State Nature Preserve in Sharon Woods Metro Park (named after one of the first Metro Parks board commissioners and a leading Ohio naturalist). --- ### **Conclusion** The Metro Parks system has a lot to offer. There are hiking trails at every park. No excuses, get out and enjoy the Metro Parks. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/05/1747172744899-image.png) ## Every Columbus & Franklin County Metro Park Guide Dive into a full trail guide, map, and directions for each metro park near Columbus: - [Homestead Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/homestead-metro-park/) - [Rocky Fork Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/rocky-fork-metro-park/) - [Pine Quarry Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/pine-quarry/) - [Scioto Grove Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/scioto-grove-met/) - [Three Creeks Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/three-creeks-park/) - [Highbanks Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/highbanks-metro-park/) - [Quarry Trails Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/quarry-trails-metro-park/) - [Glacier Ridge Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/glacier-ridge-metro-park/) - [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/blendon-woods-metro-park/) - [Blacklick Woods Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/blacklick-woods-metro-park/) - [Sharon Woods Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/sharon-woods-metro-park/) - [Chestnut Ridge Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/chestnut-ridge-metro-park/) - [Walnut Woods Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/walnut-woods-metro-park/) - [Slate Run Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/slate-run-metro-park-and-living-historical-farm/) - [Pickerington Ponds Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/pickerington-ponds-metro-park-and-state-nature-preserve/) - [Heritage Trail Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/heritage-trail-metro-park/) - [Scioto Audubon Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/scioto-audubon-metro-park/) - [Inniswood Metro Gardens](https://hiking-ohio.com/inniswood-metro-gardens/) - [Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/battelle-darby-creek-metro-park/) - [Clear Creek Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/clear-creek-metro-park/) ### Deer Creek State Park: Hiking Guide & Lake Trail 2026 URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/deer-creek-state-park/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:32.000Z Trail FactsDeer Creek State Park3.5 miDistanceEasyDifficulty150 ftElevation1.8 hrsDurationLoopTypeYear RoundDog-friendlyFishingWildlife Deer Creek State Park, located in central Ohio, offers a variety of outdoor activities and scenic views, including hiking trails through picturesque landscapes. **Trail at a Glance — Deer Creek State Park** | **Distance** | 3.5 miles (loop) | | ------------------ | ------------------------------------- | | **Elevation gain** | 150 ft | | **Difficulty** | Easy | | **Best season** | Year-round | | **Dogs** | Leashed dogs welcome | | **Highlights** | Reservoir views, wildlife, fishing | | **Location** | Mount Sterling, Pickaway County, Ohio | --- ### Dam History (I am so funny...not) Deer Creek State Park surrounds the **1,277-acre** Deer Creek Reservoir. ODNR/tourism listings put the resort park at about **2,337 acres of land** plus the reservoir (as of September 2026). Dam construction began in the early 1950s; the state park itself opened in **1974** (not 1955). ![Deer Creek State Park, Pickaway County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1744123587421-Deer-Creek-State-Park-CID10247.jpg) The park’s development was part of a broader movement in Ohio to create recreational areas that preserve natural beauty while providing public enjoyment. The reservoir was created primarily for flood control, water supply, and recreation. Construction of the Deer Creek Dam began in 1951\. The project was managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which was responsible for building and overseeing the dam and reservoir. It was built using natural materials like earth and rock. It creates the Deer Creek Reservoir by impounding Deer Creek, a tributary of the Scioto River. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, along with ODNR, oversees regular inspections and upkeep. That 1974 opening date is the one to use when someone asks when the park itself began. --- ### Park Map A detailed map of Deer Creek State Park can typically be obtained from the park office or visitor center. It may also be available online through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) website. The map will include information on trail locations, park facilities, and other points of interest. ![Deer Creek State Park, Pickaway County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1744123924906-map.jpg) ### **Additional Information** - **Facilities:** The park offers various facilities including picnic areas, campgrounds, and boat ramps. - **Activities:** In addition to hiking, visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, and wildlife observation. - **Park Hours:** 6am to 11pm daily. Visitors are permitted to actively engage in [legitimate recreational activities](https://ohiodnr.gov/wps/portal/gov/odnr/rules-and-regulations/rules-and-regulations-by-division/state-parks-and-watercraft/ohio-state-park-rules/3-hours-of-operation?ref=hiking-ohio.com) outside these hours. If you have questions, call the park office. - **Address:** 20635 State Park Road 20, Mt. Sterling, OH 43143-9501 - **Park Office:** (740) 869-3124; 8am to 4:30pm Monday-Friday (as of September 2026) - **Official:** [ODNR Deer Creek State Park](https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/deer-creek-state-park?ref=hiking-ohio.com) (property URL intermittently 404'd from this runner — re-verify at Ghost push) --- ## **Deer Creek State Park Lodge** [Welcome to a Great Ohio Lodge Property | Deer Creek State Park Lodge](https://www.deercreekparklodge.com/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) The lodge has both an indoor and outdoor pool. There is a fitness center. Of course there is a game room, board games, court sports, kayak, peddle boat and stand-up paddle board rentals. The group fire pit is a great place to mingle and make s'mores. ![Deer-Creek-header-min-1024x553.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1744144027792-Deer-Creek-header-min-1024x553.jpg) ![homepage-callout-bg.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1744144027967-homepage-callout-bg.jpg) --- ### **Campgrounds** Reservations are required and may be made up to six months in advance online or by calling (866) 644-6727. - A seasonal camp store is available - Showers, flush toilets, laundry facilities, and dump station - Volleyball, basketball, pickleball, and gaga ball courts - Two playgrounds - Miniature golf - Bicycles can be rented from the camp office - Picnic shelter is available on a first come, first served basis --- ### **Swimming** A 1,700-foot swimming beach with picnic tables and grills is available at the park. Pets are NOT permitted on swimming beaches. A boat-swim area is located in the cove adjacent to the lodge. Swimming is permitted during daylight hours only. Swim at your own risk. ![Deer Creek State Park, Pickaway County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1744144169437-5152021102852PM0.jpg) --- ### Nature Center The Deer Creek Nature Center is located near the campground at the first left past the camp office. The nature center boasts displays, crafts, archery, a Gray Rat Snake, and outdoor box turtle enclosure. Hours vary depending on season. Additional information is available by calling the camp office at (740) 869-3124. --- ### **Fishing** Deer Creek Lake is famous for its early spring saugeye fishing below the dam. Excellent catches of catfish, largemouth bass, and crappie also entice the angler. - [Ohio fishing regulations](https://ohiodnr.gov/wps/portal/gov/odnr/buy-and-apply/hunting-fishing-boating/fishing-resources/fishing-regulations?ref=hiking-ohio.com) apply. - A valid [Ohio fishing license](https://ohiodnr.gov/wps/portal/gov/odnr/buy-and-apply/hunting-fishing-boating/fishing-resources/fishing-licenses?ref=hiking-ohio.com) is required (16 and older). ![GOPR3320.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1744144102482-GOPR3320.JPG) ![GOPR3321.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1744144102465-GOPR3321.JPG) ![GOPR3333.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1744144101293-GOPR3333.JPG) --- ### **Boating** Unlimited horsepower boating is permitted on the 1,277-acre Deer Creek reservoir. Two boat launch ramps provide access to the lake. A fully-equipped marina offers fuel, boat rental, and seasonal dock rentals. For information, call (740) 869-2100. Boaters may swim from their boats in the designated boat-swim area located in the cove adjacent to the lodge. To check for any seasonal updates or closures, it’s a good idea to contact the park directly or visit the ODNR website. [https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/deer-creek-state-park](https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/deer-creek-state-park?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## **Evidence of Ancient Native Camp** On a long ridge that once overlooked Deer Creek and its valley, researchers have discovered evidence of an ancient native camp. Around 2000 BC, the nomads who camped there were hunters and gatherers, using the camp periodically throughout the year. Since agriculture was not practiced by the nomads, they moved on after they depleted the plant or animal food supplies in a locale. Burial sites near the camp indicate it was inhabited over a period of time. --- ## **The Harding Cabin** The 1½-story cabin, known as “The Shack,” was constructed on the banks of Deer Creek by US Attorney General Harry M. Daugherty at the close of World War I. Daugherty was the strategist for Warren G. Harding during his state and national political campaigns and a cabinet member during the Marion newspaper publisher’s presidency. Harding was elected state senator (1899–1902), lieutenant governor (1903–1904) and US senator (1915–1921), before being elected President of the United States in 1921. The cabin was reported to be a favorite retreat for Harding and his circle of close friends known in Washington as the “Ohio Gang” or “US Boys.” In addition, the hospitality of the cabin was reported to extend to supporters of the administration and those who wished to do business with it. The Harding Cabin found itself in the national limelight, revealed as a hideout after scandals were uncovered during and after Harding’s presidential term. Harry M. Daugherty was an influential American politician and attorney who played a significant role in early 20th-century U.S. politics. He was born in Washington Courthouse, Ohio, on January 17, 1860, and died October 31, 1941. Daugherty was a close ally of President Warren G. Harding. He served as Attorney General of the United States from 1921 to 1924 under Harding and his successor, Calvin Coolidge. His tenure was marked by several significant legal and political controversies. Daugherty’s term as Attorney General was marred by the Teapot Dome scandal, a major political scandal involving the bribery of government officials. Daugherty himself was investigated but was never convicted of wrongdoing. [Teapot Dome scandal - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Teapot%5FDome%5Fscandal?ref=hiking-ohio.com) The scandal is often cited as one of the most significant political scandals in U.S. history, demonstrating the extent of corruption in the Harding administration and influencing future regulatory and ethical standards in government. The Harding Cabin is situated in Fayette County, Ohio. It’s located near the town of Washington Court House, which is where Daugherty had his roots. The cabin is a rustic log structure, typical of early American frontier homes. It features traditional log cabin architecture, including hand-hewn logs and a stone fireplace, embodying the style of its era. ![Although you cannot do tours of the Harding Cabin, you can rent it!](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1744143864322-9O7A1676-3.jpg) [Harding Cabin | Deer Creek State Park Lodge](https://www.deercreekparklodge.com/lodging/harding-cabin?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## **Hiking Trails** Deer Creek State Park features several hiking trails, each offering unique experiences: 1. **Deer Creek Trail** - **Length:** Approximately 3.5 miles - **Description:** This trail takes you through a variety of habitats, including woodlands and meadows. It's relatively easy and suitable for hikers of all skill levels. You’ll find scenic overlooks and occasional wildlife sightings. 1. **Coonpath Trail** - **Length:** About 2.2 miles - **Description:** A shorter, moderately challenging trail that winds through wooded areas and provides some elevation changes. It’s a good choice for a brisk hike and offers a chance to experience the park’s natural beauty. 1. **Bigfoot Trail** - **Length:** 1.5 miles - **Description:** This trail is designed for a shorter, more casual hike. It’s an excellent option for families or those looking for a more relaxed walk through nature. 1. **Meadow Trail** - **Length:** 1.8 miles - **Description:** As the name suggests, this trail takes you through open meadows and is ideal for birdwatching and enjoying wildflowers. Six **hiking-only** trails are found at the park: - \*\*Adena Ridge Trail \*\*- 0.8 mile - easy - **Hawkview Meadow Trail** \- 0.6 mile - easy - \*\*Marsh Walk Trail \*\*- 0.7 mile - moderate - **Ridge Trail** \- 0.9 mile - moderate - **Rolling Hills Trail** \- 1.5 miles - moderate - **Storybook Trail** \- 0.5 mile - easy - **Van Horn Trail** \- 0.8 mile - easy-moderate Two large loops and a spur form 17 miles of **bridle trails** \- moderate. These trails are also open to \*\*snowmobiles \*\*in season. --- ## **Conclusion** Deer Creek State Park is a wonderful place to visit. We go there to fish and hike. The Lodge is a great place to stay. If you are in the area, make a point to stop at Deer Creek State Park. You won't be disappointed. ### ## Explore Nearby Trails More Ohio trail guides worth a visit: - [Three Creeks Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/three-creeks-park/) - [Scioto Grove Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/scioto-grove-met/) - [John Bryan State Park & Clifton Gorge](https://hiking-ohio.com/john-bryan-state-park-clifton-gorge-yellow-springs-ohio/) - [Salt Fork State Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/salt-fork-state-park/) - [Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve](https://hiking-ohio.com/rhododendron-cove-state-nature-preserve/) - [Hocking Hills: Every Trail Ranked](https://hiking-ohio.com/hocking-hills-state-park-every-trail-ranked/) ### Joseph Bonaparte (Napoleon's Brother) Exile Bordentown, NJ URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/joseph-bonaparte-napoleons-brother/ Last updated: 2026-03-24T11:20:23.000Z Joseph Bonaparte was the elder brother of Napoleon Bonaparte. Joseph Bonaparte was born on January 7, 1768, and he passed away on July 28, 1844, in Florence, Italy, at the age of 76\. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1744118972548-OSK.jpg) His father was Carlo Buonaparte. Carlo was a lawyer and political figure who served as the representative of the region of Corsica in the French National Assembly. Letizia Ramolino was his mother. Letizia was a Corsican woman who came from a noble family and was known for her strong character. She had a significant influence on her children, especially Napoleon. --- ## **Joseph's Siblings** Napoleon Bonaparte (younger brother): The famous French military leader and emperor who rose to prominence in the French Revolution and became Emperor of France. Lucien Bonaparte (younger brother): A politician and diplomat, Lucien had a complicated relationship with Napoleon. Elisa Bonaparte (younger sister): She became the Grand Duchess of Tuscany and was an influential figure during the Napoleonic era. Louis Bonaparte (younger brother): He became King of Holland and was the father of Napoleon III. Pauline Bonaparte (younger sister): She was married to a Roman prince and became known for her beauty and lifestyle. Caroline Bonaparte (younger sister): She married Joachim Murat, who became King of Naples. Jerome Bonaparte (youngest brother): He became King of Westphalia. --- ## **Marriage and Children** ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1744118942571-R.jpg) Joseph Bonaparte married Julie Clary in 1794, the daughter of a wealthy merchant from Marseille. Julie was the sister of Napoleon's first wife, Josephine. The marriage was part of a broader strategy to build political alliances within the Bonaparte family. Julie Clary and Joseph Bonaparte had a close relationship, and she was supportive of Joseph's various political and royal ventures, though she was not as politically involved as some of her other relatives. Joseph and Julie had two daughters: Zénaïde Julie Bonaparte was born October 8, 1801, in Naples, Italy. Zénaïde was the older of Joseph Bonaparte's two daughters. In 1822, Zénaïde married Charles Lucien Bonaparte, a French naturalist and aristocrat. Charles was the son of Lucien Bonaparte, Joseph's younger brother, and was a prominent figure in the study of birds and natural sciences. Zénaïde and Charles had three children together, continuing the Bonaparte family line. She died March 8, 1854, in Florence, Italy at 52. Charlotte Bonaparte was born March 31, 1802, in Naples, Italy. She married Frédéric de Beauharnais who was a French nobleman and the grandson of Empress Joséphine through her first marriage. Charlotte and Frédéric had two children together, but she died at a young age, at just 37 years old, likely due to health complication on December 2, 1839, in Rome, Italy at 37. --- ## **Joseph Bonaparte Political History** In 1808, following Napoleon's invasion of Spain, Joseph was King of Spain. This move was part of Napoleon’s broader strategy to place his relatives on the thrones of Europe and consolidate his empire. Joseph’s reign in Spain was marked by significant resistance from Spanish patriots and guerrilla fighters, which led to a prolonged and brutal conflict known as the Peninsular War (1808-1814). In 1813, Joseph Bonaparte, facing increasing resistance from Spanish forces and a deteriorating situation in Spain due to the Peninsular War and the advancing Allied armies, abdicated the Spanish throne in 1813\. In 1813-1814 Joseph fled to France after his abdication. During this period, he was not a prominent figure in French politics but continued to live in relative obscurity. Following Napoleon’s first abdication in April 1814, Joseph was in Paris before moving to various places in Europe. After Napoleon’s brief return to power during the Hundred Days (March-June 1815), Joseph was once again in Paris but soon went into exile after Napoleon’s final defeat at the Battle of Waterloo. --- ## **Exile in New Jersey** Joseph lived in various places in Europe and in the United States. He spent time in the United States, particularly in the New Jersey area, where he lived in the town of Bordentown. He was well received in American society and spent several years there. Joseph Bonaparte was known to be a generous and somewhat reclusive figure. He became a local celebrity and was known for his engagement with the community, hosting social events and entertaining guests. His presence brought a degree of international attention to the small town. 1832-1844: After living in the United States, Joseph returned to Europe. He lived in several countries, including Italy and France, where he spent his final years. He settled in Italy, in the city of Florence, where he lived until his death in 1844. --- ## **Point Breeze and Bordentown** In 1816\. He purchased a large estate known as "Point Breeze" which became his American residence. He made significant renovations to the property, transforming it into a grand estate with a large mansion and beautifully landscaped gardens. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1744118919614-38785680-9214549-The_map_above_was_drawn_up_for_a_sale_of_Point_Breeze_after_Jose-a-3_1612285936483.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1744118919083-38787224-9214549-image-a-33_1612279979579.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1744118919479-point-breeze-the-estate-of-joseph-napoleon-bonaparte-at-bordentown-new-jersey-painted-by-charles-b-l-charles-b-lawrence.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1744119778005-bonaparte-gardeners-house-bordentown-new-jersey-untapped-new-york.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1744119778195-d5f0b77bfc100a540667aeb5887e9218.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1744119777980-dc6453540b2a31ef783af9dd449699ab.jpg) After Joseph Bonaparte left the United States in 1839, the estate changed hands several times. The mansion was occupied by various owners, including members of the local elite, and it continued to be a prominent property in Bordentown. The original mansion was eventually demolished in 1890, and the estate was subdivided into smaller plots. The land where Point Breeze once stood was developed into residential and commercial properties over the years. The area that was once Point Breeze is now part of Bordentown's residential and commercial landscape. The exact location of the former mansion is marked by modern developments, and the grandeur of the original estate is no longer visible. While the original mansion and gardens are gone, the history of Joseph Bonaparte’s residence at Point Breeze remains a part of Bordentown’s local heritage. There may be historical markers or references in local archives that acknowledge the significance of the site. The Bordentown Historical Society often provides information about the town’s history, including the period when Joseph Bonaparte resided there. They may have exhibits or archives related to his time in Bordentown. --- ## **Hiking Trails** Here are a few hiking options in and around Bordentown: ### 1\. **Bordentown Township Trails** - **Location:** Bordentown Township, NJ - **Distance:** Varies (generally short, around 1-2 miles) - **Details:** Bordentown Township has several small parks and green spaces with trails. These trails are often more suited for a casual walk or a short hike rather than a challenging hike. ### 2\. **Crosswicks Creek Park** - **Location:** 16 Park Street, Bordentown, NJ - **Distance:** Approximately 2 miles - **Details:** This park features a trail that follows along Crosswicks Creek. It’s a peaceful, scenic walk suitable for all skill levels, with opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty and observe local wildlife. ### 3\. **Hamilton-Trenton Marsh** - **Location:** Off of Route 29, Hamilton Township, NJ (close to Bordentown) - **Distance:** Various trails, typically ranging from 1-3 miles - **Details:** This is a large, protected marsh area with trails that offer a mix of wetland and woodland experiences. It’s a great spot for birdwatching and enjoying the natural environment. ### 4\. **Rancocas State Park** - **Location:** 22 Wilson Road, Hainesport, NJ (a short drive from Bordentown) - **Distance:** Approximately 7 miles of trails - **Details:** This park features a variety of trails, including forested paths and areas along the Rancocas Creek. The park provides a more extended hiking experience with diverse landscapes. ### 5\. **New Jersey Transit’s RiverLINE Trail** - **Location:** Runs through Bordentown and connects with nearby towns - **Distance:** Over 30 miles (trail segments vary) - **Details:** While not a traditional hiking trail, this multi-use trail runs parallel to the RiverLINE light rail and offers a long, scenic route for walking or biking. For detailed trail maps and more information, you might want to check local municipal websites or local hiking groups, as they can provide up-to-date details on trail conditions and accessibility. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1744119360754-3f-Bordentown-Bluffs-Trail-.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1744119360321-16999176_1484303454927202_2027217403516292676_n-orig.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1744119360580-d5f0b77bfc100a540667aeb5887e9218.jpg) --- ## **Conclusion** Finding out about Joseph Bonaparte and his exile is a fascinating part of history. It is definitely worth the trip. ### Lookout Mountain: Ohio Scenic Viewpoint & Trail URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/lookout-mountain/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:03:00.000Z Trail FactsLookout Mountain 3 miDistance ModerateDifficulty 600 ftElevation 2 hrsDuration Out & BackType Year RoundScenic view Lookout Mountain is located in southeastern Tennessee, northwestern Georgia, and northeastern Alabama. In the Chattanooga, Tennessee area, it offers a wealth of natural beauty and historical significance.​ ### **Historical Significance:** During the American Civil War, Lookout Mountain was the site of the Battle of Lookout Mountain on November 24, 1863, often referred to as the "Battle Above the Clouds." This engagement was part of the larger Chattanooga Campaign and played a crucial role in the Union's strategic positioning. ​ Lookout Mountain became part of the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park on **August 23, 1898**. This park was established to preserve and commemorate the significant Civil War battles fought in the area. **Diverse Other Attractions:** - **Rock City:** Renowned for its expansive gardens and unique rock formations, Rock City offers panoramic views where visitors can reportedly see seven states. - **Ruby Falls:** Located 1,120 feet underground, Ruby Falls features the tallest and deepest underground waterfall open to the public in the U.S. ​ - **Incline Railway:** Recognized as the world's steepest passenger railway, the Incline Railway provides a scenic ascent up the mountain, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area. ### **Address and Contact Information:** While Lookout Mountain itself is a natural formation and does not have a specific street address, the town of Lookout Mountain, Tennessee, is located at:​ - **Physical Address:** 112 N. Watauga, Lookout Mountain, TN 37350​ - **Mailing Address:** P.O. Box 99, Lookout Mountain, TN 37350​ - **Phone:** (423) 822-6397 ### **Visiting Information:** For more details on attractions, operating hours, and planning your visit, you can explore the official Lookout Mountain website. ​ ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1743803162871-R.jpg) ### **Size of the Park (Lookout Mountain Area)** The **Lookout Mountain** area includes several parks and protected areas that span across different states. The specific parks in the area include: 1. **Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park:** - **5,500 acres** (Total for both parks) - This park preserves the site of the Battle of Lookout Mountain and several other important Civil War battlefields. It includes hiking trails, historic monuments, and guided tours. **This is the one we visited.** - Lookout Mountain spans approximately 84 miles, extending from Chattanooga, Tennessee, to Gadsden, Alabama. In Tennessee, the mountain's highest point reaches an elevation of 2,393 feet near High Point, Georgia. ​ 2. **DeSoto State Park:** - Approximately **3,502 acres** - DeSoto State Park is the largest park located on Lookout Mountain and offers numerous recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, picnicking, and fishing. The park is named after the famous explorer **Hernando de Soto**, and it features scenic views of waterfalls, forests, and rugged landscapes. 3. **Little River Canyon National Preserve:** - **15,288 acres** - Located near Lookout Mountain, Little River Canyon is famous for its deep, winding river gorge and offers many hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks. The preserve is a popular area for outdoor activities like hiking, canoeing, and sightseeing. --- ## **History of Lookout Mountain:** **Lookout Mountain** has a rich history, both in terms of natural significance and military importance. 1. **Natural History:** - Lookout Mountain itself is a part of the **Appalachian Plateau**, offering dramatic views over valleys and forests. The mountain and its surrounding area are geologically significant, featuring rock formations, springs, and waterfalls, many of which are visible from the top of the mountain. The area has been home to diverse flora and fauna, including hardwood forests, and is known for its beautiful seasonal changes, especially during fall foliage. 2. **Military Significance - The Battle of Lookout Mountain:** - The most famous historical event associated with Lookout Mountain is the **Battle of Lookout Mountain**, which took place during the **American Civil War** in **November 1863**. The battle was part of the larger **Chattanooga Campaign**, where Union forces under General **Ulysses S. Grant** sought to break the Confederate hold on key positions in Tennessee. - The battle, known as the **"Battle Above the Clouds,"** occurred on the mountain's summit and was significant for both the military tactics used and the pivotal role it played in the Union Army's eventual victory in the campaign. The Union forces defeated the Confederates, leading to the opening of supply lines into Chattanooga and helping the Union Army secure the region. - Today, the **Lookout Mountain Battlefield** is part of the **Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park**, which preserves the site of the battle and educates visitors about its historical importance. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1743803322708-20250101_125546.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1743803326682-20250101_125617.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1743803323020-20250101_130006.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1743803321217-20250101_130023.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1743803321323-20250101_130040.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1743803327596-20250101_130151.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1743803326952-20250101_130524.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1743803327813-20250101_130550.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/04/1743803318785-20250101_130703.jpg) --- ## **Hiking Trails on Lookout Mountain Area:** Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, Tennessee, offers a variety of hiking trails that cater to different skill levels and provide scenic views of the surrounding landscapes: **Cravens House to Point Park Trail** This approximately 2.2-mile round-trip trail begins near Cravens House and ascends to Point Park, offering historical insights and panoramic vistas of the Tennessee River and Chattanooga. ​ ![Cravens House - Lookout Mountain | The Cravens House is the … | Flickr](https://tse2.mm.bing.net/th?id=OIP.4lWdVdasXuM1ZINFdbAOQQHaE8&w=200&h=133&c=7) **Cravens House to Sunset Rock Trail** A 2.5-mile round-trip hike that leads from Cravens House to Sunset Rock, providing hikers with expansive views of the valley and opportunities to explore various rock formations. ![Sunset Rock Lookout Mountain Photograph by Steven Llorca](https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?id=OIP.56ouyD9noFwG71vJsrVnjAHaE8&w=200&h=133&c=7) **Guild-Hardy Trail** Spanning approximately 5 miles one-way, this trail follows an old railroad bed, connecting Ochs Highway to Scenic Highway. It passes landmarks like Ruby Falls and offers intermittent views of downtown Chattanooga and the Tennessee River. ​ **Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature Center Trails** With over 15 miles of walking trails, this 317-acre nonprofit arboretum and nature center provides diverse ecosystems to explore, including woodlands and meadows, along with educational exhibits on native flora and fauna. **Stringer's Ridge Trails** Located in North Chattanooga, Stringer's Ridge offers approximately 10 miles of trails suitable for hiking and mountain biking. The trails vary from easy to technical, providing scenic overlooks of the city and the Tennessee River. ​ ![Stringer's Ridge | Outdoor Chattanooga](https://tse4.mm.bing.net/th?id=OIP.Kngh25YBYuQ6Go6v8vuA0gHaFj&w=200&h=150&c=7) Before embarking on any hike, it's advisable to check current trail conditions and any access requirements. For comprehensive maps and additional information, the National Park Service provides resources on the Lookout Mountain Battlefield Trail Map. There are several other popular hiking trails around Lookout Mountain area, mainly within the other parks **DeSoto State Park** and **Little River Canyon National Preserve**, which offer access to various scenic viewpoints, waterfalls, and the history of the region. **Lookout Mountain Trail (DeSoto State Park):** Length: 2.5 miles (round trip) Difficulty: Moderate Description: This trail takes you through the woods and provides great views of the surrounding valleys and the historic **DeSoto Falls**. It's considered a moderate hike, with some elevation changes, but it's manageable for most hikers. **Desoto Falls Trail (DeSoto State Park):** Length: 0.5 miles (round trip) Difficulty: Easy Description: This short, easy trail leads to **DeSoto Falls**, one of the most iconic waterfalls in Alabama. The trail is well-maintained and offers a relaxing walk through the forest to the viewing platform. **Cherokee Rock Village Trail:** Length: 1.5 miles (loop) Difficulty: Moderate to Hard Description: This trail is located on the Alabama side of Lookout Mountain, near the town of **Leesburg**, and features impressive views of the valley below and large boulders to explore. The trail can be steep in sections, making it more challenging. **Limestone Trail (Little River Canyon):** Length: 2 miles (round trip) Difficulty: Moderate Description: Located in **Little River Canyon National Preserve**, this trail offers hikers views of the river and the canyon’s cliffs. The hike is scenic and can involve some rock scrambling. **Canyon Rim Trail (Little River Canyon):** Length: 1.5 miles (round trip) Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Description: This relatively easy trail along the rim of Little River Canyon offers beautiful views of the canyon and river below, with interpretive signs explaining the area’s geology and history. --- ## **Lookout Mountain Vertical Railroad:** The **Lookout Mountain Vertical Railroad**, also known as the **Incline Railway**, is one of the most famous attractions associated with Lookout Mountain. #### **History and Construction:** - Opened: 1889 - The railway is located in Chattanooga, Tennessee, at the base of Lookout Mountain. - The incline was originally built to transport passengers and freight up the steep slopes of Lookout Mountain. It was constructed by the **Chattanooga Traction Company** and was designed to be a funicular system, with rail cars that are pulled up and down the mountain by a cable. - The Lookout Mountain Incline Railway is one of the steepest passenger railways in the world. It ascends a 72.7% grade over a 2,000-foot distance, making it one of the most scenic and thrilling railway rides in the country. - The rail cars are powered by an electric motor, but the system relies on a counterbalance mechanism, where two cars are connected by a cable, so as one car ascends, the other descends. This design helps manage the steep incline. - The views from the railway are spectacular, offering passengers a chance to see breathtaking panoramas of the Tennessee River, the Chattanooga Valley, and the surrounding mountains. The railway's summit reaches an elevation of 2,000 feet above sea level. - The **Incline Railway** is still in operation as a tourist attraction. Passengers can experience both the historic aspect of the railway and the natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes. The ride itself takes about **10 minutes**, and visitors can also enjoy hiking trails and other attractions once they reach the summit, such as **Lookout Mountain's Point Park**, which offers an excellent view of the area. - On **December 7, 2024**, a series of extraordinary natural events on Lookout Mountain led to a devastating wildfire that severely impacted the historic **Lookout Mountain Incline Railway**, one of Chattanooga’s most cherished landmarks. - The **Incline Railway’s tracks**, located near the fire’s path, sustained severe damage. Both the bottom and top stations were spared from the fire’s impact. - The specialized **cable system**, integral to the Incline’s operations, was severed and requires months to remanufacture. - Sections of the **rail infrastructure** and supporting **cross timbers** were heavily damaged, with engineers conducting further assessments to determine the full extent of the destruction. ![](https://ridetheincline.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Screenshot-2025-01-24-172718.png "Screenshot 2025-01-24 172718") - **Address:** 3917 St. Elmo Avenue, Chattanooga, TN 37409 - **Phone Number:** (423) 822-4222 - The **targeted** reopening date is Summer 2025 For more details or reservations, visit the [Incline Railway Website](https://www.ridetheincline.com/?ref=hiking-ohio.com). --- ## **Historical Information Regarding Lookout Mountain:** ### **Battles of Lookout Mountain (Civil War):** Lookout Mountain was the site of the Battle of Lookout Mountain, which took place during the American Civil War in November 1863\. This battle was part of the larger Chattanooga Campaign. #### **The Battle of Lookout Mountain (November 23-24, 1863):** - **Context:** The battle was a key part of the Chattanooga Campaign, which sought to secure control of the strategically important city of Chattanooga, Tennessee, a crucial railway hub for both Union and Confederate forces. Chattanooga had been under siege by Confederate forces since September 1863, and the Union army, under Major General Ulysses S. Grant, sought to break the siege and open up supply lines to the besieged Union forces. - **Union Strategy:** Union forces aimed to break through the Confederate positions and push them back. General Grant ordered an attack on Confederate positions at Lookout Mountain, known for its high, steep ridges, making it a formidable defensive position. - **The Battle:** - The fighting on Lookout Mountain was part of a larger series of engagements, including the Battle of Missionary Ridge and the Battle of Chattanooga. The Union forces, led by Major General Joseph Hooker, were tasked with driving Confederate forces from their stronghold atop Lookout Mountain. - The Union soldiers fought their way up the steep slopes of the mountain and engaged in fierce combat with Confederate defenders. - The **Battle Above the Clouds** is a famous name for this engagement, referring to the smoke and mist from the fighting that engulfed the mountain, obscuring the view from above. - **Outcome and Significance:** - The Union victory at Lookout Mountain forced the Confederate army to retreat from their position, helping to break the siege of Chattanooga and secure the city for the Union. This victory opened up vital supply lines for the Union army and allowed General Grant to plan further offensive operations in the region, ultimately contributing to the Union's victory in the Civil War. - The battle was also significant because it demonstrated the effectiveness of Union forces in overcoming difficult terrain and siege warfare tactics. #### **Aftermath:** - The victory at Lookout Mountain was followed by the **Battle of Missionary Ridge**, which further solidified Union control of the region. - Lookout Mountain is now preserved as part of the **Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park**, which commemorates the battles fought in the area. --- ## **First Settlers in the Lookout Mountain Area:** The area surrounding Lookout Mountain was home to various Native American tribes before European settlers arrived. Here's a look at the early history of settlement: #### **Native American Inhabitants:** - The **Cherokee** were the dominant Native American tribe in the Lookout Mountain area. They lived in the region for centuries before European colonization. The Cherokee were known for their rich culture and agricultural lifestyle, and the Tennessee River and surrounding valleys were essential to their way of life. - **Native American trails** and settlements were scattered throughout the area, and Lookout Mountain itself was an important landmark for the Cherokee people, who used it for hunting, trading, and spiritual purposes. #### **European and Early American Settlers:** - **European settlement** of the area began in the late 18th century, following the Treaty of Paris (1783), which ended the Revolutionary War and granted land to settlers in what became the southwestern United States. - Early settlers in the **Chattanooga area**, which includes Lookout Mountain, were primarily farmers and frontiersmen, many of whom were of Scottish, Irish, and English descent. They established small communities along the Tennessee River, relying on agriculture and trade. - As settlement grew, the area became part of the state of Tennessee after it was admitted to the Union in 1796. #### **The Trail of Tears:** - In the **1830s**, the federal government forcibly relocated thousands of **Cherokee** from their homeland in the southeastern United States to what is now **Oklahoma** along the **Trail of Tears**. The removal led to the displacement of the Cherokee people from Lookout Mountain and much of the surrounding region. --- ### **Conclusion:** Lookout Mountain offers a combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and outdoor recreation. From its military history during the Civil War to its stunning hiking trails and expansive views, it provides a diverse experience for visitors. The **Incline Railway** provides a modern way to experience the mountain’s stunning views, while the **Battle of Lookout Mountain** remains a landmark event in the Civil War. The area’s history, from **Native American inhabitants** to **early European settlers**, adds depth to the significance of Lookout Mountain as both a natural wonder and a pivotal location in American history. We enjoyed our visit tremendously and highly suggest you visit when you are in the area. ### Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/pictured-rocks-national-lakeshore/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:03:23.000Z Trail FactsPictured Rocks National Lakeshore 42 miDistance HardDifficulty 2,500 ftElevation 24 hrsDuration Point to PointType SummerCampingScenic viewWaterfall ![](https://www.nps.gov/common/uploads/structured_data/3C834062-1DD8-B71B-0B5E6CE1052B344E.jpg) ## Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore was established as the first national lakeshore in the U.S. on October 15, 1966\. It is not a national park but is managed by the National Park Service. The lakeshore is located along 42 miles of Lake Superior’s shoreline in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and covers 73,236 acres. The park is famous for its vibrant hues, thanks to mineral deposits that paint the rocks in shades of orange, green, and blue. Lake Superior is the largest of the Great Lakes. The park is famous for its vibrant hues, thanks to mineral deposits that paint the rocks in shades of orange, green, and blue. It is the largest freshwater lake by surface area in the world. Near Pictured Rocks, Lake Superior: - Has an average depth of 483 feet and a maximum depth of 1,333 feet - Has a surface area of about 31,700 square miles - Contains 10% of the world's fresh surface water. - Stretches for about 350 miles in length and 160 miles in width. --- ### Admission and Fees: - **Entry Fee**: As of 2024, the entrance fee for Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is: - **Private Vehicle**: $25 for a 7-day pass. - **Motorcycle**: $20 for a 7-day pass. - **Individual**: $15 for a 7-day pass (for pedestrians, bicyclists, or people entering the park by other non-motorized means). - **Annual Pass**: There is also an option for an annual pass for $45, which covers entrance to the park for one year from the date of purchase. - **Free Days**: The National Park Service offers several "fee-free" days each year, where visitors can enter the park without paying the usual entrance fee. These days are typically aligned with specific federal holidays. - **Camping**: There are several campgrounds in the area, including both front-country and backcountry sites. Permits and reservations are required for backcountry camping. --- ### **Visitor Centers**: The main visitor center is located in Munising, where you can find maps, exhibits, and information about the park. It’s a great starting point for planning your visit. P.O. Box 40 Munising, MI 49862 [Google MapsGo and hike the trails at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore!![](https://www.nps.gov/common/uploads/structured_data/3C834062-1DD8-B71B-0B5E6CE1052B344E.jpg)](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=46.56435642%2C--86.31628733&ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### Phone: 906-387-3700 Munising Falls Visitor Center ![](https://www.nps.gov/common/uploads/structured_data/A98ECD8A-9B30-F3E9-846F5615CE4199B9.jpg) ## Things to do - **Outdoor Activities**: Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as: - **Hiking**: There are several hiking trails of varying difficulty, including the popular Chapel Rock Trail. - **Fishing and Swimming**: Lake Superior provides opportunities for fishing, though the cold waters limit swimming. - **Lighthouses:** Scattered around the area. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/03/1742420845351-Screenshot 2024-12-13 133554.png) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734118448342-image.png) - **Dunes:** To climb and explore - **Camping:** Wonderful campsites in the area - **Picnicking:** Many fine areas to relax - **Waterfalls and Scenic Views:** Many sites to see. - **Snow Activities:** Plenty to do if you like the cold! ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/03/1742254359351-image.png) - **Kayaking and Canoeing:** Renting a kayak or canoe lets you glide along the lakes and rivers, giving you a whole new perspective of Pictured Rocks. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734116596337-image.png) --- ## **Hiking Trails:** Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan offers a variety of hiking trails that cater to different experience levels, showcasing stunning views of the Lake Superior shoreline, cliffs, forests, waterfalls, and more. Here's a summary of some of the most popular hiking trails, their lengths, difficulty levels, and key features: ### 1\. **Chapel Rock and Chapel Falls Trail** - **Length**: 2 miles (round trip) - **Difficulty**: Easy to Moderate - **Description**: This trail is one of the most popular in Pictured Rocks, offering scenic views of Chapel Falls, a picturesque waterfall. The trail also leads to the famous Chapel Rock, a rock formation with a tree growing from it. The trail is mostly moderate but does have some elevation gain towards Chapel Rock. There are several views of the surrounding area, making this a beautiful and relatively short hike. - **Key Features**: Chapel Falls, Chapel Rock, and views of the Lake Superior shoreline. ### 2\. **Miners Castle Trail** - **Length**: 0.7 miles (round trip) - **Difficulty**: Easy - **Description**: This short trail offers easy access to one of the most iconic features of Pictured Rocks, Miners Castle, a rock formation resembling a castle. It’s a relatively flat trail that takes you to a viewpoint overlooking the formation and Lake Superior. Although short, it provides stunning views and is a great option for families or those with limited time. - **Key Features**: Miners Castle formation and panoramic views of Lake Superior. ### 3\. **Miner's Beach to Miners Castle (South Trail)** - **Length**: 1.5 miles (round trip) - **Difficulty**: Moderate - **Description**: This trail starts at Miners Beach and follows the shoreline to the Miners Castle viewpoint. It offers a more rugged hike compared to the paved or well-maintained trails, with some rocky sections. The trail provides great views of the cliffs and shoreline along the way. - **Key Features**: Views of the cliffs, Miners Beach, and the Miners Castle formation. ### 4\. **Twelve Mile Beach Trail** - **Length**: 1.5 miles (one way) - **Difficulty**: Moderate - **Description**: This relatively short but scenic trail takes you along Twelve Mile Beach and offers a tranquil hike along Lake Superior. It’s not as well-known as some of the other trails but provides a peaceful experience. The path offers views of the beach, forests, and some unique rock formations. - **Key Features**: Lake Superior beach views, coastal forest landscapes. ### 5\. **North Country Trail (Pictured Rocks Segment)** - **Length**: 42 miles (within Pictured Rocks, can be hiked in sections) - **Difficulty**: Moderate to Strenuous - **Description**: The North Country Trail is a long-distance trail that passes through Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The segment within the lakeshore offers stunning views of the cliffs, forests, and the Lake Superior shoreline. The trail is often remote, with some areas requiring more effort due to elevation changes and uneven terrain. - **Key Features**: Panoramic lake views, cliffside vistas, varied forest landscapes. ### 6\. **Mosquito Falls Trail** - **Length**: 2.5 miles (round trip) - **Difficulty**: Moderate - **Description**: This trail leads you through the woods to the beautiful Mosquito Falls. The path is a bit more challenging due to uneven terrain and some muddy sections, but the falls are a rewarding sight. It’s a great option for those who enjoy quiet, forested hikes. - **Key Features**: Mosquito Falls, dense forests, and a serene natural environment. ### 7\. **Sable Falls Trail** - **Length**: 0.4 miles (one way) - **Difficulty**: Easy to Moderate - **Description**: A short but very scenic trail that leads to Sable Falls, one of the park’s most beautiful waterfalls. The trail is fairly easy but has some elevation changes as you descend to the falls. It's a great option if you're looking for a quick but rewarding hike. - **Key Features**: Sable Falls and surrounding forest views. ### 8\. **Grand Sable Dunes Trail** - **Length**: 1.5 miles (round trip) - **Difficulty**: Moderate to Strenuous - **Description**: This trail takes you through the Grand Sable Dunes, offering views of both the Lake Superior shoreline and the sandy dunes. The trail includes some steep sections, but hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding dunes. It's a great hike for those looking for a bit more of a challenge. - **Key Features**: Grand Sable Dunes, views of Lake Superior, and unique dune landscape. ### 9\. **Log Slide Trail** - **Length**: 0.8 miles (round trip) - **Difficulty**: Moderate - **Description**: This trail is relatively short and leads to a viewpoint above the Grand Sable Dunes. The path involves a steep descent to the dunes, providing expansive views of the shoreline. It's a moderate hike with some challenging sections due to the elevation changes. - **Key Features**: Views of the Grand Sable Dunes, the shoreline, and Lake Superior. --- ## **Geological Formation**: The name "Pictured Rocks" comes from the dramatic cliffs of multicolored sandstone that rise up to 200 feet above Lake Superior. These cliffs are formed by layers of sedimentary rock, including iron, copper, and other minerals, which have been stained by natural processes like water erosion and the action of waves and wind. Over thousands of years, the erosive forces of Lake Superior have created the distinct shapes, arches, caves, and waterfalls that make this area famous. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/03/1742420780586-th.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/03/1742420782164-2d4c034a0f73dfa45612db886bd8c12e_mun23ssglorymain-2.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/03/1742420782675-5d8bdce0b22990c9c720dba0f2a4e1a7.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/03/1742420781710-64b65423fd8ccf58764db26d32a426a5_picturedrockskarthikeyan_petchi.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/03/1742420782432-michigan-pictured-rocks-national-lakeshore-min.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/03/1742420780719-photo0jpg.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/03/1742420780716-photo1jpg.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/03/1742420780683-Screenshot 2024-12-13 133454.png) --- ## **Human History**: - **Indigenous Peoples**: For thousands of years, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Anishinaabe (Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi). These tribes had a deep connection to the land and Lake Superior, and their culture and spiritual practices were closely tied to the region. - **European Exploration**: European explorers, including French missionaries and fur traders, arrived in the early 17th century. The region became part of the fur trade network, and later, industrialization and settlement had an impact on the local environment. **Maritime Shipwrecks:** In the late 1800s and early 1900s, logging and mining in the Upper Peninsula was booming. This increase in traffic quickly lead to more maritime accidents and shipwrecks, which in turn created a need for the U.S. Lifesaving Service and the U.S. Lighthouse Service - later turned the U.S. Coast Guard - on the Great Lakes. What is now Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore was an especially treacherous section of Lake Superior due to the difficulty of the adjacent terrain and severity of storms. There are several de-commissioned U.S. Coast Guard stations and buildings throughout the park, including the Au Sable Light Station. --- ## **Logging:** The logging industry was a prevalent one in this area in the early 1900s. Today, little evidence remains of the structures they used, though an area once used for sending logs down to Lake Superior - Log Slide - remains a popular scenic site. In the 1840’s, traditional supplies of New England white pine had been exhausted and new sources were sought for the growing nation. The next state with large forests of the valuable white pine was Michigan. Waterways also transported the finished product from the mills to markets on the lower lakes. Pine was popular with the loggers because it floated easily and thus could be driven down rivers and streams to the mills or assembled into rafts and transported over the open lakes. ![Two large, wooden wheels with a wooden axle in between](https://www.nps.gov/piro/learn/historyculture/images/Log-Slide-Big-Wheel-Exhibit.JPG?maxwidth=650&autorotate=false ""Big Wheel" example at Log Slide") An example of a logging "Big Wheel" which can be viewed at Log Slide. Three Michigan inventions of the 1870s were responsible for increasing the transportation of logs regardless of the weather. The first of the innovations called “big wheels,” was invented by Cyrus Overpack of downstate Manistee. These ten feet diameter wheels were pulled by a team of oxen or horses and allowed rapid movement of logs without the need for snow cover. The high axle clearance easily allowed the wheels to move over stumps and rough ground. The ice roads were also primarily a Michigan innovation. The unique roads were made by running a sprinkler over a logging road during frigid nights. By morning, the normally rutted and rough trails were turned into sheets of ice. During the day heavy sleighs loaded with logs could rapidly move over them. The third innovation was the use of a narrow-gauge railway to haul the logs instead of sleds or big wheels. First tried in Clare County, Michigan, during the winter of 1876-77 by Winfield Scott Gerrish. The first logging activity in Alger County occurred in 1877 when Joseph Weller began logging operations in the western area of Pictured Rocks. The logs were rafted to Munising Bay and Au Train Bay where they were assembled into booms and towed to Garden Island, Ontario. The logs were then squared and shipped to Liverpool, England. A massive floating fence would surround a free mass of floating logs covering from ten to twenty acres and resembling a large balloon. In 1885, three million feet of logs were successfully towed to Bay City on Lake Huron from Lake Superior. In 1887, 30 million feet of logs were rafted down from Superior to Lake Michigan. Sullivan once rafted an eight-million foot raft to Alpena, Michigan. Chutes for sending decked logs into the lake for rafting were fairly common. Besides the most famous at Devil’s Slide, east of Au Sable Point, there were slides at Miners Castle and one other location. The mammoth wood slide was built into the slope of the Grand SableDunes at a point approximately 300 feet above the lake surface. The angle of the slide would have been about 35 degrees. The logging camps located in isolated areas of the region were self-contained communities. Normally, the camps consisted of an office, company store (operated part time only with sales charged against pay due), bunk house, mess hall and kitchen, blacksmith shop and barn. The normal size for such camps was between 75 to 125 men, although larger camps were not uncommon. These camps usually lasted for between three to six years. When an area was logged out, the camps were simply abandoned or torn down and moved. --- While the pine provided the initial impetus for logging in the park, the hardwoods later became an important asset. Forests on the western edge of the park were cut from the early 1900’s until 1938, with the logs being taken to mills in either Marquette or Munising. Those in the eastern portion were cut on a large scale after 1940, primarily by the Cleveland Cliffs Iron Company for saw logs and pulp. In 1912 the company acquired an interest in the Great Lakes Veneer Company. They changed the name to the Munising Woodenware Company. This company produced a variety of woodenware and veneer products, all manufactured from local hardwoods. Today these are collector’s items. --- ### **Munising Mills:** Towards the early part of the twentieth century several mills were built in Munising. Prominent among them was the Jackson Tindall Sawmill (1910). This mill was eventually purchased in 1944 by Ford interests, but wartime shortages caused an eventual abandonment. The Munising Paper Company was constructed in 1904 and by 1911 the plant was producing 70 tons of paper per day. In 1952 the company was purchased by the Kimberly Clark Corporation and is still in operation as Neenah Paper, Inc. --- ## **Conclusion:** Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a very beautiful place to visit. There are many varied things to do in the area. I have been there 2 times and it never gets old. --- ## **Contact Info:** If you have something you would like to submit to have posted on this website, such as a blog submission or a new hiking trail you think we should check out, please contact us below! 🥾 Don't get caught in the wilderness wishing you were more prepared. Find great deals on [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### Mill Springs Battlefield National Monument URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/mill-springs-battlefield-national-monument/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:03:14.000Z Trail FactsMill Springs Battlefield NM 2 miDistance EasyDifficulty 150 ftElevation 1 hrDuration LoopType Year RoundScenic view [Google MapsFind Mill Springs Battlefield National Monument on Google Maps!![](https://www.nps.gov/common/uploads/structured_data/145ADAC5-07E3-1AA1-D902CCF0A4219664.jpg)](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=37.0688158602%2C--84.7375361304&ref=hiking-ohio.com) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/02/1738938450506-Mill-Springs-KY--January-19-1862-(November-2024) (1).jpg) The Battle of Mill Springs, fought on January 19, 1862, in Pulaski County, Kentucky, was an early and significant engagement in the Western Theater of the American Civil War. This battle was one of the early Union victories and played a crucial role in the Union's effort to control the Kentucky-Tennessee border. The Mill Springs Battlefield National Historic Site is located at: Mill Springs Battlefield National Historic Site 9020 KY-235 Nancy, KY 42544 ### **Directions:** **From Somerset, KY:** Head southeast on US-27, then turn onto KY-80 East. Continue for about 10 miles, then take a left onto KY-235 South, where the battlefield entrance will be on your left. **From Nancy, KY:** Head north on KY-235 for about 4 miles. The battlefield is on the right side of the road. Once you're near the town of Nancy, Kentucky, you'll be close to the battlefield site. ### All Park Hours **Sunday:** 10:00 AM–4:00 PM **Monday and Tuesday:** **Closed** **Wednesday-Saturday:** 10:00 AM–4:00 PM The Visitor Center is open Wednesday through Sunday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and is closed Monday and Tuesdays. The grounds and driving tour are open from dawn till dusk, seven days per week. When the Visitor Center is closed passport stamps with current date and driving tour guides are available outside to the left of the front door. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/02/1738938040895-th.jpg) #### Closures & Seasonal Exceptions ##### Holidays 2025–2026 | New Year's Day | January 1, 2026 | Closed | | ---------------- | ----------------- | ------ | | Thanksgiving Day | November 27, 2025 | Closed | | Christmas Day | December 25, 2025 | Closed | The address of the Visitor Center and Museum is 9020 West Highway 80, Nancy, Kentucky 42544\. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/02/1738937783394-DSC00914.jpg) The Visitor Center and Museum is located approximately eight miles west of Somerset, Kentucky along KY-80\. Next door is the Mill Springs National Cemetery. Zollicoffer Park (Core Battlefield) is one-mile due south of the Visitor Center along KY-235\. From the Visitor Center, turn right onto KY-80 W head 0.3 of a mile. Turn left onto State Hwy 235 go 1 mile, Zollicoffer Park will be on your left. ### Areas to visit: 1. **The Observation Tower**: Located near the visitor center, the tower offers an elevated view of the surrounding battlefield. From here, you can see the area where Union forces led by Major General George H. Thomas made their stand against Confederate troops, commanded by General Felix Zollicoffer. 2. **The Zollicoffer Park**: This area, which includes the Zollicoffer Memorial, also offers great views of the battlefield. It provides a sense of how the terrain influenced the tactics of the battle. The memorial itself stands as a tribute to General Zollicoffer, who was killed in the battle. 3. **The Historic Roadways**: Some of the historic roads through the battlefield allow visitors to drive and see the landscape that would have been similar to how the soldiers encountered it during the battle. The park's natural beauty, along with its historical significance, makes a powerful way to connect with the past while experiencing Kentucky’s scenic landscape. ### **Entrance and parking fees:** There are **no** entrance fees to visit the Mill Springs Battlefield, making it a great destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Similarly, **parking is free**, so you won’t have to worry about additional costs for access. ### **Hiking trails:** The park has a few hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulty: **The Battle Trail**: This trail takes you to key locations related to the battle and is about **1 mile** in length. It's an easy walk, suitable for most visitors. **The Nature Trail**: This is another short trail that provides an opportunity to explore the local flora and fauna. For more challenging hikes, visitors can explore the surrounding region, but within the park itself, the trails are generally on the easier side. ## Mills Springs Battlefield Preservation: Mill Springs Battlefield in Kentucky was designated as a National Battlefield on **January 19, 2000**, as part of a broader effort to preserve Civil War sites across the United States. The designation was made to help protect the historical site and allow for further development of the park, ensuring its preservation and providing educational opportunities for the public. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/02/1738938000056-th (4).jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/02/1738938001148-IMG_8956.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/02/1738938001044-R (1).jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/02/1738938000693-R (2).jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/02/1738938000751-R.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/02/1738938000173-th (1).jpg) The battlefield covers an area of **about 358 acres**. As for land ownership, the battlefield was originally part of the property owned by **the Givens family**. The Givens farm was located near the site of the battle, which took place on January 19, 1862, during the Civil War. The land was later preserved through federal efforts and partnership with the local community. ## Battle Summaries for Mill Spring Battlefield: ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/02/1738937677337-th (3).jpg) ### Background: **Union Command**: Major General George H. Thomas **Confederate Command**: Brigadier General Felix Zollicoffer The Confederacy sought to establish a defensive line in eastern Kentucky to protect against Union advances and to maintain control over the region. The Union Army aimed to push Confederate forces out of the state, establishing control over key positions and supply lines. ### The Battle: The battle began in the morning on January 19, when Union forces, under General George H. Thomas, advanced toward the Confederate position at Mill Springs (also called Logan's Crossroads). ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/02/1738937817246-th (2).jpg) Confederate forces, commanded by Brigadier General Felix Zollicoffer, had set up a defensive line along the high ground near the river. The Union soldiers attacked the Confederates in a series of engagements. One key moment was when Zollicoffer, mistaking Union forces for his own troops, moved to the front lines, where he was shot and killed. ### **Union Strategy: Confederate Strategy:** The Union forces deployed artillery and infantry to break through Confederate lines. The death of Zollicoffer created disarray among the Confederate soldiers, which helped the Union forces gain momentum. The Confederate forces, lacking leadership after Zollicoffer’s death, struggled to maintain their position. Some Confederate units attempted to retreat, but many were disorganized and cut off. ### Outcome: The battle ended in a decisive Union victory. Confederate forces suffered approximately 200 casualties, while Union casualties numbered around 39. The Union captured Confederate supplies and artillery, further weakening the Confederate hold in Kentucky. This victory provided a morale boost for the Union Army and helped solidify General George H. Thomas's reputation as a capable commander. The Battle of Mill Springs was one of the first major Union victories in the Western Theater. It also marked the first significant defeat for the Confederacy in Kentucky, a state that was of strategic importance. Following the battle, Union forces began to solidify their control over Kentucky, which would remain a contested region throughout the war. As you stroll through the battlefield, be sure to check out the various monuments and memorials. Each one tells a story and honors the soldiers who fought bravely. Spend some time reading the plaques and reflecting on the sacrifices made. It’s a great way to connect with history and pay your respects. There are marked trails that guide you through the area. To really soak in the experience, it’s a good idea to grab a map from the visitor center. This will give you a little background on what happened at each spot, making your walk both fun and educational. Mill Springs Battlefield is a treasure trove of history and a fantastic spot for a day of exploration. Whether you’re learning about the Civil War, visiting monuments, or simply enjoying nature, there’s something for everyone. ## Conclusion: Mill Springs Battlefield is a fantastic destination for anyone interested in history, nature, or just looking for a fun day out. I haven't been there, but I am planning to go this summer. Battlefields are a great way to learn about history. --- If you have something you would like to submit to have posted on this website, such as a blog submission or a new hiking trail you think we should check out, please contact us below! 🥾 Don't get caught in the wilderness wishing you were more prepared. Find great deals on [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### ## ### ### > [](https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=coo.31924079609545&view=1up&seq=96&ref=hiking-ohio.com) > [](https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=coo.31924079609545&view=1up&seq=125&q1=moulden&ref=hiking-ohio.com) > [](https://archive.org/details/oldnineteenthten00worsh/page/26/mode/2up) #### ### Oh Deer! Ohio Wildlife Encounters on the Trail URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/oh-deer/ Last updated: 2026-05-16T18:46:42.000Z ![Oh Deer - Hiking Ohio photo](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/03/1740973438011-Image1.jpg) ![Oh Deer - Hiking Ohio photo](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/03/1740973437634-Image2.jpg) ![Oh Deer - Hiking Ohio photo](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/03/1740973437998-Image3.jpg) Above a deer and her fawn taking a walk. Below night-time deer eating by the bridge we built. 0:00 /1:06 1× Enjoy! What is better than watching deer eat at night! ### Butterflies and Bugs: Ohio Trail Nature Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/butterflies-and-bugs/ Last updated: 2026-05-16T18:46:42.000Z 0:00 /0:57 1× We have done a lot of hiking. We love to take pictures. There is a photo editing/video program we are using. Enjoy! ![Butterflies and Bugs - Hiking Ohio photo](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/03/1741732288625-OIP.jpg) ### Crooked Trees: Ohio Nature Trail & Scenic Hike URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/crooked-trees/ Last updated: 2026-03-22T22:52:04.000Z We love crooked trees! Finding the trees next to trails is really fun. Hope you enjoy the short video! 0:00 /1:18 1× ### Side Cut Metro Park: Trails, Map & Hiking Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/side-cut-metro-park/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:03:50.000Z Trail FactsSide Cut Metro Park 4.5 miDistance EasyDifficulty 50 ftElevation 2 hrsDuration Out & BackType Year RoundDog-friendlyFishingScenic view Side Cut Metropark is a scenic park located in the Maumee, Ohio area, offering a mix of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. It is part of the Metroparks of the Toledo Area and was established in the early 1970s. ### **Location of Side Cut Metropark:** - **Side Cut Metropark** 1025 W. River Road Maumee, OH 43537 The park is located just north of Maumee, Ohio, and is easily accessible from Interstate 475\. It's situated along the Maumee River, making it a picturesque location for various outdoor activities, including hiking and wildlife observation. Side Cut Metropark spans about 160 acres and is part of the larger Metroparks of the Toledo Area, which encompasses multiple parks and preserves in the Toledo region. The park is known for its natural beauty, riverfront access, and variety of recreational opportunities. There are several parking lots within the park, including one near the park entrance and additional spaces near trailheads. Parking is free. --- ## **Hiking Trails at Side Cut Metropark:** Side Cut Metropark offers several trails: 1. **Side Cut Trail:** - **Length:** Approximately **2.5 miles** - **Difficulty:** Easy to Moderate - **Description:** The **Side Cut Trail** is a primary trail that runs along the **Maumee River** and follows the path of the old canal. This trail is relatively flat and accessible, making it ideal for hikers of all skill levels. It offers scenic views of the river, wooded areas, and the canal remnants. 2. **Riverside Trail:** - **Length:** Approximately **1.5 miles** - **Difficulty:** Easy - **Description:** The **Riverside Trail** is a shorter, easy-to-walk path that runs parallel to the river. This trail offers beautiful views of the Maumee River, making it a great option for those looking for a leisurely walk along the water. 3. **Canal Trail:** - **Length:** Approximately **1 mile** - **Difficulty:** Easy - **Description:** The **Canal Trail** is a shorter trail that takes visitors through the historic **Side Cut Canal** area. It’s a relaxing trail with less elevation change and provides an opportunity to learn about the park’s historical significance. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1738093950608-aq4.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1738093949192-aq6.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1738093950693-aq9.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1738093944215-aq11.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1738093946565-aq15.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1738093939394-aq16.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1738093948335-aq18.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1738093948333-aq1.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1738093936098-aq2.jpg) --- ## **History of Side Cut Canal & the Maumee River:** Side Cut Metropark was established to protect the natural environment along the Maumee River and to offer a recreational space for the Toledo area. The park gets its name from the Side Cut Canal, which was dug in the 1830s as part of an effort to improve navigation along the Maumee River for commercial purposes. The canal was constructed by hand and was originally used to bypass a section of the river with difficult navigation due to rocks and rapids. Over time, the canal fell out of use, and the land was eventually converted into a public park. The Maumee River is one of Ohio's major rivers, flowing for about 130 miles from its source near the Ohio-Indiana border to its mouth at Lake Erie. Historically, the river has been a critical waterway for transportation, trade, and settlement in the region. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1738094273746-aq7.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1738094274021-aq12.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1738094273134-aq3.jpg) ### **Early History and Native Americans:** Before European settlers arrived, the Maumee River was an essential route for Native American tribes, including the Miami, Shawnee, and Wyandot nations. The river served as a major transportation route for trade and communication among various tribes and later with European settlers. The Maumee River was also the site of various early conflicts, including the Battle of Fallen Timbers (1794), where U.S. forces under General Anthony Wayne defeated Native American tribes, which led to the signing of the Treaty of Greenville and the eventual U.S. expansion into the region. As settlers began to populate the region in the early 1800s, the Maumee River became a vital route for transporting goods and people. However, the river itself was not always reliable for shipping because of its shallow waters and occasional rapids. The Side Cut Canal was part of the broader effort to improve navigation along the Maumee River. Built in the early 19th century, the canal was specifically designed to bypass a section of the river with difficult navigation conditions. The Side Cut Canal was completed in 1830 and was one of several canal projects that aimed to improve the transportation system in the region. The canal ran alongside the Maumee River, cutting off a section of the river to provide a shortcut for ships and boats. The construction of the Side Cut Canal also meant that it would bypass Miamiville, a village that was located near present-day Maumee, Ohio. The canal was important for a time, particularly for commercial traffic. It facilitated the transport of goods such as timber, grain, and coal. The side cut made it possible for boats to avoid certain sections of the river that were difficult to navigate due to shallow waters and rocks. However, as the 19th century progressed, railroads rendered the canal less useful. By the mid-1800s, with the rise of rail and other more efficient transportation methods, the canal fell out of commercial use. --- ## **Side Cut Canal Today:** Today, the Side Cut Canal is preserved as a historical feature within Side Cut Metropark. The canal itself is no longer used for transportation, but it remains an important part of the park's history. Visitors to the park can explore the canal area, learn about its construction and historical significance. --- ## **The Maumee River Today:** The Maumee River continues to be a vital part of the region, serving not only as an important natural resource but also as a scenic feature for recreational activities. Today, it is primarily used for fishing, boating, kayaking, and other outdoor activities. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1738094529265-aq20.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1738094531874-aq26.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1738094531687-aq27.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1738094528805-aq14.jpg) The river remains important for environmental protection efforts, as it is home to numerous species of fish, birds, and other wildlife. As a historical waterway, the Maumee River is recognized for its role in the development of the area, from Native American tribes to its part in early U.S. industrial and commercial growth. ## **Conclusion:** The Side Cut Canal and Maumee River are historical destinations located in the Toledo, Ohio region. The canal was built in the early 19th century to improve navigation and facilitate trade. Today, it stands as a preserved historical feature within Side Cut Metropark, offering visitors a glimpse into the area's past. Meanwhile, the Maumee River remains an important natural and recreational resource, contributing to the identity and history of the region. I have visited the Maumee River several times and Side Cut Metropark last fall. I love this area of Ohio. The area is much flatter than central Ohio and a majority of the trails in this area are pretty flat as well. It is definitely a place I recommend. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1738093509764-Screenshot 2024-12-13 120036.png) ### Cedar Falls: Hocking Hills Hiking Guide & Trail URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/cedar-falls/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:22.000Z Trail FactsHocking Hills State Park\~1 miDistanceModerateDifficulty\~180 ftElevation1 hrDurationOut & BackTypeFallSpringScenic viewWaterfall ### **Cedar Falls - Hocking Hills State Park** Known for its beautiful waterfall and surrounding natural scenery, it draws visitors from all over the country to experience its beauty and outdoor activities. --- ### **Location of Cedar Falls:** - **Address / contact (as of September 2026):** Cedar Falls trailhead is in Hocking Hills State Park (area access commonly via **SR 374** near Cedar Falls Road; park HQ **19852 State Route 664, Logan, OH 43138**). Phone **(740) 385-6842**. Trails roughly a half hour before sunrise to a half hour after sunset. Confirm on the [ODNR Hocking Hills page](https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/hocking-hills-state-park?ref=hiking-ohio.com). Cedar Falls sits in Hocking Hills State Park (**\~2,356 acres**), Hocking County, roughly an hour southeast of Columbus. Access is via the park road network off SR 664 / SR 374 — use GPS for the Cedar Falls lot, not only the visitor-center pin. --- ## **History of Cedar Falls and the Area:** Cedar Falls itself has a long natural history and is part of the broader Hocking Hills region, which is known for its geological features, including sandstone cliffs, caves, gorges, and waterfalls. The Cedar Falls waterfall is located on the Cedar Creek, which flows over a section of sandstone rock. The falls were formed through natural erosion over thousands of years as water from Cedar Creek carved into the soft sandstone. The Cedar Falls drop is about 50 feet, making it one of the most striking features in the park. Before European settlers arrived, the Hocking Hills region was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Shawnee. The area’s natural features, including the waterfalls and deep gorges, were considered sacred by these indigenous groups. The region provided abundant resources for hunting, fishing, and gathering. European settlers arrived in the early 19th century. The dense forests of oak, hickory, and pine were valuable timber resources, and the region was heavily logged. However, by the late 1800s, the demand for timber had caused significant environmental degradation in the area, including loss of biodiversity and soil erosion. Cedar Falls got its name from an early misidentification: settlers called the surrounding **eastern hemlocks** “cedars.” The hemlocks still shade the gorge today. The falls remain one of the park’s major attractions. --- ## **Creation of Hocking Hills State Park:** Hocking Hills State Park spans about **2,356 acres** of protected land (as of September 2026). This includes Cedar Falls, Old Man's Cave, Ash Cave, Rock House, and other popular natural features. Cedar Falls itself is a smaller section within Hocking Hills State Park, but it draws a significant portion of the park's visitors. It is part of the Cedar Creek Gorge, which is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. In the 1920s, a group of local conservationists began advocating for the protection of the Hocking Hills’ natural beauty. In 1924, the state of Ohio officially established Hocking Hills State Park, and by the 1930s, Cedar Falls and other natural features in the area were preserved as part of the park. The establishment of Hocking Hills State Park in the 1930s played a crucial role in preserving the area. During the Great Depression, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built many of the trails, bridges, and park infrastructure that still exist today, including the trail to Cedar Falls. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) was a public work relief program in the United States during the Great Depression, active from 1933 to 1942\. Its primary aim was to provide jobs for young, unemployed men while also contributing to the conservation and development of the nation's natural resources. The CCC was a major part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal initiative, designed to combat unemployment and help revitalize the economy during the Depression. ![Historic CCC-era photo related to Hocking Hills conservation](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737743108791-R.jpg) ![Civilian Conservation Corps workers](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737743108050-CCC_2-768x478.jpg) ![CCC crew at work](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737743108769-ccc_gallery_15a.jpg) ![CCC repair work historical photo](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737743108781-CCC-1940-08-15-Repair-towpath-break.jpg) ![CCC enlistees historical photo](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737743108733-civilian-conservation-corps-core-ccc-enlistees-image-via-jstor.jpg) ![CCC historical reference image](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737743108089-OIP.jpg) The CCC worked extensively on building hiking trails, many of which are still in use today. They improved access to the area's natural wonders, making it easier for the public to explore and enjoy the scenic beauty of the region. The trails also facilitated easier access for visitors to experience the deep gorges, waterfalls, and rock formations that characterize the Hocking Hills. The CCC also worked on reforesting land in the Hocking Hills region. Ohio, like much of the country, had suffered from deforestation in the years prior, and the CCC's tree planting efforts were part of a broader effort to stabilize the soil and prevent erosion. The CCC was known for its use of rustic stonework in building park structures. In Hocking Hills, this included the construction of cabins, shelters, and stone walls that blended with the natural environment. The CCC also developed campgrounds and picnic areas in the park to encourage public recreation. The CCC's work in Hocking Hills also extended to the creation of educational programs and interpretive signage. --- ### Below is the most recent visit on January 11, 2025\. Enjoy: --- ### **Cedar Falls Trail: Length and Difficulty:** **ODNR lists Cedar Falls at about 1 mile, Moderate (as of September 2026).** Older or partial descriptions sometimes quote a very short paved overlook spur (\~0.1–0.5 mi); the full gorge descent to the falls and back is the \~1-mile outing most hikers mean. Details: 1. **Cedar Falls Trail:** 2. **Extended Trails (for more challenging hikes):** - **Hocking Hills State Park** offers several additional hiking trails that connect to the Cedar Falls Trail and provide more challenging options for hikers. For example: - **The Grandma Gatewood Trail** and **The Ash Cave Trail** offer longer, more strenuous hikes with opportunities for exploration beyond Cedar Falls. - **Difficulty:** Ranges from moderate to difficult, with varying elevations, uneven terrain, and longer distances. - **Length:** about **1 mile** round-trip for the standard Cedar Falls hike (ODNR); a shorter paved approach exists near the lot - **Difficulty:** Easy to Moderate (stairs near the falls) - **Description:** Well-maintained path with stairs/packed surface leading to the falls amphitheater. Scenic hemlock gorge views; not a long wilderness trek, but not a flat sidewalk the whole way. - Yes, the **Cedar Falls Trail** has a section with steps, although the trail itself to the base of the waterfall is relatively short and easy. Here's a more detailed description of the trail: ### **Cedar Falls Trail with Steps:** - **Length:** short one-way segments within the \~1-mile outing - **Difficulty:** **Easy to Moderate** (with steps) The main portion of the **Cedar Falls Trail** is paved and relatively flat, leading visitors directly to the base of **Cedar Falls**. However, if you wish to take a different route to explore more of the area or enjoy different views of the falls, there are steps involved. These steps lead **up** and **down** near the waterfall’s viewing areas. ![Cedar Falls waterfall and gorge, Hocking Hills](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737736191823-IMG_4706.JPG) ![Cedar Falls trail and sandstone, Hocking Hills](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737736193740-GP010079.JPG) ![Cedar Falls trail and sandstone, Hocking Hills](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737736199095-GP010084.JPG) ![Cedar Falls trail and sandstone, Hocking Hills](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737736198313-GP010085.JPG) ![Cedar Falls trail and sandstone, Hocking Hills](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737736195362-GP010103.JPG) ![Cedar Falls trail and sandstone, Hocking Hills](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737736197769-GP010108.JPG) ![Cedar Falls hemlock gorge, Hocking Hills](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737736198823-GP010115.jpg) ![Cedar Falls waterfall and gorge, Hocking Hills](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737736194901-IMG_4689.JPG) The steps are generally manageable for most people but do require a bit of effort, particularly if you are hiking up after visiting the falls. This section can be more challenging for individuals with mobility issues, but the main paved trail to the falls is easily accessible. If you're just visiting to see the waterfall, the paved path without the steps will take you directly to a fantastic viewpoint. However, for those who want to explore the surroundings further, the steps offer an opportunity to get a better vantage point and explore the gorge area above the falls. --- ### **Historical Information and Significance:** Cedar Falls is often considered the most picturesque waterfall in Hocking Hills State Park due to its large drop and surrounding natural features. It’s a key destination for visitors who want to experience the region's unique geology and natural beauty. The park is an important ecological preserve, with diverse plant and animal species. The Cedar Creek Gorge, where Cedar Falls is located, is home to moist woodlands and a variety of rare species of flora and fauna. Due to its natural beauty, Cedar Falls is a favorite location for photographers, particularly during the fall when the area’s foliage is at its peak. Visitors often come to observe wildlife and enjoy the peaceful, serene surroundings. --- ### **Conclusion:** Cedar Falls is one of the most famous natural features in Hocking Hills State Park. We love to come to Cedar Falls in the different seasons. It never disappoints. Enjoy the longer hikes too. We will be doing blogs on the other parks in Hocking Hills State Park soon! Happy hiking! ![Cedar Falls area map or trail screenshot](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737915484229-Screenshot%202025-01-14%20104758.png) ### Maumee Bay State Park: Beach, Trails & Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/maumee-bay-state-park/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:18:03.000Z Trail FactsMaumee Bay State Park3.5 miDistanceEasyDifficulty50 ftElevation1.5 hrsDurationLoopTypeFallSpringSummerDog-friendlyScenic viewWildlife ### Maumee Bay State Park is located on the shores of Lake Erie, just east of the city of Toledo, Ohio. The park spans **1,336 acres** (as of September 2026, ODNR; older guides sometimes round \~1,450 — prefer 1,336). It includes a mix of woodlands, wetlands, marshes, and open fields, all with access to the scenic Lake Erie shoreline. ![IMG_4616.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737392568297-IMG_4616.JPG) ![Lake Erie shoreline view at Maumee Bay State Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737392622411-image%204.jpg) ![Image2.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737392621261-Image2.jpg) --- ### **Location of Maumee Bay State Park:** **Visitor info (as of September 2026, ODNR):** - **Address:** 1400 State Park Road, Oregon, OH 43616 - **Park hours:** 6 a.m.–11 p.m. daily - **Park office:** (419) 836-7758 (administrative office typically Tuesday–Friday) - **Official:** Confirm alerts on the [ODNR Maumee Bay page](https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/maumee-bay-state-park?ref=hiking-ohio.com) (property URL intermittently 404'd from this runner — re-verify at Ghost push) - The park is located about 10 miles east of downtown Toledo, along the shores of Lake Erie, in Oregon, Ohio. It’s easily accessible via Interstate 280, and it is a short drive from both Toledo and the Ohio Turnpike. ![IMG_4594.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737392322128-IMG_4594.JPG) ### **Maumee Bay State Park Visitor Nature Center:** - **Maumee Bay State Park Visitor Nature Center** is a great place to start your visit. It provides information about the park's natural resources, wildlife, and recreational opportunities. The center also features interactive exhibits on the area's history, ecology, and conservation efforts. - **Address for Visitor Nature Center:** The visitor center is located within the park, near the park entrance and lodge. - **Hours of Operation:** The hours may vary seasonally, so it's best to check in advance before visiting. It typically operates during the peak season (spring through fall). --- ![Maumee Bay State Park scene](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737314048104-image.png) ### **History of Maumee Bay State Park:** Maumee Bay State Park has a rich history that reflects both the natural and human influences on the area. - **Wetlands and Ecological Importance:** Maumee Bay itself is part of the larger Great Black Swamp region, which was once a vast wetland that covered much of northwestern Ohio. Much of the swamp has been drained. - **Early History:** The region around Maumee Bay has been historically significant. It was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Miami and Wyandot nations, before European settlers arrived. These tribes relied on the Maumee River and the rich natural resources of the area for trade and sustenance. - **European Settlement:** European settlers arrived in the region in the 19th century, and the land was used for agricultural purposes. The area’s proximity to Lake Erie and the Maumee River made it an important location for transportation and trade, particularly for the shipment of goods like coal and timber. - **War of 1812:** The Battle of Lake Erie (1813) took place not far from Maumee Bay, on the waters of Lake Erie. This battle was a key turning point in the War of 1812, where the United States Navy, led by Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, defeated the British fleet, securing American control of Lake Erie. The event is commemorated in the region, and nearby historical sites include the Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial on Perry’s Monument. --- ### **Development of the Park** The park was established in the 1970s. Much of the land around the bay had been altered through drainage projects for agricultural purposes. However, it was recognized for its ecological and recreational value. Maumee Bay was officially designated a state park to help protect and preserve its unique environment. The park has since become a popular destination for outdoor recreation, attracting visitors with its wetlands, birdwatching opportunities, and access to the shores of Lake Erie. ### **Migratory Birds:** The Maumee Bay area is a key stop for migratory birds, particularly during the spring and fall migrations. It is designated as a birding hot spot and is part of the Great Lakes Birding Trail. --- ![Wetland habitat at Maumee Bay State Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737314300409-image%205.jpg) ### **Hiking Trails at Maumee Bay State Park:** Maumee Bay State Park offers a variety of trails. ![IMG_4612.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737392025028-IMG_4612.JPG) ![IMG_4594.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737392021680-IMG_4594.JPG) ![IMG_4599.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737392018197-IMG_4599.JPG) ![IMG_4600.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737392024475-IMG_4600.JPG) ![IMG_4601.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737392020766-IMG_4601.JPG) ![IMG_4604.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737392023089-IMG_4604.JPG) ![IMG_4607.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737392024851-IMG_4607.JPG) 1. **Maumee Bay State Park Trail (3.5 miles)** - **Length:** 3.5 miles (loop) - **Difficulty:** Easy to Moderate - **Description:** This trail offers a scenic view of the park’s natural wetlands and wooded areas. The terrain is relatively flat, making it suitable for families, but there are some mild inclines and areas with uneven footing. It's ideal for wildlife watching, including bird watching in spring and fall. 1. **Lakeshore Trail (2.3 miles)** - **Length:** 2.3 miles (one-way) - **Difficulty:** Moderate - **Description:** This trail runs along the Lake Erie shoreline and offers beautiful views of the lake. It is a slightly more challenging trail with some rocky and uneven terrain, but it rewards hikers with amazing vistas of the water. 1. **Wetlands Trail (1.5 miles)** - **Length:** 1.5 miles (loop) - **Difficulty:** Easy - **Description:** This easy trail winds through the park’s wetland areas, where you can enjoy views of marshes, aquatic plants, and wildlife, particularly birds. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy nature at a slower pace. --- ![Maumee Bay State Park campground](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737314576601-maumee-campground-head%20%281%29.jpg) ### **Camping at Maumee Bay State Park:** Maumee Bay State Park offers several camping options for visitors: - **Campground:** - The park has campgrounds with both electric and non-electric campsites. Some campsites are lakeside, providing beautiful views of Lake Erie. - **Amenities:** Restrooms, showers, and water stations are available. There are also picnic tables, grills, and a playground for families. - **RV Camping:** There are designated RV sites with electric hookups, and some sites offer water and sewer hookups. - **Group Camping:** There are also group campsites that can accommodate larger groups. - **Camping Fees:** - Campsite fees vary depending on the season and type of site (electric or non-electric). Rates typically range from $20 to $35 per night. During peak season (spring through fall), the rates are on the higher end of the range. It’s recommended to check the Ohio State Parks website for the most current fee schedule. - **Reservations:** Reservations can be made in advance through the Ohio State Parks website or by phone, especially during peak camping season. ### **Other Lodging Options:** **Maumee Bay Lodge and Conference Center** sits inside the park at 1750 State Park Road #2, Oregon, OH 43616 (lodge phone often listed separately from the park office — confirm current booking details when you reserve). The lodge offers guest rooms, a restaurant, an indoor pool, and access to the park’s golf course and trails. As of September 2026, reserve through Ohio State Parks / the lodge’s official booking channels rather than third-party hotel blurbs. ![Maumee Bay Lodge and Conference Center](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737315359311-x700.jpg) --- ![Maumee Bay State Park grounds](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737314065519-image.png) ### **Conclusion:** **Maumee Bay State Park** offers a blend of history, natural beauty, and outdoor recreation. With its scenic hiking trails, diverse wildlife, historical significance, and plentiful camping options, it provides a great destination for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you're looking to explore the wetlands, enjoy the lakefront views, or learn about the area's historical importance, Maumee Bay State Park is a fantastic place to spend time in nature. We really enjoyed our visit and plan to return and to camp. ![Maumee Bay State Park trail view](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1737314146028-image.png) ### Sea Rim State Park: Gulf Coast Trail Hiking Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/sea-rim-state-park/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:03:45.000Z Trail FactsSea Rim State Park 2.5 miDistance EasyDifficulty 10 ftElevation 1.2 hrsDuration Out & BackType Year RoundScenic viewWildlife Sea Rim State Park is located on the Texas Gulf Coast and is known for its unique combination of beach and marshland habitats. Sea Rim State Park was established to protect and preserve the coastal environment of Texas. It opened to the public in the 1970s as part of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s efforts to conserve natural landscapes. The park encompasses a variety of ecosystems, including saltwater marshes, wetlands, and sandy beaches. The park is part of the Texas Coastal Preserve System, which strives to protect coastal wetlands, estuaries, and diverse species in the area. ### **Sea Rim State Park - Contact Information** - **Address:** 19305 S. Gulfway Drive, Port Arthur, TX 77640 - **Phone Number:** (409) 971-2559 (Park Office) - **Website:** Sea Rim State Park - Texas Parks & Wildlife ### ### **Size of Sea Rim State Park** Sea Rim State Park spans approximately 4,141 acres along the Gulf of Mexico in southeastern Texas, near the city of Port Arthur. The park is a unique with a blend of coastal marshland, prairie, and beachfront. The park includes areas for hiking, camping, fishing, and birdwatching, along with a long stretch of untouched coastline along the Gulf. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1736869369550-20241230_122211.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1736869372478-20241230_122612.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1736869368247-20241230_122617.jpg) --- ### **Hurricane Damages and Recovery Efforts** The development of Sea Rim State Park has focused on providing public access to the coast while minimizing the impact on the environment. In the early years, the park was relatively underdeveloped, with basic amenities. However, over time, the park has undergone several redevelopments, such as the construction of improved campgrounds, restroom facilities, boardwalks, and observation towers. The most damaging hurricane to affect Sea Rim State Park was Hurricane Ike, which made landfall on September 13, 2008\. Other storms, including Hurricane Rita in 2005, also impacted the park. Here's a detailed look at the damage caused by Hurricane Ike and its aftermath: ### **Hurricane Ike (2008)** - Landfall: Hurricane Ike made landfall as a Category 2 hurricane near Galveston, Texas, before continuing its path along the Gulf Coast, including the Port Arthur area where Sea Rim State Park is located. - Storm Surge and Winds: The hurricane generated massive storm surges that inundated the park's coastal areas, reaching several feet of water above normal levels. The winds, reaching 110 mph and caused extensive damage to both infrastructure and natural landscapes within the park. ### **Damages to Sea Rim State Park:** - Infrastructure Damage: The park’s campgrounds, roads, facilities, and buildings were heavily damaged or destroyed. Several campsites were washed out, and the park’s visitor center was also severely impacted. - Beach and Coastal Erosion: The hurricane’s storm surge caused significant erosion along the park’s coastline, reshaping parts of the beach and marshlands. The surge also destroyed or damaged the park's boardwalks and observation towers, which are popular with visitors for birdwatching and coastal views. - Loss of Vegetation and Wildlife Habitats: The strong winds and flooding destroyed much of the park’s natural vegetation, including important coastal grasses and trees that are essential to the park's wildlife habitat. This led to a temporary loss of habitat for various species, particularly shorebirds and other coastal wildlife. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1736869285918-IMG_20241230_130356285_HDR.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1736869282035-IMG_20241230_130811619_HDR.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1736869283925-IMG_20241230_130815216_HDR.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1736869286425-IMG_20241230_131422540_HDR.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1736869284449-IMG_20241230_131729074_HDR.jpg) ### **Hurricane Rita (2005)** While Hurricane Rita was not as devastating to Sea Rim State Park as Ike, it still had an impact. Rita made landfall as a Category 3 hurricane and affected much of the Gulf Coast, including the Texas coastline. The park sustained damage to trails and facilities and experienced significant erosion from the storm's winds and surge. ### **Post-Ike Recovery Efforts** - Reconstruction and Redevelopment: After Hurricane Ike, Texas Parks and Wildlife began a major recovery effort to rebuild the park. This included the restoration of campsites, trails, roads, and the visitor center. The park also received upgrades to make it more resilient to future storms. - Coastal Restoration: The Texas Coastal Program, in coordination with other agencies, worked to restore the park’s coastal habitats, including the marshes and wetlands that are crucial for wildlife. Efforts focused on mitigating future erosion and protecting the park from future storm surges. - Improvements to Infrastructure: In addition to rebuilding, new and improved boardwalks, restroom facilities, and camping areas were added, with a focus on durability and accessibility. These efforts ensured that the park could better withstand future hurricanes and storms. - Ongoing Monitoring: Sea Rim State Park is part of ongoing coastal management and restoration efforts by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to monitor and protect the park from future storm impacts. --- ### **Wildlife** Sea Rim State Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, both terrestrial and aquatic. Common species include: - Birds: The park is an important stop for migratory birds along the Central Flyway. - Marine life: The waters of the Gulf Coast are home to various fish species, crabs, and other marine organisms. - Mammals: White-tailed deer, coyotes, raccoons, and rabbits can be spotted in the park’s various ecosystems. - Reptiles and Amphibians: Sea turtles, alligators, and various species of snakes, frogs, and lizards also inhabit the area. The marshes and wetlands are crucial breeding grounds for many species, especially waterfowl and fish. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1736868795368-Sea-Rim-State-Park-Trails-Map-e1624912546919.jpg) ### **Hiking Trails: Lengths and Difficulties** Sea Rim State Park offers several trails that explore different areas of the park, each with unique challenges and scenic views. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1736869161440-IMG_20241230_125149967_HDR.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1736869163523-IMG_20241230_125213800_HDR.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1736869173472-20241230_121404.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1736869172310-20241230_121454.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1736869173995-20241230_121555.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1736869169718-20241230_121743.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1736869164317-IMG_20241230_124137028_HDR.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/01/1736869164337-IMG_20241230_124200681_HDR.jpg) 1. **The Marsh Trail:** - **Length:** 1 mile (round trip) - **Difficulty:** Easy - **Description:** This boardwalk trail takes you through the park's saltwater marsh, providing a great opportunity to observe wetland wildlife and plants. 2. **The Gulfside Trail:** - **Length:** 3 miles (one way) - **Difficulty:** Moderate - **Description:** This trail runs along the Gulf Coast, allowing visitors to enjoy views of the beach and the Gulf of Mexico. It’s perfect for those who want to explore the shoreline and observe coastal wildlife. 3. **The Prairie Trail:** - **Length:** 2 miles (round trip) - **Difficulty:** Moderate - **Description:** This trail winds through the park’s coastal prairie, offering a chance to experience the natural beauty of the area and spot local fauna. 4. **The Wetland Trail:** - **Length:** 1 mile (round trip) - **Difficulty:** Easy - **Description:** This trail is an easy walk through the park’s wetland areas, with excellent opportunities to observe wildlife such as birds and amphibians. --- ### **Additional Activities** - **Fishing:** The park has both saltwater and freshwater fishing opportunities, with a fishing pier available. - **Camping:** There are campsites with electric and water hookups, as well as primitive campsites for a more rugged experience. - **Beach activities:** The park’s beach is great for swimming, sunbathing, or just enjoying the view. Sea Rim State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts while preserving the delicate coastal environment. Whether you're hiking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the beach, the park provides an exceptional opportunity to explore the beauty of Texas’ coastal ecosystems. --- ### **Sea Rim State Park Camping Fees (2025)** The camping fees at Sea Rim State Park vary depending on the type of campsite and amenities. Here are the general fees for 2025: 1. **Standard Campsites (with water and electric hookups):** - **Fee:** $25 per night - These sites offer a combination of water and electricity for RVs or tent campers. 2. **Premium Campsites (closer to the beach or with better amenities):** - **Fee:** $30 per night - These sites offer enhanced amenities and prime locations near the beach. 3. **Primitive Campsites (no hookups, more rustic):** - **Fee:** $15 per night - These sites are ideal for more experienced campers seeking a more basic experience. 4. **Group Campsites:** - **Fee:** Varies (approximately $100 per night) - Available for larger groups or families, these sites can accommodate multiple tents or RVs. 5. **Cabins:** - **Fee:** $125 per night - If you prefer a more comfortable stay, the park offers small cabins for rent. 6. **Day-use Fees (for park entrance):** - **Fee:** $5 per person (age 13 and up) **Note:** These fees are subject to change, and it’s always a good idea to check the official Texas Parks & Wildlife website for up-to-date information or to make reservations. --- ### **History of the Area** The history of the Sea Rim State Park area is rich and diverse, encompassing natural, cultural, and economic elements. #### **Pre-European Settlement** Before European settlers arrived in the area, the region around Sea Rim State Park was inhabited by Indigenous peoples, including the Karankawa and Atakapa tribes. These groups lived along the Texas Gulf Coast, relying on the region’s coastal marshes, waters, and wildlife for sustenance. The marshlands, beaches, and nearby waterways provided vital resources such as seafood, wild game, and plant life for their communities. #### **European Exploration and Settlement** Spanish explorers, such as Alonso Álvarez de Pineda in 1519, are credited with being some of the first Europeans to explore the Texas Gulf Coast. The area around Port Arthur, including Sea Rim State Park, was part of the broader region explored and later claimed by Spain, followed by France and eventually the United States as the country expanded westward. The coastal area gradually became a part of the Republic of Texas after Texas gained independence from Mexico in 1836, and later the state of Texas upon its annexation into the United States in 1845\. The region saw settlers arriving in the 19th century, establishing small fishing communities and using the coastal marshes for their livelihoods. #### **The Early 20th Century** The area around Sea Rim State Park began to experience more industrial development in the early 20th century. The nearby cities of Port Arthur and Beaumont developed into key hubs for the oil and petrochemical industries, which led to increased human activity along the coastline. These industries led to changes in the region’s natural landscape, although large portions of the coastline remained undeveloped and were used primarily for agriculture, fishing, and recreation. --- ### **Conclusion** The Texas Gulf Coast at Sea Rim State Park is basically untouched. Even though the oil and petrochemical industries have huge sites nearby, a visit to the park is like a step back into the past. We were able to visit the park while in Texas. We plan to go back and camp at some point. It is worth the trip. ### Flight 93 National Memorial: Walking Tour & Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/flight-93-national-memorial/ Last updated: 2026-08-06T13:17:18.000Z Trail FactsFlight 93 National Memorial 1.5 miDistance EasyDifficulty 100 ftElevation 45 minDuration LoopType Year RoundScenic view ## The Flight 93 Story: On the morning of September 11, 2001, al Qaeda terrorists hijacked four commercial airliners in a attack against the United States. These terrorists flew two jet airliners into the World Trade Center's Twin Towers in New York City and a third aircraft into the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. A fourth aircraft, United Airlines Flight 93, crashed into an open field in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, killing all passengers, crew members, and terrorists on board. The four aircraft strikes killed nearly 3,000 people, the deadliest attack on American soil by a foreign entity. This is the Flight 93 Story. There were seven crew members assigned to Flight 93 began to prepare for the early morning non-stop flight from Newark, New Jersey to San Francisco, California. There were thirty-three passengers. Flight 93 was a Boeing 757, with a capacity of 182 passengers. The terrorists targeted domestic flights that; normally had few passengers so they would have less resistance, used the type of aircraft that they had been trained to pilot, were non-stop, coast-to-coast flights with full fuel tanks that would cause the maximum amount of destruction, and were departing at approximately the same time so they could make a coordinated, surprise attack. The hijackers on September 11, 2001, were terrorists on a suicide mission. On that morning, three of the four hijacked flights departed on schedule. However, Flight 93 was delayed more than 25 minutes. Just four minutes after Flight 93 departed, hijacked Flight 11 struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center. At 9:03 a.m., a second hijacked plane, Flight 175, hit the South Tower. At 9:37 a.m. hijacked Flight 77 crashed into the Pentagon. The Federal Aviation Administration, at 9:45 a.m., ordered all aircraft to land at the nearest airport. An estimated 4,500 aircraft landed safely without incident. This was the first time such an order had been given in United States aviation history. By that time, though, Flight 93 was not responding to any orders. At about 9:28 a.m., after 46 minutes of routine flight across Pennsylvania, the terrorists on Flight 93 overtook the cockpit, turning the plane southeast on a course directed toward Washington, D.C., the nation's capital. The passengers and crew were forced to the back of the plane and told to be quiet. Using airfones, passengers and crew began making calls to report the hijacking. They soon learned the shocking news about the other hijacked planes and quickly realized that Flight 93 was part of a larger attack on America. This realization led to a vote and a collective decision to fight back. In just over 30 minutes, this diverse group of people on Flight 93 developed a plan and put it into action. The cockpit voice recorder captured the sounds of their shouts, screams, calls to action, and sounds of breaking glassware. To stop the uprising, the terrorist piloting the aircraft began to roll it to the left and right; pitch the nose up and down. In its final moments, the plane turned upside down as it passed over rural Western Pennsylvania. The terrorists remained in control of the plane and chose to crash it rather than risk the passengers and crew regaining control of the aircraft. At 10:03 a.m., Flight 93 plowed into an empty field at a speed of 563 miles per hour. Upon impact, the 5,500 gallons of jet fuel on board the aircraft exploded, creating a ball of fire that rose higher than the trees. The flight data recorder that was recovered from the crash site revealed that the terrorists had reprogrammed the aircraft's autopilot system for a new destination - Washington, D.C. Recovered evidence and responses to interrogations revealed that the terrorists' intended target was most likely the United States Capitol Building. ![A government exhibit photo of a charred red aircraft panel fragment recovered from the crash site](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734638518199-C7AFC266-155D-451F-67E87AF28D0219E0LoResProxy.jpg) Flight 93 crashed only 20 minutes flying-time from Washington, D.C. It was the only one of the four hijacked aircraft that failed to reach the terrorists' intended target. ![A government exhibit photo of the excavated crash site crater](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734638789867-C7A7232B-155D-451F-678E442F2C5F9908LoResProxy.jpg) ![A government exhibit photo of the wooded crash site with scattered debris](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734638789908-C7ABD005-155D-451F-6771ABF8EA2244ADLoResProxy.jpg) ![A government exhibit photo of a twisted aircraft fuselage fragment with window openings](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734638789894-C7AD4265-155D-451F-679BC69DE01CCB78LoResProxy.jpg) ![A government exhibit photo of an aircraft wreckage fragment showing red and blue paint](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734638789878-C7AE8F2C-155D-451F-675866B364C85A15LoResProxy.jpg) The passengers and crew showed unity, courage, and defiance in the face of adversity. Today the National Park Service, volunteers, and partners work to honor their actions, and understand fully the legacy of Flight 93 and the events of September 11, 2001. --- ## Location and Purpose of Flight 93 Memorial: The Flight 93 National Memorial serves to: - Honor the heroism and sacrifice of the passengers and crew aboard Flight 93. - Educate the public about the events of September 11, 2001, and the role Flight 93 played in preventing further devastation. - Provide a place for reflection, remembrance, and national pride in the face of adversity. ![President Bush signing the Flight 93 National Memorial Act at his Oval Office desk in September 2002, flanked by Senator Rick Santorum and Congressman John Murtha](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734627337782-image.png) ![A groundbreaking ceremony at the Flight 93 National Memorial site with officials holding ceremonial shovels](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734638749064-5E021239-0632-B115-9140ED94D9C9508E.jpg) The memorial was formally dedicated on September 10, 2011, the 10th anniversary of the attacks. [Google MapsFind Flight 93 National Memorial on Google Maps!![](https://www.nps.gov/common/uploads/structured_data/0B261F62-BDD0-FB5D-A976D479E5954286.jpg)](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=40.06061476%2C--78.89456905&ref=hiking-ohio.com) The crash site is located near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, in a rural area of Somerset County. The address is: 6424 Lincoln Highway Stoystown, PA 15563 ![A location map showing the boundary of the Flight 93 National Memorial and surrounding roads](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734635731946-image.png) The memorial site includes several elements: **The Memorial Plaza**: Where visitors can see the Wall of Names, inscribed with the names of the 40 passengers and crew who died. ![A memorial panel displaying photographs of the crew and passengers of Flight 93](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734638498902-56fe926a-8404-4a17-89af-2362454f3df7LoResProxy.jpg) The Wall of Names honors each of the 40 passengers and crew members who lost their lives. Spend some time reading the names and reflecting on their bravery. There are benches nearby if you’d like to sit and contemplate. **The Flight Path Walk**: This is the main trail at the memorial. It was designed to guide visitors through the area near the crash site. It follows the approximate flight path of United Airlines Flight 93 as it descended before crashing. **The Visitor Center**: Offers exhibits, interactive displays, and information about the events of September 11, 2001, and the heroism of Flight 93. Visit the desk and talk with a ranger to learn more about the memorial. The visitor center features a permanent exhibit that focuses on the Flight 93 story within the context of September 11, 2001\. Visitors are welcome to a self-guided tour through inter-active exhibits. ![](https://www.nps.gov/common/uploads/structured_data/3C85D65B-1DD8-B71B-0B159FDB3CF53843.jpg) ![A visitor viewing exhibit panels inside the Flight 93 National Memorial visitor center beneath a wall quote about the beautiful September morning](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734628294649-image.png) This site is fee-free year-round. No entrance fee or pass is required. Visitor Center is open daily 9:00 am - 5:00 pm. Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day. **The Tower of Voices**: A 93-foot-tall tower containing 40 wind chimes, one for each of the victims. ![Rows of young trees in autumn color lining a gravel path in the memorial grove](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734638599606-c5ed2ac5-775f-4ea9-821a-0d4d77cbd2fcHiResProxy.jpg) ![The tall Tower of Voices memorial structure rising against a blue sky above tall grass](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734638598293-db4a1699-5232-4214-b93a-7ba4d4159d13HiResProxy.jpg) ![Looking straight up inside the Tower of Voices at its wind chimes, with flowers placed at the base](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734638816400-TOV_protea1.webp) The Tower of Voices serves as both a visual and audible reminder of the heroism of the forty passengers and crew of United Flight 93\. On September 09, 2018, Flight 93 National Memorial hosted a dedication event to complete the final phase of construction and complete the permanent memorial. The chimes were installed and dedicated on September 10, 2020. The tower is conceived as a monumental, ninety-three feet tall musical instrument holding forty wind chimes, representing the forty passengers and crew members. It is intended to be a landmark feature near the memorial entrance, visible from US Route 30/Lincoln Highway. The Tower of Voices provides a living memorial in sound to remember the forty through their ongoing voices. It was tower project was constructed from 2017 to 2018 with a dedication of the project on September 9, 2018\. Funding for the design and construction of the project was provided through private donations to the National Park Foundation and the Friends of Flight 93 National Memorial. There are no other chime structures like this in the world. The shape and orientation of the tower are designed to optimize air flow through the tower walls to reach the interior chime chamber. The chime system is designed using music theory to identify a mathematically developed range of frequencies needed to produce a distinct musical note associated with each chime. The applied music theory allows the sound produced by individual chimes to be musically compatible with the sound produced by the other chimes in the tower. The intent is to create a set of forty tones (voices) that can connote through consonance the serenity and nobility of the site while also through dissonance recalling the event that consecrated the site. The tower is approximately ninety-three feet tall from the base to the top with some height variations. The Tower cross section is a “C” shape with a fifteen foot outside diameter and eleven foot inside diameter. The “C” shape allows sound to reflect outwardly from the open side in a fan-shaped pattern. The chimes are suspended a minimum of twenty feet above the main plaza and will be suspended from the interior walls of the tower up to the top. The tower walls are constructed of precast concrete segments linked by connectors. The chimes are constructed of polished aluminum tubes ranging eight to sixteen inches in diameter and approximately five to ten feet in length. The size of each chime is dependent on the musical note and associated frequency that it is intended to produce. The chimes are wind activated and will have internal strikers attached to sails projecting from the bottom of each chime. The tower is located on an oval concrete plaza that is built on top of an earth mound to create an area more prominent on the landscape. The plaza includes two curved concrete benches facing the opening of the tower. The tower is surrounded by concentric rings of white pines and deciduous plantings. The concentric plantings may be interpreted as resonating “sound waves” from the Tower, alluding to the auditory qualities of the chimes housed within. A direct paved path leads to the tower from the parking lot. A longer, meandering crushed stone path winds through the trees and allows visitors an alternative approach to the tower. All other landscaped areas of the project will be planted with a native wildflower seed mix similar to other landscaped areas of the park. --- ## Hiking Trails at the Memorial: The Flight 93 National Memorial offers a few hiking trails that vary in length, difficulty, and scenic appeal. Below is a description of the primary hiking trails at the memorial, including their lengths and difficulty levels: ### 1\. **The Flight Path Walk** - **Length**: Approximately 1 mile - **Difficulty**: Easy - **Description**: The trail includes several viewpoints with interpretive signs that provide details about the crash and the heroic actions of the passengers and crew. The path is mostly flat and accessible, making it suitable for most visitors, including those with mobility impairments. ### 2\. **The Memorial Grove Trail** - **Length**: Approximately 0.5 miles - **Difficulty**: Easy to Moderate - **Description**: This shorter trail takes visitors through a grove of trees planted in honor of the passengers and crew of Flight 93\. It offers a more intimate experience and a place for quiet reflection. The trail is mostly flat but has a few gentle inclines. It provides views of the surrounding landscape and helps visitors connect with the solemnity of the site. ### 3\. **The Overlook Trail** - **Length**: Approximately 0.75 miles - **Difficulty**: Moderate - **Description**: This trail takes visitors to an overlook that provides a panoramic view of the memorial and the surrounding area. The trail is a bit more rugged than the others, with some elevation gain, but it is still accessible to most people with average fitness levels. The trail leads to a viewpoint where visitors can see the location of the crash and the Flight Path Walk, as well as the wider landscape of the memorial. These trails provide a meaningful and scenic way to explore the memorial, while offering various levels of challenge for different visitors. The paths are well-maintained and offer interpretive signage to enhance the educational experience. --- ## All Park Hours: Every Day: Sunrise–Sunset Park grounds and trails are open 7 days a week, 365 days a year, from sunrise to sunset. Harsh winter weather may result in delayed openings and closures. Occasionally, the gates may be closed, prohibiting entrance to the grounds, when adverse weather occurs or is predicted, to allow road crews to work safely to clear all roads within the national memorial. Call 814-893-6585 for weather-related updates. ![A dense stand of red and orange autumn trees along the edge of a field](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734638852940-6b117da1-a55d-44b0-8e00-4b6b025d0699HiResProxy.jpg) ![A gravel path lined with young trees in autumn color leading toward the memorial](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734638853162-8c9d2daa-ac4b-42d9-943f-5badfce8953bHiResProxy.jpg) ![A pond reflecting the sunset sky with purple thistle flowers in the foreground](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734638850839-C49FF7A2-155D-451F-670592E8E8633333HiResProxy.jpg) ![A wooden directional sign pointing to the visitor center and memorial plaza amid autumn trees](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734638852715-de874dcd-d469-492a-9eeb-994ea7a49af4HiResProxy.jpg) ![A stone entrance marker for the Flight 93 National Memorial beneath a dramatic cloudy sky](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734638863050-5195bc2f-752b-4e11-8595-77eee3a7ba29HiResProxy.jpg) --- ## Conclusion: Flight 93 National Memorial is more than just a place to hike; it’s a destination that invites you to connect with history, nature, and the spirit of resilience. Visiting the Flight 93 National Memorial is not just about learning history; it’s about honoring the heroes who faced unimaginable circumstances with courage and selflessness. It’s a beautiful place for reflection, education, and remembrance. We hope you enjoy your visit and take with you the spirit of bravery that this site represents. Safe travels! ![](https://www.nps.gov/common/uploads/structured_data/0708B1D0-AAC3-3C30-9A8BEA556F9B4FB5.jpg) --- 🥾 Don't get caught in the wilderness wishing you were more prepared. Find great deals on [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### Friendship Hill National Historic Site URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/friendship-hill-national-historic-site/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:02:37.000Z Trail FactsFriendship Hill NHS 2.5 miDistance EasyDifficulty 200 ftElevation 1.2 hrsDuration LoopType Year RoundScenic viewWildlife Friendship Hill National Historic Site, maintained by the National Park Service, was the home of early American politician Albert Gallatin. It overlooks the Monongahela River near Point Marion, Fayette County, Pennsylvania, about 50 miles south of Pittsburgh. ### Location: 1 Old Gallatin Road, Point Marion, PA 15474, USA **Entrance Fee:** Free There is no admission fee to visit Friendship Hill National Historic Site. Visitors can explore the historic home, grounds, and hiking trails without any charge. ### **May 1st to September 30th:** Sunday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM Monday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM Tuesday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM Wednesday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM Thursday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM Friday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM Saturday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM The Gallatin House is open every day, Check our website for the most up to date information about hours from October 1st to April 30th. Friendship Hill National Historic Site will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year's Day every year. ### October 1–December 31: The Gallatin House and Visitor Center will be open Friday through Monday 9 AM to 5 PM weather permitting. We will be closed on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Sunday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM Monday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM Tuesday Closed Wednesday Closed Thursday Closed Friday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM Saturday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM Grounds remain open from sunrise to sunset seven days a week. ### Visitor Center: The Visitor Center is an important stop for visitors to learn more about the site's history and Albert Gallatin's contributions to American politics and finance. It is located near the entrance to the site, close to the main house. The center contains exhibits that provide historical context about Gallatin's life and work, as well as the significance of the house and the surrounding area. Although the entrance is free, you may find guided tours available at certain times, which may have a suggested donation or fee for special programs. It's best to check with the site directly for more details on specific offerings. ### History of Friendship Hill: Friendship Hill, located in Fayette County, Pennsylvania, is named for the idea of "friendship" that its owner, Albert Gallatin, embraced and valued throughout his life. Friendship Hill is set on a scenic hillside overlooking the Monongahela River. The site also symbolized his deep connections to both his family and his community. Gallatin was known for being open-minded, and he sought to build bridges between people of different backgrounds, including Native Americans, settlers, and politicians. Gallatin served as the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury from 1801 to 1814 under Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. He is known for his work in reducing the national debt and promoting infrastructure development. The home itself is made up of six sections. The earliest of these is the original brick house built in 1789\. This original structure was constructed in the Federalist style with a Flemish bond. Along the north side of the brick house, a simple frame dwelling was added in 1798\. A stone kitchen was added in 1823, a State Dining Room in 1895, a south bedroom wing was finished in 1902, and the servants' quarters were added in 1903. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734548589026-9sa00kgv.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734548588707-102899119_ae7f873a9e_o.1920x1080.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734548587702-Entrance-road-Friendship-Hill-National-Historic-Site-Pennsylvania-768x576.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734548588932-Friendship-Hill-001.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734548589041-Friendship-Hill-016.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734548587485-Friendship-Hill-National-Historic-Site.webp) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734548588002-Friendship-Hill-National-Historic-Site-Fayette-County-Pennsylvania-768x576.jpg) The house was designated a National Historic Landmark on January 12, 1965, and was therefore administratively listed on the National Register of Historic Places with its establishment on October 15, 1966\. The national historic site was established on November 10, 1978, and is administered under Fort Necessity National Battlefield. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734548545652-OIP.jpg) ### Who was Albert Gallatin: He was born on January 29, 1761, in Geneva, Switzerland, to a wealthy and politically connected family. He was well-educated in Europe, learning languages, history, and economics. In 1780, Gallatin immigrated to the American colonies to escape the turmoil of the French Revolution and seek opportunities in the New World. He settled in western Pennsylvania, where he became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 1785. Gallatin married Sophia Allegre in 1793, and the couple had six children together. His family life was important to him, and he made sure to provide for his children's education and welfare. He represented western Pennsylvania in the Pennsylvania State Legislature. Then he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1795 as a member of the Democratic-Republican Party. He served four terms in the House. In 1801, President Thomas Jefferson appointed Gallatin as Secretary of the Treasury, a position he would hold for 13 years under both Jefferson and President James Madison. He was also involved with negotiating the Treaty of Ghent which ended the War of 1812. In 1816 he was appointed U.S. ambassador to France. After his diplomatic service, Gallatin returned to the United States and served a term in the U.S. Senate (1813–1825). During his retirement, Gallatin spent time at his home, Friendship Hill, in Pennsylvania, where he pursued intellectual interests and corresponded with political leaders. Albert Gallatin died on August 12, 1849. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734548422287-image.png) #### **Hiking Trails:** Friendship Hill National Historic Site offers a few trails and areas for hiking, along with an opportunity to explore the beautiful natural landscape surrounding the historic house. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734548465832-AA13rT4Z.jpg) - **Gallatin Trail**: - **Length**: Approximately **0.5 miles** - **Difficulty**: **Easy to Moderate** - This trail is a short walk that provides visitors a scenic view of the grounds surrounding the historic home. It's a relatively easy hike, making it accessible to most visitors, and it’s a good choice if you are looking to combine nature with history. The trail offers a chance to explore the site's scenic views, which overlook the Monongahela River. - **Friendship Hill Trail**: - **Length**: Approximately **1.5 miles** - **Difficulty**: **Moderate** - This is a longer trail that takes you through the wooded areas surrounding the historic site. It provides an opportunity for more extensive hiking and connects visitors with the natural beauty of the area. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734548511741-River-views-Friendship-Hill-National-Historic-Site-Pennsylvania-768x576.jpg) ### Conclusion: Friendship Hill is more than just a historical site; it’s a place to relax, learn, and connect with nature. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a peaceful getaway, there’s something here for everyone. We hope you enjoy your visit to this wonderful park and take a little piece of Albert Gallatin’s legacy home with you! Safe travels! --- [Google MapsGo and hike the trails at Friendship Hill National Historic Site!![](https://www.nps.gov/common/uploads/structured_data/3C85E483-1DD8-B71B-0B3038074D3BF415.jpg)](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=39.77543423%2C--79.92504169&ref=hiking-ohio.com) 🥾 Don't get caught in the wilderness wishing you were more prepared. Find great deals on [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### Hiking Ohio Updates for 2025: New Trails & More URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/hiking-ohio-updates-for-2025/ Last updated: 2026-03-22T22:52:48.000Z Hi Subscribers, We hope your 2024 was a great year for you! We appreciate you! As you probably noticed, we have expanded our blog to include hiking areas that are not located in Ohio. As we travel and hike, we take pictures and research the places we visit. We hope that you enjoy the historical information as much as the information about the hiking trails. For 2025 we are planning to have a blog every 2 weeks instead of weekly. We are planning to travel more and will need more time to compile the information. We are also planning to do a Franklin County Metro Park series that will describe each metro park and its amenities. There are about 20 Franklin County Metro Parks. As we move forward with this blog, please share this site with your friends and family. We really enjoy putting the blog together. We would really like to have more readers/subscribers. Also, please give us input on how we are doing. If you have any hiking trails you would like us to blog about, let us know. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Happy Hiking! Rob and Lori Jordan Email: arkykeatszoeymom@gmail.com ### Mark Twain National Forest, Lake, Historical Site, and State Park URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/mark-twain-national-forest-lake-historical-site-and-state-park/ Last updated: 2026-08-06T13:26:54.000Z Trail FactsMark Twain State Park 5 miDistance ModerateDifficulty 350 ftElevation 2.5 hrsDuration LoopType Year RoundCampingScenic viewWildlife Mark Twain National Forest (MTNF) is a U.S. National Forest which is located in the southern half of Missouri. It is made up of nine disconnected parcels. MTNF was established on September 11, 1939\. It is named for Missouri native, author Mark Twain, a Missouri native. The MTNF covers 3,068,800 acres of which 1,506,100 acres is public owned, 78,000 acres of which are Wilderness, and National Scenic River area. MTNF spans 29 counties and represents 11% of all forested land in Missouri. MTNF's nine tracts are divided into six distinct ranger districts: Ava-Cassville-Willow Springs, Eleven Point, Houston-Rolla, Cedar Creek, Poplar Bluff, Potosi-Fredericktown, and the Salem. Its headquarters are in Rolla, Missouri. [https://www.fs.usda.gov/mtnf](https://www.fs.usda.gov/mtnf?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ![A wooden Mark Twain National Forest entrance sign in the woods](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734115000044-R.jpg) ![A call-out box linking to recommended hiking gear](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734112767573-image.png) --- ## History of MTNF The Mark Twain National Forest, as we know it today, was created on February 17, 1976\. The MTNF has a rather unusual history. It was once known as both the Clark National Forest and the Mark Twain National Forest – both being proclaimed on September 11, 1939. [![A map of Missouri showing the scattered units of the Mark Twain National Forest and nearby cities](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/bb/Mtnf_map.jpg/220px-Mtnf_map.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Mtnf%5Fmap.jpg?ref=hiking-ohio.com) Map of the National Forest In June 1973, the Clark and Mark Twain NF were brought under one headquarters in Rolla and became known as the National forests in Missouri. On February 17, 1976, the forests were combined and renamed the Mark Twain National Forest. Missouri’s only national forest, The Mark Twain, encompasses roughly 1.5 million acres, mostly within the Ozark Highlands. Located across southern Missouri and northern Arkansas, the Ozark Highlands are an ancient landscape characterized by large permanent springs, over 5,000 caves, rocky barren glades, old volcanic mountains and nationally recognized streams. Portions of the Ozarks were never under oceans, nor were the areas glaciated. In the 1870s extensive logging of the state's native oak, hickory, and pine forests. Lumber mills were everywhere. However, by the 1920s they had disappeared, and most of the native forests. In 1939, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the MTNF into existence. In March 1933, he also created the Emergency Conservation Work Act, better known as the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). In the area that would later become the MTNF, hundreds of young men at over 50 CCC sites worked at building roads and planting hundreds of acres of pine to preserve and enhance the natural resources of southern Missouri. Many of their contributions can still be visited. Mark Twain Lake, located in northeastern Missouri, was created as a result of the construction of the Mark Twain Lake Dam on the Salt River. The lake and dam serve multiple purposes, including flood control, water supply, recreation, and wildlife conservation. --- ## Mark Twain Lake History and Creation: The idea for creating the lake and dam arose in the 1950s. The Salt River, which flows through northeastern Missouri, was prone to flooding. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers began planning for the construction of a dam along the river to control floods, provide water for the area, and offer recreational opportunities. The project was authorized by the Flood Control Act of 1962\. The construction of the Mark Twain Lake Dam began in 1972 and was completed in 1976\. The dam, located near the town of Monroe City, Missouri, impounds the Salt River to create the lake. The lake spans approximately 18,000 acres and has over 160 miles of shoreline. ![An aerial view of a dam and spillway on a lake](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734115015340-OIP (1).jpg) Mark Twain Lake is located in Ralls and Monroe counties in northeastern Missouri, near the town of Florida. --- ### **Mark Twain Lake Campgrounds:** **Indian Creek Campground** 39287 Highway 154, Monroe City, MO 63456 This campground is located on the north side of Mark Twain Lake and offers sites with water and electric hookups, as well as some sites for tent camping. It provides amenities like restrooms, showers, and a dump station. **Ray Behrens Campground** 30458 Ray Behrens Road, Florida, MO 65283 Situated on the southern side of the lake, this campground features both electric and non-electric sites. It also has amenities such as restrooms, showers, and a boat ramp. **Coon Creek Campground** 30110 Coon Creek Road, Florida, MO 65283 This campground offers sites with water and electric hookups. It has amenities including restrooms, showers, and picnic areas. It’s located on the eastern side of the lake, providing access to various recreational opportunities. ### **How to Reserve a Campground:** 1. **Online Reservations:** - **Website:** [Recreation.gov](https://www.recreation.gov/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - **Process:** You can make reservations for most campgrounds around Mark Twain Lake through Recreation.gov. Simply search for "Mark Twain Lake" or the specific campground (e.g., Indian Creek Campground) to check availability and book your site. --- ### **Activities at Mark Twain Lake Include:** **Boating and Fishing**\-Mark Twain Lake is a popular destination for boating and fishing. The lake has several boat ramps and a marina, making it accessible for various watercraft. **Camping**\-The Mark Twain Lake Recreation Area offers several campgrounds with facilities for tents and RVs. There are also designated sites with amenities such as restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings. **Hiking and Trails**\-There are several hiking trails around the lake, providing opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the area. Trails vary in difficulty and length, offering options for casual walks or more vigorous hikes. **Picnicking**\-There are picnic areas around the lake with tables and grills, making it a great spot for family outings and gatherings. **Wildlife Viewing**\-The area around Mark Twain Lake is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and other animals. The natural habitats around the lake provide excellent opportunities for wildlife observation and photography. **Swimming and Water Sports**\-While swimming is not allowed in all areas of the lake, there are designated swimming areas where visitors can enjoy the water. The lake also supports various water sports such as kayaking and jet skiing. **Educational Programs**\-The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and other local organizations often provide educational programs and interpretive tours related to the lake’s history, wildlife, and conservation efforts. --- ### **Mark Twain Birthplace State Historic Site:** The Mark Twain Birthplace State Historic Site is a publicly owned property in Florida, Missouri. It is maintained by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. It preserves the cabin where the author Samule Langhorne Clemens (Pen name Mark Twain) was born November 30, 1835\. The cabin is protected within a modern museum building. It is adjacent to Mark Twain State Park on a peninsula at the western end of man-made Mark Twain Lake. The cabin was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1969. - **Address:** 206 S Main St, Florida, MO 65283 - **Overview:** The Mark Twain Historical Site is dedicated to Samuel Clemens’ early years and provides insights into his childhood and the environment that influenced his later works. The site includes several key elements: 1. **Birthplace Cabin** - **Description:** The original log cabin where Samuel Clemens was born in 1835 no longer exists, but a replica has been constructed at the historical site to commemorate his birthplace. This replica cabin is designed to give visitors a sense of the early environment in which Twain spent his first years. - **Location:** The replica cabin is situated on the grounds of the Mark Twain Historical Site, preserving the historical ambiance and providing a tangible connection to Twain’s early life. He spent his first four years here until the family moved to a two-story clapboard house, now memorialized as the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum in Hannibal, Missouri, in 1839. [Mark Twain Birthplace State Historic Site | Missouri State ParksNothing says “Missouri literature” like Mark Twain. And nothing says “Mark Twain was here” like the state historic site that bears his name. Mark Twain Birthplace State Historic Site has the two-room rented cabin Samuel Clemens – Twain’s real name – was born in, first editions of many of the author’s works, a handwritten manuscript of “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” and many of![](https://static.ghost.org/v5.0.0/images/link-icon.svg)Missouri State Parkscabin![](https://mostateparks.com/sites/default/files/mostateparks_logo_154.png)](https://mostateparks.com/park/mark-twain-birthplace-state-historic-site?ref=hiking-ohio.com) **Admission:** Admission is typically free, but donations are often appreciated to support the maintenance and educational programs of the site. --- ### **Mark Twain State Park:** Mark Twain State Park is a public recreation area encompassing 2,775 acres on Mark Twain Lake in Monroe County, Missouri. The state park offers water recreation, hiking trails, and campgrounds. It is adjacent to the Mark Twain Birthplace State Historic Site. It was established in 1924. The Mark Twain State Park Picnic Shelter at Buzzard's Roost is a historic picnic shelter located at Mark Twain State Park. The shelter was built about 1941 by an all African American CCC group. The shelter is constructed of stone in a rustic style. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1985. [Mark Twain State Park | Missouri State ParksNestled in the Salt River Hills of north-central Missouri, Mark Twain State Park gives visitors access to sprawling Mark Twain Lake, as well as unparalleled outdoors activities. The terrain is covered by bluffs overlooking the lake and stands of oak, hickory and maple that are filled with white-tailed deer, turkey and other wildlife. Numerous picnic areas, two four-lane boat![](https://static.ghost.org/v5.0.0/images/link-icon.svg)Missouri State Parkspicnic areas![](https://mostateparks.com/sites/default/files/mostateparks_logo_154.png)](https://mostateparks.com/park/mark-twain-state-park?ref=hiking-ohio.com) Mark Twain State Park, located in northeastern Missouri near Florida, offers a range of trails and outdoor activities amidst a setting rich with historical significance. --- ### **Trails in Mark Twain State Park:** **Buck Hollow Trail** Approximately 3.5 miles. This moderate trail meanders through forested areas, offering scenic views of the surrounding landscape. It’s known for its gentle ascents and descents, making it a pleasant hike for those looking to enjoy nature without too much exertion. **Lake Trail** About 1.5 miles. This shorter trail encircles the park’s lake, providing opportunities to enjoy views of the water and surrounding woodlands. It’s a relatively easy walk suitable for families and those looking for a more relaxed outing. **Katy Trail** Part of the longer Katy Trail State Park (which extends over 200 miles across Missouri), the segment near Mark Twain State Park offers connections to this extensive trail network. The Katy Trail is a popular multi-use trail primarily used for biking, walking, and running. The section near Mark Twain State Park features scenic views of the Missouri River and the surrounding countryside. **Hickory Ridge Trail** Approximately 2 miles. This trail takes you through a variety of forest types, including hickory and oak. It’s a relatively easy hike with occasional views of the park’s natural beauty. There are many more hiking opportunities in MTNF check out their website for trails and area. --- ### **Florida, Missouri: Historical Overview:** Florida was founded in 1837 in Ralls County, Missouri. It was named after the state of Florida, which was relatively new at the time. The town was primarily an agricultural community, with farming as the main occupation for many residents. ![A map showing the location of Florida, Missouri](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734113496602-image.png) The town grew modestly throughout the 19th century, with its population fluctuating over time. It remained a small, rural community, with local industry and agriculture shaping its economy and culture. Historical Markers database: [https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=123614](https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=123614&ref=hiking-ohio.com) Samuel Clemens, who would later become known as Mark Twain, was born in nearby Florida, Missouri, on November 30, 1835\. His birthplace was a small log cabin that no longer stands, but the site is marked by a historical marker. ![An interpretive kiosk sign for the Mark Twain Birth Site Trail with a trail map](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734113292714-GOPR3151.JPG) ![A view of the lake through trees from the grassy shoreline](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734113296147-GOPR3148.JPG) ![An interpretive sign about the town of Florida, Missouri, with a river photo and historic newspaper clipping](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734113292427-GOPR3147.JPG) ![An interpretive sign with a historic photo describing life in Florida, Missouri](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734113292452-GOPR3149.JPG) ![An interpretive sign titled Grant's Approach to Florida describing a Civil War military campaign](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734113292896-GOPR3154.JPG) ![An interpretive sign titled Grant's Headquarters with a historic photo of a soldier](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734113295487-GOPR3156.JPG) ![An interpretive sign with a historic photo describing the construction of a small house](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734113294936-GOPR3158.JPG) --- ## Brief History of Mark Twain: ### Early Life and Childhood: Twain was born in Florida, Missouri, and grew up from the age of 4 years in the small town of Hannibal, Missouri, which served as the inspiration for many of the settings in his most famous works. His father, John Clemens, was a lawyer, but he died when Mark was only 11 years old, leaving the family in financial distress. Twain had to quit school and work to help support his family, holding various jobs such as a printer’s apprentice and a steamboat pilot. His early life was a blend of hardship, adventure, and the colorful characters of his hometown, many of whom would appear in his writing later on. ### Young Adult Years and Career: As a young man, Twain moved to the bustling city of New York and then to San Francisco, where he worked as a printer and journalist. In 1865, he wrote a humorous short story, "The Notorious Jumping Frog of Calaveras County," which became widely popular, marking the beginning of his literary career. He soon became known for his sharp wit, humor, and keen social commentary. Twain's experiences as a riverboat pilot on the Mississippi River, coupled with his travels through Europe and the Holy Land, contributed to his unique storytelling voice and vast body of work. His literary career flourished with the publication of *The Adventures of Tom Sawyer* in 1876, followed by *Adventures of Huckleberry Finn* in 1884, two novels that solidified his place in American literature. ### Personal Life: Twain married Olivia Langdon in 1870, and they had four children, but his personal life was marked by tragedy. His wife passed away in 1904, and several of his children died young. These personal losses, along with his financial difficulties, affected Twain deeply. Though he enjoyed considerable fame and success, Twain also faced numerous struggles, including bankruptcy due to poor investments and personal misfortunes. ![A portrait photograph of author Mark Twain in a dark suit](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734114886238-twain1907london.jpg) ### Later Years and Legacy: In his later years, Twain became increasingly disillusioned with society and the human condition. He turned more critical and melancholic, reflecting on themes of injustice, war, and human folly. His later works, including *The Mysterious Stranger* and *The Adventures of Captain Hornblower*, reflect a darker view of humanity. Mark Twain died on April 21, 1910, at the age of 74, leaving behind a rich legacy as one of America’s greatest authors. His works, known for their humor, use of dialect, and deep moral insight, continue to resonate with readers today, offering timeless commentary on human nature and society. --- ## **Meaning and Origin of "Mark Twain":** **"Mark Twain"** is a term from riverboat navigation. It is a term used to denote a depth of two fathoms, or twelve feet, which was considered safe for riverboat navigation. In the context of riverboats, "mark" referred to a measurement, and "twain" was an old term for "two." Thus, "Mark Twain" literally means "two fathoms." ![A paddlewheel riverboat with American flags docked on the river](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734114902650-OIP.jpg) Samuel Clemens adopted the pen name "Mark Twain" while working as a riverboat pilot on the Mississippi River. He was familiar with the term and used it as a pseudonym when he began his career as a writer. The name symbolizes his deep connection to the Mississippi River and his experience as a riverboat pilot, which influenced his writing. --- ## **Summary:** We were able to visit the Mark Twain National Forest, Mark Twain Lake, Mark Twain Historical Site, and Mark Twain State Park in July 2024\. It was an impromptu trip. We were able to camp at Indian Creek Campground. We visited Florida, Missouri and the state historical site. The museum was closed when we were there, but we were able to explore the grounds. It was an amazing trip. We highly suggest if you are ever in the area to stop by and enjoy MTNF, you won't be disappointed. ![A screenshot of a bookmark-card contact box preview with an illustrated character riding a motorcycle](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734112874213-image.png) ![A call-out box linking to recommended hiking gear](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1734112789460-image.png) ### Fort Necessity National Battlefield URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/fort-necessity-national-battlefield/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:02:34.000Z Trail FactsFort Necessity National Battlefield 1.5 miDistance EasyDifficulty 80 ftElevation 45 minDuration LoopType Year RoundScenic view [Google MapsFind Fort Necessity National Battlefield on Google Maps!![](https://www.nps.gov/common/uploads/structured_data/F78F68EB-E4CB-1C1A-9A36EE67336D8B60.jpg)](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=39.81306048%2C--79.59033344&ref=hiking-ohio.com) Fort Necessity National Battlefield is located in Farmington, Pennsylvania, located in the Allegheny Mountains of southwestern Pennsylvania, USA. It was established as a National Battlefield Site on July 3, 1931\. The Battle of Fort Necessity took place on July 3, 1754, during the French and Indian War. --- ## Location: ### Mailing Address: 1 Washington Parkway Farmington, PA 15437 ### Phone: (724) 329-5805 ### Fees: None The grounds and trails at Fort Necessity are open from sunrise to sunset --- ## History of the Site: The Battle of Fort Necessity was an early battle of the French and Indian War. The French and Indian War was a conflict between British and French forces, along with Native American allies, for control of North America. The battle was between the British colonial troops led by George Washington and the French troops which were assisted by the Native Americans. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1733708937179-M-Fort-Neccessity-LEAD-2000x706.jpg) Fort Necessity was a hastily constructed stockade built by Washington and his troops in the Great Meadows region. It is now southwestern Pennsylvania. The fort was poorly constructed, defenses inadequate, and a rainstorm that hindered the British position which led to failure. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1733708390739-2023-05-22.jpg) Reconstruction of the fort After a day of fighting, Washington's forces were forced to surrender to the French. It was Washington's first major military engagement. This battle influenced his career in the American Revolution. Although he surrendered, Washington was allowed to withdraw his troops with honor. The Braddock's March and the Battle of Fort Necessity are significant events related to George Washington's early military career and the French and Indian War. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1733709283521-2016 015 PA Fort Necessity 1a Sign DS 2016.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1733709283187-hh19c12.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1733709283265-OLC.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1733709283251-R.jpg) Fort Necessity (1754) was a precursor to Braddock's March (1755) and the broader conflict that shaped George Washington’s early military career. Here are some key points regarding Braddock's involvement and its connection to Fort Necessity: Braddock's expedition occurred in 1755 — a year after the Battle of Fort Necessity (1754). The British sent General Edward Braddock to North America to reinforce British colonial efforts in the French and Indian War. Braddock's mission was to capture the French Fort Duquesne (modern-day Pittsburgh), a key French stronghold in the Ohio River Valley. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1733709811184-image.png) At this time, George Washington was a young officer, and he was involved in Braddock's campaign as a military aide and guide due to his experience from his earlier involvement in the Fort Necessity battle. Braddock’s army began its journey from Virginia to the French-held Fort Duquesne. Despite the previous conflict at Fort Necessity, Braddock, a seasoned British officer, underestimated the challenges of the wilderness and the threat posed by French and Native American forces. Braddock's army passed near Fort Necessity, which was a critical location in understanding the geography of the region. Washington, who had firsthand knowledge of the area after his experience at Fort Necessity, acted as a guide for Braddock's troops. Braddock's forces were ambushed by French forces and Native American allies near the Monongahela River, not far from Fort Duquesne on July 9, 1755\. The ambush resulted in a disastrous defeat for Braddock’s army. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1733708434088-20140612_152843.jpg) Braddock's grave he died July 13, 1755 During the battle, Washington displayed leadership and bravery, helping to organize the retreat and saving many lives. He famously had two horses shot out from under him and was nearly killed in the engagement. His actions helped to cement his reputation as a capable military leader. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1733708622963-OIP.jpg) The Battle of Fort Necessity (1754) and Braddock’s subsequent campaign in 1755 were key events that highlighted the early stages of conflict between the British and the French in North America. The failure of Braddock's expedition and the earlier surrender at Fort Necessity shaped Washington’s military and leadership skills. These experiences laid the groundwork for his future leadership during the American Revolution. While Braddock’s defeat occurred after the events at Fort Necessity, both events were crucial in shaping the military environment in the Ohio River Valley and influencing the decisions of both the British and French powers. --- ## Fort Necessity National Battlefield Today: The battlefield today is part of the National Park Service and includes: - A visitor center with exhibits about the battle and the broader conflict. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1733708998063-0ww0p12000a9uh3s73BD1.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1733708997240-caption (1).jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1733708997312-caption (2).jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1733708997286-caption (3).jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1733708997317-caption (4).jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1733708997436-caption.jpg) - A reconstructed Fort Necessity, which is based on historical records of the original structure. - A series of trails that explore the battlefield and surrounding areas, including the site of Washington's early military experience. --- ## Hiking Trails: Fort Necessity offers a variety of hiking trails to explore the natural surroundings and learn more about the park's history. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1733709207594-Fort-Necessity-074.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1733709207371-Fort-Necessity-087.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1733709207536-Fort-Necessity-111.jpg) The Fort Necessity trail system winds through mixed deciduous forest and meadows. When Washington and his men passed through this area the trees were large and well-spaced. The forest has been cleared several times to produce charcoal for iron furnaces and for farming. In places, the trails run past stands of pines. These were planted by the men of the Civilian Conservation Corps camp in the mid 1930's. A portion of the trail follows the Braddock Road Trace. This is the remnant of the road built by Washington in 1754 and improved by General Braddock's army on their way to Fort Duquesne the next year. This road became one of the major routes of transportation from the east before the comp­letion of the National Road to Wheeling, Virginia in 1818. Hiking is allowed in all seasons. Some areas of the trails remain wet for a significant period following rain. In the winter months, there may be a significant snow on the trails. The paved trail to from the Visitor Center to Fort and Great Meadows is the only trail that is cleared. Be prepared with proper clothing and footwear. The Jumonville Glen trail is closed from November through April. Trails begin from Fort Necessity, the Picnic Area, and Jumonville Glen. Five miles of hiking trails lead through forest and meadows around Fort Necessity. There is also a loop trail at Jumonville Glen and a short walking path at Braddock's Grave. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1733708832678-Fort-Necessity-Map-590x570.jpg) Trail maps are available at the Visitor Center. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1733709347572-R (1).jpg) ### **15 minutes – Fort Necessity:** Walk the paved trail from the Visitor Center to Fort Necessity and return. ### **30 minutes – Braddock Road/French Camp:** Leave the Great Meadows on the **Forest Trail**, turning right into the woods just before the bridge to the fort. The trail follows Indian Run Creek to the Braddock Road Trace. Follow the Braddock Road to the left 200 ft. Turn left again. This trail returns to the Great Meadows through the **French Camp**, making a small loop. ### **45 minutes – Indian Run Loop:** Continue along the Braddock Road Trace another 650 ft., crossing the paved road and the **Forest Trail** turns to the right. In a short distance the **Indian Run Trail** bears right and returns to the Braddock Road. ### **90 minutes – Forest/Meadow Loop:** The **Forest Trail** continues to the traffic circle at the top of the hill. The **Meadow Trail** cont­inues through open meadows to your right and passes a peaceful spot where you can stop and enjoy the surrounding landscape with Chestnut Ridge to the west. Just beyond this point, the **Meadow Trail** splits into the **Outer Meadow Trail** and the **Inner Meadow Trail**. The **Inner Meadow Trail** leads to the hill above Fort Necessity where you can stop to gaze at the setting before returning to the fort area. The **Outer Meadow Trail** passes through open fields along the park boundary and returns to the fort area. #### **Longer hikes:** Add the **Picnic Area Loop** to your **Forest/Meadow Loop** hike. From the traffic circle, the Picnic Area Spur goes down over the hill and connects to the Picnic Area. The Great Meadows was where George Washington and his troops fought a large French and Indian force on July 3, 1754\. The area near the benches where the Forest Trail leaves the meadow is believed to be where the French and Indians used the forest for cover while directing their most effective fire on Washington's forces. --- ### Park Facilities and Visitor Experience: The visitor center has exhibits about the French and Indian War, the role of George Washington, and the Native American presence in the area. There are also film presentations that explain the battle and its historical context. | [![Fort Necessity Park Store in the Interpretive and Education Center](https://www.nps.gov/fone/images/Park-Store-2021-10-19.jpg?maxwidth=650&autorotate=false "Park Store - Fort Necessity")](https://shop.americasnationalparks.org/store/home/1311/Fort-Necessity-National-Battlefield/?ref=hiking-ohio.com)Publications, apparel, commemoratives, and visitor convenience items are available at the Fort Necessity National Battlefield Park StoreNPS PhotoThe Fort Necessity National Battlefield Park Store is located in the Interpretive and Education Center. It is operated by America's National Parks, a non-profit tax exempt organization recognized by the U.S. Congress to aid the National Park Service in their mission of education and service.All sales items are approved by the National Park Service. Your purchase helps support interpretation, education, and visitor service programs. Items from this and other National Parks are available online at [America's National Parks Store](https://shop.americasnationalparks.org/store/home/1311/Fort-Necessity-National-Battlefield/?ref=hiking-ohio.com). If you cannot find the item you are looking for on-line, you can call the Fort Necessity National Battlefield Park Store at 724-329-5805. | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | A reconstructed version of the original Fort Necessity is located within the park, offering an opportunity for visitors to learn about the fort's design and its strategic importance. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1733709540323-fort-necessityfort-305-x-2050_8b0b1e82-5056-a36a-0abc634b9805572a.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1733709540339-fort-necessity-national.jpg) The National Park Service offers seasonal programs, including ranger-led walks and educational talks on the history of the site. --- ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/12/1733709447848-R (2).jpg) ### Note About Pets: All dogs must remain on a leash (no longer than 6 feet) and all pets must be under control at all times. Pet owners are required to clean up after their pets and prevent them from harming park plants and wildlife. ### ### **Pets are not allowed inside the visitor center. If you visit during the summer months, please do not leave your pet in your parked vehicle. Even with the windows rolled down slightly, temperatures inside a locked car can climb to unsafe levels!** --- ### Conclusion: Fort Necessity National Battlefield offers a mix of historical significance and outdoor recreation. Visitors can walk the battlefield, explore the reconstructed fort, and hike through scenic trails that offer both natural beauty and a deeper understanding of the area's pivotal role in early American history. Whether you're interested in the history of the French and Indian War or just looking to explore the park’s trails, Fort Necessity provides an enriching experience. You won't be disappointed. --- [Google MapsGo and hike the trails at Fort Necessity National Battlefield!![](https://www.nps.gov/common/uploads/structured_data/3C861A68-1DD8-B71B-0BF41816F135441F.jpg)](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=39.81306048%2C--79.59033344&ref=hiking-ohio.com) 🥾 Don't get caught in the wilderness wishing you were more prepared. Find great deals on [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### Fort Donelson National Battlefield URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/fort-donelson-national-battlefield/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:02:32.000Z Trail FactsFort Donelson National Battlefield 3 miDistance EasyDifficulty 200 ftElevation 1.5 hrsDuration LoopType Year RoundScenic view Fort Donelson National Battlefield is a historic site located near Dover, Tennessee, and is significant for its role in the American Civil War. It was the site of the Battle of Fort Donelson, which took place from February 11–16, 1862\. The Union victory at this battle, led by General Ulysses S. Grant, was a pivotal moment in the Western Theater of the Civil War and earned Grant the nickname "Unconditional Surrender" Grant. The victory also opened up the Tennessee and Cumberland Rivers for Union navigation and troop movements, significantly weakening the Confederate hold on the region. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1732140602532-Fort-Donelson-021.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1732140601948-download.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1732140644983-8442240325181940.jpg) Fort Donelson National Battlefield represents a tumultuous time in America's history. The park was established in 1928, but the preserving the memories, stories, and heroism at this site started from the moment the battle occurred in February 1862. --- ### **Location** **Address**: 1200 Fort Donelson Park Road, Dover, Tennessee 37058. Located along the Tennessee River in northern Tennessee, the park is a short drive from the town of Dover and about 75 miles northwest of Nashville. ### **Visitor Center** The **visitor center** is typically open daily, but hours may vary seasonally, especially around holidays. It's best to check the park’s official website for the most current hours of operation and any special events or programs. [Fort Donelson National Battlefield (U.S. National Park Service)Brigadier General Ulysses S. Grant was becoming quite famous as he wrote these words following the surrender of Confederate Fort Donelson on Sunday, February 16, 1862\. The Union victory at Fort Donelson elated the North, and stunned the South. Within days of the surrender, Clarksville and Nashville would fall into Union hands. Grant and his troops had created a pathway to victory for the Union.![](https://static.ghost.org/v5.0.0/images/link-icon.svg)National Park Service![](https://www.nps.gov/common/uploads/banner_image/akr/homepage/9A048A38-F82C-4F19-1B190E3BFC2F3B37.jpg)](https://www.nps.gov/fodo/index.htm?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1732128594571-fort-donelson-national-battlefield-tennessee-visitor-center-sign-E9XBAF.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1732128594155-Fort-Donelson-National-Battlefield-Visitor-Center-480x320.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1732128594085-OIP.jpg) - The **Fort Donelson Visitor Center** provides interpretive displays, exhibits on the Battle of Fort Donelson, and a small museum with artifacts. The center is a good starting point for visitors to get an overview of the park's history before heading out to explore the battlefield. ### **Admission Fees** - **Entry to the park**: **Free**. There are no entrance fees to visit the Fort Donelson National Battlefield or its associated cemetery. The park is open to the public year-round, and visitors are welcome to explore the battlefield, hiking trails, cemetery, and visitor center without any charge. --- ## **Tours** 1. **Self-Guided Tours**: - Visitors can explore Fort Donelson at their own pace through self-guided tours. Information signs and exhibits are available throughout the battlefield, offering insights into key battle sites, the fortifications, and the strategies used during the battle. Brochures and maps are often available at the **visitor center** to guide you on your tour. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1732122411797-image.png) **Ranger-Led Tours**: **Ranger-led programs** are available, typically during peak visitation seasons (spring and summer). These tours offer in-depth historical context and take you to important areas of the battlefield, such as the earthen fortifications, artillery positions, and the cemetery. **Ranger Talks**: These are shorter talks or demonstrations that provide further insight into the battle or the history of the fort. The schedule for ranger-led tours or programs can vary, so it’s a good idea to check in at the visitor center for more information on specific dates and times. Occasionally, the park offers **living history programs**, where reenactors portray Civil War soldiers and demonstrate military tactics, camp life, and other aspects of the era. These programs are great for families and those interested in a more immersive experience. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1732123808517-image.png) ### --- ## **Hiking Trails** Fort Donelson National Battlefield offers several trails that allow visitors to explore the battlefield, enjoy the natural beauty of the area, and learn about the site's historical significance. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1732129192733-Donelson-Trail-Map (1).jpg) ### **Fort Donelson Trail** **Length**: Approximately 1 mile. **Difficulty**: Easy. **Description**: This trail is a short, easy walk that takes visitors through key historical sites on the battlefield, including the Fort Donelson earthworks. Along the way, you'll find informational signs explaining the events that took place during the battle and the significance of the fortifications. ### **Land Between the Rivers Trail** **Length**: About 3 miles. **Difficulty**: Moderate. **Description**: This longer trail offers a more immersive experience, taking hikers through a variety of landscapes, including woods and open fields. It offers a chance to explore more of the natural setting around the battlefield and experience the terrain that played a role in the battle's outcome. ### **Confederate Defensive Line Trail** **Length**: 1.5 miles. **Difficulty**: Moderate. **Description**: This trail leads visitors through the Confederate defensive lines, including remnants of the earthworks and artillery positions that the Confederates used to defend the fort. It provides insight into the Confederate perspective of the battle and the difficulties they faced. ### **Overlook Trail** **Length**: 0.5 miles. **Difficulty**: Easy. **Description**: A short, scenic trail that offers an excellent view of the Tennessee River and the surrounding landscape. It’s a great spot for photography and provides a peaceful setting to reflect on the historic events that took place here. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1732140544213-Fort-Donelson-060-1536x864.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1732140544451-Fort-Donelson-110.jpg) --- ## **Fort Donelson National Battlefield History** Fort Donelson National Battlefield commemorates the Battle of Fort Donelson, which took place from February 11–16, 1862, during the American Civil War. It was a pivotal victory for the Union and a major turning point in the war. The Union Army, commanded by Brigadier General Ulysses S. Grant, laid siege to the Confederate fortifications at Fort Donelson. The fort was a key defensive position for the Confederates, located on the banks of the Cumberland River. After several days of intense fighting and Confederate attempts to break out, the Confederate forces, led by Brigadier General John B. Floyd and Major General Gideon Pillow, surrendered to Grant. This victory gave the Union control of the Cumberland River, opening a crucial route for Union forces to advance further into the South. The victory was also a significant boost to Union morale. After the Confederate commanders attempted to escape, the Union forces pressed the siege, and on February 16, 1862, the Confederates formally surrendered. General Grant's famous demand for "Unconditional Surrender" became the foundation for his nickname, "Unconditional Surrender" Grant. The fall of Fort Donelson was the first significant Union victory in the Civil War and marked the beginning of Grant's rise as one of the war's leading generals. The battlefield preserves many of the locations where key events of the battle took place, including the fort’s earthen fortifications, gun emplacements, and the sites of skirmishes and defensive positions. --- ## **FORT DONELSON NATIONAL CEMETERY** ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1732121712446-image.png) In July 1862, Congress passed legislation giving the President of the United States the authority to purchase land for the establishment of cemeteries “for soldiers who shall die in the service of their country”. The legislation effectively began the national cemetery system. In 1863, the Union Army abandoned the Confederate works and constructed a new fortification on the ground that became the cemetery site. A freedmen's community developed around the new Union fort. Four years later, this same site was selected for the establishment of the Fort Donelson National Cemetery and 670 Union soldiers were reinterred here. These soldiers (which included 512 unknowns) had been buried on the battlefield, in local cemeteries, in hospital cemeteries, and in nearby towns. These totals include five known and nine unknown soldiers from the United States Colored Troops. The high percentage of unknown soldiers can be attributed to the haste in cleaning up the battlefield and the fact that civil war soldiers did not carry government-issued identification. Graves were marked with wooden headstones until permanent headstones could mark the final resting place. The landscape plan for the cemetery changed somewhat from the original in the 1870s. The **Fort Donelson National Cemetery** is an important part of the battlefield site. It is the final resting place for soldiers from both the Union and Confederate armies. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1732140748961-Feltner-photo-of-young-ladies-at-cannon-monument.jpg) **Union Burials**: Most of the graves are those of Union soldiers who died during the battle and in subsequent months due to wounds or illness. The cemetery is the site of over **1,500 Union soldiers' graves**, many of whom were casualties from the Battle of Fort Donelson. **Confederate Burials**: There are also a smaller number of graves for Confederate soldiers, some of whom were originally buried at Fort Donelson but were later reburied in a Confederate cemetery in **Vicksburg, Mississippi**. Confederate soldiers were not buried in the National Cemetery. Instead, they were buried in local, church, or family cemeteries in the surrounding communities. The cemetery is located within the park and is open to the public. Visitors can pay their respects and learn about the soldiers who gave their lives at this pivotal site in the Civil War. ![FODOCemetery](https://www.nps.gov/fodo/planyourvisit/images/FODOCemetery.jpg?maxwidth=650&autorotate=false "lt=") In 1867, Fort Donelson Cemetery was established as the final resting for Union soldiers and sailors initially buried in the Fort Donelson area. The names of the soldiers interred in the Fort Donelson National Cemetery have been compiled from original cemetery records. This list does not include all of the unidentified soldiers buried in the national cemetery. There are 512 unknown burials. Today the national cemetery contains both Civil War veterans and veterans who have served the United States since that time. Many spouses and dependent children are also buried here. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1732127931952-image.png) --- ## **Conclusion** Fort Donelson National Battlefield is a significant historical site, offering visitors a chance to learn about a major Civil War battle and its impact on the course of the war. The site features both self-guided and ranger-led tours, as well as a cemetery where many soldiers are buried. Admission is free, making it an accessible destination for those interested in American history. February 16, 1862, when Brigadier General Ulysses S. Grant led Union troops to victory at Fort Donelson. This win was a game-changer for the North and led to significant shifts in the Civil War. The Fort Donelson National Battlefield is worth a visit. If you are in the area you should stop by. You won't be disappointed. --- 🥾 Don't get caught in the wilderness wishing you were more prepared. Find great deals on [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### William Howard Taft National Historic Site URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/william-howard-taft-national-historic-site/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:04:10.000Z Trail FactsWilliam Howard Taft NHS 0.3 miDistance EasyDifficulty 10 ftElevation 15 minDuration LoopType Year RoundKid-friendly William Howard Taft National Historic Site is in the heart of Cincinnati. It’s also the birthplace of the 27th President of the United States, William Howard Taft. --- ## Overview of William Howard Taft National Historic Site: It is located at: 2038 Auburn Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45219 The site is generally open from Tuesday to Saturday, with hours typically 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. It is closed on Sundays and Mondays. It's always best to check the official National Park Service [https://www.nps.gov/wiho/index.htm](https://www.nps.gov/wiho/index.htm?ref=hiking-ohio.com) for updated hours and closures. Admission is free but donations are accepted. The site was designated as a National Historic Site in 1969 to preserve the birthplace and childhood home of Taft. William Howard Taft was born in this lovely Greek Revival house in 1857\. Growing up in a family that valued hard work, education, and community service, Taft’s early life laid the foundation for his future as a leader. The house itself is a beautiful reminder of the past, and visiting it gives you a chance to step back in time and learn about the man who would eventually serve as both President and Chief Justice of the United States. The house is believed to have been built in the early 1840s, between 1844 and 1847 by a family named Hopkins. Alphonso bought the house at 60 Auburn Street (now 2038 Auburn Avenue), with its accompanying 1.82 acres, for $10,100 on June 13, 1851\. The William Howard Taft Memorial Association was formed on July 7, 1937, in hopes of buying the property, but went without support of the Taft family, as Robert Taft thought it would look too opportunistic to memorialize the house his father grew up in. It would have cost $12,000 to buy it. In the 1940s the building was used as apartments, with the new owner Elbert R. Bellinger once considering selling it to become a funeral parlor for local blacks. In 1953, and with Charles Phelps Taft II onboard, the William Howard Taft Memorial Association eventually acquired the house for $35,000 (the assessment price), instead of the $75,000 Bellinger was demanding for it. By 1961, the house was in poor condition and needed restoration, to the tune of $92,500\. It was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1964\. A ceremony on September 15, 1964 (William's 107th birthday), celebrated the home becoming a National Historic Landmark. The association gained full title to the house in 1968 and in 1969 transferred it to the National Park Service, which currently operates the site as a historic house museum, so that its future upkeep is ensured. The United States government took the property title on November 1, 1970. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731952736380-download.jpg) --- ## Taft Education Center (TEC): Visitors to the park can begin their journey here, at the Taft Education Center (TEC). The TEC is the park's only visitor center and serves as the starting point for all tours to the Taft Family Home. Restrooms are located inside the building along with a water fountain. Guests can view the park orientation film, William Howard Taft, Public Servant. The film is approximately 15 minutes and covers the life and legacy of Taft and his career as a judge and politician from the local level through the federal ranks. Visitors to the TEC can browse through the small gift shop for souvenirs and a small assortment of Taft and presidential-related books. The best way to kick off your visit is by joining a guided tour of the Taft home. The friendly park rangers are full of interesting stories about President Taft's life. Make sure to ask questions—they love to share! Tours usually happen on a set schedule, so check ahead and plan your visit accordingly. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731969623254-82606.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731969623115-OIP (7).jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731969623202-OIP (8).jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731969623564-william-howard-taft-national-historic-site-in-cincinnati-ohio-usa-W24TCB.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731969623577-william-howard-taft-national-historic-site-in-cincinnati-ohio-usa-W24TEC.jpg) Letters and diary entries written by Louise Taft during her time in the home helped preservationists to return the domicile to how it appeared during William's childhood. All park grounds are open 9 am to 4 pm, every day, 365 days per year. Please check the Visitor Center hours of operations for up-to-date hours for the park's buildings. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731953082655-image.png) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731953107210-image.png) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731953124761-william-howard-taft-national-historic-site-jb0012-1800x1200.jpg) --- ## William Howard Taft: William Howard Taft was born on September 15, 1857, in Cincinnati, Ohio, into a prominent and politically active family. His father Alphonso Taft was a well-respected lawyer, judge, and future cabinet member under Presidents Ulysses S. Grant and Rutherford B. Hayes. His mother, Louisa Torrey Taft, came from a well-educated family. Taft was the second of three children. His childhood was one of privilege. His father ensured that young William had access to the best tutors, and the Taft family moved in circles that exposed him to political and social issues from an early age. Taft's childhood was marked by a love of learning, and he was known for his love of books, particularly those about law, history, and government. He was not, however, especially interested in sports or physical activities, and he was somewhat overweight as a child. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731899121314-OIP.jpg) Taft attended Woodward High School in Cincinnati. After graduating from high school, he went to attend Yale University He graduated from Yale in 1878 with a degree in Philosophy. At Yale, Taft was a member of the prestigious Skull and Bones society and was known for his intelligence, leadership, and commitment to his studies. After Yale, Taft entered law school at the University of Cincinnati, graduating in 1880\. He was admitted to the bar that same year, marking the beginning of his legal career. Taft's future wife, Helen Herron, was born on June 2, 1861, in Cincinnati as the fourth of eleven children, the daughter of Harriet Collins Herron and lawyer John Williamson Herron. Throughout her life, she went by "Nellie". Helen "Nellie" Herron first met William Howard Taft at a sledding party in 1880, though the Herron family and the Taft family were familiar with one another. They would go on to perform together as part of the community theater company. Taft courted Herron, accompanying her to dances and sending her letters and flowers. Self-doubt caused Herron to avoid commitment to Taft, fearing that he did not truly care for her or value her opinions. Taft proposed to her multiple times,[\[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Helen%5FHerron%5FTaft?ref=hiking-ohio.com#cite%5Fnote-caroli-2)and she eventually accepted in June 1885. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731952093410-th (2)nel.jpg) They returned to Cincinnati in 1892 when Taft's husband was appointed as a judge on the federal circuit. While her husband served on the bench, Taft raised their three children: Robert, born 1889; Helen, born 1891; and Charles, born 1897. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731952120115-th (1).jpg) ### Listed Below are Positions William Howard Taft Held During his Career: - **Assistant Solicitor General of the United States** in the 1880s. - **U.S. District Judge for the Sixth Circuit** (a federal judgeship) from 1887 to 1890. - **Solicitor General of the United States** from 1890 to 1892. - **Governor-General of the Philippines** from 1901 to 1904, appointed by President Theodore Roosevelt after the U.S. took control of the Philippines in the aftermath of the Spanish-American War. Taft’s reputation grew through these roles, culminating in his election as the **27th President of the United States** in 1908\. He served from **1909 to 1913**. His presidency focused on breaking up monopolies, progressive reforms, and maintaining an open door in international trade, especially with Latin America and Asia. After his presidency, Taft's legal career continued, and he became the **Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court** in 1921, a position he held until his death in 1930\. Taft remains the only person in U.S. history to have held both the presidency and the chief justiceship. --- ## Hiking Trails and Surrounding Area: The William Howard Taft National Historic Site itself does not have dedicated hiking trails or significant outdoor trails on the property. However, Cincinnati offers several parks and nature areas nearby where visitors can enjoy outdoor activities: 1. **Cincinnati Parks System:** - **Eden Park:** A scenic park near the site that has walking paths, gardens, and lake views. It’s about 1.0 miles from the Taft Historic Site and provides a relaxing atmosphere for visitors. More about Eden Park below. - **Mt. Adams and Over-the-Rhine:** Nearby neighborhoods where visitors can explore hills and urban parks with historic walking paths. 2. **Cincinnati Nature Center (about 15-20 minutes away):** - **Distance:** The Cincinnati Nature Center offers a variety of hiking trails, ranging from short loops to more challenging hikes, with distances varying from 1 mile to 10 miles. - **Description:** This natural area offers a mix of woodland, creek-side, and field habitats, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. 3. **Great Parks of Hamilton County:** - **Distance:** A bit farther from the historic site (15-30 minutes by car), these parks have more substantial trail systems, including some longer and more rugged trails. Popular parks include **Glenwood Gardens** and **Sharon Woods**, with trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. --- ## Eden Park Trails and History: Eden Park is one of Cincinnati’s most picturesque urban parks. It is located about a mile from the William Howard Taft National Historic Site. The park is known for its beautiful landscapes, views of the Ohio River, and historical features. However, it doesn't offer extensive, rugged hiking trails. It does provide a network of easy-to-moderate walking paths. The park features several shorter walking paths, ranging from **.**5 to 1 mile each, that wind through wooded areas, gardens, and open lawns.The paths are ideal for a leisurely walk, with views of the city, the Ohio River, and well-maintained landscapes. Though not entirely within Eden Park, the Ohio River Trail passes near Eden Park and connects to it. This trail system runs for several miles, with sections along the riverfront and nearby green spaces. The segment near Eden Park is about 1 mile in length. The scenic Cincinnati Overlook is located in the park. It offers sweeping views of downtown Cincinnati, the Ohio River, and Kentucky. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731894300983-image.png) **A Brief History of Eden Park** The land that the park occupies today was originally owned by Nicholas Longworth, a prominent Cincinnati landowner who previously used the area as a vineyard and called the estate “the Garden of Eden” in reference to the biblical Garden of Eden. The city of Cincinnati bought the acreage from Longworth in 1869 and retained the name “Eden” for the park. The city proceeded to build a 12 acre-reservoir on the land in the 1870s. The Eden Park Station No. 7 pumped water from the Ohio River into the reservoir and then into the Eden Park standpipe. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731970290341-7C3D07E0--600x601.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731970290259-edenPark1.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731970290349-edenPark2-768x490.jpg) The reservoir was eventually removed in the 1960s and the area was redeveloped into the Mirror Lake reflecting pool that still stands in the park today. Part of the original reservoir dam wall, Eden Park Station No. 7, and the Eden Park standpipe still stand in the park today. --- ## Mt. Auburn Area: Mount Auburn was once a popular area to live for upper-class Cincinnatians, as it allowed those of higher incomes to escape the sweltering heat and humidity of downtown Cincinnati summers. The Taft residence, a Greek Revival domicile, was relatively modest compared to other nearby residences, which were a mix of Second Empire, Italianate, and Georgian Revival. As you walk down Auburn Avenue imagine yourself back in the 19th Century. Horse drawn carriages traveling down cobblestone streets, ornate gaslights illuminating the brick paved sidewalks, and stately towered mansions rising atop one of Cincinnati's most fashionable hills. In those early years Auburn Avenue was nicknamed Cincinnati's "Fifth Avenue" – rival of New York's famous thoroughfare, and the street and the surrounding side streets boasted some of the most notable people in the country as its inhabitants. Mt. Auburn was for a long time almost the only suburb of the city. It was at first called Keys' Hill, after an old settler, and this name was used until 1837\. By 1826 a number of prominent citizens had taken up residence there. Mount Auburn was platted as a town in 1837\. It owes its name to the then newly established Mount Auburn Cemetery of Boston. By 1842, it extended from Liberty Street (Liberty Street got its name because the city laws were not enforced north of it and it was the location of the "northern liberties" – gambling, drinking and carousing) to McMillan Street (note that the historic district only goes as far south as Ringold Street, the rest of the Mount Auburn neighborhood to the south is the Prospect Hill Historic District. Mount Auburn was annexed to the City of Cincinnati in 1849. --- ## **The William Howard Taft Bathtub Rumor:** Topping the scales at over 350 pounds, William Howard Taft was a true political heavyweight. Although “Big Bill” was the only man to serve as both U.S. president and Supreme Court chief justice, what most remember about Taft is that he supposedly became stuck in the White House bathtub. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731971210776-th.jpg) There is no documentary evidence backs it up. According to Brady Carlson, author of the book *Dead Presidents: An American Adventure into the Strange Deaths and Surprising Afterlives of Our Nation’s Leaders*, the story came out two decades after Taft left the presidency. It was included in the White House usher Ike Hoover’s 1934 memoir, *42 Years in the White House*. Just weeks after Taft’s 1908 election, a super-sized bathtub capable of holding the heftiest man ever to occupy the Oval Office. Since no “Taft-size” basin could be found, a Manhattan company crafted the largest solid porcelain tub ever made for an individual. It was more than seven feet long, 41 inches wide and weighed a ton. A photograph in the February 1909 issue of the journal Engineering Review showed the pond-like presidential bathtub with four men sitting comfortably in-side. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731897311975-OIP (4).jpg) Newspapers reported that similarly spacious tubs were installed in the White House, on Taft’s presidential yacht and inside his brother’s summer home in Texas. After leaving the White House in 1913, Taft moved into a suite in a New Haven, Connecticut, hotel with an immense bathtub that the *Philadelphia Inquirer* reported was “deep enough to allow an ordinary sized man to float when it is filled.” Two years later, the ex-president’s bathing habits again made news when at a Cape May, New Jersey, hotel he “failed properly to consider the size of the average seashore hotel bathtub.” The water displaced by his tremendous girth flooded the floor and trickled onto the heads of guests in the downstairs dining room. As a wistful Taft gazed out at the Atlantic Ocean the next morning, he said, “I’ll get a piece of that fenced in some day, and then when I venture in, there won’t be any overflow.” --- ## **Conclusion:** The William Howard Taft National Historic Site is a great place to visit. If you are in the Cincinnati area, it should definitely be on your bucket list. You won't be disappointed. 🥾 Don't get caught in the wilderness wishing you were more prepared. Find great deals on [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/dayton-aviation-heritage-national-historical-park/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:02:20.000Z Trail FactsDayton Aviation Heritage NHP 1 miDistance EasyDifficulty 30 ftElevation 30 minDuration LoopType Year RoundKid-friendly Dayton, Ohio, is often referred to as the “**Birthplace of Aviation**” due to the Wright brothers' contributions, and the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park helps to preserve their story and its ongoing impact on technology and society. There are some very nice nature trails and walking trails available as well. Which I will cover after the history and location of the sites. --- ## Information About Wilbur and Orville Wright - **Wilbur Wright** was born on April 16, 1867, in Millville, Indiana. - **Orville Wright** was born on August 19, 1871, in Dayton, Ohio. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731529405639-First_flight_wright_brothers_2.jpg) The two brothers were raised in Dayton, where their father, Milton Wright, was a bishop in the Church of the United Brethren in Christ, and their mother, Susan, was a talented mechanic and inventor. The brothers were curious, mechanically inclined, and interested in technology from a young age. The Wright brothers operated a bicycle sales and repair business in Dayton, which provided them with the financial stability and mechanical skills they would later apply to their experiments. In 1899, the Wright brothers began their serious experiments with flight. They first focused on creating a controlled glider, learning how to control the roll, pitch, and yaw of the aircraft. They tested their gliders in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, a location chosen for its strong winds and isolation. There is the Kitty Hawk National Memorial there. We visited it and highly suggest stopping there if you are in the area. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731529428741-Wright Brothers National Memorial at Dusk-fit(800,600).8e360eaa.jpg) Instead of using rudders or other complex mechanisms, the Wrights used "wing warping" to control lateral balance and roll.They developed a fixed horizontal tailplane (elevator) for pitch control. They devised an effective system for controlling the aircraft through the use of a combination of wing warping, elevators, and rudders. After years of experimentation and modification, the Wright brothers built their first powered aircraft, the Wright Flyer in 1903\. The plane had a wingspan of 40 feet and was powered by a 12-horsepower engine they built themselves. The flyer also had a system for controlling flight. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731529468804-OIP.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731529469331-R (1).jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731529469218-R (2).jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731529469239-R.jpg) On December 17, 1903, at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, the Wright brothers made brief flights. The first, piloted by Orville, lasted 12 seconds and covered 120 feet. Wilbur piloted the fourth flight, which lasted 59 seconds and covered 852 feet. The Wright brothers continued refining their aircraft. In 1904 and 1905\. In 1905, they successfully flew the Wright Flyer III, which could fly in controlled circles for over 30 minutes at a time. The Wright brothers patented their invention, and by 1908, they had demonstrated their aircraft to the U.S. Army and to the public in Europe. In 1909, the U.S. Army signed a contract with the Wright brothers to supply the military with airplanes. This helped the Wrights gain commercial recognition, and they formed the Wright Company to manufacture airplanes for military and civilian use. The Wright brothers' accomplishments were celebrated worldwide, but they also faced challenges from other inventors, including Glenn Curtiss, who disputed their patent rights. This led to a series of legal battles. Wilbur Wright died of typhoid fever on May 30, 1912, at the age of 45. Orville Wright lived until January 30, 1948, passing away at 76\. He spent his later years promoting aviation technology and serving as a consultant to the U.S. government and various aviation organizations. --- ## Here’s an overview of the park’s history: The park was established in 1992 and is located in Dayton, Ohio, the birthplace of powered flight. It has several National Historic Landmarks. | National Historic LandmarksThere are five National Historic Landmarks and a National Register Historic District located within Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park. These include the Wright Cycle Company building, Hoover Block, Huffman Prairie Flying Field, 1905 Wright Flyer III, Hawthorn Hill, and the Paul Laurence Dunbar State Memorial. Together these sites tell the stories of the lives and legacies of Wilbur Wright, Orville Wright, and Paul Laurence Dunbar.[Wright Cycle Company Building](https://www.nps.gov/daav/planyourvisit/directions.htm?ref=hiking-ohio.com#wdic)The fourth location of the bicycle shop operated by the Wrights is the only building remaining as testament to their bicycle business. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1990.[Hoover Block](https://www.nps.gov/daav/planyourvisit/visitorcenters.htm?ref=hiking-ohio.com)Wilbur and Orville Wright operated Wright & Wright, Job Printers, on the second floor of the Hoover Block from 1890 to 1895\. The building is part of the Wright-Dunbar Visitor Center. Added to the National Register as part of the West Third Street Historic District in 1988.[Huffman Prairie Flying Field](https://www.nps.gov/daav/planyourvisit/directions.htm?ref=hiking-ohio.com#hpic)Retrace the footsteps and flight paths of the Wright brothers, who made the airplane a practical invention at Huffman Prairie Flying Field in 1904 and 1905\. The nearby Huffman Prairie Flying Field Visitor Center discusses the Wrights' accomplishments at the flying field and the history of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1990.[1905 Wright Flyer III](https://www.daytonhistory.org/visit/things-to-see-do/?ref=hiking-ohio.com)The world's first practical airplane, built by the Wright brothers in 1905 and flown at Huffman Prairie Flying Field, is the centerpiece of the Wright Brothers Aviation Center at Dayton History's Carillon Historical Park. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1990.[Hawthorn Hill](https://www.daytonhistory.org/visit/dayton-history-sites/hawthorn-hill/?ref=hiking-ohio.com)In 1914, Orville Wright, Katharine Wright, Milton Wright, and servants Charles and Carrie Kayler Grumbach moved into this large Georgian revival style mansion in Oakwood. Orville lived at Hawthorn Hill until his death in 1948\. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1991.[Paul Laurence Dunbar House Historic Site](https://www.nps.gov/places/dunbar-house.htm?ref=hiking-ohio.com)Paul Laurence Dunbar lived in this house in west Dayton with his mother, Matilda Dunbar, from 1904 until his death in 1906\. After Matilda Dunbar's 1936 death, the state of Ohio acquired the property and opened it for public visitation as the first house museum commemorating an African American. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1962. | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | ## **Addresses and Phone Numbers for the Sites** ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731529190978-R (4).jpg) ### **The Wright-Dunbar Visitor Center** 16 South Williams Street Dayton, Ohio 45402 FREE Phone 937-225-7705 ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731529148451-wright-cycle-company.jpg) ### **The Wright Cycle Company** 22 South Williams Street Dayton, Ohio 45402 FREE Phone 937-225-7705. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731529238901-20230529_201310.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731529239067-IMG_9504.JPG) ### **Huffman Prairie Flying Field Interpretive Center** 2380 Memorial Road Wright-Patters0n Air Force Base Fairborn, Ohio FREE Phone 937-425-0008. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731529322996-2022-11-25.jpg) ### **Huffman Prairie Flying Field** Gate 16A off State Route 444 Fairborn, Ohio FREE Phone 937-425-0008. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731529259380-kfec-1024x682-1.jpg) ### **Dayton History at Carillon Park** 1000 Carillon Boulevard Dayton, Ohio Members free $12.00 Adults $10.00 Seniors (aged 60 and over) $8.00 Children (aged 3-17) Phone 937-293-2841 ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731529352071-231F07AD-1DD8-B71B-0B1600DBBBD2B06AOriginal0-e5f1e3415056a36_e5f1e489-5056-a36a-09cd990bd40cf942.jpg) ### **Paul Laurence Dunbar House** 219 North Paul Laurence Dunbar Street Dayton, Ohio FREE The Dunbar House is available for tours Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10:00am to 4:00pm (last tour at 3:30pm). Phone 937- 224-7061\. --- ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731529379822-R (3).jpg) ## Walking and Nature Trails There are several walking paths and nature trails. Please note that the park focuses more on historical sites related to the Wright brothers, aviation pioneers, and the area's history, rather than hiking. Here are a few of the trails and paths you might find at the park, with information about their length and difficulty: ### 1\. **Wright Brothers Memorial Path** - **Length:** About 0.5 miles (one way) - **Difficulty:** Easy - This paved path leads from the Wright Brothers' Memorial to the Wright brothers' gravesite in **Wright Brothers Memorial Park**, a small green space that commemorates the brothers' contributions to aviation. The path is mostly flat, making it accessible for people of all fitness levels. ### 2\. **Trail at Huffman Prairie Flying Field** - **Length:** Approximately 1.5 miles (loop) - **Difficulty:** Moderate - This path runs through **Huffman Prairie Flying Field**, a historical site where the Wright brothers perfected their flying skills. The trail is a bit more rugged than the memorial path, with grass and uneven ground in certain places. It offers views of the historic airfield and is located in a nature preserve area, making it a pleasant but slightly more challenging walk. ### 3\. **Great Miami River Trail (connecting with Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park)** - **Length:** Over 75 miles (but portions are near the park) - **Difficulty:** Varies, but mostly easy to moderate - This extensive trail runs along the Great Miami River and connects several parks and recreational areas in Dayton, including parts of the **Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park**. The portions that pass through the park are paved and easy to walk or bike on. ### 4\. **Trail at Carillon Historical Park** - **Length:** Varies, approximately 1-2 miles - **Difficulty:** Easy to moderate - Though technically outside the boundaries of the National Historical Park, **Carillon Historical Park** is located nearby and offers several short, accessible walking paths. It includes a variety of exhibits related to the region's history and development of flight, with paved trails leading through the park’s various historical buildings and attractions. --- ### **Conclusion:** Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park serves as a tribute to the pioneering spirit of Orville and Wilbur Wright, as well as to the broader history of aviation and innovation. It helps preserve the stories of those early days of flight, offering an educational and inspiring experience for those interested in the origins of modern aviation. Whether you're a history enthusiast, aviation fan, or simply interested in learning about the innovators who changed the world, Dayton Aviation Heritage is a must-visit destination. --- 🥾 Don't get caught in the wilderness wishing you were more prepared. Find great deals on [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### Dillon Dam State Park: Hiking Guide & Reservoir 2026 URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/dillon-dam-state-park/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:34.000Z Trail FactsDillon Dam State Park4 miDistanceEasyDifficulty200 ftElevation2 hrsDurationLoopTypeYear RoundDog-friendlyFishingScenic view Dillon State Park (often called Dillon Dam State Park locally), in east-central Ohio near Nashport, has **2,285 acres** of park land around Dillon Lake (\~1,560 acres of water) and offers a variety of outdoor activities (acreage as of September 2026 per ODNR/Wikipedia listings). The history of Dillon Dam and Lake is tied to flood control and water supply for the Muskingum River Basin. It was authorized by the Flood Control Act of 1938\. The U.S, Army Corps of Engineers began construction in 1946, but faced delays due to funding issues and the Korean Conflict. The dam's construction resumed in 1958, and it was completed in 1961\. The dam is an earth-filled structure. It is 107 feet tall and 5,800 feet long. It created the Dillon Lake which covers about 1,560 acres. Along with flood mitigation the dam also serves to provide water for various uses, including municipal and industrial needs. ![Steps down toward Dillon Lake shoreline](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731104722615-steps-down-to-lake-level.jpg) --- ## Village of Dillon Dillon has a history tied to the development of the region in the 19th century, particularly around industrialization, transportation, and the growth of the railroads. The area that would become Dillon was initially inhabited by Native American tribes before European settlers arrived in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The land was part of the larger migration of settlers into what was then the western frontier of the United States as Ohio became a state in 1803. Dillon was formally established in the early 19th century. The village was originally part of the land set aside for agricultural development and grew slowly over time as more settlers arrived. The name "Dillon" is believed to have come from an early settler or landowner, though the precise origin of the name is not always documented in historical records. The village began to grow significantly in the mid-19th century, partly due to the development of the railroad system. The construction of railroads helped connect smaller villages like Dillon to larger cities, and this contributed to its growth as a small, rural industrial center. Additionally, like many Ohio towns during this period, Dillon's economy was linked to agriculture, including the production of crops like corn and wheat, and livestock farming. The creation of the Dillon Reservoir also led to the relocation of some existing homes and businesses, which affected the local population in various ways. The community, like many others, experienced a shift as the local economy adapted to the opportunities and challenges posed by the reservoir and its surrounding infrastructure. Under a license from the federal government, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Wildlife and Division of Parks and Recreation manage 8,200 acres of Dillon Reservoir area for wildlife and general recreational purposes. Wildlife management work on the 3,612-acre wildlife area has included protection and improvement of existing woodlands, selective maintenance of shrubby coverts, maintenance of permanent grasslands, maintenance of openland by cropland management, and improvement of the seasonal marshland. Hunting and fishing are the major recreational uses, along with nature study, hiking, boating, and bird watching. --- ## **Dillon Dam State Park**: - **Establishment**: The dam/reservoir were completed in **1961**; ODNR recreation use of Dillon State Park is generally dated to the **late 1960s** (Wikipedia cites 1968). The park is in Muskingum County near Nashport, about 10 miles northwest of Zanesville, centered on Dillon Reservoir (Dillon Lake). - **Dam**: The Dillon Dam and Reservoir are managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. - **State Park:** The surrounding land is part of the Dillon State Park. It is managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. - **Address**: 5265 Dillon Hills Drive, Nashport, OH 43830 (ODNR camp map / park listings as of September 2026; older guides sometimes list SR 146 approaches) - **Coordinates**: Approximately 40.132° N latitude, 82.105° W longitude - **Phone:** (740) 453-4377 - **Official:** Confirm facilities on the [ODNR Dillon State Park page](https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/dillon-state-park?ref=hiking-ohio.com) (property URL intermittently 404'd from this runner) ![Dillon State Park lake and shoreline near Nashport, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731084556824-dillon%2B1.jpg) The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) celebrated the official opening of the Dillon State Park Nature Center and renovated camp store on November 7, 2024, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. These improvements offer visitors improved services and educational experiences for years to come. ![Dillon State Park Nature Center ribbon-cutting display](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731085934569-image.png) --- ## **Hiking Trails** **Trail Maps**: Obtain a trail map from the park office or website to help navigate the trails and ensure you stay on marked paths. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731086473458-dillon.jpg) Here’s an overview of some of the trails: ### 1\. **Dillon State Park Trail System** - **Length**: Various, ranging from 0.5 miles to about 5 miles - **Difficulty**: Easy to Moderate - **Description**: The state park has a variety of smaller, interconnected trails that pass through wooded areas and offer scenic views of the lake. The trails range in length, making them suitable for shorter hikes or longer outings. - **Trail Features**: Most of the trails are relatively easy, with some gentle inclines, and are great for a leisurely walk or family outing. Some trails are mentioned below: - **Blackberry Ridge** — 0.6 Mile — Moderate - \*\*Bog Loop \*\*— 1 Mile — Easy - **Eagle Ridge Loop** — 0.8 Mile — Moderate - **King Ridge Loop** — 1 Mile — Moderate - \*\*Licking Bend \*\*— 4.4 Miles — Moderate - **Ruffed Grouse Loop** — 0.6 Mile — Moderate - **Storybook Trail** — 0.5 Mile, it is paved — Easy; allows bicycles - A number of trails in the park are multi-use (hikers, horseback riders and mountain bikers); hikers are permitted on most trails. Trails are marked when certain activities are prohibited (eg, "no hikers," "no bikes" or "no horses"). ### 2\. **Lake Trail (Dillon State Park)** - **Length**: 1.4 miles (round trip) - **Difficulty**: Easy - **Description**: The **Lake Trail** is a short, easy loop that follows the shoreline of Dillon Reservoir. It’s ideal for beginners or families with small children, as the trail is mostly flat with only a slight incline in some sections. The trail offers beautiful views of the reservoir and opportunities to spot wildlife, particularly birds and waterfowl. ### 3\. **Wildlife Trail (Dillon State Park)** - **Length**: 1.5 miles (loop) - **Difficulty**: Easy to Moderate - **Description**: This trail winds through woodlands and grasslands, offering a good opportunity for birdwatching and observing local wildlife. It’s an easy-to-moderate trail with some gentle inclines. The trail provides lovely views of the surrounding forested landscape and the reservoir. ### 4\. **Dillon Overlook Trail** - **Length**: 1.5 miles (round trip) - **Difficulty**: Moderate - **Description**: The **Dillon Overlook Trail** takes hikers to an elevated viewpoint, where visitors can look out over Dillon Reservoir and the surrounding area. The trail is slightly more challenging due to the elevation gain but offers rewarding views from the top. ### 5\. **Hickory Ridge Trail** - **Length**: 3.5 miles (loop) - **Difficulty**: Moderate - **Description**: The **Hickory Ridge Trail** is one of the longer trails in Dillon State Park. It follows a path through a forested area with some moderately steep sections. Hikers on this trail will encounter diverse habitats and enjoy more solitude compared to the shorter, more heavily trafficked trails. The trail offers some moderate elevation changes and scenic views of the park’s forested areas. ### 6\. **Redbud Trail** - **Length**: 0.6 miles (loop) - **Difficulty**: Easy - **Description**: This short loop trail is great for beginners and families. The trail is mostly level and runs through a forested area, offering a relaxing walk among the trees. It is particularly beautiful in spring when the redbuds are in bloom. ### 7\. **Browns Run Trail** - **Length**: 5.2 miles (loop) - **Difficulty**: Moderate to Difficult - **Description**: For a more challenging hike, the **Browns Run Trail** is a longer trail that offers a mix of steep ascents and descents. It offers a more rugged experience through the park’s forests and hills, making it ideal for experienced hikers. This trail provides the opportunity to experience some of the more rugged, natural beauty of the park, as well as a great workout. #### 8\. **Dillon Trail** - **Length**: Approximately 6 miles - **Description**: This trail offers a scenic hike around Dillon Lake, providing beautiful views of the water and surrounding landscape. It is a relatively flat trail, making it suitable for most hikers. The trail is great for enjoying nature and spotting wildlife. #### 9\. **Bicentennial Trail** - **Length**: About 2 miles - **Description**: This trail is shorter and provides a more moderate hiking experience. It features a loop around the park with diverse scenery, including woodlands and open areas. It’s ideal for a quick hike or a leisurely stroll. #### 10\. **South Trail** - **Length**: Approximately 4 miles - **Description**: The South Trail provides a mix of forested and open terrain. It includes some gentle elevation changes and offers views of the surrounding countryside and lake. It’s a good choice for a moderate hike. #### 11\. **North Trail** - **Length**: Roughly 3 miles - **Description**: This trail explores the northern part of the park and includes scenic views of the lake and wooded areas. It’s a relatively easy hike, suitable for families and casual hikers. ![IMG_2277.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731105154979-IMG_2277.JPG) ![IMG_2280.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731105153479-IMG_2280.JPG) ![photo0jpg.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731105146251-photo0jpg.jpg) ![photo2jpg.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731105146230-photo2jpg.jpg) --- ## Besides Hiking.... Dillon Dam State Park has many other options to enjoy the outdoors: - **Campgrounds**: Dillon Dam State Park features several campgrounds, including both electric and non-electric sites. There are also primitive sites available. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731105073104-IMG_2270.JPG) - **Facilities**: Campgrounds typically include restrooms with showers, picnic tables, and fire rings. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons. - **Tables and Shelters**: There are several picnic areas with tables and shelters throughout the park. Some areas are equipped with grills and trash receptacles. - **Playground**: There is a playground area for children, providing a fun space for families. - **Marina**: Dillon Lake has a marina where you can rent boats and other watercraft. There are also boat ramps for launching your own vessel. ![068t0000002vgNfAAI.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731104959829-068t0000002vgNfAAI.jpg) ![unnamed.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731104959846-unnamed.jpg) - **Fishing**: The lake is stocked with various fish species, including bass, crappie, and catfish. Fishing is allowed, and there are several fishing areas around the lake. - **Reservable Shelters**: There are shelters available for group picnics and events. These can be reserved in advance for larger gatherings or special occasions. - **Facilities**: Restroom facilities are available throughout the park, including near the campgrounds and picnic areas. Most include running water and basic amenities. - **Information**: The park has a visitor center where you can obtain maps, information on park activities, and learn about the park’s history and wildlife. - **Beach Area**: Dillon Lake features a designated swimming area where visitors can enjoy a dip in the lake. Be sure to check for any water safety advisories or rules. ![c5ec0a8f3dce60af37a7ddf02e48c0fb.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731105018323-c5ec0a8f3dce60af37a7ddf02e48c0fb.jpg) ![IMG_2281.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731105021920-IMG_2281.JPG) - **Fishing Opportunities**: The lake offers ample fishing opportunities. You’ll find several spots around the lake ideal for casting a line. - **Bird Watching and Wildlife**: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and other animals. It’s a great spot for nature enthusiasts and wildlife watchers. --- ## Notable Flooding Events on the Muskingum River The dam has significantly reduced the risk of major flooding in the Muskingum River basin, though extreme weather events can still present challenges. #### **1937 Flood** - **Description**: The Great Flood of 1937 was one of the most severe flooding events in the Ohio River Valley region, which includes the Muskingum River. This event was triggered by a combination of intense rainfall and already saturated ground. - **Impact**: The flood caused extensive damage in many cities and towns along the Ohio River and its tributaries, including the Muskingum River. It led to significant property damage, displacement of residents, and economic losses. #### **1959 Flood** - **Description**: In August 1959, a combination of heavy rainfall and the remnants of a tropical storm contributed to significant flooding along the Muskingum River. - **Impact**: The flood resulted in widespread damage to homes and infrastructure, with many communities experiencing severe property damage. This event highlighted the need for improved flood control measures. #### **1969 Flood** - **Description**: Heavy rains in April 1969 led to substantial flooding along the Muskingum River. - **Impact**: The flood caused considerable damage in several communities. It also spurred further investment in flood control infrastructure, including the Dillon Dam, which was constructed to mitigate future flooding. #### **1982 Flood** - **Description**: In January 1982, a combination of heavy rainfall and rapid snowmelt led to significant flooding in the Muskingum River basin. - **Impact**: This flood event caused damage to property and infrastructure and raised awareness about the need for ongoing flood management efforts. #### **2005 Flood** - **Description**: In July 2005, intense rainfall from a series of storms led to significant flooding along the Muskingum River. - **Impact**: The flooding caused considerable damage to homes and businesses in affected areas. It also prompted further discussions about flood management and mitigation strategies. #### **2011 Flood** - **Description**: The spring of 2011 saw heavy rains and storms that resulted in flooding along the Muskingum River. - **Impact**: The flood led to property damage and disruptions in communities along the river. It underscored the importance of effective flood management systems and community preparedness. --- ![dillon_state_park_big_flood_by_ls608_pr533_dfkqyz4-pre.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731104444965-dillon_state_park_big_flood_by_ls608_pr533_dfkqyz4-pre.jpg) ![R.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/11/1731104444950-R.jpg) --- ## Personal Experience We have visited Dillon Dam State Park many times. It is pretty close to where we live. The park never disappoints. The scenery is beautiful and there is a variety of hiking trails suitable for different skill levels, from easy walks along the reservoir to more challenging hikes that provide panoramic views of the area. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced hiker, you’ll find a trail that matches your fitness level and gives you a chance to explore the natural beauty of the region. When you have the opportunity to visit Dillon Dam State Park, you won't be disappointed. If you have any questions or would like to contribute to our blog. Please contact us. ### Salt Fork State Park: Hiking Guide & Trail Map 2026 URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/salt-fork-state-park/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:18:19.000Z Trail FactsSalt Fork State Park8 miDistanceModerateDifficulty500 ftElevation4 hrsDurationLoopTypeYear RoundCampingDog-friendlyScenic viewWildlife **Salt Fork State Park** is a public recreation area located six miles north of Lore City in Guernsey County, Ohio. It is the largest state park in Ohio. It has 17,229 acres of land and 2,952 acres of water (figures widely cited for Ohio’s largest state park; confirm current totals on ODNR as of September 2026). **Trail at a Glance — Salt Fork State Park** | **Distance** | 8.0 miles (loop) | | ------------------ | ---------------------------------------------------- | | **Elevation gain** | 500 ft | | **Difficulty** | Moderate | | **Best season** | Year-round | | **Dogs** | Leashed dogs welcome | | **Highlights** | Ohio's largest state park, ridges, lakeside, camping | | **Location** | Cambridge, Guernsey County, Ohio | The grounds include the Kennedy Stone House, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The park is managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Parks and Watercraft. --- ### Location of Salt Fork State Park - **Address**: Salt Fork State Park, 14755 Cadiz Rd, Lore City, OH 43755 - **Park office phone (as of September 2026, ODNR):** (740) 439-3521 - **Official site:** [ODNR Salt Fork State Park](https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/salt-fork-state-park?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - **Coordinates**: Approximately 39.989° N latitude, 81.556° W longitude - **Region**: The park is situated in southeastern Ohio, primarily in Guernsey County, with some parts extending into neighboring counties. ![Salt Fork State Park scenic view](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1730154881375-OIP%20%288%29.jpg) --- ### **History:** Salt Fork State Park was established in 1957 and is named after the Salt Fork of the Muskingum River which runs through it. The park's name is in refer to the historical salt licks in the area, which were significant to early settlers and indigenous peoples. Salt Fork is said to have derived its name from a salt well used by Native Americans, located near the southeastern corner of the park. This area was one of the first areas in Ohio to be settled by pioneers. Some of these settlers followed Zane’s Trace into the Ohio wilderness - a route which led them into the Guernsey County area. From Zanesville east to the Ohio River, the Trace became part of the National Road, a major east-west transportation route constructed in 1811\. Today, the old National Road is known as U.S. Route 40 and passes near Salt Fork State Park. The park’s creation was part of a movement in the mid-20th century to develop state parks for recreation and conservation. Before settlement, Ohio was a forest stretching from the Appalachian Mountains to the Great Plains. Towering oak, hickory, beech, maple, walnut, chestnut, and ash trees (some more than 150 feet tall) were rooted in the soil. By 1900, most of Ohio’s original forest was gone. In its place was fields of wheat, corn, oats, hay, and thriving towns and cities. Plans for developing the lake began in 1956\. The reservoir was originally intended for a water source for the city of Cambridge. However, the potential for the area to become a major recreation area in the state was too great to be denied. In 1960, land acquisition was begun to create a state park. The earthen dam was completed in 1967, and construction of recreational facilities began in mid 1968\. The spacious Salt Fork Lodge was opened in May 1972. ![Salt Fork State Park landscape](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1730154723018-OIP%20%283%29%20-%20Copy.jpg) ![Salt Fork State Park, Guernsey County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1730154861526-Salt-Fork-lodge-pool.jpg) ![Salt Fork State Park trail or shoreline](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1730155062652-OIP%20%281%29.jpg) ![Salt Fork State Park view](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1730155062666-OIP%20%285%29.jpg) ![Salt Fork State Park woods or lake](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1730155062686-OIP%20%286%29.jpg) ![Salt Fork State Park recreation area](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1730155062674-OIP%20%287%29.jpg) ![Salt-Fork_gallery.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1730155062886-Salt-Fork_gallery.jpg) ![Salt-Fork-cabin_hero.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1730155062885-Salt-Fork-cabin_hero.jpg) ![Salt Fork State Park photo](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1730155090378-IMG_6735%20-%20Copy.jpg) --- ### **Amenities:** - **Lodging:** The park features a lodge with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and meeting facilities. There are also cabins available for rent. - **Camping:** There are both primitive and electric campsites, along with a modern campground with facilities. ![Salt Fork State Park lake view](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1730154765884-salt%20fork4.jpg) - \*\*Nature Center: \*\* The nature center is a good place to find varied information about Salt Creek State Park. - **Picnic Areas:** Several picnic areas with tables and grills are scattered throughout the park. ![Salt-Fork-cabin_hero.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1730154933693-Salt-Fork-cabin_hero.jpg) - **Fishing:** The park's lake offers opportunities for fishing, with various species such as largemouth bass, bluegill, catfish, walleye, muskellunge, and crappie. - **Hunting:** There are designated areas for hunters with Ohio Hunting License. - **Boating:** Boat rentals are available, and there are 2 marinas and 7 boat launching ramps for those who bring their own boats. - **Swimming:** There is a 2,500-foot beach area for swimming in the lake. ![Salt Fork State Park scenery](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1730154793072-OIP%20%282%29.jpg) - **Horseback Riding:** The park has horse camps and bridle trails for horseback riding. - **Golfing:** There is an 18-hole golf course. ![Salt Fork State Park overlook](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1730154972568-OIP%20%285%29.jpg) - **Hiking Trails:** There are many hiking trails with different distances and difficulties. Some are listed below in the Hiking Trails section. - \*\*Snowmobiling: \*\*There are trails designated for winter use. - **Miniature Golf:** There is a miniature golf course. - **Archery Range:** The archery range is for public use. --- ### **Hiking Trails:** Salt Fork State Park offers a range of hiking trails with varying lengths and difficulty levels. Here are a few highlights: - **Salt Fork Trail:** This is the main trail running through the park. It offers scenic views and a chance to experience the diverse flora and fauna of the area. The entire trail is approximately 14 miles long. - **The Lakeside Trail:** This trail circles the lake, providing beautiful water views and is about 7 miles long. It’s relatively flat and easy, making it suitable for families. - **Bridle Trails:** Several trails are designated for horseback riding and vary in length. They generally range from 3 to 10 miles. - **Sandy Ridge Trail:** A moderately challenging trail that offers a bit more rugged terrain. It’s about 5 miles long and provides a more immersive natural experience. - **Whipple Trail:** This is a shorter trail, around 2 miles, perfect for a quick hike with rewarding scenery. Trails range from short 1-2-mile loops to longer 14-mile hikes. The park's layout allows for a mix of short hikes and longer ones for all different levels of hikers. --- ### Kennedy Stone House In 1837, Irish native Benjamin Kennedy bought 80-acre of land from Solomon Sturgis, who had obtained it as a land grant for military service. The house is built in a Victorian style with stone construction. Its design reflects the craftsmanship and architectural trends of that period. Built from local quarry stone, the Kennedy Stone House is a historical gem. The stone house overlooks Sugar Tree Fork. Stone was used for the walls, and slate covers the roof. The house being only one room deep meant during the family's growth a new addition would be made. A two-story wooden-frame wing was added to the rear of the building and contained the summer kitchen and several bedrooms. This addition did not endure. The reconstruction only includes the summer kitchen. A root cellar is located to the right of the house and built of thick stone blocks. The sides of the cellar are lined with dirt and plants to allow for cooler internal temperatures. The ceiling is penetrated by two diamond-shaped holes for ventilation and light. The well and a natural spring have been capped. Kennedy's descendants owned and inhabited the house for more than a century. The state government bought the land in 1942, but Kennedys were permitted to continue living in the house. The Kennedys were involved in agriculture and contributed to the local community's development. When Salt Fork State Park was being developed, the house could no longer be inhabited, and its final resident, Benjamin's great-great-grandson Don Kennedy, moved out in 1966. The house is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The house and surrounding structures were placed on the National Register on October 3, 1975. In 1975 it was placed on the National Register and remained in its abandoned state. The roof was damaged during a storm when a tree branch fell through the roof, but the parks crew replaced it. This started a movement to fix the house, and it was named the Guernsey County Bicentennial Commission Legacy Program. Local volunteers cleaned up the area and soon transformed themselves into *Friends for the Restoration of The Kennedy Stone House*. Major restoration was done from 2000 to 2002. The organization transformed itself into the *Friends of the Kennedy Stone House Salt Fork State Park* and maintains the house as a museum. One of the programs the organization performs is the docent program, where retirees or history students from Muskingum College occupy a cabin above the stone house and are charged as caretakers to the property. It can be visited most weekends from May until October. ![History-Salt-Fork-Stone-House2_gallery.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1730154620099-History-Salt-Fork-Stone-House2_gallery.jpg) ![History-Salt-Fork-Stone-House-Interior_gallery.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1730154620073-History-Salt-Fork-Stone-House-Interior_gallery.jpg) --- ### Mining and Fracking in the Area Industry continued to develop in Ohio. Many of the southeastern Ohio counties became coal-producing areas. There was demand for this important fuel source, Guernsey County became one of Ohio's leading coal producers. Remnants of old mining operations can sometimes be found in the area. Abundant reserves of clay allowed the development of a pottery industry in the county as well. Historical mining activities have left their mark. Current mining operations are relatively limited in the immediate vicinity of the park. But mining in nearby regions can still impact the environment. The region of southeastern Ohio, including parts of Guernsey County, has been involved in oil and gas production, including hydraulic fracturing (fracking). This has primarily occurred in the Utica and Marcellus shale formations. Fracking operations can have environmental impacts, including potential effects on water quality, air quality, and natural habitats. While Salt Fork State Park itself is a protected area with conservation efforts, nearby fracking activities may have indirect effects on the park’s environment. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) and other regulatory agencies oversee fracking operations to ensure compliance with environmental standards and minimize impacts. Public concerns and regulatory measures aim to balance energy production with environmental protection. Salt Fork State Park, located in Ohio, has been the subject of discussions regarding drilling for oil and gas. Like many areas with natural resources, there can be tension between conservation efforts and energy development. Drilling activities can impact the environment, wildlife, and recreational opportunities. Drilling activities can vary by year and depend on market conditions and regulations. It's important to check with local state authorities or park management for the most up-to-date information on any ongoing drilling operations. Some state parks have areas where oil and gas drilling is permitted, often through leasing agreements with energy companies. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) oversees oil and gas drilling in the state, including regulations specific to state parks. These regulations aim to balance resource extraction with conservation. There may be public comment periods for proposed drilling projects, allowing residents and stakeholders to voice their concerns. --- ### Resources for Updates - **ODNR Website**: For the latest updates on drilling activities and regulations, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources' website is a valuable resource. - **Local News**: Local news outlets may cover developments regarding drilling and its impact on Salt Fork State Park. For the most current and detailed information, contacting park officials or checking with the ODNR directly would be the best approach. Recently, two bids to Infinity Natural Resources to frack under Salt Fork State Park were approved. It will pay Ohio more than $58 million and a 12.5% royalty. --- ### Salt Fork State Park and nearby Salt Fork National Forest Salt Fork State Park and the nearby Salt Fork National Forest are located in a region rich with natural beauty and historical sites. However, there might be a bit of confusion. Salt Fork National Forest doesn't exist as a separate national forest. Instead, Salt Fork is part of the larger Wayne National Forest in southeastern Ohio, which is the only national forest in the state. --- ### **Wayne National Forest Overview** Wayne National Forest was established in 1934\. It was created as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal programs, which aimed to restore and conserve lands that had been depleted by logging and poor land management practices. It is named in honor of General Anthony Wayne, a prominent figure in American history and a hero of the Revolutionary War. **Trails in Wayne National Forest** 1. **North Country Trail (NCT):** - **Length:** Approximately 1,200 miles of the trail system are located in Ohio, but the entire North Country Trail spans over 4,600 miles from New York to North Dakota. - **Description:** This long-distance trail traverses through Wayne National Forest, offering scenic views of the forested landscape, ridges, and valleys. It is part of a larger trail network that extends across multiple states. 1. **Buckeye Trail:** - **Length:** The entire Buckeye Trail is about 1,444 miles long, with segments running through Wayne National Forest. - **Description:** This trail circles the entire state of Ohio. Within Wayne National Forest, it features a mix of rugged terrain, forested paths, and scenic vistas. 1. **Trails at Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area:** - **Length:** Trails here vary in length, with options ranging from short loops to longer hikes. - **Description:** This area includes trails such as the Vesuvius Trail, which offers scenic views of Lake Vesuvius and the surrounding hills. Trails in this area are popular for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the lake’s beauty. 1. **Fork Ridge Trail:** - **Length:** Approximately 4.5 miles. - **Description:** A moderately challenging trail that provides a great hiking experience with views of the forest and opportunities to spot wildlife. The trail features a variety of terrain, including hilly sections and forested paths. 1. **Thornville Trail:** - **Length:** About 5 miles. - **Description:** This trail offers a pleasant hike through wooded areas and is relatively easy, making it suitable for families and casual hikers. 1. **The Grandview Trail:** - **Length:** Approximately 3 miles. - **Description:** Known for its stunning views of the forested landscape and scenic overlooks. It’s a relatively short hike but provides rewarding vistas. Wayne National Forest provides opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of southeastern Ohio. --- ### Summary Salt Fork State Park is a wonderful destination in southeastern Ohio. It offers a range of outdoor activities. The area around the park has a history of mining. The current fracking activities in the broader region can have environmental implications. While Salt Fork State Park is protected and managed for conservation and recreation, it is important to be aware of the broader regional context regarding natural resource extraction and its potential effects. I have spent a great deal of time at Salt Fork State Park. When I worked for the State of Ohio we conducted our annual conferences at the lodge. I have also hiked many of the trails. I really like the park's atmosphere and beauty. If you have the opportunity to visit, you won't be disappointed. If you have any questions or information, please contact us. ## Explore Nearby Trails More Ohio trail guides worth a visit: - [Dillon State Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/dillon-dam-state-park/) - [Zaleski State Forest](https://hiking-ohio.com/zaleski-state-forest/) - [Mohican State Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/mohican-memorial-state-forest-and-state-park/) - [John Bryan State Park & Clifton Gorge](https://hiking-ohio.com/john-bryan-state-park-clifton-gorge-yellow-springs-ohio/) - [Deer Creek State Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/deer-creek-state-park/) - [Hocking Hills: Every Trail Ranked](https://hiking-ohio.com/hocking-hills-state-park-every-trail-ranked/) ### John Bryan State Park: Trail Guide & Gorge Map 2026 URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/john-bryan-state-park-clifton-gorge-yellow-springs-ohio/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:54.000Z Trail FactsJohn Bryan State Park5.5 miDistanceModerateDifficulty350 ftElevation2.8 hrsDurationLoopTypeFallSpringScenic viewWaterfallWildlife John Bryan is a scenic state park in western Ohio. The 752-acre park (as of September 2026; Wikipedia/ODNR-linked figures) contains a limestone gorge cut by the Little Miami River which is designated as a state and national scenic river. A portion of the gorge itself is designated as a national natural landmark. **Trail at a Glance — John Bryan State Park** | **Distance** | 5.5 miles (loop) | | ------------------ | --------------------------------------- | | **Elevation gain** | 350 ft | | **Difficulty** | Moderate | | **Best season** | Spring & Fall (peak) | | **Dogs** | Leashed dogs welcome | | **Highlights** | Waterfall, scenic gorge views, wildlife | | **Location** | Yellow Springs, Greene County, Ohio | ![John Bryan State Park, Greene County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1730043716555-image.png) Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve, Glen Helen Nature Preserve, Clifton Mill and Yellow Springs Village are located close to one another. It is hard to separate into separate blogs, so I didn't. ![John Bryan State Park, Greene County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1729807513233-image.png) ### History of John Bryan State Park This park was named in honor of John Bryan, an Ohioan known for his contributions to the region, including his work in conservation and community service. John Bryan (1826-1895) was a notable figure in Ohio's history, known for his contributions to the region's development and his involvement in various social and political causes. Bryan was well-educated, attending local schools and later studying at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. He was a strong advocate for the preservation of natural landscapes and the protection of public lands. His efforts were instrumental in the establishment of parks and natural preserves in the region. In recognition of his contributions to the region and his advocacy for conservation, John Bryan State Park was established in 1958\. The park, located near the village of Yellow Springs, Ohio, preserves part of the scenic Clifton Gorge and provides recreational opportunities for the public. The park's creation was a tribute to Bryan's efforts to protect and enhance natural areas in the region. - **Establishment:** John Bryan State Park was established in 1958\. It was named in honor of John Bryan, a prominent Ohioan who was known for his contributions to the local community and his advocacy for conservation and public lands. - **Location:** The park is situated in southwestern Ohio, near the village of Yellow Springs, and it encompasses part of the scenic Clifton Gorge, an area known for its dramatic gorge and river views. - **Development:** The park was developed to preserve the natural beauty of the Clifton Gorge area and to provide recreational opportunities for the public. It is part of a larger conservation effort to protect and enhance the natural environment of the region. ![John Bryan State Park / Clifton Gorge scenery](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1730041440855-image000000%20%287%29.jpg) ![Trail view at John Bryan State Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1730041441007-IMG_20241027_102215%20%281%29.jpg) ![IMG_20241027_102638.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1730041440999-IMG_20241027_102638.jpg) --- ### Trails in and Around Yellow Springs **1\. Clifton Gorge Trail** - **Length:** Approximately 4 miles (round trip) - **Description:** This trail follows the Clifton Gorge along the Little Miami River. It features dramatic gorge views, rocky outcrops, and diverse vegetation. The trail provides several scenic overlooks. - **Difficulty:** Moderate to strenuous. It includes uneven terrain and some steep sections. **2\. John Bryan Trail** - **Length:** About 6 miles (round trip) - **Description:** The John Bryan Trail connects to the Clifton Gorge Trail and traverses various landscapes including woodlands and riverbanks. It offers extensive views of the park's natural beauty. - **Difficulty:** Moderate. The trail has some elevation changes and flat sections, suitable for most hikers but can be demanding over longer distances. **3\. Cedar Falls Trail** - **Length:** Approximately 2 miles - **Description:** This shorter trail leads to Cedar Falls, a picturesque waterfall. It features some rugged terrain and elevation changes. - **Difficulty:** Moderate. The trail can be steep and rocky, especially near the falls. **4\. Yellow Springs Trail** - **Length:** Varies (approximately 2-3 miles) - **Description:** This trail connects the park with the village of Yellow Springs, offering a mix of wooded and open areas. It provides a connection between the natural areas and the village. - **Difficulty:** Easy to moderate. The trail is mostly flat and well-maintained but can vary depending on the specific route. **5\. Glen Helen Nature Preserve Trails** - **Length:** Various trails totaling about 25 miles - **Description:** Located just outside Yellow Springs, the Glen Helen Nature Preserve offers a network of trails through diverse habitats including forests, meadows, and along the stream. - **Difficulty:** Varies from easy to moderate. Trails offer a range of experiences from gentle walks to more challenging hikes. **6\. Little Miami Scenic Trail** - **Length:** Approximately 78 miles (total trail length, with segments accessible from Yellow Springs) - **Description:** This multi-use trail follows the Little Miami River and provides scenic views, access to parks, and connections to other trails. It is ideal for walking, biking, and running. - **Difficulty:** Easy to moderate. The trail is generally flat and well-maintained. Several points along the trails offer spectacular views of the Clifton Gorge and the Little Miami River. --- ### Visiting Information John Bryan State Park is open year-round, but specific facilities may have seasonal hours. Always check for the latest information on park hours and conditions. 3790 State Route 370, Yellow Springs, OH 45387 Phone (937) 767-1274 (park office; as of September 2026, per ODNR). Official page: [John Bryan State Park](https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/john-bryan-state-park?ref=hiking-ohio.com). The park’s visitor center provides maps, trail information, and additional resources for visitors. --- ### Yellow Springs a Natural Spring The town of Yellow Springs was named for a natural spring. It was known for its healing properties. \*\*But don’t drink the water. \*\* The spring was discovered in the 1800s and its claim to fame from rumors that drinking from the spring cured various health conditions. Although the rumors might be true, drinking from unpurified water isn’t always safe. High iron in the water leaves yellow deposits on the surrounding rocks, giving it its name. ![John Bryan State Park, Greene County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1729804318292-shutterstock-152172131-huge-licensed-scaled.jpg) --- ### The Village of Yellow Springs ![Yellow Springs Street Fair sign](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1730041840831-Yellow%20Springs%20Street%20Fair%20sign.JPG) Native Americans, including Tecumseh, once called the surrounding forests their home. In 1825, Yellow Springs was inhabited by the Owenites, a short-lived cooperative community. The Reverend Moncure Daniel Conway arrived in town with a group of free slaves, in 1862\. He believed they could live a safe and prosperous life in Yellow Springs. The healing waters of the Yellow Springs, where the village derived its name, spurred the development of resorts and health spas in the village. The arrival of the Little Miami Railroad in 1846 provided further economic growth and prosperity to Yellow Springs. The railroad brought visitors to the resorts and goods to the local businesses. The opening of Antioch College in 1853 provided the village with a strong educational foundation. The Village of Yellow Springs has approximately 4,000 residents and is located in Greene County in southwestern Ohio. Yellow Springs is known today as an eclectic village of artisans, educators, and musicians. --- ### **Recreational Activities** Extensive recreational attractions include the Little Miami Scenic Trail for cycling; 2000 acres of woodland and rivers edge hiking trails in Glen Helen, John Bryan State Park and Clifton Gorge; a swimming pool, skate park, playgrounds, soccer and baseball fields, basketball and tennis courts. There is the Little Miami Bike Trail which runs through Yellow Springs which is part of the nation’s largest network of paved, off-street trails, bike, hike or rollerblade through woodlands, farms and towns on this picturesque trail through Southwest Ohio. In addition to hiking, visitors can enjoy picnicking, fishing, and birdwatching. The park includes picnic areas and a campground for overnight stays. The park’s wooded campground offers 50 electric and non-electric sites. It's great for tent camping. Most sites are partially shaded and equipped with picnic tables and fire rings. Pets are permitted on all sites. Reserve through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources website. --- ![2017-12-02.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1730042685012-2017-12-02.jpg) ![Antioch College sign in Yellow Springs, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1730042685063-Antioch%20College%20Sign.jpg) ![th.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1730042685031-th.jpg) ### Antioch College Antioch College, located in Yellow Springs, Ohio, was founded in 1852\. It was established by a group of New England Transcendentalists, including the influential abolitionist and social reformer Horace Mann. The college was named after the ancient city of Antioch, symbolizing its mission to provide a progressive education. Horace Mann, first president of Antioch College, was an abolitionist and educational visionary. He was father of Antioch College and of the American public school. The College was among the first nonsectarian educational institutions in the United States. It was the first coeducational college in the nation to offer the same educational opportunities to both men and women.Iit was the first to appoint a woman to its faculty and to its Board of Trustees. It was also among the first to offer African-Americans equal educational opportunities. [https://antiochcollege.edu/](https://antiochcollege.edu/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ## Antioch College Symbol ![John Bryan State Park, Greene County, Ohio](https://antiochcollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/antiochlogotransp-300x300.png) Into its symbol—created in 1950—Antioch College has designed several meanings. Composed of symmetrical geometrical figures—and inspired by Leonardo daVinci’s “Vitruvian Man”—this “circle, square, triangle” symbol suggests the ideal of symmetry and balance in education. --- ### H**ippie Culture in Yellow Springs, Ohio** ![Yellow Springs area landmark](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1730043047805-OIP%20%281%29%20-%20Copy.jpg) ![Yellow Springs / John Bryan area photo](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1730043047848-th%20%282%29%20-%20Copy.jpg) Yellow Springs, Ohio, has a notable connection to the counterculture and hippie movement of the 1960s and 1970s. when the United States experienced significant social upheaval and the rise of the counterculture movement. This movement was characterized by a rejection of traditional values, experimentation with alternative lifestyles, and a focus on peace, love, and communal living. Hippies, who were central to this movement, embraced values such as environmentalism, pacifism, and alternative medicine, often challenging societal norms. Yellow Springs, Ohio, became a significant center for hippie culture. The legacy of this era is still present in the town’s vibrant arts scene, progressive values, and commitment to social and environmental issues. Antioch College was crucial role in attracting counterculture figures to the village. The college was known for its progressive education, social activism, and involvement in the civil rights movement, which aligned with the values of many in the hippie community. --- ### The Cincinnati-Pittsburgh Stage Road A historic stagecoach trail formerly ran through what is now John Bryan State Park. The Cincinnati-Pittsburgh Stage Road served the surrounding area, and several enterprising settlers began establishing water-powered industries in the gorge. One textile mill built in 1806 spanned the gorge with an innovative cantilever design, offering access on both sides of the Little Miami River. At one point there were 14 mills in the area. ![John+Bryan+SP+-+Stagecoach+Trail.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1729795830518-John+Bryan+SP+-+Stagecoach+Trail.jpg) ![John+Bryan+SP+-+Stagecoach+Trail+(2).jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1729795830492-John+Bryan+SP+-+Stagecoach+Trail+%282%29.jpg) Most of the mills were abandoned by the late 1800s and quickly fell to ruin, although the Clifton Mill in nearby Clifton has been preserved for modern day tourists. Remnants of the foundations of the other historic mills can still be seen by observant hikers, and a portion of the park’s rim trail follows the old stagecoach road. ![John Bryan State Park map or screenshot](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1729797507743-Screenshot%202024-10-24%20151704.jpg) The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) developed the park facilities. The CCC arrived at John Bryan in June 1935 to begin six years of work. The men laid out roads and blazed miles of trails, including the Pittsburgh–Cincinnati Stagecoach Trail, preserving a fragment of the 19th-century wagon road. Because of the CCC, the old stage road exists for a new type of public use. The Pittsburgh-Cincinnati Stagecoach Trail winds two miles along the Little Miami River until it climbs to the top of the bank near the foundation of the old paper mill. After being closed for several years, the South Gorge Bridge along this trail is now open. --- ### **Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve** ![John Bryan State Park, Greene County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1730042905779-OIP.jpg) This 268-acre preserve protects one of the most spectacular dolomite and limestone gorges in the state. Registered as a National Natural Landmark in 1968, Clifton Gorge encompasses a 2-mile stretch of the Little Miami State and National Scenic River, just east of John Bryan State Park. It is located at: Address: 2381 State Route 343, Yellow Springs, OH 45387-8808 Phone: (614) 265-6453 Open 1/2 hour before sunrise, 1/2 hour after sunset 3 miles of hiking trails: - Gorge Trail - 1 mile - Narrows Trail - 0.5 mile - Orton Trail - 0.5 mile - Rim Trail - 1 mile ### Glen Helen Nature Preserve Glen Helen is the legacy of alumnus Hugh Taylor Birch, who, in 1929, donated the wooded glen to Antioch College in memory of his daughter, Helen. With this gift, a foundation was laid to establish the Glen Helen Nature Preserve. Additional gifts have expanded the preserve, which now encompasses 1,125 acres, all accessible from a 15-mile network of footpaths. Antioch College completed a conservation easement in 2015 through the Tecumseh Land Trust to ensure it would be preserved in perpetuity against development. ![John Bryan State Park, Greene County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1729797181245-image.png) It is home to the first residential environmental learning facility in the Midwest and Ohio’s original facility for education and rehabilitation of birds of prey. Within our borders, it shelters nearly two miles of the State and National Scenic Little Miami River and one of Ohio’s only National Natural Landmarks. ​The Glen Helen Association came together in 1960 to successfully fight a pair of threats to the future of Glen Helen Nature Preserve – a highway bypass for what is now US 68, and a municipal sewer line for the Village of Yellow Springs. In September 2020, the Association made an agreement with Antioch College and assumed ownership and responsibility for operating the preserve and its programs. ​The Glen has become the largest, and most visited private nature preserve in the Miami Valley. ​[https://www.glenhelen.org/visit](https://www.glenhelen.org/visit?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ### Conclusion There is much to see and do at John Bryan State Park. The hiking is wonderful. Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve is breathtaking. Also, Clifton Mill is a fun place to visit as well as Yellow Springs. I highly recommend visiting. You won't be disappointed. If you have any questions or information to add, please contact us. ![John Bryan State Park, Greene County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1730043735852-image.png) ## Explore Nearby Trails More Ohio trail guides worth a visit: - [Best Hikes Near Dayton](https://hiking-ohio.com/best-hikes-near-dayton-ohio-10-trails-and-day-trips/) - [Caesar Creek State Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/caesar-creek-state-park-and-pioneer-village/) - [Ohio Waterfall Hikes](https://hiking-ohio.com/ohio-waterfall-hikes-7-best-trails-to-chase-cascades/) - [Deer Creek State Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/deer-creek-state-park/) - [Salt Fork State Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/salt-fork-state-park/) - [Three Creeks Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/three-creeks-park/) ### Caesar Creek State Park: Trail Guide & Fossil Hunt 2026 URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/caesar-creek-state-park-and-pioneer-village/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:18.000Z Trail FactsCaesar Creek State Park5.2 miDistanceModerateDifficulty350 ftElevation2.5 hrsDurationLoopTypeYear RoundDog-friendlyScenic viewWildlife Caesar Creek State Park is located in southwestern Ohio. It was established in the 1970s. ODNR lists the park at **7,086 acres**, plus the **\~2,830-acre** Caesar Creek Lake reservoir (as of September 2026). The park is named for the nearby Caesar Creek. The creek was named for the Native American chief Caesar. ![A silhouette illustration of a Native American on horseback with a bow at sunset](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728773253776-indian-557261_1920.jpg) Caesar was a runaway slave who joined the Shawnee tribe in Ohio in the late 1700s. Caesar Creek in Waynesville is named after him, but his story is not well known. Kane Stratton of Yellow Springs is hoping to change that. His short film, “Caesar: An American Maroon,” depicts a fictionalized key moment in Caesar’s life. Chief Caesar was a prominent Native American leader of the Shawnee tribe during the late 18th century. He played a significant role during a time of considerable upheaval as settlers encroached on indigenous lands in what is now the United States. Chief Caesar's leadership occurred during a period when many Native American tribes were resisting European-American expansion. The Shawnee were particularly active in this resistance, forming alliances and participating in various conflicts, including the Northwest Indian War. He was known for his efforts to negotiate and maintain peace with settlers, even as tensions grew. He sought to protect Shawnee lands and way of life amidst increasing pressure from European settlers. The name "Caesar Creek" and the surrounding area reflect his influence and significance in the region. His legacy is part of the broader history of Native American resistance and adaptation during a transformative period in American history. Chief Caesar's contributions and the challenges faced by his people are important aspects of the history of the region, underscoring the complexities of Native American-European settler relations. --- ### Information **Visitor info (as of September 2026, ODNR):** - **Address:** 8570 E. State Route 73, Waynesville, OH 45068 - **Park hours:** 6 a.m.–11 p.m. daily - **Park office:** (513) 897-3055; typically 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m. Monday–Friday - **Official:** Confirm facilities on the [ODNR Caesar Creek State Park page](https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/caesar-creek-state-park?ref=hiking-ohio.com) (property URL intermittently 404'd from this runner — re-verify at Ghost push) **Park Hours:** 6am to 11pm daily. If you have questions, call the park office. **Park Office:** (513) 897-3055; 8:30am to 4pm Monday-Friday **Camp Store:** (937) 488-4595; 9am to 9pm every day (seasonal; subject to change) **Marina:** 10am to 6pm Monday-Thursday; 7am to 8:30pm Friday-Sunday (seasonal; subject to change) **Nature Center:** (937) 728-2426; 10am to 4pm Wed-Thu-Fri-Sat and Noon-4pm Sunday during winter. Schools and groups are welcome to arrange visits outside of public hours. ![caesar-creek-fossils2.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1729858086295-caesar-creek-fossils2.jpg) **Fossil collection** is allowed at Caesar Creek State Park with the following restrictions: No tools allowed, no fossil collecting for commercial use, all fossils kept must fit in the palm of your hand, and all fossil collection must take place in the designated fossil collection zone. --- ### Pioneer Village The park has a large lake. There are recreational activities like fishing, boating, and swimming. The park also features several picnic areas, trails, and campgrounds, providing many opportunities for recreation. The surrounding area includes rolling hills, woodlands, and meadows. It a popular place for hiking, camping, and wildlife observation. In addition to its natural beauty, the park is known for historical attractions like Pioneer Village, which showcases early settler life. Pioneer Village is a reconstructed historic village that showcases life in the early 1800s. It features several log cabins, a one-room schoolhouse, and other structures. Established in the 1970s, the village features a collection of authentic historic buildings that were relocated from various sites in southwestern Ohio to create a living history museum. Pioneer Village hosts various events, demonstrations, and educational programs throughout the year, allowing visitors to experience historical crafts, farming techniques, and traditional celebrations. This hands-on approach helps preserve local history and fosters an appreciation for the pioneering spirit of early American settlers. Pioneer Village at Caesar Creek State Park was created by relocating several historic buildings from different locations in southwestern Ohio. The structures were moved to the park to form a representation of early 19th-century rural life. Each building was carefully restored and furnished to reflect the era. The village includes structures like a log cabin, a schoolhouse, a church, and a general store, all intended to represent the pioneer lifestyle. ![IMG_3479.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728772467956-IMG_3479.JPG) ![IMG_3486.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728772466550-IMG_3486.JPG) ![IMG_3489.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728772466077-IMG_3489.JPG) ![IMG_3493.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728772468381-IMG_3493.JPG) ![IMG_3499.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728772464764-IMG_3499.JPG) ![IMG_3512.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728772464597-IMG_3512.JPG) ![IMG_3513.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728772456744-IMG_3513.JPG) ![IMG_3484.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728772516871-IMG_3484.JPG) ![IMG_3497.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728772517505-IMG_3497.JPG) --- ### **Hiking Trails in Caesar Creek State Park** ![An Ohio Department of Natural Resources park map of Caesar Creek State Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728772699505-Screenshot%202024-10-12%20183055.jpg) 1. **Caesar Creek Trail** 2. **Length:** Approximately 9.5 miles 3. **Difficulty:** Moderate 4. **Description:** This trail circles Caesar Creek Lake and features scenic views of the water, forests, and meadows. It includes some gentle elevation changes and is well-marked, making it suitable for intermediate hikers. 5. **Pioneer Village Trail** 6. **Length:** About 1 mile 7. **Description:** This short, easy trail takes you through the Pioneer Village area, allowing visitors to explore the historical sites while enjoying a short walk among the buildings. 8. **Bridle Trail and Other Horse Trails** 9. **Length:** Approximately 5 - 11 miles 10. **Difficulty:** Easy to Moderate 11. **Description:** While primarily designed for horseback riding, these trails can also be hiked. They meander through beautiful landscapes, providing a different perspective of the park. 12. **Hiking Trail (North Loop)** 13. **Length:** Roughly 2.5 miles 14. **Difficulty:** Moderate 15. **Description:** This loop features a mix of wooded areas and open fields. It’s a great trail for those looking for a shorter hike with some beautiful natural scenery. 16. **Hiking Trail (South Loop)** 17. **Length:** Approximately 3 miles 18. **Difficulty:** Moderate 19. **Description:** Similar to the North Loop, this trail offers varied terrain and is a good option for those wanting to explore more of the park’s diverse ecosystems. 20. **Nature Trail** 21. **Length:** About 1 mile 22. **Difficulty:** Easy 23. **Description:** A short and accessible trail perfect for families or those looking for a leisurely stroll. It features interpretive signs about the local flora and fauna. 24. **Other Shorter Trails** 25. Various shorter trails (0.5 to 2 miles) connect different parts of the park, allowing for a mix of shorter hikes and nature walks. ![IMG_3418.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728772667262-IMG_3418.JPG) ![IMG_3421.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728772671259-IMG_3421.JPG) ![IMG_3424.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728772665096-IMG_3424.JPG) ![IMG_3429.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728772674075-IMG_3429.JPG) ![IMG_3436.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728772675697-IMG_3436.JPG) ![IMG_3444.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728772674412-IMG_3444.JPG) ![IMG_3448.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728772675266-IMG_3448.JPG) ![IMG_3455.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728772676328-IMG_3455.JPG) ![IMG_3465.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728772662996-IMG_3465.JPG) --- ### **General Tips:** - **Wildlife:** Keep an eye out for deer, birds, and other wildlife along the trails. - **Seasons:** Each season offers a unique experience, from blooming wildflowers in spring to vibrant foliage in the fall. - **Visitor Center:** Check in at the visitor center for maps, trail updates, and additional historical context about the area. - **Facilities:** There are picnic areas and restrooms available throughout the park. --- ### History The construction of the Caesar Creek Lake flooded the small farming village of New Burlington, Ohio in 1978\. The history of the community was collected through stories, letters, and journals in the book [*New Burlington: The Life and Death of an American Village*](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New%5FBurlington%5F%28book%29?ref=hiking-ohio.com) by [John Baskin](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John%5FBaskin%5F%28writer%29?ref=hiking-ohio.com). ![A wooden marker for the Site of New Burlington 1803-1971 with a small American flag, along the road](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728774149581-NewBurlington1.JPG) The park itself is part of the Caesar Creek Lake project, which was developed in the 1970s by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The lake was created primarily for flood control, but it also serves recreational purposes. The park encompasses various habitats, including woodlands, wetlands, and open fields, providing a diverse ecosystem. The Caesar Creek area has experienced flooding issues, particularly due to its geographical features and heavy rainfall events. The Caesar Creek Reservoir, which is part of Caesar Creek State Park, was constructed in the 1970s primarily for flood control, recreation, and water supply. Flooding in the region can occur when heavy rains lead to increased runoff, overwhelming local waterways. This can result in the Caesar Creek spilling over its banks, affecting surrounding areas, including trails, campgrounds, and recreational facilities. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages the reservoir and monitors water levels to help mitigate flooding risks. Flooding can impact access to park facilities and lead to temporary closures, but efforts are continuously made to manage water levels and protect the surrounding communities. --- ### Personal Experience We stopped at Caesar Creek State Park and Pioneer Village this summer. The hike to the non-existent waterfall was a nice hike but the waterfall was dried up this summer. Pioneer Village was an excellent place to visit. We really enjoyed seeing the historical buildings. We saw the area where you can dig for fossils. I want to go back to dig. If you have an opportunity to visit this state park, you won't be sorry if you do. Please contact us if you have any questions or information. > 🥾 ### Three Creeks Park Columbus: Trail Guide & River Hike 2026 URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/three-creeks-park/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:18:36.000Z Trail FactsThree Creeks Park3 miDistanceEasyDifficulty80 ftElevation1.2 hrsDurationLoopTypeYear RoundDog-friendlyKid-friendlyWildlife Three Creeks Park (note, the official name does not include the word ‘Metro’ although it is often referenced as Three Creeks Metro Park) became the 11th Columbus & Franklin County Metro Park in 1998, but a 410-acre park called Three Rivers Park had existed on site since the early 1970s. Metro Parks lists the partnership park at **1,100 acres** (as of September 2026) at the confluence of Alum, Big Walnut, and Blacklick creeks — not the Scioto. **Trail at a Glance — Three Creeks Park** | **Distance** | 3.0 miles (loop) | | ------------------ | ------------------------------------------------------------------ | | **Elevation gain** | 80 ft | | **Difficulty** | Easy | | **Best season** | Year-round | | **Dogs** | Leashed dogs welcome | | **Highlights** | Alum, Big Walnut & Blacklick confluence, family-friendly, wildlife | | **Location** | Columbus, Franklin County, Ohio | The City of Columbus Recreation and Parks Department operated Three Rivers Park on land that encompassed the confluence, or coming together, of the three rivers (creeks, actually), Alum Creek, Blacklick Creek and Big Walnut Creek. In June 1998, the City of Columbus leased its then 500-acre site to Metro Parks for management and development of what became known as the Three Creeks Park Project. Renamed from Three Rivers Park to Three Creeks Park, Metro Parks acquired new land through purchases and easements, for what is now a 1,100-acre park and one of the major hubs in the Central Ohio Greenways system. Both Metro Parks and the City of Columbus are major partners in the Greenways project, developed by MORPC (the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission) to connect our region’s scenic river corridors with local neighborhoods, parks and attractions. --- ## Three Creeks Metro Park has four addresses: - **Three Creeks:** 3860 Bixby Road, Groveport, Ohio 43125 - **Heron Pond:** 3400 Williams Road, Groveport, Ohio 43125 - \*\*Canoe Access: \*\*2820 Watkins Road, Groveport, Ohio 43125 - **Canoe Exit:** 4999 Old Rathmell Court, Groveport, Ohio 43125 ## Hours and Info **April 1-September 30:** 6:30am-10pm **October 1-March 31:** 6:30am-8pm **Phone:** [614-208-2874](tel:6142082874) (as of September 2026; confirm on the [official Three Creeks page](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/three-creeks/?ref=hiking-ohio.com)) ### The 1,100-acre park is a partnership with the City of Columbus Recreation and Parks Department. ![IMG_1961.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728260352946-IMG_1961.JPG) ![IMG_1968.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728260350800-IMG_1968.JPG) ![IMG_1995.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728260347279-IMG_1995.JPG) ![IMG_1997.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728260344425-IMG_1997.JPG) ![IMG_1983.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728260627914-IMG_1983.JPG) ![IMG_1988.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728260628878-IMG_1988.JPG) ![IMG_1960.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728260632016-IMG_1960.JPG) ![IMG_1962.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728260634035-IMG_1962.JPG) ![IMG_1964.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728260634236-IMG_1964.JPG) ### --- ## A MEETING POINT FOR TWO GREENWAY TRAILS: Metro Parks opened the first 7.5-mile section of the Alum Creek Greenway Trail in 1999, and the first 2.8-mile section of the Blacklick Creek Greenway Trail in 2001\. Both trails have their start points in the Confluence Trails Area, one of five distinct areas of Three Creeks Park. The Blacklick Creek Greenway Trail has now been extended beyond the park, connecting Three Creeks Park with both Pickerington Ponds and Blacklick Woods Metro Parks, over a length of 16 miles. ![IMG_1954.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728260452567-IMG_1954.JPG) The Alum Creek Trail now extends north of Three Creeks Park and terminates at Polaris over a distance of nearly 25 miles. ![IMG_1991.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728260528300-IMG_1991.JPG) ![IMG_1992.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728260526798-IMG_1992.JPG) These wide, paved trails are very popular with bikes and they also have plenty of room for hikers, with or without leashed pets. ![Three Creeks Park, Franklin County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728262373348-image.png) ## **Hiking Trails:** ### Alum Creek Greenway **24.5 miles** **Easy – ADA – Hike – Bike – Pets – Paved** Runs alongside Alum Creek and crosses a 300-foot bridge below the confluence of the Alum, Big Walnut and Blacklick creeks. Continues north to Westerville. ### Blacklick Creek Greenway **16 miles** **Easy – Hike – Bike – Pets – Paved** Connects three Metro Parks and several small parks from Reynoldsburg to Groveport. ### ![IMG_1955.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728260382611-IMG_1955.JPG) ![THC_bluebell-trail_C-Hughes.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728260392864-THC_bluebell-trail_C-Hughes.jpg) ### **Bluebell** **1 mile** **Moderate – Hike – Dirt** Runs alongside Blacklick Creek. The confluence of the creeks can be viewed by guests who walk either the Confluence or Bluebell Trails. These beautiful nature trails are for hikers only. ### Confluence **1 mile** **Moderate – Hike – Dirt** Runs alongside Alum Creek with a view of the confluence, passing giant sycamores, cottonwoods and American elms. The confluence of the creeks can be viewed by guests who walk either the Confluence or Bluebell Trails. These beautiful nature trails are for hikers only. The Robert ‘Tad’ Jeffrey Off-Trail Reserve is located in the center of the Confluence loop trail, right at the confluence of the three creeks. Here, visitors are encouraged to go off-trail, bushwhack through the foliage, get muddy, and swing from tree branches. You will not leave this area clean! Natural Play Area is a 12-acre natural play area for kids to have fun with nature. Located along the Confluence loop trail. ### Evergreen **0.5 miles** **Easy – Hike – Pets – Grass, Dirt and Boardwalk** Goes through a white pine tree grove and loops around the natural play area. ### Heron Pond **0.6 miles** **Easy – Hike – Bike – Pets – Paved** Loops around Heron Pond. ### Madison Mills **0.2 miles** **Easy – Hike – Bike – Pets – Paved** Short loop around a play area for kids. ### Turtle Pond **0.4 miles** **Easy – Hike – Pets – Gravel** Loops around Turtle Pond. ### Sycamore Fields and Smith Farm **1.2 miles** **Easy – Hike – Bike – Pets – Paved** Loops around athletic fields, with a spur that crosses the Alum Creek Greenway and leads to Smith Farm. In addition to Metro Parks Park Rangers, Naturalists, and Maintenance Technician Team Members, guests are likely to encounter City of Columbus staff. City of Columbus manages the Sycamore Fields Area, which has fenced-in dog parks for both large and small dogs, plus four baseball/softball diamonds and seven playing fields for soccer and football. --- ## \*\*The Witten Smith Farm Market History: \*\* The Smith Farms Area is also maintained by the city’s Recreation and Parks Department. For many years, the city hosted a Fall Harvest Jamboree on site in October, to celebrate the history of Smith’s Famous Farm, a once-thriving vegetable farm. ![Three Creeks Park, Franklin County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728261666678-smith.jpg) ## Smith Market in Columbus and Gahanna became part of The Witten Farm Market family in 2011. ## Timeline of Smith Farm: **1938** Fourth-Generation Farmer, Lot Smith, begins working full time on the family farm and gets married to his wife, Bettie Jane. They go on to raise a family of four daughters. **1940’s – 1960’s** Lot and his dad Arthur run a booming wholesale business with turnips, 75 acres of asparagus and 300 acres of sweet corn. **1973** Lot opens Smith Farm Market on a corner just up the road from the farm where he sells his family’s homegrown fruits and vegetables. **1975** Lot adds “home bakery pies” to the list of items available at Smith Farm Market. **1978** Lot retires from wholesaling asparagus, sweet corn and turnips but continues farming and operating Smith Farm Market. **1980** After being introduced to Lot during his college career at The Ohio State University, Bill Kline joins Smith Farm Market as Lot’s business partner and the market’s operations manager. **1986** Bill purchases the farm market from Lot and sources produce from local farms across the state of Ohio, including The Witten Farm and their world famous sweet corn. Lot continues farming his pick-ur-own fields and hosting educational farm tours until his retirement in 1994\. **1994** Lot sells the famous 325-acre Smith Farms to the city of Columbus for a fraction of its value to be used as parkland rather than being developed. **1995** Julie Witten has her first experience with Smith Farm Market working as an intern while attending The Ohio State University. **1999** Bill expands the Smith Farm Market name and opens a roadside farm market in Gahanna, OH. **2011** Julie, Tom and Scott Witten purchase Smith Farm Market and introduce the Columbus area to more of their locally grown flowers, fruits and vegetables. They also replace the roadside farm market in Gahanna with one of their well-known produce wagons. **2018** The bakery undergoes a complete remodel and re-opens its doors with all the traditional favorites and a new signature pie collection. --- ## Things to do at Three Creeks Park: - **Picnic:** Several picnic shelters are available for public use. - There are two picnic areas in the park. One is in the Madison Mills area, with a playground and seasonal restrooms. The other is in the Confluence Trails area with a playground, restrooms, and a non-reservable shelter house which is enclosed on three sides, seats 16, and has grills. - **Playgrounds:** Kid-friendly play areas are scattered throughout the park. - **Restrooms:** Facilities are conveniently located. - **Parking:** Ample parking lots near major trailheads. - **Fishing:** Designated areas for fishing in the park's creeks. - Heron Pond, Turtle Pond and all the creeks allow fishing. Please check with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources for licensing requirements. - **Canoeing and Kayaking:** There are no canoe and kayak rentals available, but you can bring your own. The access point is at Alum Creek, leading to Big Walnut Creek where the exit point is. - **Wildlife Watching:** A habitat for diverse wildlife, with opportunities for birdwatching and other nature observation. - Over the years, the park has become a popular destination for wildlife lovers, especially birdwatchers. Over 100 species of birds have been sighted at the park, including owls, eagles, great blue herons, and more.Visitors may catch a glimpse of beaver, mink, coyote and deer. - And TURTLES ![IMG_2001.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728260823869-IMG_2001.JPG) ![IMG_2002.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728260824551-IMG_2002.JPG) ![IMG_2003.JPG](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728260823898-IMG_2003.JPG) --- ## Conclusion: Three Creeks Park is a great place to visit. We have gone there quite often to ride bikes with children. Most of the trails are loops so it is easy to keep them safe. We have ridden our bikes from Alum Creek Greenway Trail to Three Creeks Park. It was an awesome ride and a good workout. We have explored the Confluence Trail and enjoyed the Bluebells in the spring. If you are in the Columbus area, carve out some time to visit Three Creek Park. You will be glad you did. If you have any questions or would like to contact us, please let us know. ## Explore Nearby Trails More Ohio trail guides worth a visit: - [Scioto Grove Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/scioto-grove-met/) - [Foundation Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/foundation-park/) - [Deer Creek State Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/deer-creek-state-park/) - [Best Hikes Near Columbus](https://hiking-ohio.com/best-hikes-near-columbus-ohio-15-trails-worth-your-weekend/) - [Highbanks Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/highbanks-metro-park/) - [Scioto Audubon Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/scioto-audubon-metro-park/) ### Findlay Waterworks Reservoirs and Riverbend Activity Area URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/findlay-waterworks-reservoirs-and-riverbend-activity-area/ Last updated: 2026-08-06T13:14:40.000Z Trail FactsFindlay Waterworks 2.5 miDistance EasyDifficulty 50 ftElevation 1 hrDuration LoopType Year RoundDog-friendlyWildlife Findlay Reservoir, located in Findlay, Ohio, is a popular spot for outdoor activities and recreation. Here is some more information: ## **Location:** - **Address:** 1060 E Bigelow Ave, Findlay, OH 45840 - **Coordinates:** Approximately 41.0447° N latitude and 83.6476° W longitude. - **City:** Findlay, located in Hancock County, Ohio. - **Proximity:** The reservoir is situated just east of the city of Findlay, making it accessible for local residents and visitors. Over time, as recreational interests grew, the area around the reservoir was developed to include trails and other amenities, turning it into a multi-purpose recreational area while still serving its primary function as a water source. ## **Visitor Information:** - **Parking:** There are designated parking areas near the reservoir and trailheads. Parking is usually ample but can fill up during peak times. - **Facilities:** Facilities may include restrooms and picnic areas, but it’s always best to check ahead for specific amenities. - **City Oversight:** The Findlay Waterworks Reservoir is managed by the city of Findlay’s water department or a similar municipal authority. This management includes overseeing water quality, maintaining infrastructure, and ensuring the reservoir continues to meet the city’s needs. - **Conservation Efforts:** Efforts are made to balance recreational use with the reservoir’s primary function of water supply and flood management. This includes maintaining water quality and ensuring the reservoir’s capacity is sufficient to handle potential flooding scenarios. ![A wooden staircase climbing a grassy levee with a person walking near the top](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728245424801-GOPR3448.JPG) ![A wide view of the reservoir at dusk under a pastel sky](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728245424856-GOPR3450.JPG) ![A car parked on a gravel lot beside a grassy levee with wooden fence posts](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728245424850-GOPR3454.JPG) ![A trailhead information kiosk for Findlay Reservoir with a map and rules](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728245425516-IMG_3880.JPG) ![A colorful sunset reflecting on the reservoir with a person walking along the rocky shoreline](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728245485022-GOPR3449.JPG) ![A gravel path atop the levee stretching along the reservoir shoreline](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728245518688-GOPR3452.JPG) --- ## History: Findlay Waterworks Reservoir, also known as Findlay Reservoir, was built in the early 1900's. During the early years the reservoir was to supply clean water to Findlay and help with flood risks. Findlay reservoirs 1 and 2 are up-ground reservoirs. Water is pumped from the adjacent Blanchard River into reservoir 2. ![A wooden Ohio Division of Wildlife sign for Findlay Reservoir 1 noting public fishing and hunting](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728245328280-Screenshot 2024-10-06 135601.jpg) Reservoir 1 was built in 1950 by the City of Findlay as a municipal water supply. It has a surface area of 186 acres and a capacity of 1.4 billion gallons. The depths range from 20 to 28 feet and an average depth of 24 feet. There is little aquatic vegetative cover. ![A wooden Ohio Division of Wildlife sign for John C. Sausser Findlay Reservoir 2](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728245339341-Screenshot 2024-10-06 140505.jpg) Reservoir 2 was built in 1968 as the first reservoir completed under the Northwest Ohio Water Development Plan. It was built to provide water to the City of Findlay, water for agricultural uses and recreation. Reservoir 2 was built cooperatively by the City of Findlay and Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Its surface area of 645 acres and capacity of approximately 5 billion gallons. Its depths range from 16 to 33 feet and an average depth of 24 feet. Findlay Reservoir 1 has 2 miles of diked shoreline, and Findlay Reservoir 2 has 4.3 miles of diked shoreline. These reservoirs share a common dike about 1 mile long. The distance around the outside perimeter of the combined reservoirs is 5.3 miles. These reservoirs have earthen dikes that are approximately 12 feet wide at the top with 2:1 slopes. --- ## **Hiking Trails:** The trails around Findlay Reservoir offer scenic views and a range of hiking experiences. Here’s a summary of some popular trails: 1. **Findlay Reservoir Trail** - **Length:** Approximately 3.5 miles (loop) - **Description:** This trail loops around the reservoir, offering picturesque views of the water and surrounding natural areas. The terrain is relatively flat with some gentle inclines, making it accessible for hikers of all levels. It’s a good trail for walking, jogging, and birdwatching. 2. **East Shore Trail** - **Length:** About 2 miles - **Description:** Running along the eastern shore of the reservoir, this trail provides scenic views and opportunities for wildlife observation. It is a fairly easy trail, suitable for casual hiking and enjoying nature. 3. **West Shore Trail** - **Length:** Approximately 1.5 miles - **Description:** This trail follows the western edge of the reservoir, offering views of the water and surrounding greenery. It is shorter and less challenging, making it ideal for a quick hike or a leisurely walk. 4. **Reservoir Loop Trail** - **Length:** About 4 miles - **Description:** This trail circles the reservoir and provides a comprehensive hiking experience around the entire water body. It features a mix of terrain and offers varied views of the reservoir and its natural surroundings. Findlay Reservoir provides a range of hiking options and recreational opportunities in a serene setting. It’s a great spot for those looking to enjoy nature and get some exercise while being close to the city of Findlay. --- ## **Findlay Flooding:** ![A flooded street scene with businesses partly submerged in floodwater](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728244983442-Screenshot 2024-10-06 151431.jpg) ![A black-and-white aerial photograph of a flooded town area with cars and buildings](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728244983374-Screenshot 2024-10-06 151551.jpg) ![An interpretive sign titled The Flood of 1913 mounted on a post](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728244983214-Screenshot 2024-10-06 153258.jpg) Flooding has always been an issue for the City of Findlay. Fortunately, many flood mitigation techniques have been utilized to decrease flooding events impact. ### 1904 Flood: The first recorded flood in the City of Findlay. There was a flood in January of 1904 but there is no record from the Morning Republican newspaper. Date April 1, 1904. Estimated Amount of Damage: $80,000-$100,000 Crest Height: N/A ### 1913 Flood: Findlay's 1913 flood is considered the worst flood in the city's history. Strong winds ripped the roofs off moving cars. 50 buildings in the city and county were unroofed. Because of the flooding, Findlay was disconnected from telegraph, phone, electricity, gas, and put a hold on newspaper production. One person was found dead once the water had subsided. March 21-26, 1937. Crest Height: 18.5 ft ### **1937 Flood:** One of the most significant flooding events in Findlay's history occurred in January 1937\. Heavy rainfall and melting snow led to severe flooding across the region. The Blanchard River, which runs through Findlay, overflowed its banks, causing extensive damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure. ### 1947 Flood: June 8th, 1947 > *"We anticipate a flood every time it rains" - Warren Krout* Crest Height: 13.73 ft ### 1950 Floods: February 15 and November 21, 1950 Findlay was hit with its worst snowfall since 1913\. A few days later, warm weather caused the snow to melt leading to the Blanchard River rise just over 11 feet. Crest Height: 14.71 (2/15) and 11.28 (11/21 ### 1957 Flood: April 6, 1957 > *"Oh it's raining, I guess we should prepare for a flood" - Joy Bennett* Crest Height: 12.72 ### 1959 Flood: In February 1959, ice jams at the Main Street and Blanchard Street bridges caused significant flooding in Findlay, and portions of Hardin, Putnam, and Hancock counties suffered heavy damage from flooding of the Blanchard and Eagle Creek, a tributary. February 9-11, 1959 City officials were worried that the rapid water flow underneath the Main Street bridge would rupture a gas main. Evacuation centers were forced to evacuate because of the threats. The 1959 flood caused the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to begin researching methods to mitigate Findlay's flood risk. Crest Height: 16.76 ft ### 1981 Flood: The flood of June 13-15, 1981, in the Blanchard River basin in northwestern Ohio caused major damage in Findlay, Ottawa, and adjacent rural areas. Approximately 25 percent of Findlay and 55 percent of Ottawa were flooded. Estimated crop damage was $12 million in Hancock Country, $7 million in Wyandot Country, and $3 million in Putnam Country. The 1981 flooding followed an all-day, torrential downpour that closed roads and swelled streams throughout northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan. The Flood of 1981 is considered to be the third worst flood in the history of Findlay. Damages were estimated to exceed $13.3 million. This flood affected 2,000 homes and 500 businesses. President Ronald Reagan declares Hancock County a disaster area. This would open available government aid. Crest Height: 17.43 ft ### 1990 Floods: February 17 and December 31, 1990 > *"This doesn't even shock you anymore. It makes you mad, but it doesn't shock you." - Casey Hensley* Crest Height: 11.15 (2/17) and 14.85 (12/31) ### 2007 Flood: More recent flooding occurred in June 2007, caused by a combination of heavy rainfall and stormwater runoff. This event led to considerable damage in Findlay, including property damage and disruptions to daily life. Findlay's worst flood since 1913\. Excessive rain from Hurricane Erin resulted in rainfall ranging from five to nine inches. The City of Findlay declared this flood a civil emergency. Over 2,600 Northwestern Ohio residents registered for assistance from FEMA. 1,600 Hancock County households were eligible for FEMA's Individual and Household Program. FEMA approved over $6 million in grant funding for Findlay's flood victims. Crest Height: 18.46 ft ### 2008 Floods: January 10 and February 7, 2008 While the village was still working to recover from the great flood the previous year, they were hit with two additional floods. These flooding events showed the significant need for local action to mitigate the flood risk. Crest Heights: 11.23 (1/10) and 16.5 (2/7) ### 2009 Floods: March 9, 2009 > *"People who live here understand it's going to flood." - local business owner Jack Bindel.* Crest Height: 15.41 ### 2011 Floods: March 1, 2011 The 2011 flood had potential to be much more devastating. Findlay residents were worried this flood would mirror the damages from the 2007 flood. Flood awareness and taking proper precautions helped minimize the losses. > *"It always could be worse, we dodged a bullet" - Mayor Pete Sehnert* Crest Height: 16.42 ft ### 2013 Floods: April 12, July 22, and December 22, 2013 The Blanchard River flooded three times in 2013\. The worst flooding was on December 22, nicknamed the Christmas Flood. Just like in 1950, a heavy snowfall followed by sudden warm temperatures lead to major flooding. Crest Heights: 14.1 (4/12), 12.43 (7/11), 15.58 (12/22) ### 2017 Flood: July 13, 2017 The most recent flooding event reached the 5th highest levels in the city's history. Crest Height: 16.53 ft --- ### Recreation: The Findlay Waterworks Reservoir continues to be a vital component in managing water resources and addressing flood risks for the city of Findlay, while also providing opportunities for recreational enjoyment. ![A fishing map of Findlay Reservoirs 1 and 2 in northwest Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728245117829-Screenshot 2024-10-06 140128.jpg) Both reservoirs are **open to public fishing** through a cooperative agreement between the City of Findlay and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife. ### Fishing License Options Annual fishing licenses are valid for 365 days from the date of purchase. Annual and multiyear fishing licenses are valid from the date of purchase until the expiration date printed on the license. Please access the Ohio Department of Natural Resources to purchase a fishing license. https://ohiodnr.gov/home --- ## Riverbend Recreation Area-Oxbow: ![A wooden Oxbow Bend Activity Area sign beside a paved path and trees](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728245168712-IMG_3870.JPG) ![A brochure cover for the Riverbend Recreation Area with photos and park information](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728239328792-image.png) ![A grassy clearing with a Loop Trail sign marking a 1.2-mile accessible trail](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728245252622-GOPR3433.JPG) ![A dirt trail winding through a shaded wooded area](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728245254592-GOPR3438.JPG) ![A gravel trail curving through green summer woods](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728245256389-GOPR3443.JPG) ![A wooden Riverbend Recreation Area entrance sign among trees](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728245265666-IMG_3860.JPG) ![A paved path beside a pond with people fishing from a dock at dusk](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728245265179-IMG_3863.JPG) ![The setting sun reflecting on a pond seen through tree branches](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728245264978-IMG_3865.JPG) ![A calm pond bordered by trees and shrubs in the evening light](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728245263486-IMG_3866.JPG) ![A wooden Bridle Trail Access and trailer parking sign for the Riverbend Recreation Area](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/10/1728245263465-IMG_3871.JPG) We visited the Findlay Reservoirs and Oxbend Recreation this past summer. It was near sundown and are hike up the steps to the hiking trail was really worth it. We also did a short hike in the Oxbend Recreation Area. Information about the Riverbend Recreation Area is above. --- ## Conclusion: Though we didn't have a great amount of time to spend at the Findlay Reservoirs it is definitely an area we would like to return to visit. Since we also enjoy fishing it appears to be a good area to enjoy fishing as well. If you are in the Findlay, Ohio, area, it is worth stopping by to experience what the Findlay Reservoirs and the Riverbend Recreation Area have to offer. If you have any questions or would like to contact us, please let us know. ### The Dawes Arboretum: Trails, Gardens & Nature Walk URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/the-dawes-arboretum/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:03:57.000Z Trail FactsThe Dawes Arboretum 5 miDistance EasyDifficulty 150 ftElevation 2.2 hrsDuration LoopType Year RoundKid-friendlyScenic viewWildlife **The Dawes Arboretum** is a nonprofit arboretum located in Newark, Ohio. It includes nearly 2,000 acres of plant collections, gardens and natural areas. The site includes approximately 12 miles of hiking trails and roadways for a four-mile driving tour. The Dawes Arboretum was established in 1929 by Beman Dawes and his wife, Bertie. The idea for an arboretum came to Beman during his youth in Marietta, Ohio, where his father’s lumber business supported the family. --- ## Beman and Bertie: ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1727200543417-BBD-BGD.jpg) ### Beman Dawes ### (1870 – 1953) Born and raised in Marietta, Ohio, Beman was the third of six children of Rufus R. Dawes and Mary Gates Dawes. He was named after his grandfather Beman Gates. Beman Dawes’ father was a Civil War Brigadier General who served with the “Iron Brigade” and operated a lumber business in Marietta. Beman studied trees throughout his life. Mr. Dawes was a leader in the gas and petroleum industry in central Ohio. In 1914, he was the founding president of The Ohio Cities Gas Company that later became The Pure Oil Company, known for its blue and white English style cottage gas stations. Beman served two terms in Congress representing the 15th Congressional District of Ohio from 1905-1909\. His oldest brother, Charles, was Vice President of the United States under Calvin Coolidge from 1925 – 1929. ### Bertie Burr ### (1872 – 1958) She was born in Lincoln, Nebraska. Bertie’s father served as Mayor of Lincoln and as State Senator. On October 3, 1894, Bertie Burr married Beman G. Dawes in Lincoln. Together, the couple raised five children who later became founding Trustees of The Dawes Arboretum. Bertie Dawes was a self-taught naturalist who enjoyed gardening, fishing, shell and butterfly collecting, bird watching and photography. --- ## Trees, Trees and More Trees: It was Beman Dawes’ aim to inspire people to plant trees. He planted trees at Daweswood, He obtained specimens from all over the world that would thrive in central Ohio. The first planned tree planting began in 1917 with 50 sugar maples. By the time The Dawes Arboretum was founded in 1929, over 50,000 trees had been planted and the grounds had doubled in size to 293 acres. Beman and Bertie Dawes created The Arboretum as a private foundation: “To encourage the planting of forest and ornamental trees… to give pleasure to the public and education to the youth.” The Dawes Arboretum's collections include over 5300 different types of plants with more than 15,400 plants on grounds. To ensure the continuation of The Arboretum, Beman and Bertie Dawes established an endowment fund. The endowment continues to be one of the major sources of funds for The Dawes Arboretum. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1727200320400-download (1).jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1727200320357-download (2).jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1727200320504-download (3).jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1727200320414-download (4).jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1727200320431-download.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1727200320448-OIP (1).jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1727200320508-OIP.jpg) ### --- ## Daweswood House Museum: ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1727200435767-Screenshot 2024-09-24 135338.jpg) The Daweswood House Museum was originally the home of the John Brumback family. John, a pioneer blacksmith and farmer, designed and financed the construction of the brick farmhouse in 1867. In 1918, Beman Dawes purchased 140 acres of the old Brumback farm in Licking Township. The farm, known as “Woodland,” offered gently rolling hills and several acres of mature trees native to central Ohio. Beman felt that the farm was well situated; it was located practically in the center of the state with diversified soils and good climate for hardy trees. The family renamed the farm “Daweswood” and the brick, half-century-old farmhouse became their country home. Daweswood was a retreat from the family’s East Broad Street residence in Columbus. The Dawes family moved onto the Brumback farm. The 50-year-old brick farmhouse that became their country home. In the late 1920s, modernization and structural changes were made to fit the family’s needs. Today, ten rooms of the Daweswood House Museum display 19th and 20th century antiques and memorabilia that reflect the lifestyle and collecting interests of the Dawes family. Dawes Arboretum was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2016\. Around 270,000 visitors a year come to the park. ## Tours: Guided tours run 45 minutes. Daweswood House Museum tours will be available May 3 through October 29\. Tours will be offered Wednesday through Sunday at 12pm and 2pm and will run on time. Tours will begin on the front porch of the Daweswood House Museum. Registration is required. --- # Address and Directions: 7770 Jacksontown Rd., SE, Newark, OH 43056 Phone: 740-323-2355 ### From the North: Take Interstate 71 south to exit #169, State Route 13\. Travel St. Rt. 13 south approximately 50 miles to downtown Newark. Continue following St. Rt. 13 south for an additional 6 miles. The entrance of The Dawes Arboretum is on the right. ### From the South: Follow State Route 13 north 3 miles north of Interstate 70\. The entrance to The Dawes Arboretum is on the left. ### From the East: Take Interstate 70 west to exit #132, State Route 13 (approximately 20 miles west of Zanesville). Travel north on St. Rt. 13 for 3 miles. The entrance to The Dawes Arboretum is on the left. ### From the West: Take Interstate 70 east to exit #132, State Route 13 (approximately 30 miles east of Columbus). Travel north on St. Rt. 13 for 3 miles. The entrance to The Dawes Arboretum is on the left. --- # **Admission and Hours:** As of 2019 there is an admission fee which allows The Dawes Arboretum to continue to provide events and research scientific tree studies. Adult **$10.00** Child **$5.00** Child Under 5 **$0.00** ### DAILY HOURS APRIL - SEPTEMBER: Sunday through Thursday: 9:00 am - 7:00 pm Friday and Saturday: 9:00 am - 8:00 pm ### DAILY HOURS OCTOBER: Daily: 9:00 am - 7:00 pm ### DAILY HOURS NOVEMBER - MARCH: Daily: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm ### CLOSED: Thanksgiving Christmas New Year's Day After 1pm Christmas Eve After 1pm New Years' Eve #### ADMISSION IS FREE FOR VETERANS AND ACTIVE MILITARY ON VETERANS' DAY --- ## Membership With The Dawes Arboretum: ### Individual ### $30 per year Individual membership benefits for one member. ### Duo ### $50 per year Enjoy The Arboretum with two named members. ### Family Membership ### $80 per year Individual membership benefits for up to six family members, parents, grandparents, children, grandchildren and/or nanny. ### Family Plus ### $125 per year Individual membership benefits for up to eight family members, parents, grandparents, children, grandchildren and/or nanny. ### Check out the website below for details: [Home - The Dawes ArboretumThe Dawes Arboretum is a nonprofit arboretum located in Newark, Ohio. It includes nearly 2,000 acres of plant collections, gardens and natural areas. The site includes approximately 12 miles of hiking trails and roadways for a four-mile driving tour.![](https://static.ghost.org/v5.0.0/images/link-icon.svg)The Dawes Arboretum![](https://eadn-wc05-1249069.nxedge.io/cdn/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Japanese-Garden-Fall.jpg)](https://dawesarb.org/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## THE VISITORS CENTER: ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1727198828696-visitors-center.jpg) At the Visitors Center, you can get information, view current brochures, find restrooms and more. The gift shop, located in the Visitors Center, offers snacks and unique nature-themed gifts. Our Discovery Center is located in the lower level of the Visitors Center. It is a fun learning experience for the whole family, The Visitors Center is currently open Sunday through Thursday, 9am - 7pm and Friday and Saturday, 9am - 8pm. --- ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1727202693300-Screenshot 2024-09-24 143102.jpg) ## Hiking Trails: The Dawes Arboretum in Newark, Ohio, offers a variety of hiking trails that showcase its beautiful landscapes and diverse plant collections. Here’s a general overview of the trails: 1. **Daweswood Trail**: - **Length**: Approximately 1.5 miles - **Difficulty**: Easy - Features a scenic route through woodlands and gardens. 2. **Wildflower Trail**: - **Length**: About 1 mile - **Difficulty**: Easy to moderate - Ideal for observing native wildflowers, especially in spring. 3. **Lake Trail**: - **Length**: Around 1 mile - **Difficulty**: Easy - Offers views of the lake and surrounding areas, great for a leisurely walk. 4. **Pine Grove Trail**: - **Length**: Roughly 0.5 miles - **Difficulty**: Easy - A short trail winding through a grove of pine trees. 5. **Additional Trails**: The Arboretum also has various smaller loops and paths, each varying in length and difficulty, perfect for different hiking preferences. Most trails are well-maintained and accessible, making them suitable for families and casual hikers. Always check the current trail conditions and maps at the visitor center before heading out! --- ## Personal Experience: We have been to the Dawes Arboretum numerous times. The trails are easy to navigate and the scenery is beautiful. If we planned to go a bunch of times in a year, we would opt for a membership. The admission used to be free, but I do understand the financial constraints of a public garden. It is worth the admission. If you have an opportunity to check it out, please do so! You won't be sorry! If you have any questions or comments, please contact us! ## ### Alum Creek State Park: Trails, Map & Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/alum-creek-state-park/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:03.000Z Trail FactsAlum Creek State Park4.5 miDistanceEasyDifficulty200 ftElevation2 hrsDurationLoopTypeYear RoundDog-friendlyScenic viewWildlife ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725999692776-P1020361-1024x768.jpg) Alum Creek State Park, located near Columbus, Ohio, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It is a 4,630-acre Ohio State Park in Delaware County, Ohio. Alum Creek Lake was constructed from 1970 to 1974 as part of the Flood Control Act of 1962\. Alum Creek Dam was constructed on Alum Creek, a tributary of Big Walnut Creek, which drains into the Scioto River. Alum Creek State Park was established in 1976. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725914192947-image.png) Alum Creek Reservoir holds 3,387 acres of water and is open to fishing, boating, ice fishing, ice boating, and swimming. The park is just north of the state capital of Columbus and contains the remnants of a settlement by freed slaves that arrived in Ohio from North Carolina and a historical marker for Fort Cheshire. --- ## Location: 3615 S. Old State Road, Delaware, OH 43015 (740) 548-4631 **Open 24 hours** ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725913524219-map.jpg) !\[Alum-Creek-State-Park lake.jpg\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725998382609-Alum-Creek-State-Park lake.jpg) ![fishing.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725998382980-fishing.jpg) ![lake.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725998382730-lake.jpg) --- ## History: The first evidence of man living in the Alum Creek State Park area dates back over 2,000 years ago to the Adena culture. Seven mounds were found in the Alum Creek valley and six of the mounds were excavated by archaeologists before the valley was flooded, creating Alum Creek Reservoir. The Lenape tribe inhabited the area at the arrival of Anglo-Americans. The Lenape had originally lived along the Delaware River in what is now New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. They were displaced by the arriving colonial settlers and the Iroquois Indians who were the dominant group in the area. The Lenape established a large community on the banks of the Olentangy River at what is now the city of Delaware and had a 400-acre corn field in what is now downtown Delaware. Most of the Native Americans in Ohio were driven out or killed by the arriving Anglo settlers and military. The first permanent white settler in the area was Moses Byxbe. He built his home in 1805 along Alum Creek in Berkshire Township. He owned over 11,000 acres of land in the area that he was able to purchase as part of the settlement program given to veterans of the American Revolutionary War. The pioneer settlers were forced to build fortifications during the War of 1812 to protect against attack by warriors under the leadership of Tecumseh and his British allies. One such fortress, Fort Cheshire, was constructed along Alum Creek. It was two stories tall with the second story reaching over the entry to the fort thus enabling the defenders to shoot and drop boiling water on any attackers. Fort Cheshire stood until the American Civil War and was later used as a schoolhouse. A plaque commemorating the fort is located at the family campground of Alum Creek State Park. --- ### Africa Community and the Underground Railroad ![Historical map of Underground Railroad routes through Ohio and neighboring states](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/51/Undergroundrailroadsmall2.jpg) *The Underground Railroad, note the numerous paths passing through Ohio* Ohio, sharing a border with the slave state of Kentucky, played an important part in freeing slavery in the United States along the Underground Railroad. A major path of the Underground Railroad ran along Alum Creek. A major Underground Railroad corridor ran through the area along what became known as the Sycamore Trail. The white bark of the sycamore tree provided a guide for fleeing slaves making their way north to Canada at night. The Hanby House in Westerville was an important safe house in Franklin County. Escaping slaves would wade in Alum Creek as a means of hiding their scent from pursuing dogs and slave catchers. Also, there was a settlement of former slaves from North Carolina along what became known as Africa Road on the southern end of what is now Alum Creek State Park. These former slaves also played a role in the Underground Railroad in Ohio. In the 1840s, along the border of present-day Alum Creek State Park, stood a community of African Americans, abolitionists, and Quakers. Originally part of East Orange, the area took its name from a pro-slavery neighbor who used the term mockingly. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1727382629831-Photo382051.jpg) Samuel Patterson, who lived in the area since the late 1820s, played an important role in the development of the Africa community. He built a large house and a variety of outbuildings in the 1840s to expand his farm. These buildings also provided space to house people escaping through the Underground Railroad. Other community members also participated, helping those men, women, and children fleeing to safety. The Africa community continued to be active in the underground railroad in the years to come. Those freed slaves who had settled there opened their homes to help others escape. Of these structures, only the Aaron L. Benedict house is still standing. The activity in the area continued until the Emancipation Proclamation. The Africa community disbanded after the Civil War, some of the homes remain standing. --- ## **Trails and Lengths:** Alum Creek State Park features a variety of trails suitable for different outdoor activities: 1. **Alum Creek Trail**: - **Length**: Approximately 10 miles. - **Description**: This trail follows the eastern shore of Alum Creek Lake and is popular for hiking and biking. It offers scenic views of the lake and passes through diverse landscapes. 1. **Lake Trail**: - **Length**: About 2.5 miles. - **Description**: This shorter trail offers picturesque views of the lake and is ideal for a leisurely walk or hike. 1. **Horse Trail**: - **Length**: Approximately 10 miles. - **Description**: Designed specifically for horseback riding, this trail winds through wooded areas and open fields. 1. **Hollenback Trail:** 2. **Length:** 1.5 miles 3. **Description:** Easy trail 4. **Multi-purpose Trail:** 5. Length: 5 miles 6. Description: Easy Trail 7. **Park Office Trail:** 8. \*\*Length: \*\*1.5 miles 9. **Description:** Easy Trail 10. **Rocks to Roots Trail:** 11. **Length:** 1.1 miles 12. **Description:** Moderate Trail 13. **Storybook Trail:** 14. \*\*Length: \*\*0.5 miles 15. **Description:** Easy Trail --- ## Fort Cheshire: ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725997837700-cheshire.png) The family campgrounds at Alum Creek State Park feature a bronze plaque commemorating the Fort Cheshire blockhouse. This blockhouse, which stood from 1812-1820, was one of four built in the county to defend against attacks in the time leading up to the War of 1812\. Fort Cheshire featured two stories. The top floor hung over the bottom floor, which allowed the inhabitants to shoot, drop boiling water on attackers, and stop attackers from setting the structure on fire from a raised location. When they were built, the fortifications were generally intended only for a short time, and many, such as Fort Cheshire, are no longer standing. Often, they were dismantled after the end of the War of 1812 to build other buildings, while others were used for schools and meeting houses. Fort Cheshire fell into the second category, being used as a school and as a church meeting house by the local Baptist congregation. The exact date that the blockhouse was destroyed is unclear, with some records showing it was gone as early as 1820, but others showing it to be in use into the decade. However, it is certain that by the start of the Civil War, the building was gone. --- ## **Activities:** Alum Creek State Park offers a wide range of activities: - **Boating**: The park's reservoir is popular for boating. There are boat ramps and a marina for access to the lake. - **Fishing**: The lake is stocked with various fish species, including bass, catfish, and crappie, making it a good spot for fishing. - **Camping**: The park has both campgrounds and primitive camping areas. Facilities include picnic tables, restrooms, and fire rings. - **Hiking and Biking**: The trails provide opportunities for hiking and biking, with options ranging from easy walks to more challenging rides. - **Picnicking**: There are picnic areas with tables and grills for a day out with family or friends. - **Swimming**: The park features a swimming beach where visitors can enjoy the water during the warmer months. - **Horseback Riding**: There are designated trails for horseback riding. - **Wildlife Viewing**: The park's diverse habitats make it a great spot for birdwatching and wildlife observation. - **Cross-Country Skiing**: In winter, some trails are suitable for cross-country skiing. Alum Creek State Park is a destination that caters to many outdoor interests, making it a good spot for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy nature and recreational activities. --- ## **Camping:** ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725998168389-campground.jpg) 1. **Campgrounds**: - **Alum Creek Campground**: This is the primary campground in the park, featuring both electric and non-electric sites. The sites are equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and access to modern restrooms and showers. - **Primitive Camping**: For a more rustic experience, primitive camping options are available. These sites offer a more back-to-basics experience without the amenities of the main campground. 1. **Reservations**: Campsites can be reserved in advance through the Ohio State Parks reservation system, especially during peak seasons. It's advisable to book early to ensure availability. [Alum Creek State Park Campground](https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/alum-creek-state-park-campground?ref=hiking-ohio.com) 1. **Facilities**: The campgrounds are equipped with amenities such as potable water, restrooms with flush toilets, and dump stations for RVs. There are also picnic areas and playgrounds nearby. ![camp.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725998237055-camp.jpg) ![fire.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725998236525-fire.jpg) ![playground.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725998236914-playground.jpg) --- ### **Boating:** 1. **Boating**: - **Marina**: The park features a marina with boat ramps and dock facilities. Visitors can launch their boats or rent them for a day on the water. - **Types of Boats**: Motorboats, sailboats, and canoes are commonly used on Alum Creek Reservoir. Personal watercraft such as jet skis are also permitted. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725998265319-marina.jpg) - **Fishing**: - **Fishing Opportunities**: The reservoir is stocked with various fish species, including bass, catfish, crappie, and bluegill. Fishing is allowed from boats or the shore. - **Fishing Licenses**: A valid Ohio fishing license is required for anglers. - **Swimming**: - **Beach Area**: The park has a designated swimming area with a sandy beach. This is a great spot for families and those looking to enjoy the water during the summer months. !\[\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725999720147-beach sign.jpg) ![beach.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725998298230-beach.jpg) - **Horseback Riding**: - **Horse Trails**: The park features designated trails for horseback riding, allowing riders to explore wooded areas and open fields. - **Picnicking**: - **Picnic Areas**: The park has several picnic areas with tables and grills, making it a great spot - for family outings or group gatherings. - **Wildlife Viewing**: - **Nature Observation**: The park's diverse habitats support a variety of wildlife, making it a good spot for birdwatching and wildlife observation. - **Cross-Country Skiing** (Winter): - **Seasonal Activity**: In winter, some of the park’s trails are suitable for cross-country skiing, offering a different way to enjoy the park's beauty. **Educational Programs**: - **Park Programs**: The park often hosts educational programs and events, such as nature walks, wildlife talks, and environmental workshops. Check with the park’s office for current offerings. - **Park Office**: For the latest information on facilities, activities, and any potential closures, it’s a good idea to contact the park office directly or visit the Ohio State Parks website. --- ## Conclusion: Alum Creek State Park is our go-to for camping. The campgrounds are great for children with a nature center, playground, basketball court, etc. Also, on the weekends a private group offers free pancake and sausage breakfast on Saturdays and donuts on Sundays! Donations are optional. Best of all it is close to home, but it doesn't seem that way. We have also fished in Alum Creek State Park Reservoir with some success. The hiking trails are well-maintained and most of them are easy to do. We highly suggest checking out Alum Creek State Park. It is worth the trip! ### Lake Loramie State Park and Annie Oakley Birthplace URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/lake-loramie-state-park-and-annie-oakley-birthplace/ Last updated: 2026-08-06T13:00:23.000Z Trail FactsLake Loramie State Park 3 miDistance EasyDifficulty 50 ftElevation 1.2 hrsDuration LoopType Year RoundDog-friendlyFishingWildlife Lake Loramie State Park is a public recreation area located on the northeast side of Fort Loramie, Ohio. It occupies 407 acres on 1,655-acre Lake Loramie and is operated by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. --- ## Address: 4401 Ft Loramie Swanders Road, Minster, OH 45865 (937) 295-2011 Open 24 hours --- ### History of Lake Loramie and Peter Loramie: Lake Loramie was named after French-Canadian trader Pierre-Louis de Lorimier (anglicized to Peter Loramie). He established a trading post at the mouth of Loramie Creek in 1769\. Lake Loramie was constructed in 1844–45 as a storage reservoir supplying water to the Miami-Erie Canal system. The name "Loramie" is commemorated in several places in Ohio, including Lake Loramie and the nearby town of Loramie. These names honor Peter Loramie’s contributions to the region. Peter Loramie was born on July 15, 1778, in Pennsylvania. Loramie moved to Ohio, where he became involved in the development of the region. He was an early settler and played a role in the local community, contributing to its growth. Loramie is most notably connected to the Miami and Erie Canal, a significant infrastructure project in Ohio. The canal was designed to link the Ohio River with Lake Erie, facilitating trade and transportation across the state. Loramie was instrumental in its construction and development, helping to manage and oversee parts of the project. Peter Loramie passed away on August 27, 1852\. --- ### Miami and Erie Canal: The Miami and Erie Canal was constructed between 1825 and 1850\. During its peak, the canal was a vital transportation route for goods and people. Lake Loramie, being a key component of the canal system, played a significant role in supporting this infrastructure. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the canal system began to decline due to competition from railroads and changes in transportation technology. The Miami and Erie Canal was eventually abandoned as a major transportation route. Visitors to the park can still see remnants of the Miami and Erie Canal, which adds a historical dimension to the recreational experience. In 1949, Lake Loramie was turned over the Division of Parks and Recreation of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. In the mid-20th century, as the canal's significance waned, the area around Lake Loramie began to be repurposed for recreational use. Lake Loramie State Park was officially established. ![A wide view of Lake Loramie with waterfowl resting on the calm water near a grassy shoreline](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725911800553-IMG_3684.JPG) ![Large shade trees along a mowed park lawn near the lake](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725911804943-IMG_3685.JPG) ![A wooden footbridge over a pond reflecting in the still water, surrounded by trees](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725911802905-IMG_3686.JPG) ![Trees reflecting in the still lake water under a blue sky](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725911803775-IMG_3687.JPG) ![A close-up of a large tree trunk beside the lake with parked cars in the background](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725911803433-IMG_3688.JPG) ![Looking up into a tree canopy of green leaves against a blue sky](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725911803199-IMG_3689.JPG) --- ## Map: ![An Ohio Department of Natural Resources park map of Lake Loramie State Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725904078102-image.png) --- ## Trails: Lake Loramie State Park offers a variety of trails that cater to different outdoor activities: 1. Loramie Lake Trail - 3.6 miles - easy 2. Canal Trail - 1.5 miles - easy 3. Blackberry Island - 1 miles - easy 4. Lakeview Trail - 2 miles - easy 5. Little Turtle Trace - 1 mile - easy ![A trail sign for the Little Turtle Trace hiking trail area at Lake Loramie State Park listing park rules](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725904169621-GOPR3073.JPG) 1. Miami-Erie Trail - 1 mile - easy (Part of Buckeye Trail) ![An informational sign about Buckeye Trail blue blazes mounted on a trailside bench](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725904271057-GOPR3106.JPG) - Upper Loramie Trail - 2 miles - easy - Portion of the Buckeye Trail - 2 miles - moderate (part of Miami-Erie Trail inside the park) ![A wooden rifle sculpture mounted on a post above framed historic photos, surrounded by wildflowers](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725904533458-IMG_3693.JPG) There are also several shorter trails and paths in the park designed for multi-use activities, including hiking, biking, and jogging. These trails weave through the park’s natural areas, offering a variety of experiences. --- ### Other Information: Lake Loramie is popular for fishing, boating, hiking, picnicking, history, and camping. The park has a campground with facilities for tent camping and RVs. There are modern restrooms and showers available. There is a visitor center where you can get maps and information about the park. --- ## Annie Oakley: Annie Oakley, an American sharpshooter and performer, was born on August 13, 1860\. She was born in a log cabin in Darke County, Ohio, near the town of Willowdell. Her birthplace is now marked by a historical site. ![A grassy canal channel running alongside a paved path with houses in the background](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725900393847-IMG_3633.JPG) ![A stone plaque marking Annie Oakley's birthplace set into a boulder amid flowers](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725900419537-IMG_3629.JPG) ## Address and Directions: **Annie Oakley Historical Site:** - **Address**: 3000 U.S. Route 127, Greenville, OH 45331 **Directions from Greenville, OH**: 1. **Start in Greenville, OH**: Greenville is a central point in Darke County. 2. **Head South on US-127**: Travel south on U.S. Route 127 from Greenville. 3. **Continue to Willowdell**: The historical marker is located near Willowdell, which is a small community along U.S. Route 127. **Parking and Access**: - There is a small parking area near the historical marker. The site is accessible by car, and you can view the marker from the roadside. --- ### Directions from Annie Oakley Historical Marker to Lake Loramie State Park The distance between the Annie Oakley Historical Marker and Lake Loramie State Park is approximately 13 to 15 miles, depending on the specific starting point and route taken. Here's a guide for driving between the two locations: 1. **Start at the Annie Oakley Historical Marker**: Located near the intersection of U.S. Route 127 and State Route 705, about 5 miles southwest of Greenville, Ohio. 2. **Head South on U.S. Route 127**: - Travel south on U.S. Route 127 from the historical marker. 3. **Turn East onto State Route 362**: - Follow U.S. Route 127 to the intersection with State Route 362\. Turn east (left) onto State Route 362. 4. **Continue on State Route 362**: - Follow State Route 362 for approximately 8 miles to reach Lake Loramie State Park. --- ### Annie Oakley Information: Annie was born Phoebe Ann Mosey to Jacob and Susan Mosey. Annie developed her sharpshooting skills by hunting to help support her family. At 15 she won a shooting contest against Frank E. Butler. He later because her husband and partner in performances. **Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show**: Annie Oakley was a sharpshooter in Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show. She showcased her marksmanship and became a symbol of American frontier spirit. Annie Oakley was a role model for women and for her contributions to the entertainment industry.Over her career, she set numerous shooting records and earned acclaim. Also, Annie was an advocate for women’s rights, demonstrating that women could excel in traditionally male-dominated fields. Annie Oakley passed away on November 3, 1926, at the age of 66\. She was buried in the Brock Cemetery near her hometown in Darke County, Ohio. --- ## New Bremen, Minster & the Miami and Erie Canal: New Bremen, founded in 1833 by Swiss immigrants, benefited significantly from its proximity to the canal. The village is located in Auglaize County, not far from the canal route. The canal’s completion brought increased trade and transportation options to New Bremen, contributing to its growth. The canal made it easier for local farmers and businesses to transport their goods to larger markets, boosting the local economy. ![An Ohio Historical Marker describing the Miami and Erie Canal and the town of New Bremen](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725911238990-GOPR3130.JPG) ![A canal lined with riprap rocks and trees running past the edge of town](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725911129593-IMG_3659.JPG) ![A riprap rock canal bank with clouds reflecting in the still water](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725911131778-IMG_3661.JPG) ![A paved path beside the canal with a large tree and an industrial building in the background](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725911129476-IMG_3662.JPG) ![A paved canal-side path crossing a small culvert bridge near houses](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725911132281-IMG_3663.JPG) ![A paved path leading toward a barn-style building beside the canal](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725911132330-IMG_3664.JPG) ![A paved path bordered by open grass and scattered trees](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725911129654-IMG_3666.JPG) ![A white municipal water tower rising above power lines near town](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725911274548-IMG_3676.JPG) ![A bronze Partners plaque describing the history of a canal mule sculpture](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725911546704-GOPR3116.JPG) ![A bronze statue of a boy leading a mule along the canal towpath](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725911546476-GOPR3117.JPG) ![The canal waterway bordered by a wooden fence with buildings beyond](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725911545102-GOPR3119.JPG) ![An informational sign about the Miami and Erie Canal covering Lock One history and canal construction](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725911544692-GOPR3124.JPG) ![An informational sign about the Miami and Erie Canal covering the Lockkeeper's House and the canal's impact](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725911545575-GOPR3125.JPG) ![A historic brick storefront building with a corner balcony and hanging flower baskets on a town street](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725911544891-GOPR3134.JPG) --- ## Conclusion: You can easily visit Lake Loramie State Park, New Bremen, Minster, and Annie Oakley's birthplace in a single trip. We did! We also did some short hikes in the park and along the canal. It is a beautiful area and definitely a place I would go back to. If you have any questions or would like to provide additional information, please let us know. ### Toledo Botanical Gardens Metropark URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/toledo-botanical-gardens-metropark/ Last updated: 2026-08-06T12:53:38.000Z Trail FactsToledo Botanical Gardens 1.5 miDistance EasyDifficulty 30 ftElevation 45 minDuration LoopType FallSpringSummerKid-friendlyScenic view ![A Metropark welcome sign surrounded by a landscaped flower bed near the entrance road](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725559855025-IMG_3836.JPG) Toledo Botanical Gardens Metropark history begins in 1964, when George Crosby donated 20 acres of his former horse farm and stable to the City of Toledo. Now it has more than 60 acres. There are two Toledo Public Schools nearby-Hawkins STEM Academy and Natural Sciences Technology Center. It is also a center for the arts and neighbor to two Toledo Public Schools – Hawkins STEM Academy and Natural Sciences Technology Center. ![A flower bed with a tall metal garden sculpture surrounded by pink and white blooms](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725559805176-GOPR3364.JPG) ![A pond fountain spraying water above wildflowers and tall grass under a blue sky](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725559804838-GOPR3377.JPG) ![A Perennial Garden trail sign post along a wooded path near recycling bins](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725559805114-GOPR3380.JPG) ![A tree-lined gravel path with a stone urn planter in the foreground](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725559807756-IMG_3777.JPG) ![A white gazebo draped in flowering vine standing on an open lawn](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725559807225-IMG_3778.JPG) ![A pond fountain spray forming a faint rainbow above the water, trees in the background](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725559805468-IMG_3796.JPG) ![A wooden arched footbridge crossing a creek surrounded by trees](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725559807810-IMG_3799.JPG) --- ## Location and Other Information: ### Address: 5403 Elmer Drive Toledo, Ohio 43615 Additional Parking can be found at the Bancroft entrance: 5434 W. Bancroft Toledo, Ohio 43615 ### Ranger Phone (419) 407-9718 ### Park Hours Open 7 a.m. until dark every day Admission is free except when the park is closed for ticketed events. OSU Extension Hotline (419) 578-6783 --- ## History Since 1989, this site has been Toledo Botanical Garden. It was formerly known as both Crosby Gardens, and George P. Crosby Park, which honored the man who donated the original property. He is still recognized today through Crosby Lake as well as Crosby Festival of the Arts. The restored Hill Stream corridor along Crosby Lake emphasizes native plants. In decades past, two dams had been built on Hill Stream to form Crosby Lake. Recent restoration removed the dams and redirected the stream, reduce erosion and enhance fish habitat. Plantings at the lake's edges also increase habitat for birds, butterflies and other wildlife. George Crosby had planted the area with over 350 individual trees and hundreds of shrubs of many varieties. Opening to the public in 1968, the early years brought an initiative for environmental education, and Toledo Public Schools began purchasing land next door for a vocational and agricultural education center. This was the beginning of what today is Toledo Botanical Garden’s neighbor and partner, The Natural Science and Technology Center. --- ## Map ![A trail map graphic of the Toledo Botanical Garden showing paths and garden areas](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725559275654-Screenshot 2024-09-05 130017.jpg) There are no hiking trails, however there is plenty of area to walk and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. We enjoyed our visit to Toledo Botanical Gardens Metropark immensely. --- ## Garden Every visit offers a new experience as the sections change by the seasons. Native restoration initiatives compliment the garden and enhance biodiversity. Ideas for home and yard can be discovered at this Metropark. Green thumbs come to the Garden to learn more about the varieties of annuals and perennials nestled within the various beds and look for ways to incorporate new ideas into their home landscapes. The Toledo Botanical Gardens Metropark is inclusive. Located within is the Doneghy Inclusive Garden is an accessible, sensory experience of sights, sounds, tastes and textures. --- ## Arts In the early 1970’s, a small housing sub-division was purchased and became the origin of today’s Artist’s Village. There are working art studios and even galleries for potters, glass blowers, photographers and painters. ![A light blue house with a red door and shrubs along a sidewalk in the historic village area](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725564048745-GOPR3407.JPG) ![A green building beside a walkway with a posted site map sign](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725564049300-GOPR3408.JPG) ![Green buildings with colorful pinwheel garden art lining the sidewalk](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725564051523-GOPR3409.JPG) ![A paved walkway lined with colorful pinwheels under a tree canopy near parked cars](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725564051211-GOPR3410.JPG) ![The Toledo Artists' Club and Gallery building beside a cracked parking lot](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725564049091-GOPR3411.JPG) ![An arborvitae hedge bordered by white and yellow flowers along a lawn](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725564051482-GOPR3415.JPG) ![A green building with a red roof accent and Lucas County signage above its entrance doors](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725564048617-GOPR3416.JPG) One of these houses is also the headquarters for The Ohio State University Cooperative Extension Service, Lucas County. They administer the Master Gardener and Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalist programs. --- ## Secret Forest ![A wooden treehouse-style play structure with a mesh rope tunnel slide](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725560718585-image.png) The Secret Forest opened in 2019\. It is a wonderful area of the Toledo Botanical Gardens for children to play. Nestled in the wooded area of the Metropark it is an awesome site. --- ## Peter Navarre Memorial Cabin The Peter Navarre Memorial Cabin, visible near the Conference Center Parking Lot, was moved to Toledo Botanical Gardens in 1975\. It is not clear whether this cabin was built by Peter, his son, or even after Navarre’s death. Before arriving at Toledo Botanical Gardens, it had been moved several times from its original location east of Toledo. ![A historic log cabin with a stone chimney](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725560569845-image.png) Peter Navarre (c. 1785–1874) was an early settler of the Maumee Valley. He was the grandson of a French army officer. Navarre was born in about 1785\. In 1807, with his brother Robert, he erected a cabin near the mouth of the Maumee River (east side), which continued to be his residence until his death in 1874 at 89\. Besides French Canadian, he could speak the Pottawatomie (Native American people of the Great Plains, upper Mississippi River, and western Great Lakes region and are members of the Algonquian family.) He was skillful in woodcraft and Native American methods. For several years he was employed by a Detroit house in buying furs of the Miamis near Fort Wayne, Indiana. There he made a friendship of chief Little Turtle. (He became one of the most famous Native American military leaders. He was known as a very capable leader; however he signed several treaties giving up land, which caused him to lose his leader status during the battles which became a prelude to the War of 1812.) The War of 1812 closed the fur trade. Navarre and his three brothers—Robert, Alexis and Jaquot (James) enlisted to General William Hull. He wanted Hull to accept the services of the Miamis. The Miamis sided with the British. Before seeing active service, the Navarres were included in the surrender of Hull, and paroled. General Proctor, the British commander, offered a reward of $1000 for Navarre's head or scalp. --- ## Sculptures The region's largest public collection of sculptures located throughout the Garden, and the annual Crosby Festival of the Arts. As Toledo Botanical Gardens became a hub for artistic design, sculptures were added to enhance the beauty. One of the earliest is “Old Woman and Birds,” purchased in 1973 with the help of The Arts Commission of Greater Toledo who continue to maintain it through the Art in Public Places program. ![A bronze Old Woman with Birds statue standing among garden plantings](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725565217575-Screenshot 2024-09-05 143938.jpg) Since then, over a dozen more sculptures have been incorporated. ![An abstract carved stone sculpture on the lawn beside a small posted sign](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725560300346-IMG_3784.JPG) ![A small stone frog garden ornament beside a gravel path](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725560302545-IMG_3785.JPG) ![A modern metal sculpture of leaping fish shapes set in a garden bed](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725560302626-IMG_3811.JPG) ![A row of tall rectangular sculpture pillars standing among flower beds](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725560297009-IMG_3829.JPG) ![A stone arch sculpture pavilion with a person seated inside it](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725560297998-IMG_3847.JPG) ![A swirling red and purple ribbon-shaped metal sculpture on a pedestal with a meadow behind it](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725560297328-IMG_3853.JPG) ![A metallic rooster sculpture on a stand near the roadside trees](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725560302292-IMG_3855.JPG) ![A rose garden with gravel paths in a geometric layout and a sculpture at its center](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725560392563-GOPR3405.JPG) ![A circular ring sculpture balanced on a boulder in the grass with evergreens behind it](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725560392910-IMG_3810.JPG) ## Toledo Botanical Garden Board, Inc. The Metroparks partnership with the Toledo Botanical Garden Board, Inc. began in 2006, and in 2017, Toledo Botanical Gardens became a Metropark. The incredible work of volunteers, gardening groups and staff is reflected in inspired designs that offer beauty and peacefulness to those visiting this unique jewel now part of Metroparks Toledo. [Toledo Botanical Garden Metropark - Metroparks ToledoOpen Daily, 7 a.m. to dark![](https://metroparkstoledo.com/apple-touch-icon-180x180.png)Metroparks Toledo![](https://metroparkstoledo.com/media/2945/logo-dark.jpg)](https://metroparkstoledo.com/explore-your-parks/toledo-botanical-garden-metropark/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- **Conclusion** The Toledo Botanical Gardens Metropark is really worth a visit. If you are in the Toledo Metro vicinity check it out. You will be glad you did! If you have any questions or would like to add anything, please let us know. ### Ulysses S. Grant Birthplace and Boyhood Home URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/ulysses-s-grant-birthplace-and-boyhood-home/ Last updated: 2026-08-06T13:03:21.000Z Trail FactsUlysses S Grant Birthplace 0.5 miDistance EasyDifficulty 20 ftElevation 15 minDuration LoopType Year RoundKid-friendly Although there are no hiking trails at the Ulysses S. Grant Birthplace and Boyhood Home and Schoolhouse, there is plenty of walking to do at both locations. It is definitely worth a visit. Grant was the 18th President of the United States and commanding general of the Union Army during the American Civil War, was born and spent his early years in Ohio. --- ### Birthplace: Moscow, Ohio - Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th President of the United States, was born on April 27, 1822, in a small frame cottage located in Clermont County, Ohio. - The address is: 1551 Ohio 232, Moscow, OH 45153 - Contact number is (513) 497-0492 - Admission is currently FREE - Hours: April -September: Wed. - Sat., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sun., 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Monday and Tuesday. Closed Independence Day. PLEASE NOTE: The site is closed Wednesday- Saturday, 12:30 - 1 p.m. for staff lunch. - His birthplace is a modest, one-room cottage that his father, Jesse Grant, built in 1817\. The house is a simple, wood-frame structure typical of the early 19th century frontier architecture. - Grant's birthplace was dismantled and moved to the Ohio State Fairgrounds. It was rebuilt inside a brick building and tours were conducted. ![A framed historical illustration and description of Grant's Birthplace cottage, once enclosed at the Ohio State Fairgrounds](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725385233315-20240823_114411.jpg) - The Grant Birthplace has been preserved and restored, now operating as a museum managed by the Ohio History Connection. Visitors can tour the home, which contains period furnishings and exhibits related to Grant's early life and career. ![The small white clapboard cottage where Ulysses S. Grant was born, decorated with patriotic bunting](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725385141705-image.png) ![A blue Ohio History Connection sign listing visiting hours for the U.S. Grant Birthplace](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725385069428-20240823_113747.jpg) ![The white Grant Birthplace house behind a wood picket fence with a church steeple visible beyond](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725385068152-20240823_114035.jpg) ![A side view of the white birthplace building with its stone foundation](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725385068523-20240823_114121.jpg) ![A well-style welcome sign for the U.S. Grant Birthplace decorated with patriotic bunting](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725385067948-20240823_114141.jpg) ![A wooden hutch filled with dishware beside a curtained window inside the birthplace house](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725385064339-20240823_115227.jpg) ![A bedroom with a quilted bed and a wooden rocking chair beneath a red curtain](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725385066462-20240823_115243.jpg) ![A life-size cutout of Ulysses S. Grant in uniform standing beside a wooden chair](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725385064154-20240823_115253.jpg) ![Period clothing hanging on wall pegs above a bed in the historic house](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725385064750-20240823_121821.jpg) ![An antique wooden dresser with a framed portrait hanging above it and a glass display case nearby](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725385063616-20240823_121830.jpg) --- ### Grant Memorial Bridge: Moscow, Ohio The Grant Memorial Bridge in Moscow, Ohio, is a notable structure that spans the Ohio River. Named in honor of Ulysses S. Grant, the bridge connects Moscow, Ohio, with the town of New Richmond, Ohio. It was completed in 1920 and is an important crossing in the region, facilitating transportation and commerce between the two communities. The Grant Memorial Bridge in Moscow, Ohio, underwent a significant reconstruction project that was completed in 2015\. The original bridge had deteriorated over the years and required extensive repairs. ![An Ohio Historical Marker describing the Grant Memorial Bridge near the roadside fence](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725385563679-20240823_124919.jpg) --- ### Boyhood Home and Schoolhouse: Georgetown, Ohio - When Grant was about a year old, his family moved to Georgetown, Ohio, about 25 miles east. He spent most of his childhood and teenage years there. - The Boyhood Home address is: 219 E. Grant Ave., Georgetown, OH 45121 ![A roadside historical marker for the Ulysses S. Grant Boyhood Home on the front lawn](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725384495381-20240823_153532.jpg) - The Schoolhouse address is: 508 South Water St., Georgetown, OH 45121 - Contact number is 877-372-8177 - Hours: Open May 1st - October 31st or by other appointment Open Wednesday - Sunday 12pm to 5pm Closed Monday and Tuesday unless by appointment. Admission of $5.00 for adults and $3.00 for children covers both the Boyhood Home and Schoolhouse. OHC and USGHA members have complimentary admittance. - In Georgetown, the Grant family lived in a larger home, which Jesse Grant built after becoming successful as a tanner. The house is a two-story brick building that still stands today and serves as a historic site open to the public. ![The brick two-story Grant Boyhood Home with its historical marker in the front yard](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725384974757-image.png) ![A parlor with a dark leather sofa displaying framed pictures on a patterned rug](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725384885564-20240823_144133.jpg) ![A room with a fireplace mantel, a glass display case, and a red curtain](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725384881533-20240823_144140.jpg) ![A wallpapered room with a glass display case and a framed picture near an open doorway](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725384884575-20240823_144141.jpg) ![A wooden staircase with striped wallpaper leading down past a chair and door](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725384881626-20240823_144347.jpg) ![A bedroom with patterned wallpaper, a bed, and a small side table](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725384884700-20240823_145153.jpg) ![A room with a spinning wheel beside a dresser near a curtained window](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725384881938-20240823_145940.jpg) ![A bedroom with a four-poster bed and a fireplace beside a wooden trunk chair](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725384881928-20240823_145945.jpg) ![A bed with a patchwork quilt near a wooden desk and chair by the window](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725384884565-20240823_150119.jpg) ![A bed with a blue patterned quilt on a wooden four-poster frame near a window](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725384885121-20240823_150450.jpg) - The Ulysses S. Grant Boyhood Home is part of the U.S. Grant Homestead Association. The home has been restored to reflect the period when Grant lived there. - The Ohio History Connection and local heritage organizations promote visits to the Grant Birthplace and Boyhood Home as part of a self-guided driving tour that also includes other historic sites in Ohio related to Grant and the Civil War era. ![A blue sign marking the U.S. Grant Schoolhouse Historic Site](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725385865458-20240823_154356.jpg) ![The small red brick U.S. Grant Schoolhouse with green shutters and a sign post out front](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/09/1725386040708-image.png) --- ### The Early Years - As a child, Ulysses was called "Hiram" by his family, from his birth name, Hiram Ulysses Grant. - He would later become known as Ulysses S. Grant after a clerical error at West Point listed his name as such, and he adopted the new name to avoid confusion. - Young Ulysses was known to be quiet, shy, and somewhat reserved. He did not like his father's tannery business, finding the work unpleasant, smelly and he preferred outdoor activities. - Grant displayed a talent with horses. His family and neighbors quickly recognized his abilities. By the age of five, Grant was already riding horses. - He became known in his community as an exceptional horseman. He could break and train horses that others could not. - One famous story from Grant's childhood involves his ability to drive a team of horses when he was only seven years old. He was tasked with transporting a load of wood, a job typically done by adults. Grant skillfully managed the team of horses, impressing those who witnessed his abilities. - At the age of nine, he was already entrusted to drive horses for long distances. He earned money by transporting people and goods in a wagon. - His talent with horses continued during his time at the United States Military Academy at West Point, where he earned a reputation as the finest horseman in his class. - He set a high jump record on a horse named York, a record that stood for decades. His skill with horses was so notable that it overshadowed his otherwise average academic performance at the academy. --- ### Civil War - Prior to the Civil War, Ulysses S. Grant attended the United States Military Academy at West Point. He graduated in 1843\. - He served in the Mexican American War (1846–1848) but resigned from the Army in 1854 due to allegations of drinking. - In 1861, Grant volunteered for service, initially organizing and training regiments for the Union Army in Illinois. - Grant's first major success in the Civil War came in February 1862 with the capture of Fort Henry and Fort Donelson in Tennessee, earning him the nickname "Unconditional Surrender" Grant. - His victory at the Battle of Shiloh in April 1862 was important but the battle cost many lives. - He led the Union Army in a series of campaigns in the Mississippi Valley, culminating in the Siege of Vicksburg in July 1863\. The fall of Vicksburg was a turning point in the war, giving the Union control of the Mississippi River and splitting the Confederacy in two. - President Abraham Lincoln appointed him General-in-Chief of all Union armies in March 1864. - In the Overland Campaign of 1864, Grant engaged Confederate General Robert E. Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia in a series of brutal battles. - Grant laid siege to Petersburg, Virginia, which ultimately led to the fall of Richmond, the Confederate capital, in April 1865. - On April 9, 1865, Lee surrendered to Grant at Appomattox Court House, effectively ending the Civil War. --- ### Ulysses S. Grant’s Presidency (1869-1877) - After the Civil War, Grant became a national hero, and the Republican Party nominated him for president in 1868\. He won the election easily, promising to support Reconstruction and civil rights for formerly enslaved people. - Grant supported the 15th Amendment, which aimed to protect African American men’s right to vote. - He also signed the Civil Rights Act of 1875, which aimed to guarantee equal rights in public accommodations and jury service. - Grant was a strong supporter of Reconstruction efforts in the South, using federal troops to protect African American voters and combat the Ku Klux Klan and other white supremacist groups. - Members of Grant's administration was involved in a series of scandals such as the Credit Mobilier Scandal and the Whiskey Ring Scandal. While he was not directly involved in these corrupt activities, his reputation suffered due to his loyalty to corrupt associates and his inability to prevent such misconduct. - The Panic of 1873, a severe economic depression, also marred Grant’s presidency. - He pursued peaceful relations with Great Britain, resolving the "Alabama Claims" through arbitration, which helped to strengthen U.S.-British relations. - His administration attempted to annex the Dominican Republic, a controversial proposal that failed in Congress due to opposition from both parties. - Grant was re-elected in 1872 despite the controversies and economic troubles of his first term. His second term saw continued efforts to protect the rights of African Americans in the South but also increased resistance from Southern Democrats and a waning commitment from the North. - By the end of his presidency, public support for Reconstruction had significantly diminished, and federal efforts to enforce civil rights in the South were being rolled back. - The Compromise of 1877, which resolved the disputed 1876 presidential election, effectively ended Reconstruction and led to the withdrawal of federal troops from the South. --- ### Personal Life: - Grant married to Julia Dent Grant on August 22, 1848\. Julia was a supportive partner throughout Grant's military and political career, and their marriage was known for its strong bond and mutual respect. - Ulysses and Julia Grant had four children: 1. Frederick Dent Grant (1850–1912): Frederick became a career military officer and also served as the U.S. Minister to Austria-Hungary. 2. Ulysses S. Grant Jr. (1852–1922): Often called "Buck," he worked in various business ventures and was involved in real estate. 3. Ellen Wrenshall Grant (1855–1922): Ellen, known as "Nellie," married a wealthy banker named Algernon Sartoris and lived a more private life compared to her siblings. 4. Jesse Root Grant (1858–1934): Jesse worked in banking and was also involved in various business enterprises. - After leaving office, Grant embarked on a world tour. - He wrote his memoirs. He died in 1885 from throat cancer, shortly after completing his memoirs, which provided financial security for his family. --- ### Conclusion: The historical sites for Ulysses S. Grant in Ohio are definitely worth a visit. I really enjoyed learning more about him. 🥾 Don't get caught in the wilderness wishing you were more prepared. Find great deals on [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### Mohican State Park & Memorial Forest: Trail Guide & Gorge Hike URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/mohican-memorial-state-forest-and-state-park/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:18:05.000Z Trail FactsMohican State Park6.5 miDistanceModerateDifficulty450 ftElevation3.2 hrsDurationLoopTypeYear RoundCampingScenic viewWaterfallWildlife **Mohican State Park** is a **1,110-acre** public recreation area on the south shore of Pleasant Hill Lake, about five miles south of Loudonville in Ashland County, Ohio (acreage as commonly listed; as of September 2026). The park sits along Ohio SR 3 and SR 97 and is surrounded by the **4,525-acre** Mohican-Memorial State Forest. The Clear Fork of the Mohican River flows through the park, carving a narrow gorge, and joins the Black Fork about a half mile east of the park to form the Mohican River. Year-round recreation includes camping, hiking, boating, mountain biking, fishing, and picnicking. **Visitor info (as of September 2026, ODNR):** - **Address:** 3116 State Route 3, Loudonville, OH 44842 - **Park office / visitor center:** (419) 994-5125 — exhibits typically 9 a.m.–5 p.m. daily; administrative support often 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Monday–Friday - **Day-use hours:** generally **6 a.m.–11 p.m.** (not 24-hour trail access). Gorge Overlook and Lyons Falls Trail: roughly a half hour before sunrise to a half hour after sunset - **Official:** [ODNR Mohican State Park](https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/mohican-state-park?ref=hiking-ohio.com) (property URL intermittently 404'd from this runner — re-verify at Ghost push) - Pleasant Hill Lake (\~850 acres) is managed by the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District; ODNR notes no statewide horsepower limit on the lake, with a no-wake portion for paddlers --- ## History In 1949, when the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) was created, Mohican and several other state parks were developed from existing state forests. The park was created from Ohio Division of Forestry lands. Prior to 1949, most of the area that comprises the present state park was part of Mohican State Forest. The new park was named Clear Fork State Park. In 1966, the name of the park was changed to Mohican to alleviate confusion between Clear Fork Reservoir in Mansfield, Ohio and the state park. Even before the official name change, visitors referred to the area as Mohican. --- ### Mohican People The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Mohican people, who were part of the larger Algonquian-speaking tribes. The park's name is derived from these Native American roots. The Mohican State Park area was once the hunting grounds of the Delaware Native Americans, whose more famous warriors included Janacake, Bill Montour, Thomas Lyon, and James Smith. Smith was the first white man to come to this area after he was captured by the Native Americans and later adopted into their tribe. Several Delaware villages were also located in the Mohican vicinity. --- ### European Settlers European settlers began arriving at the turn of the 19th century, but settlement did not increase until the Native Americans were driven from the area after the War of 1812\. The area around the park was known for its dense forests, which attracted loggers and settlers. --- ### Johnny Appleseed John Chapman, immortalized as Johnny Appleseed, frequented the region during the 1800s, caring for his apple tree nurseries. His name and the date, carved into the wall of Lyons Falls, were an attraction for years. Unfortunately, the etchings have been worn away over time. --- ### Civilian Conservation Corps The land's natural beauty and recreational potential were recognized in the 1930s, when the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) played a crucial role in developing the park. The CCC worked on infrastructure such as trails, roads, and buildings, many of which still in use by visitors today. --- ## Mohican Park Map ![Mohican State Park and Memorial Forest near Loudonville, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/08/1724346988231-image.png) --- ### Some Noted Trails and Lengths Mohican State Park offers a variety of trails for hiking, biking, and exploring, each with its unique features: 1. **Boulder Trail** - **Length**: 3.4 miles - **Description**: This trail takes you through some of the park’s most rugged terrain, featuring large boulders and scenic views. It’s a moderately challenging hike with steep sections and uneven footing. 1. **Hemlock Gorge Trail** - **Length**: 1.5 miles - **Description**: A relatively short trail, Hemlock Gorge Trail meanders through a picturesque gorge and along the Clear Fork River. It’s a great choice for a more relaxed hike, offering beautiful views of the river and forest. 1. **Mohican Mountain Bike Trail** - **Length**: 12 miles (loop) - **Description**: This trail is designed for mountain biking and offers a range of difficulty levels. It includes various loops and technical sections for bikers looking for a challenging ride. 1. **North Loop Trail** - **Length**: 2.6 miles - **Description**: This trail provides a relatively easy hike with some nice views and is often used to connect with other trails in the park. 1. **Clear Fork Gorge Trail** - **Length**: 2.5 miles - **Description**: Running alongside the Clear Fork of the Mohican River, this trail features scenic overlooks and opportunities to spot wildlife. It’s a moderate trail with some gentle inclines. 1. **Fire Tower Trail** - **Length**: 0.8 miles - **Description**: This short but steep trail leads to the park’s historic fire tower, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. It’s a rewarding hike with a great vista at the top. 1. **Big Tree Trail** - **Length**: 1 mile - **Description**: As the name suggests, this trail showcases some of the park’s impressive old-growth trees. It’s a relatively easy hike, ideal for a leisurely walk among the giants of the forest. ## Other Information ### Camping: There are three separate camping areas at Mohican State Park: the Class A Campground the Class B Campground the Group Camp Area. Several types of cabins are located near the Class A Campground. There is also the Mohican Lodge & Conference Center (built 1974; confirm current lodge operator and reservations via ODNR / ReserveOhio as of September 2026). And TREEHOUSES to rent! [Treehouses | The Mohicans Treehouse Resort and Wedding Venue in Glenmont, OH](https://www.themohicans.net/treehouses/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ![Mohican State Park and Memorial Forest near Loudonville, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/08/1724350080564-image.png) --- ### Natural Features: Mohican State Park’s natural features can be attributed to events that occurred more than 14,000 years ago during the ice age in Ohio. The last glaciers to enter Ohio, the Wisconsinan, ended their advance in the Mohican region. The erosional forces of glacial meltwaters hastened the carving of the narrow Clear Fork Gorge. This gorge cuts into sandstone bedrock, creating steep cliff walls and bedrock outcroppings. The gorge is more than 1,000 feet wide at the top and more than 300 feet deep. The gorge’s towering hemlocks and stands of old-growth white pine, are of national significance. The National Park Service has dedicated the area as a Registered National Natural Landmark. The Mohican-Memorial State Forest surrounds the park and harbors great plant and animal diversity. Ridge tops contain stands of white, red and black oaks, red maple and white pine trees. Beech, ash, and tulip trees can be found in the middle and lower slopes along with hemlock and yellow birch. The bottomland forest contains sycamore, willow, buckeye, hawthorn and dogwood trees. The diversity of ferns in this region is astounding, with as many as 15 different species identified, including the rare walking fern. --- ![Mohican State Park and Memorial Forest near Loudonville, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/08/1724348308756-image.png) ## Sand Ridge Cemetery **Sand Ridge Cemetery** is located in Sand Ridge, Ohio, a rural area with a rich history connected to early settlers and the development of local communities: - **Early Settlers:** The cemetery serves as the final resting place for many of the early settlers who established their homes and farms in the Sand Ridge area in the 19th century. These early pioneers were crucial in developing the region’s agricultural base and social structure. - **Historical Significance:** The cemetery provides a historical record of the people who lived in the area, with gravestones often marking significant historical events, such as early deaths due to disease or accidents, and highlighting the families who shaped the community. - **Preservation:** Many of the gravestones date back to the 1800s, offering valuable insights into the local history and the lives of the people buried there. Preservation efforts are important to maintain the integrity of these historical markers. ![Sand Ridge Cemetery near Mohican State Forest](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/08/1724349242537-GOPR2964.JPG) ![Sand Ridge Cemetery near Mohican State Forest](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/08/1724349242488-GOPR2965.JPG) ![Sand Ridge Cemetery near Mohican State Forest](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/08/1724349243752-GOPR2966.JPG) ![Sand Ridge Cemetery near Mohican State Forest](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/08/1724349243132-GOPR2968.JPG) ## Sand Ridge Church **Sand Ridge Church** (historic rural church associated with the cemetery; confirm current denomination/status locally) shares a deep connection to the community’s history: - **Establishment:** Sand Ridge Church was established in the early 19th century to serve the spiritual needs of the growing community of settlers. Churches like Sand Ridge were central to rural life, providing a place for worship, community meetings, and social events. - **Architectural Features:** The church’s architecture likely reflects the style and design preferences of the period, with simple, functional structures that were common in rural Ohio during the 1800s. Over time, the church may have undergone renovations or expansions to accommodate the needs of the congregation. - **Settlement Era:** The area around Sand Ridge was settled primarily during the early 1800s as part of the westward expansion in the United States. The establishment of cemeteries and churches was a common practice for settlers establishing new communities. --- ## Ohio Memorial Shrine ![Mohican State Park and Memorial Forest near Loudonville, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/08/1724350263727-image.png) In the Mohican-Memorial State Forest in Ashland County is a place where families, friends and ordinary citizens can pause to reflect on Ohioans killed in World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Persian Gulf War, and the Afghanistan and Iraq operations. The Mohican-Memorial Shrine is the state's official monument to her nearly 20,000 sons and daughters who died in those conflicts. A joint initiative of ODNR and the Ohio Federation of Women's Clubs, the Mohican-Memorial Shrine was completed in 1947\. It is maintained by the ODNR Division of Forestry, which also oversees the surrounding 270-acre memorial forest and 4,525-acre state forest. More than 60,000 Women's Club members from all over the state worked two years to raise the construction funds. Legislation required that all materials and companies involved in the construction be native to Ohio. Roof timbers were hewn from state forest trees. The native Ohio sandstone blocks came from a nearby quarry. Roof tiles were manufactured in New Lexington and floor tiles in Zanesville. A Columbus art glass studio created the shrine's six stained-glass windows, which depict peace doves with olive branches, as well as red cardinals (the state bird) and buckeye trees (the state tree). Two wood-bound books containing the hand-lettered names of 20,000 Ohio war dead are preserved in a glass case within the shrine's grotto. ![Ohio Memorial Shrine at Mohican-Memorial State Forest](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/08/1724350776718-IMG_3597.JPG) ![Ohio Memorial Shrine at Mohican-Memorial State Forest](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/08/1724350776463-IMG_3601.JPG) ![Ohio Memorial Shrine at Mohican-Memorial State Forest](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/08/1724350771024-IMG_3605.JPG) ![Ohio Memorial Shrine at Mohican-Memorial State Forest](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/08/1724350775951-IMG_3607.JPG) ![Ohio Memorial Shrine at Mohican-Memorial State Forest](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/08/1724350775384-IMG_3609.JPG) ![Ohio Memorial Shrine at Mohican-Memorial State Forest](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/08/1724350773068-IMG_3611.JPG) > 🥾 ## Conclusion: Whether you're looking for a strenuous hike or a peaceful walk, Mohican State Park provides a range of trails suited to different preferences and skill levels. We love to hike there! If you have any questions or have something to add, please let us know. **Trail at a Glance — Mohican State Park and Memorial Forest** | **Distance** | 6.5-mile loop | | ------------------ | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | **Elevation gain** | 450 ft | | **Difficulty** | Moderate | | **Best season** | Year-round (spectacular in fall) | | **Dogs** | Leashed dogs welcome | | **Highlights** | Clear Fork Gorge, the covered bridge, the Clear Fork waterfall, and old-growth hemlock | | **Address** | 3116 State Route 3, Loudonville, OH 44842 | ## Explore Nearby Trails More Ohio trail guides worth a visit: - [Cuyahoga Valley National Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/cuyahoga-valley-national-park-complete-trail-guide/) - [Nelson Kennedy Ledges State Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/nelson-kennedy-ledges-state-park/) - [Salt Fork State Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/salt-fork-state-park/) - [Best Hikes Near Cleveland](https://hiking-ohio.com/best-hikes-near-cleveland-ohio-10-trails-and-day-trips/) - [Mohican-area waterfall hikes](https://hiking-ohio.com/ohio-waterfall-hikes-7-best-trails-to-chase-cascades/) - [Hiking in Ohio: Complete Guide](https://hiking-ohio.com/hiking-in-ohio/) ### Zaleski State Forest: Trails, Map & Hiking Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/zaleski-state-forest/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:18:41.000Z Trail FactsZaleski State Forest\~29 miDistanceHardDifficulty1,500 ftElevationmulti-dayDurationLoopTypeFallSpringCampingScenic viewWildlife Zaleski State Forest is located in southeastern Ohio and is known for its scenic beauty and extensive trail system. At **27,822 acres**, Zaleski State Forest is the second-largest forest in Ohio’s state-forest system (ODNR Division of Forestry State Forests Guide, Oct 2024 update; ODNR property materials as of September 2026). **Visitor info (as of September 2026):** Administrative office **29681 State Route 278 / P.O. Box 330, Zaleski, OH 45698**. Forest manager phone often listed **(740) 596-5781**; Division of Forestry toll-free **(877) 247-8733**. Forest open to visitors **6 a.m.–11 p.m.** daily (registered campers/hunters/anglers may be present outside those hours). Confirm on ODNR / forestry.ohiodnr.gov (property HTML intermittently 404’d from this runner). Historic **Moonville Tunnel** is inside Zaleski State Forest on the Moonville Rail Trail right-of-way. Zaleski borders **Lake Hope State Park**. The entire **2,983-acre** park lies within the forest in the valley of Big Sandy Run, with steep gorges, narrow ridges, and remnants of abandoned mining and iron industry. Lake Hope surrounds the lake with a wooded family campground and year-round cabins (including Laurel Lodge). Guided horseback rides in the area are offered by local outfitters such as Uncle Buck’s (confirm current operations before you go). --- **History** Zaleski State Forest was established in 1937 and named after the nearby village of Zaleski, which was named by Polish immigrants. The area was once heavily logged and later reforested, leading to the lush woodland that visitors enjoy today. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) played a significant role in developing the park’s infrastructure during the Great Depression. --- ## **Horseback Riding** ![Horseback riding near Zaleski State Forest](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/08/1723560366567-horse.jpeg) Uncle Buck's Riding Stable & Dance Barn provides scenic, guided horseback rides through Zaleski State Forest near Lake Hope State Park. Enjoy our Coal Bucket Trail (1 hour), the Moonville Tunnel Trail (2 hours) and the King Hollow Tunnel Ride (3 hours). Slow cooked barbeque, craft beer, wine are served in The Lady Buck Saloon. We also host family BBQs with live entertainment. Event and banquet facilities are available for weddings, parties, or anything you have in mind. We have used Uncle Buck's many times for horseback riding adventures and highly recommend them. ![Uncle Buck's Riding Stable area near Lake Hope](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/08/1723560545790-image.png) --- ## **Hope Schoolhouse** ![Hope Schoolhouse trailhead at Zaleski State Forest](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/08/1723561196055-school.jpg) Hope Schoolhouse, inside Zaleski State Forest, is a historic trailhead landmark. We parked here for a two-day trip on the Selinde Roosenburg Memorial Backpack Trail. **Hope Schoolhouse trailhead (as of September 2026):** ODNR lists a trailhead at Hope Schoolhouse (added 2016) with a **\~2-mile connector** to the main backpack trail and handy access toward the Moonville Rail Trail. Treat the building as a historic forest landmark / trailhead rather than a staffed museum — confirm any interior access or programs with the forest office before you plan a tour. --- ## **MOONVILLE TUNNEL** ![Moonville Rail Trail sign near Zaleski](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/08/1723559495983-Moonville_Trail_Rail_sign.jpg) Moonville Tunnel near Zaleski State Forest is one of few reminders of the ghost town of Moonville. In 1856, Samuel Coe gave the Marietta and Cincinnati (M&C) Railroad permission to construct a railroad line across his property. Coe hoped that the line would then provide him an easy means to ship coal and clay on his property. The railroad accepted the offer for two reasons. First, Coe offered the land for free, and second, Coe's land would provide a better route for the track from Marietta to Cincinnati. The community of Moonville soon sprung up on Coe's land around the railroad. Moonville principally housed miners and a few railroad workers. The town had approximately one hundred residents at its peak in the 1800s. Yet, the community declined, especially during the early 1900s as coal mines started closing. The last family abandoned Moonville in 1947\. Today, only the old schoolhouse's foundation, a train tunnel, and the community cemetery remain. Despite being a ghost town, Moonville remains well known due to its reputation of being haunted. Believers say that ghosts of railroad workers struck down by a train in the Moonville Tunnel still wave their lanterns in the abandoned tunnel. ![Moonville Tunnel in Zaleski State Forest](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/08/1723559530406-Moonville_tunnel.jpg) Today, visitors can hike portions of this abandoned railroad line, which are being converted into walking and biking trails. --- ## **Hope Furnace** ![Hope Furnace ruins near Lake Hope / Zaleski](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/08/1723598832413-image.png) The Hope Furnace is a historic blast furnace in the southeastern part of the State of Ohio. Located along State Route 278 approximately 5 miles (8.0 km) northeast of the village of Zaleski. It is one of two extant iron furnaces in Vinton County. Between 1854 and 1874, the furnace was used to smelt iron ore, using coal or charcoal for fuel. It is a rectangular structure, built of sandstone and shaped like a truncated pyramid. ![Hope Furnace sandstone stack detail](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/08/1723599104028-image.png) --- ## **Hiking Trails** ODNR Division of Forestry materials (property page snippets + State Forests Guide, as of September 2026) emphasize these **verified** offerings — older unofficial “North/South/Big Pine” name lists are easy to invent and were cut here: 1. **Selinde Roosenburg Memorial Backpacking Trail** - Main loop about **28.8–29 miles** (ODNR; State Forests Guide also lists \~**28** backpack miles with **3** walk-in camps). Self-registration, **no fee**. - A **\~10-mile day loop** is also listed. - **Hope Schoolhouse** trailhead (2016) adds a **\~2-mile connector** to the main trail and Moonville Rail Trail access. 2. **Bridle trails** — about **30–31 miles** of horse/hiking corridor; horse camp on Crow Road (16 sites listed on ODNR materials). 3. **Moonville Rail Trail / Moonville Tunnel** — rail-trail corridor through the forest (pair with [King’s Hollow](https://hiking-ohio.com/kings-hollow/) for a short tunnel walk). 4. **Shooting range** on SR 278 near headquarters — paper targets; dawn-to-dusk style hours on ODNR notes. Adjacent day-use hiking also continues into **Lake Hope State Park** (separate post). Download the current forest map from forestry.ohiodnr.gov before you go. ### Tips for Hikers - **Preparation:** Carry water, snacks, and overnight gear if backpacking; cisterns at backpack camps can run low. - **Weather:** Check forecasts — ridges and hollows change conditions quickly. - **Address / phone:** 29681 SR 278, Zaleski, OH 45698; **(740) 596-5781** / **(877) 247-8733** (as of September 2026). - **Hours:** Visitors **6 a.m.–11 p.m.** unless camping/hunting/fishing legally. - **Maps:** Trails are generally blazed, but bring a map/GPS offline — cell service is thin. ![Zaleski State Forest trail map or forest scene](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/08/1723599431006-image.png) --- ![Wooded trail in Zaleski State Forest](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/08/1723599646409-image.png) Zaleski State Forest is known for its tranquility and natural beauty, making it a fantastic destination for hikers looking to explore the scenic landscapes of southeastern Ohio. It is one of our favorite places to hike. If you would like to contact us or have additional information for the blog, please let us know. > 🥾 ### St. Joseph Missouri: Pony Express Trails & Hiking URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/st-joseph-missouri/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:03:53.000Z Trail FactsSt. Joseph 2.5 miDistance EasyDifficulty 80 ftElevation 1.2 hrsDuration LoopType Year RoundScenic view St. Joseph, Missouri offers some interesting hiking and historical opportunities. As you can already see, this is not an Ohio hiking blog entry. It is more of an informative blog. Here’s a brief overview of the city and interesting aspects: ### History of St. Joseph, Missouri **Founding and Early History:** - **Founded:** St. Joseph was officially incorporated in 1843. - **Slavery:** Slavery was indeed present in St. Joseph, Missouri, as it was in many parts of the American South and border states during the 19th century. Missouri was a slave state before the Civil War, and St. Joseph, being a significant town and commercial center, had enslaved people working in various capacities, including in households and on farms. - **The Missouri Compromise of 1820** had established the Missouri River as the dividing line between free and slave territories, but Missouri itself was a slave state. The presence of slavery in St. Joseph reflected broader regional practices and tensions leading up to the Civil War. - **Civil War:** St. Joseph was a strategic location during the Civil War due to its location on key transportation routes. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/08/1723596612509-image.png) - **Growth:** The city continued to grow throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, becoming a significant regional center for trade and commerce. - **Key Role:** It played a crucial role during the westward expansion of the United States, primarily due to its position as a major starting point for the Pony Express and the Oregon Trail. --- **Pony Express:** ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/08/1723326102276-Pony_Express_Poster.jpg) - **Establishment:** The Pony Express was a mail service that operated from April 1860 to October 1861, providing a fast mail delivery service across the United States from St. Joseph, Missouri, to Sacramento, California. - **Purpose:** It was a mail service established to provide fast, reliable communication between the eastern United States and the western territories. It was particularly significant before the completion of the transcontinental telegraph. - **Establishment:** The service began in April 1860 and ran until October 1861, when the transcontinental telegraph rendered it obsolete. - **Operation:** Riders traveled roughly 1,900 miles across the country in about 10 days, a remarkable feat at the time. The Pony Express recruitment poster from 1860 is quite famous for its bold and direct appeal. It sought “young, skinny, wiry fellows” who were willing to risk their lives to deliver mail across the United States. Riders had to be under 125 pounds and were expected to cover the 1,966 miles. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/08/1723328534985-Screenshot_10-8-2024_182010_rlv.zcache.com.jpeg) civil war - **Significance:** Although it only operated for about 18 months before being superseded by the transcontinental telegraph, it remains an iconic symbol of American pioneer spirit. **October 24, 1861** The inaugural message of the transcontinental telegraph was transmitted on October 24, 1861, by Chief Justice Stephen J. Field from San Francisco to President Abraham Lincoln in Washington D.C., rendering the Pony Express obsolete. Samuel F. B. Morse dispatched the first telegraphic message in the United States on May 24, 1844, from Washington, D.C., to Baltimore, with the words "What hath God wrought!" The establishment of the first transcontinental telegraph system by the Western Union Telegraph Company in 1861 connected the telegraph networks of the East and West. Here are some of the notable riders: - **Buffalo Bill Cody** \- William F. Cody, better known as Buffalo Bill, rode for the Pony Express early in his career. - **Jack Keetley** \- A young rider known for his bravery and endurance. - **James "Jim" Moore** \- Another prominent rider who made a significant impact. - **Robert Haslam** \- Also known as "Pony Bob," he was known for his remarkable rides, including some very long and dangerous ones. - **William "Billy" Dixon** \- A rider who later became famous as a scout and buffalo hunter. - **Johnny Fry** \- One of the first riders, he was known for his significant role in the early days of the service. - **John "Jack" Slade** \- Known for his colorful and rugged life, Slade rode for the Pony Express before becoming a famous lawman. The Pony Express had around 120 riders in total, many of whom were young men in their teens or early twenties. The service was an important part of American history, symbolizing the spirit of adventure and the expansion of the American frontier. --- ### Hiking Trails in St. Joseph, Missouri 1\. **Krug Park:** - **Features:** This park offers a variety of trails suitable for hiking, along with beautiful landscapes, including a pond and scenic overlooks. - **Highlights:** The trails are relatively easy, making them suitable for casual hikes and family outings. - **Trail Length**: Several short trails; the total length is around 3 miles. 2\. **Walnut Creek Trail:** - **Features:** This trail is part of the larger trail system that offers a mix of natural scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities. - **Difficulty:** Generally easy to moderate, providing a pleasant hiking experience for all skill levels. 3\. **Pony Express Trail:** - **Historical Significance:** Parts of this trail follow the historic Pony Express route, offering both historical insight and outdoor recreation. - **Experience:** Hikers can enjoy a mix of historical markers and scenic views as they traverse portions of the old Pony Express route. 4\. **Buchanan County Trails:** - **Features:** In the broader Buchanan County area, there are additional trails and natural areas to explore, offering varied terrain and experiences. - **Trail Length**: Varies; several short loops and connecting trails. - **Riverside Park**: - This park features several trails along the Missouri River, offering scenic views and a good mix of paved and unpaved paths. - **Trail Length**: Varies; several short loops and connecting trails. - **Corby Pond Trails**: - **Located** in Corby Pond Park, these trails offer a peaceful setting for walking and light hiking around the pond. - **Trail Length**: Approximately 1.5 miles of trail around the pond. - **Wyeth-Tootle Mansion Gardens**: - While not a trail in the traditional sense, the gardens here offer lovely walking paths through well-maintained gardens and historical grounds. - **Trail Length**: Varies; several walking paths within the gardens. - **St. Joseph's Levee Trail**: - This trail runs along the Missouri River levee, providing excellent views of the river and cityscape. - **Trail Length**: Approximately 2 miles. For maps and detailed information, you might want to visit the St. Joseph Parks and Recreation Department website or contact local outdoor and recreational stores. They often have trail maps and additional details about trail conditions and length. --- ### Personal Experience We recently visited friends in St. Joseph. During our visit we had the opportunity to go to the Pony Express Museum. It was very informative and enjoyable. We didn't get a chance to hike any of the trails due to limited time, however we were able to go see the Missouri River. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/08/1723597577694-image.png) 🥾 Don't get caught in the wilderness wishing you were more prepared. Find great deals on [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) **Conclusion:** St. Joseph, Missouri, is a very interesting city. Even though this is not an Ohio hiking trip, I thought it would be a great addition to the blog. If you have any questions, or information to add, please contact us. ### Hopewell Culture National Historical Park URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/hopewell-culture-national-historical-park/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:50.000Z Trail FactsHopewell Culture National Historical Park2.6 miDistanceEasyDifficulty60 ftElevation1.2 hrsDurationLoopTypeYear RoundKid-friendlyScenic view Have you ever heard of the incredible earthwork complexes in southern Ohio? These monumental mounds and earthen enclosures were built nearly 2000 years ago by American Indians for ceremonial purposes. The trails that wind through the earthwork complexes offer a one-of-a-kind hiking experience. ## Hopewell Culture National Historical Park Have you ever heard of the incredible earthwork complexes in southern Ohio? These monumental mounds and earthen enclosures were built nearly 2000 years ago by American Indians for ceremonial purposes. The trails that wind through the earthwork complexes offer a one-of-a-kind hiking experience. The park also contains remnants of hilltop enclosures and geometric figures that reflect the Hopewell's advanced knowledge of mathematics and astronomy. The visitor center provides an informative overview about the Hopewell people and displays many artifacts discovered in the park. The park also provides a chance to observe local wildlife. Deer, foxes, raccoons, groundhogs, turkey and over 200 species of birds can be spotted here. The Scioto River flows through the park and is home to bass, catfish, bluegill and other fish. With cultural heritage, nature sights, and important history, Hopewell Culture National Historical Park offers meaningful and educational experiences. --- ## Ceremonial Gatherings This wonder of the ancient world was constructed by Native Americans over many centuries between A.D. 1- 400. There is no evidence that people lived within this enclosure full time. In fact, the Hopewell people did not even live in large villages. No more than three Hopewell homes have ever been discovered in one place. They may have lived in single extended family units scattered along the waterways of the great forest. Yet, even with this relatively simple social organization, the Hopewell people created immense public works that required complicated engineering. These walled complexes were likely the gathering places of people who wanted to form community even though they were not living together in villages. The reasons for their gathering here could have been both religious and social, but many important ceremonies were conducted here. One of the most well-known Hopewell sites is the Mound City Group, located in southern Ohio. This complex consists of more than 80 mounds, including the Great Mound, which is the largest earthen mound in the United States. The Mound City Group was built by the Hopewell between 100 BCE and 400 CE and was used for centuries by various Native American groups. The site is now a National Historic Landmark and is a popular tourist destination. --- ### Mound City Group Mound City Group is the only fully restored Hopewell earthwork complex. Here visitors who walk quietly through the enclosure and among the mounds can still experience a sense of what it may have been like to gather at a Hopewell ceremonial site two thousand years ago. The monument consists of 25 mounds of varying sizes surrounded by a low, earthen wall. All of the mounds and walls visible at Mound City today are modern restorations based upon intact base layers, and an extensive record of documentary and field research stretching back more than 150 years. --- ### Mounds are Much More Than Just Heaps of Dirt: The process by which these American Indians established a burial mound is long and complicated. Many visitors are surprised to learn that where each burial mound is seen today, there once stood a building. The first step in the mound building process was to construct a large ceremonial building of poles and bark with a plastered clay floor. Inside, fires burned in clay basins and ceremonies were conducted. When the ceremony was a funeral, the Hopewell cremated the body. The ashes were entombed on the floor of the building beneath a small mound of clay. About one hundred cremated remains were found at Mound City. At some point, the building would be purposely dismantled. Then the mound construction began. Mound building may have occurred stage by stage over many gatherings, because the mounds consist of many layers of earthen materials, often alternating clay and sand. The borrow pits outside of Mound City’s walls may have been the source of some of this material. --- ## Camp Sherman: During World War I the Mound City Group site was occupied by a military training center known as Camp Sherman. ![Several men in uniforms standing and sitting atop a mound of earth between two large buildings](https://www.nps.gov/hocu/learn/historyculture/images/CSBS1-4500_2.jpg?maxwidth=1300&maxheight=1300&autorotate=false) *African-American soldiers, part of a Signal Corp unit, rest atop Mound 7 at Camp Sherman, c.1918.* The park also memorializes the World War I veterans from Ross County, where the park is located. The Hopewell Culture National Historical Park was actually established on lands that were originally set aside as a memorial to those lost in the Great War. The park continues to honor these veterans today. In the early 1920s after Camp Sherman was torn down, the Ohio Historical Society excavated the site and began reconstruction of the Hopewell earthworks and mounds. --- ## A National Park: The Ohio History Connection funded the reconstruction of Mound City Group in the 1920’s. The reconstruction was based on the maps of Squier and Davis in order to be as accurate as possible. One mound was left unreconstructed so that visitors could appreciate the underlying structure of the ceremonial building. President Warren G. Harding declared the site Mound City Group National Monument in 1923. In 1992, four more of Chillicothe’s many Hopewell earthwork sites were added to Mound City Group and the name of the park was changed to Hopewell Culture National Historical Park. Mound City Group is now one of six total units of the park. Administration offices, resource management, maintenance facilities and the park’s only visitor center are located here. --- ## Entrance, Addresses and Directions to Hopewell Mound Sites: An entrance pass is **not required** to access Hopewell Culture National Historical Park. Other National Park Service sites may require an entrance pass or fee. ### Directions from Columbus and all points due north - Take U.S. 23 south for 38 miles - Exit U.S. 23 at State Route 207 and turn right - Continue on S.R. 207 for 2 miles until it merges with S.R. 104 (Make no turns, continue straight on road as it turns into S.R. 104) - Follow S.R. 104, turn left into park (approximately 1.8 miles past the S.R. 104 & S.R. 207 intersection), follow entrance road to visitor center. ### Directions from Portsmouth and all points due south - Take U.S. 23 north for 43 miles - U.S. 23 will merge with U.S. 35 near Chillicothe - Keep left and stay on U.S. 35 west toward Dayton for 1.8 miles - Exit U.S. 35 at State Route 104 and go right/north on S.R. 104 for 1.6 miles - After passing state prison, turn right into park, follow entrance road to visitor center. ### Directions from Indianapolis, Indiana and points west - Take I-70 east - Exit at I-675 and go south for 20 miles (suggested due to construction on I-75 in Dayton) - Exit I-675 at U.S. 35 in Dayton and go east for 68 miles - Exit at State Route 104 and go left/north on S.R. 104 for 1.6 miles - After passing state prison, turn right into park, follow entrance road to visitor center. ### Directions from Wheeling, WV and points east - Take I-70 West to Columbus - From I-70 Westbound, take I-270 South - From I-270 South, take to U.S. 23 South towards Circleville - Go past Circleville and exit U.S. 23 at State Route 207 and turn right - Continue on S.R. 207 for 2 miles until it merges with S.R. 104 (Make no turns, continue straight on road as it turns into S.R. 104) - Follow S.R. 104, turn left into park (approximately 1.8 miles past the S.R. 104 & S.R. 207 intersection), follow entrance road to visitor center. ## Park Sites Addresses: ### Mound City Group 16062 State Route 104 Chillicothe, Ohio 45601 ### Hopeton Earthworks 990 Hopetown Rd. Chillicothe, Ohio 45601 ### Hopewell Mound Group 4731 Sulphur Lick Rd. Chillicothe, Ohio 45601 ### Seip Earthworks 7078 U.S. Route 50 Bainbridge, Ohio 45612 ## GPS Coordinates: The GPS Coordinates for Mound City and our other outlying units are listed below. #### Mound City Group: 39 22'26.62"N 83 00'26.14"W #### Hopewell Mound Group: 39 21'38.32"N 83 05'08.65"W #### Hopeton Earthworks: 39 22'46.02"N 82 59'04.65"W #### Seip Earthworks: 39 14'31.69"N 83 13'15.98"W #### Spruce Hill Earthworks: 39 17'13.27"N 83 07'39.63"W ### The Mound City Group Visitor Center is located at: 16062 State Route 104, Chillicothe, OH 45601. Visitor center hours are 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, every day of the week (except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day & New Year’s Day). Park grounds are open every day from dawn until dusk. Please be mindful that Mound City is still considered a sacred place by many people and treat the earthworks with respect. ## Trails ### Trails at Mound City: There are no trails within the enclosure. Visitors are welcome to stroll reverently amongst the mounds. Please do not walk on the mounds or earthen walls. Park trails include a nature trail and a paved river walk along the Scioto River. The nature trail winds through a young forest and passes masonry stones from a lock of the Ohio-Erie Canal that ran along the west border of the park in the 1800’s. --- ## Mound City Site Map & Trail Map ![An aerial map showing park grounds](https://www.nps.gov/hocu/learn/historyculture/images/MCG-Map-2024-960cms_3.jpg?maxwidth=1300&maxheight=1300&autorotate=false) *NPS / Tom Engberg* Details Duration 20-180 minutes Duration depends on level of interest and personal stamina. A walk around the earthen mounds on the nature trail in the forested part is just under one mile and will average about 30 minutes, depending on pace and level of interest. There are benches situated on the trail for visitor use. Hiking Most of the trails and grounds are flat and easy to navigate. There is a descending and ascending part of the trail which goes to the river walk area. That part of the trail is paved and has concrete steps to access the lower walk area. The upper walk area near the river is gravel-covered and flat and has no ascending or descending parts. Trails within the mound area is grass-covered and flat. Trails winding through the forest are mulch and grass covered. Appropriate shoes and/or hiking boots are recommended. Pets Allowed Pets are always welcome but must be leashed and in control at all times. Owners are responsible for picking up pet's poop and disposing of properly. No fees Location Mound City Group Mound City Group is located on State Route 104, just on the northen fringe of Chillicothe. --- ## Hopeton Site Map & Trail Map ![An aerial map showing park grounds and surrounding area](https://www.nps.gov/hocu/learn/historyculture/images/Hopeton-Map-2024-960cms_3.jpg?maxwidth=1300&maxheight=1300&autorotate=false) *NPS / Tom Engberg* Details Duration 60-180 minutes A round-trip hike to the lookout will likely take about 60 minutes, but length is dependent upon stamina and level of interest. Hiking Trails at Hopeton Earthworks are mulch, grass and gravel covered. Trail varies in elevation and there are sections that will require ascending and descending. Hike is rated as moderate. We recommend good walking/hiking shoes or boots. Pets allowed Pets are always welcome but must be leashed and in control at all times. Owners are responsible for picking up pet's poop and disposing of properly. No fees Hopewell Mound Group is the type-site of the Hopewell culture. It was once home to the largest Hopewell mound ever constructed. Today, it is one of the park's six sites and contains trails for visitors to enjoy. A walk on the trail into the forested area brings visitors to the remnants of a part of the original earthen wall. Open during daylight hours, the trail is about 2.5 miles long with a few changes in elevation. A bike path also runs alongside the complex. --- ### Seip Earthworks Site Map & Trail Map ![A map showing the details of the grounds at Seip Earthworks](https://www.nps.gov/hocu/learn/historyculture/images/Seip-Map-2024-960cms.jpg?maxwidth=1300&maxheight=1300&autorotate=false) *NPS / Tom Engberg & Bruce Lombardo* Details Duration 30 to 180 minutes Duration depends upon your level of interest and stamina. A walk to the central mound and back to the parking lot will likely take around 30 minutes, depending on ones stamina and pace. Hiking Enjoy an easy hike on the scenic nature trails of this prehistoric earthwork site. While the earthwork walls were destroyed by agricultural development centuries ago, the large burial mound in the center of the complex was reconstructed after tedious excavation in the late 1920's. Visitors can continue their walk down to the Paint Creek to enjoy wonderful natural scenes in front of the picturesque Copperas Mountains. Pets Allowed Pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times. Owners are required to pick up pet's poop and dispose of properly. No Fees Location Bainbridge, Ohio Located on U.S. Route 50, southwest of Chillicothe, Ohio in Bainbridge, Ohio. Seip Earthworks is located directly next to Paint Valley High School. --- ## Fort Ancient Earthworks & Nature Preserve ![Fort Ancient Museum](https://www.ohiohistory.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/IMG_4535-300x200.jpg) *Fort Ancient Museum* Another significant Hopewell site is the Fort Ancient site, located in the southwestern part of Ohio. This site was occupied by the Hopewell from approximately 100 BCE to 500 CE and is believed to have been a major center of trade and commerce. The site includes a large earthen enclosure, which was used for ceremonial purposes, as well as a number of residential buildings and storage facilities. ## Address & Visitor Information: 6123 State Route 350, Oregonia, OH, USA 513-932-4421 ### Museum and Grounds: Wednesday-Saturday 10a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday Noon-5 p.m. Final admission should be paid by 4 p.m. Gift shop closes at 4:30 p.m. Site closes promptly at 5 p.m. Guided tours at 2:00 p.m. daily (whenever museum is open). Museum and grounds may close during inclement weather. Closed for the following holidays/dates: Christmas eve, Christmas day, New Years Eve, New Years Day, Easter Sunday, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Thanksgiving Day, Black Friday, Memorial Day and Labor Day. ### Admission: Adult - $7.00 Senior - $6.00 Child (6-17) - $6.00 OHC member - $0.00 Children under 6 - $0.00 Grounds only - $8.00 per vehicle The Hopewell Culture was characterized by a complex system of social organization and religious beliefs. They believed in a pantheon of gods and goddesses, and their rituals and ceremonies were often associated with these deities. The Hopewell also practiced a form of ancestor worship, and they believed that the spirits of their ancestors could influence their lives and the course of the world. The Hopewell Culture was eventually replaced by other Native American civilizations, such as the Mississippian, but their legacy remains. Their earthwork monuments are a testament to their ingenuity and engineering skills, and their cultural practices continue to be studied by scholars and archaeologists. Today, the Hopewell Culture is recognized as one of the most important and influential Native American civilizations of the pre-Columbian era. ## Conclusion --- Overall, Hopewell CultureNational Historical Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in nature, history, and outdoor recreation. We hope this information helps you plan your visit to Hopewell Culture park. Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any further questions or need additional assistance. Happy trails! --- If you have something you would like to submit to have posted on this website, such as a blog submission or a new hiking trail you think we should check out, please contact us below! > 🥾 ## Related Ohio parks and history After the earthworks, continue to [Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument](https://hiking-ohio.com/charles-young-buffalo-soldiers-national-monument/) or plan a Chillicothe-area hike at [Great Seal State Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/great-seal-state-park/). ### Clear Creek Metro Park: Hocking Hills Trail Guide 2026 URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/clear-creek-metro-park/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:28.000Z Trail FactsClear Creek Metro Park5 miDistanceModerateDifficulty400 ftElevation2.5 hrsDurationLoopTypeYear RoundScenic viewWaterfallWildlife **Clear Creek Metro Park** it is part of the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. It also contains the largest Ohio State Nature Preserve, The Allen F Beck State Nature Preserve. Clear Creek Metro Park is a beautiful park that has something for everyone. From flat trails, rugged trails to fishing and picnicking. The area is breathtaking and contains prairies as well as thick forests. The entire Metro Park area covers 5,470 acres (as of September 2026, per Columbus & Franklin County Metro Parks). It contains the 4,729-acre Allen F. Beck State Nature Preserve which has off-trail areas not normally open to the public, except for guided hikes and an annual hunting lottery. A number of trails also leads through most of the park area. --- ### Address: Clear Creek Metro Park 185 Clear Creek Rd. Lancaster, OH 43130 Creekside Meadows 23833 Clear Creek Rd., Rockbridge, OH 43149[](http://www.google.com/maps/place/23833+Clear+Creek+Road,+Rockbridge,+Oh+43149?ref=hiking-ohio.com) Open 6:30 a.m. until dark (year-round; as of September 2026, per Metro Parks). Official page: [Clear Creek Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/clear-creek/?ref=hiking-ohio.com). Clear Creek is located within the Hocking Hills region of Ohio, with gorges and bluffs formed by Blackhand sandstone. Because it is farther west than most other lands within the region, the erosion-resistant sandstone occurs at higher elevations. --- ### History: In 1973, the Beck family from Columbus, who owned land in the Clear Creek Valley, gifted 1,159 acres of it to Columbus Metro Parks, with the stipulation that 75 percent of the land should be declared a state nature preserve. At the time the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers had plans to flood the entire valley and build a large reservoir. The Becks hoped a large nature preserve could prevent that. Emily Benua, who also owned land that would have been flooded, gifted another 662 acres to the State Nature Preserve in her will. Her condition was that it "forever be held as a nature preserve for scientific, educational and aesthetic purposes". Fortunately, the plan for the reservoir was scrapped. About 3,700 acres were added to the park to make the total acres 5,470. In 1995 Clear Creek Metro Park is opened to the public. --- ### Clear Creek Metro Park Map: ![Clear Creek Metro Park trail map](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1722032890239-Image1.jpg) ## Trails: #### Benua **1.9 miles** **Moderate to Difficult – Hike ­– Dirt & Gravel** Loop trail through woods and fields leading to Lake Emily. #### Cemetery Ridge **2.5 miles** **Moderate to Difficult – Hike ­– Dirt & Gravel** Begins with a steep zigzag ascent through the woods peaking at about 700 feet. At the top of the ridge the trail alternates between forest and meadows. #### Chestnut **2.2 miles** **Difficult – Hike – Dirt & Gravel** Goes through valleys with sandstone formations and crosses forested ridges. #### Creekside Meadows **1.7 miles** **Easy – Hike/Pets – Grass** Follows the banks of Clear Creek through open fields. A 1-mile section of the trail west of Starner Road is also a pet trail. #### Fern **1.7 miles** **Moderate to Difficult – Hike – Dirt** Goes along a steep ridge and through a forest with pines and hemlocks. #### Good Prairie **0.3 miles** **Easy – Hike – Dirt & Gravel** Loops around a prairie. #### Hemlock **1.5 miles** **Difficult – Hike – Dirt & Gravel** Descends and ascends a steep ravine and goes through shady hemlock groves, sandstone outcroppings, a carpet of ferns and ridges topped with hardwood trees. #### Lake **0.9 miles** **Moderate to Difficult – Hike – Dirt** Winds through the woods to an observation deck overlooking Lake Ramona. #### Prairie Warbler **0.6 miles** **Easy to Moderate – Hike – Dirt** Crosses a rolling hilltop, goes around a meadow and through the woods. #### Tulip Tree **0.6 miles** **Moderate to Difficult – Hike – Dirt** Loops through the woods along a rolling hillside. ### Note: Trails can be combined to allow for longer distances. AllTrails has some combination hikes listed for Clear Creek. [https://www.alltrails.com/parks/us/ohio/clear-creek-metro-park](https://www.alltrails.com/parks/us/ohio/clear-creek-metro-park?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## Other Areas of Interest: Clear Creek Metro Park, Thomas-Mathias Cabins Area, 23233 Clear Creek Rd., Rockbridge, OH 43149 ### The Mathias Cabin ![Mathias Cabin at Clear Creek Metro Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1722036167016-IMG_3333.JPG) The cabin possibly built by John Arney, a captain during the Civil War, represents the type of log dwelling early settlers built prior to the availability of bricks and other building materials. Not typical, however were the pine logs that were used for pines were much less common than they are now. The building foundations and rock terracing were built from sandstone quarried nearby. A potable spring emerges from the sandstone outcroppings north of the cabin. The Mathias family moved in the cabin in 1922 and lived there for many years. The Mathias Cabin is named after the family that purchased the cabin in the 1920s. It now a part of Clear Creek Metro Park. Thanks to restorative efforts from Columbus Metro Parks, it is available for the public to admire. It sits a short distance off Clear Creek Road. It can be reached by parking at the Thomas-Mathias Cabins Area parking lot. There is a short path from the parking lot to get to the cabin. Behind the cabin is a towering cliff face. And to its left is a small stream. It is a peaceful area and would have been a beautiful place to live. There is a picnic table next to the cabin. Like many old homes, it is believed to be haunted. During the day, the cabin looks innocent, but at night the ghosts show themselves. Stories have it that you can see lights in the windows and faces peering out. There has also been a man spotted walking across the porch. But he disappears as he reaches the steps. And don’t be surprised if you hear voices and laughter. ### The Thomas Cabin ![Thomas Cabin (Neotoma Valley) at Clear Creek Metro Park](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1722036255045-Screenshot%202024-07-26%20192337%20thomas.png) The Tomas Cabin was owned by Edward S. Thomas. He purchased the 80-acre tract in 1921\. He called it Neotoma Valley. Ed was a writer for the Columbus Dispatch. His first article was titled “Our Birds.” It was published on March 5, 1922\. He continued writing for the Columbus Dispatch for 59 years. Many of his articles were about the wildlife, plants and history of the Clear Creek Valley. Unlike the Mathias Cabin, the Thomas Cabin cannot be seen from the road. To get to the cabin you must walk approx. 940’. There is a slight incline most of the way to the cabin. The trail to the cabin is surrounded by trees and large stone outcroppings. Behind the cabin, the trail continues for a short distance. Ed Thomas called his cabin and 80-acre tract of land Neotoma for the Allegheny wood rat. Ed Thomas and some friends found Ohio’s first specimen of the Allegheny Wood Rat. No longer found in the Hocking County, the docile rat’s preferred habitat was rocky areas in deciduous forests or small caves or rock crevices and fissures in steep cliff faces. ![Allegheny woodrat (Neotoma magister)](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1722276538989-Neotoma_magister.jpg) *Allegheny Wood Rat "Neotoma magister"* Today, the state endangered Neotoma Wood Rat is gone from Clear Creek Valley and Hocking County – a victim of increased predation, disease and habitat change. However, Neotoma Valley is today a lush tapestry of maturing trees and thickets because Ed Thomas allowed the trees to reseed. ### **The Trails at Mathias and Thomas Cabins** ### Mathias Cabin There is a very short trail from the parking lot. It is relatively flat and approximately 370 ft. long. ![Trail to Mathias Cabin at Clear Creek Metro Park Ohio](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/272194_fc7e0a6bce8646478968bafb8456470f~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_900,h_563,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90/272194_fc7e0a6bce8646478968bafb8456470f~mv2.webp) ### Thomas Cabin The trail isn’t very long, only about 940’. However, there is an incline almost all the way to the cabin. The trail isn’t very long, only about 940’. However, there is an incline almost all the way to the cabin. ![Trail leading to Thomas Cabin at Clear Creek Metro Park Ohio](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/272194_9012d53817994af9a85131e455f2c35d~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_450,h_450,fp_0.50_0.50,lg_1,q_90/272194_9012d53817994af9a85131e455f2c35d~mv2.webp) ### Additional Trail Sitting to the left of the parking lot is another trail. We walked it for almost a half a mile when we were forced to turn around. The trail was so muddy that it became impassible. The trail is all-natural and has moderate elevation changes. It was very peaceful and didn’t look as though it was as heavily travelled as other trails at Clear Creek Metro Park. ![Additional Trail Located Near the Mathias and Thomas Cabins](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/272194_3ea92bc7866e4544a458e60a2f3cdc42~mv2.jpg) --- ### Allen F. Beck State Nature Preserve The Division of Natural Areas and Preserves was statutorily established in 1975, it is the smallest and the newest of the land-managing divisions within the Department of Natural Resources. The Division operates a statewide system of state nature preserves, natural areas and scenic rivers, protecting the best remaining examples of Ohio's natural heritage. There are three programs in the Division - nature preserves, scenic rivers, and botanical inventory and monitoring. The Division administers the Natural Areas Act, Endangered Plant Law, Cave Protection Act and Ohio Scenic Rivers Act. The 4,729-acre Allen F. Beck State Nature Preserve is located in Clear Creek Metro Park (as of September 2026, per Metro Parks). A permit from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources is required to visit. Permits can be requested below: [https://ohiodnr.gov/discover-and-learn/safety-conservation/about-ODNR/nature-preserves/access-permits](https://ohiodnr.gov/discover-and-learn/safety-conservation/about-ODNR/nature-preserves/access-permits?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ### Lake Ramona \*\*Lake Ramona Trails \*\* ![Clear Creek Metro Park Lake Ramona Trail Rockbridge Ohio](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/272194_8d44c1206e294c659af215b4b9f000bb~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_925,h_570,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90/272194_8d44c1206e294c659af215b4b9f000bb~mv2.webp) Lake Ramona 23233 Clear Creek Rd. Rockbridge, OH 43149 ![Clear Creek Metro Park Lake Ramona Trail Rockbridge Ohio](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/272194_d9375aaa020e4f0eb1b520ce539b34e5~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_900,h_600,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90/272194_d9375aaa020e4f0eb1b520ce539b34e5~mv2.webp) **Lake Ramona Trail** ![Clear Creek Metro Park Lake Ramona Trail Rockbridge Ohio](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/272194_ef35b0bf9261438b8e66bf345a3c34b6~mv2.jpg) Lake Ramona covers 5 acres of land. **A-D** The “Lake Trail” (A-D) measures approx. .7 miles long. It is a steep trail that provides a pretty good workout. It is a natural trail that can be slick and has stones and tree roots. If there has been a lot of rain it can be muddy. We would recommend a good pair of hiking boots. - **A** The beginning of the trail can be reached from the Valley View Parking area. ![Clear Creek Metro Park Lake Ramona Trail Rockbridge Ohio Valley View Parking Lot](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/272194_d7bf9aa07e6949758619d33e93e89b62~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_925,h_360,fp_0.50_0.50,lg_1,q_90/272194_d7bf9aa07e6949758619d33e93e89b62~mv2.webp) - **B** It starts with a gradual decline and is surrounded by tall trees and has a steep ravine on the right-hand side. The trail’s decline gets steeper decline and ends with wooden steps and sandstone rocks. ![Clear Creek Metro Park Lake Ramona Trail Rockbridge Ohio](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/272194_f040f9809d124050aa9b7e9f0c4a8776~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_456,h_456,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90/272194_f040f9809d124050aa9b7e9f0c4a8776~mv2.webp) ![Clear Creek Metro Park Lake Ramona Trail Rockbridge Ohio](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/272194_515275d51d0f468bb664a29786df8e11~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_456,h_456,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90/272194_515275d51d0f468bb664a29786df8e11~mv2.webp) ![Clear Creek Metro Park Lake Ramona Trail Rockbridge Ohio](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/272194_17410b119e9643dea9dd58e609c4073b~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_456,h_456,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90/272194_17410b119e9643dea9dd58e609c4073b~mv2.webp) ![Clear Creek Metro Park Lake Ramona Trail Rockbridge Ohio](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/272194_58809249b470427ea00aa1b19c66b940~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_456,h_456,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90/272194_58809249b470427ea00aa1b19c66b940~mv2.webp) - **C** At the bottom of the trail, you will find a small deck with a couple of metal benches. The deck overlooks the large lake. This side of the lake is serene. You can barely hear any vehicles in the distance. Lake Ramona covers 5 acres of land. It has bluegill, brown trout, channel catfish, and smallmouth bass. ![Clear Creek Metro Park Lake Ramona Trail Rockbridge Ohio](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/272194_b2a4589109604adb8a9f7a7052a7530e~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_899,h_554,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90/272194_b2a4589109604adb8a9f7a7052a7530e~mv2.webp) ![Clear Creek Metro Park Lake Ramona Trail Rockbridge Ohio Dock](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/272194_60097168b6d84718a830e03054ec376c~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_900,h_600,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90/272194_60097168b6d84718a830e03054ec376c~mv2.webp) - **D** When leaving the deck, the trail follows the edge of the lake. Over the edge, you can see areas of water and undergrowth. Once the trail curves away from the river, there is a steep incline. It continues all the way up to the top. ![Clear Creek Metro Park Lake Ramona Trail Rockbridge Ohio](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/272194_01b2ca58644c4a0787c04b010440ab44~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_456,h_456,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90/272194_01b2ca58644c4a0787c04b010440ab44~mv2.webp) - **E** The “Lake Trail” ends into the “Chestnut Trail.” Follow this trail back to the parking lot. It is about .1 miles in length and is downhill. This trail was an old road and is easy to walk. **F-H** There is a second entrance to Lake Ramona. It is often used by fishermen in search of bluegill, brown trout, channel catfish, and smallmouth bass. This side of the pond isn’t as tranquil as the upper trail side. The sound of traffic is very noticeable. Luckily, Clear Creek Road isn’t too busy. - **F** There is a very small parking area on Clear Creek Road. It is directly across the street from the Lake Ramona sign. There is enough room for two vehicles. ![Clear Creek Metro Park Lake Ramona Trail Rockbridge Ohio](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/272194_83b18a9af7584364a8c160825fdb56a8~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_900,h_600,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90/272194_83b18a9af7584364a8c160825fdb56a8~mv2.webp) - **G** There is a small boardwalk at the beginning of the path. After it ends, there is a steep grassy hill that you must climb. Once you get to the top, you will cross another boardwalk that ends with a deck. From the beginning of the path to the deck measures approx. 350’. The hillside can be very slick and difficult to climb. ![Clear Creek Metro Park Lake Ramona Trail Rockbridge Ohio](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/272194_29b7725bb9f840b6b2b4ab1c7b765053~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_900,h_600,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90/272194_29b7725bb9f840b6b2b4ab1c7b765053~mv2.webp) ![Clear Creek Metro Park Lake Ramona Trail Rockbridge Ohio Boardwalk](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/272194_288804afbf5a4266a4412d8e4a44b0e7~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_900,h_600,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90/272194_288804afbf5a4266a4412d8e4a44b0e7~mv2.webp) - **H** Leaving Lake Ramona, you can head back down to your car or continue on another path. This path has a steady incline and measures approx. 400’. It ends on the road that leads to the Valley View Parking area. ![Clear Creek Metro Park Lake Ramona Trail Rockbridge Ohio](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/272194_d9bfc7f6f6b9463f83f0ada0bf9d36a5~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_899,h_581,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90/272194_d9bfc7f6f6b9463f83f0ada0bf9d36a5~mv2.webp) --- ## Conclusion: Clear Creek Metro Park is one of my favorite Metro Parks to visit. I have fished and hiked at the park numerous times. And it never disappoints. > 🥾 If you have any questions or would like to add something to the blog, please let us know. ### Perry's Victory & International Peace Memorial URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/perrys-victory-international-peace-memorial/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:03:20.000Z Trail FactsPerrys Victory Memorial 0.5 miDistance EasyDifficulty 20 ftElevation 30 minDuration LoopType Year RoundKid-friendlyScenic view ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1722289522929-perry 6.jpg) The Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial is located on the beautiful South Bass Island in Ohio. This is more than a memorial. It is a celebration of peace between the U.S., Canada, and Great Britain. It is also a great place to hike. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1721842926395-perry 2.jpg) Fun fact: it’s located just 5 miles from the longest undefended border in the world! ### **From The Beacon on July 29, 2025, a news item by Sheri Trusty** ### **PUT-IN-BAY – If you’ve been delaying a trip to Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial on Put-in-Bay, now’s the time to go. Commonly called Perry’s Monument, it will close next summer for a major restoration project. This summer, however, visitors can still enjoy a tour to the top of the 352-foot memorial for stunning views of the island and Lake Erie.** ### ### **The restoration will encompass the entire structure, according to Tom Thanasiu, a member of the Friends of Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial, also known as The Perry Group.** ### ### **“They’re going to renovate the catacombs below, reinforce the plaza on top, and make it more accessible,” Thanasiu said. “The closure will last two years.”** ### Battle of Lake Erie (1813) During the War of 1812, control of the Great Lakes was crucial for both the United States and Britain. The British Navy had dominance on Lake Erie until American forces, under Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, built a fleet and engaged the British fleet commanded by Captain Robert Barclay. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1721603432399-perry 1.jpg) On September 10, 1813, the two fleets clashed near Put-in-Bay, Ohio. Perry's flagship, the USS Lawrence, suffered heavy damage, prompting him to transfer his command to the USS Niagara. Perry famously carried a battle flag emblazoned with the words "Don't Give Up the Ship," which became a rallying cry for the American forces. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1721842951852-Screenshot 2024-06-02 231429.png) Although the monument bears the name of Oliver Hazard Perry, six officers slain during the battle are interred under its rotunda, Perry himself is buried in Newport, Rhode Island. Beneath the stone floor of the monument lie the remains of those three American officers and three British officers. Carved into the walls inside the rotunda are the names of soldiers and sailors who were killed or injured in the Battle of Lake Erie. ### Construction of the Memorial In 1912, to commemorate the centennial of the Battle of Lake Erie, plans were made to build a memorial. The purpose was not only to honor the American victory but also to celebrate the lasting peace and friendship between the United States, Canada, and Great Britain. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1721842983520-perry 3.jpg) The memorial's design, a Doric column (Doric columns typically have a simple, rounded capital at the top; a heavy, fluted or smooth column shaft; and no base.) rises 352 feet above the Lake Erie shoreline, symbolizes the ideals of peace and reconciliation. It was designed by architect Joseph H. Freelander and completed in 1915\. The Doric Column is the only international peace memorial in the United States National Park System and stands 47 feet taller than the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor. The upper deck platform is 12 feet higher than the statue of Liberty's torch. ### International Peace Memorial Dedication Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial was dedicated on June 13, 1915, with ceremonies attended by dignitaries from the United States, Canada, and Great Britain. It remains an important historical and cultural landmark in the region, attracting visitors from around the world. | [ U.S. National Memorial](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List%5Fof%5FNational%5FMemorials%5Fof%5Fthe%5FUnited%5FStates?ref=hiking-ohio.com "List of National Memorials of the United States") | | | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------- | | Designated | June 2, 1936 | | [U.S. National Register of Historic Places](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National%5FRegister%5Fof%5FHistoric%5FPlaces?ref=hiking-ohio.com "National Register of Historic Places") | | | Designated | October 15, 1966 (original)April 28, 2015 (increase) | ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1721843759446-perry 10.jpg) Today, the memorial is managed by the National Park Service and continues to educate visitors about the historical significance of the War of 1812, Perry's leadership, and the enduring principles of peace and reconciliation. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1721844174419-perry 4.jpg) Grab a park brochure at the visitor center; it’s filled with maps and info that will guide you through the stories hidden in every corner. --- ## Structural concerns The Memorial had been closed for most of the summer of 2006 after a 500-pound (230 kg) piece of granite broke off the southeast face of the observation deck, falling 315 feet (96 m) and leaving a crater in the plaza in June. No one was injured. Following a structural assessment that deemed it safe for visitors, the memorial reopened on August 26, 2006, with a fence surrounding it. The monument closed on September 30, 2009 for repairs, and reopened on July 12, 2012. The monument was closed once again for the summer of 2017 for repairs and cleaning. ### Location, Location, Location (And Other Information) **Address:** - The memorial is located at 93 Delaware Ave, Put-in-Bay, OH 43456, United States. - [https://www.nps.gov/pevi/index.htm](https://www.nps.gov/pevi/index.htm?ref=hiking-ohio.com) website through National Park Service **Fees:** - Admission to the park is free. - Visiting the memorial rotunda is free but to go up the column to the observation deck requires a fee and a timed ticket. - Timed tickets for the observation deck can only be purchased in the visitor center on the day of your visit: 16 and older are $10, children 15 and younger are free. - Parking is limited near the memorial and the area is very congested due to the seawall construction. Visit early or park and walk from the visitor center. - Visitors must walk up 37 steps to the elevator. A National Park Ranger will transport them by elevator to the top. Rangers are stationed at the observation deck to answer questions and speak about the history and surrounding area. Views span Lake Erie, the islands and mainland of Ohio, and nearby islands in Ontario, including Middle Island, the southernmost point of land in Canada, and part of Point Pelee National Park. - There might be fees associated with parking and ferry transportation to Put-in-Bay. **Ferry Schedule:** - Ferries to Put-in-Bay, where the memorial is located, typically depart from Port Clinton or Catawba Island in Ohio. - Schedules vary by season and day, so it's best to check with local ferry operators for the most current schedule. Here is an example schedule for Miller Ferry. ![5003d3ae-c216-43f9-b9d4-ee1ff37296e4_1140x641.png (1140×641)](https://media.wtol.com/assets/WTOL/images/5003d3ae-c216-43f9-b9d4-ee1ff37296e4/5003d3ae-c216-43f9-b9d4-ee1ff37296e4_1140x641.png) ## Miller Ferry 2024 Schedule [](https://putinbayreservations.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/PIB-Schedule-Web-24-1604x2048-1.jpg?ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## Directions: ### From Sandusky, Cleveland, Or Points East Heading West There are several routes to take to reach your destination. If you’re on I-90/Route 2, continue west until you reach OH-2 West. Cross the Sandusky Bay Bridge and take Exit 124 for OH-53 North/Catawba Is. From there, head north for approximately 7 miles until you reach the end of OH-53 North. ### From The Ohio Turnpike Take either Exit 118 North (OH-250) or Exit 110 North (OH-4) and then continue onto OH-2 West. Cross the Sandusky Bay Bridge and take Exit 124 for OH-53 North/Catawba Is. Continue north for approximately 7 miles until you reach the end of OH-53 North. ### From Cedar Point Take OH-6 West to OH-2 West and cross the Sandusky Bay Bridge. Take Exit 124 for OH-53 North/Catawba Is and continue north for approximately 7 miles until you reach the end of OH-53 North. Be sure to check the Miller Ferry schedule ### From Kalahari Resort Take OH-250 North and then exit left onto OH-2 West. Cross the Sandusky Bay Bridge and take Exit 124 for OH-53 North/Catawba Is. Continue north for approximately 7 miles until you reach the end of OH-53 North. ### From Toledo And Points West Head east on OH-2 and take Exit 124 for OH-53 North/Catawba Is. – the Lake Erie Islands. Follow OH-53 North until the end. If you’re driving on the Ohio Turnpike, take Exit 91 (OH-53) North to OH-2 East. Then, take Exit 124 for OH-53 North/Catawba Is. and follow OH-53 North until the end. ### From Port Clinton you can take either of these routes: Head east on OH-163 (Perry Street) to OH-53 North. Drive straight for 6 miles until you reach the end of Catawba. Head east on OH-163 to Sand Road, which turns into West Catawba Rd CR-30\. Follow this scenic route to the end. ### From Columbus Follow OH-23 North and exit onto OH-4 North/Bucyrus. Then, exit onto OH-2 West and cross the Sandusky Bay Bridge. Take Exit 124 for OH-53 North and follow it until the end. Alternatively, you can exit OH-23 North onto OH-53 North/Fremont. Follow OH-53 North to OH-2 East, and take Exit 124 for OH-53 North/Catawba Is. – the Lake Erie Islands. Follow OH-53 North until the end. ### From Dayton and Cincinnati Follow OH-75 North to OH-6 East/Bowling Green. Then, take OH-6 East to OH-53 North/Fremont. Follow OH-53 North to OH-2 East, and take Exit 124 for OH-53 North/Catawba Island – the Lake Erie Islands. Follow OH-53 North until the end. ### GPS Location For Miller Ferry GPS Addresses Port Clinton, Catawba Dock \~ Mainland 5174 E Water St Port Clinton, OH 43452 Put-in-Bay, Lime Kiln Dock \~ Island 2190 Langram Rd Put-in-Bay, OH 43456 Once you land on South Bass Island, the memorial is just a short walk away. Make sure to check the ferry schedule ahead of time, especially if you’re visiting during peak summer months! --- ## Trails on South Bass Island South Bass Island, located in Lake Erie and home to Put-in-Bay, offers several hiking trails that showcase the island's natural beauty and historical landmarks. Here's a brief description of the main trails available: 1. **Jane Coates Wildflower Trail**: - **Length**: Approximately 0.5 miles - **Difficulty**: Easy - **Description**: This trail winds through a wooded area and is known for its diverse array of wildflowers, especially in the spring and early summer. It's a serene walk suitable for all ages and skill levels. 2. **Scheeff East Point Preserve**: - **Length**: Around 1.5 miles - **Difficulty**: Moderate - **Description**: This trail offers scenic views of Lake Erie and features a mix of forested paths and open meadows. It's slightly more challenging than the Wildflower Trail but still accessible for most hikers. 3. **South Bass Island State Park Loop**: - **Length**: Approximately 1.3 miles - **Difficulty**: Easy to Moderate - **Description**: This loop trail takes you through the state park, offering glimpses of the island's limestone cliffs, groves of trees, and occasional lake views. It's a great option for a relaxed hike with varied scenery. These trails provide a range of experiences from leisurely strolls among wildflowers to more invigorating hikes with panoramic vistas. Each trail offers a chance to explore South Bass Island's natural landscapes and enjoy its tranquil surroundings. One of the best trails is the one that loops around the memorial. You get to enjoy beautiful views of the lake while learning about the history of the area through informative plaques along the way. It’s the perfect blend of exercise and education! Check out the trails that lead to the nearby beaches. Nothing beats the feeling of sand between your toes. --- ## Conclusion Throughout the year, Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial hosts special events and programs. From reenactments of the Battle of Lake Erie to peaceful commemorations, there’s often something exciting happening. Check the park’s calendar before you visit so you don’t miss out! Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial is more than just a beautiful monument; it’s a place to honor history, enjoy nature, and create lasting memories. --- 🥾 Don't get caught in the wilderness wishing you were more prepared. Find great deals on [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### Rising Park Lancaster Ohio: Hiking Guide & Summit 2026 URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/rising-park-lancaster-ohio/ Last updated: 2026-08-06T13:35:15.000Z Trail FactsRising Park 1.5 miDistance ModerateDifficulty 200 ftElevation 1 hrDuration LoopType Year RoundScenic view --- ## **Rising Park: A Historical Journey Through Lancaster, Ohio** Nestled in the heart of Fairfield County, Lancaster, Ohio, boasts a gem of natural beauty and historical significance: Rising Park. Spanning 240 acres of rolling hills, lush forests, and scenic vistas, Rising Park offers visitors a tranquil retreat into nature. The location is **203 E Fair Ave**. **Lancaster**, OH 43130 This park opens at sunrise and closes at sunset. --- ## **A Brief History of Rising Park** ### **Early Settlement and Development** The history of Rising Park is closely intertwined with the development of Lancaster itself. Established in 1800 by Ebenezer Zane, Lancaster quickly became a hub of activity due to its strategic location along the Hocking River. The fertile land attracted settlers, primarily of German and Scotch-Irish descent, who cultivated farms and built homes in the area. The specific area that would later become Rising Park was originally owned by William Medill, a prominent local figure in the mid-19th century. His estate included what is now Mount Pleasant, the central hill around which Rising Park is structured. The Medill family played a significant role in the development of Lancaster, contributing to both its economic growth and cultural identity. **Rising Park: Unveiling the Legacy of Mr. William T. Rising** Rising Park stands not only as a testament to the natural beauty of Fairfield County but also as a monument to the legacy of William T. Rising, a prominent figure in the region's history. while honoring the man whose vision and generosity made it all possible. William Thomas Rising was born on April 1, 1833, in Bloom Township, Fairfield County, Ohio. From a young age, Rising demonstrated a keen entrepreneurial spirit and a deep love for his community. He began his career as a merchant, establishing a successful business in Lancaster that catered to the growing needs of the local population. Rising's business acumen allowed him to amass a considerable fortune, but it was his dedication to philanthropy that truly set him apart. Throughout his life, Rising generously supported numerous charitable causes and community initiatives, earning him a reputation as a benefactor and civic leader in Lancaster. One of William T. Rising's most enduring legacies is the establishment of Rising Park itself. In the early 20th century, Rising donated a significant portion of his land holdings to the city of Lancaster with the explicit purpose of creating a public park for the enjoyment of its residents. Mount Pleasant is a natural landmark that anchors the park and provides panoramic views of Lancaster and the surrounding countryside. The formal establishment of Rising Park occurred in 1914 when the Lancaster Park Board officially designated the area as a public park. Named in honor of William T. Rising, the park quickly became a beloved destination for outdoor recreation, community gatherings, and cultural events. ![A bronze plaque on a stone marker commemorating Rising Park's presentation to the City of Lancaster](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1721097703917-IMG_3304.JPG) It has remained a focal point for the community drawing generations of Lancaster residents and many other people to its scenic trail and panoramic views. --- ### **Mount Pleasant Trail** ![A wooden sign for the Mt. Pleasant Hiking Trail noting no motor vehicles allowed](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1721097521314-IMG_7969.JPG) Mount Pleasant is a prominent hill that rises 250 feet above the surrounding landscape. There are many outcroppings of sandstone and unofficial trails. Whereas the Mount Pleasant Trail is well-maintained, the unofficial trails are not. Some are worth stepping off the regular trail to see. Hikers just need to exercise caution and watch for obstacles on the trails such as fallen trees, or rocks, etc. ![A sepia-toned photo of a layered rock outcrop with bare trees](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1721098764559-201211_rising-park-outcropping_8190321440.jpg) The Mount Pleasant Trail, which winds its way to the summit, offers visitors a moderate hike through oak and maple forests, punctuated by scenic overlooks and benches for resting and enjoying the views. ![An old carved stone bench marker dated 1910 amid fallen leaves](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1721098430790-201211_rising-park-bench-made-of-hewn-stone-in-1910_8202035341.jpg) There are several of these stone benches along the trail. Even though the benches were installed in 1918 they are still usable and a welcome place to rest during the hike if needed. Discover this **0.7-mile** out-and-back trail near Lancaster, Ohio. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 25 min to complete. ![A view from the summit overlook down over the town and ball fields, with an iron railing in the foreground](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1721097862571-Image444.jpg) At the top of Mount Pleasant, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking vistas of Lancaster and the Hocking River Valley, making it a popular spot for photography, picnicking, and simply taking in the beauty of the natural surroundings. --- ## Personal Experience My mother, Evelyn Wiggins, was in a nursing home in Lancaster, Ohio. My sons Wes and Ryan and my husband Rob brought her to the top of Mount Pleasant in her wheelchair using a piece of hose to help pull it up. She tried to help us by using her feet on the trail while in her wheelchair. It wasn't easy but we made it to the top! I think she really enjoyed the view. It is a day I will never forget. ![Two men helping an elderly woman in a wheelchair along the wooded trail](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1721097469884-078.JPG) ![A man posing with an elderly woman in a wheelchair at the rocky summit overlook](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1721097468427-079.JPG) ![A man pushing a wheelchair toward the overlook railing with the town view behind](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1721097468449-080.JPG) ![Two men with an elderly woman in a wheelchair at the summit railing overlooking town](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1721097468378-081.JPG) ![A group at the rocky summit overlook with the town skyline visible below](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1721097469008-082.JPG) ![A view down over the town and athletic fields from the summit railing](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1721097469669-083.JPG) ![A family group posing with an elderly woman in a wheelchair at the summit overlook](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1721097469864-086.JPG) ![A family group posing on the shaded trail with an elderly woman in a wheelchair](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1721097469068-089.JPG) ![A family group with an elderly woman in a wheelchair pausing on the trail](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1721097468424-090.JPG) We also took her to the pond and the fountain to enjoy the beautiful day. We wanted to take her fishing at the pond. It is catch and release for the elderly and children. We even bought her a fishing pole, but sadly her health worsened and she died the next spring. Ironically she died on my birthday in March, 2011. ![An elderly woman in a wheelchair resting in the shade of a large park tree](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1721097801887-065.JPG) ![A group relaxing beside a green pond with a wheelchair at the water's edge](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1721097801882-066.JPG) ![A park pond with a spraying fountain, a gazebo, and benches nearby](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1721097801530-IMG_7966.JPG) --- ## **Legacy and Community Engagement** William T. Rising's vision for a public park in Lancaster has had a lasting impact on the community, fostering a sense of pride and stewardship among residents. Rising Park continues to serve as a gathering place for community events, concerts, and seasonal celebrations, drawing visitors from across Fairfield County and beyond. The park's historical significance is further underscored by its proximity to other landmarks of cultural and architectural interest, including the Mabel Wagnalls Jones House. This beautifully preserved mansion, located near the park's entrance, serves as a museum and cultural center dedicated to preserving Lancaster's heritage and honoring its notable residents. The Lancaster Parks and Recreation Department, in collaboration with community volunteers and nonprofit organizations, plays a crucial role in maintaining Rising Park's trails, facilities, and natural resources. --- ## Accidents and deaths ![A yellow diamond Stay on Trail warning sign](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1721099289267-trail-sign-nhe-17481_1000.gif) Rising Park in Lancaster, Ohio, has unfortunately been the site of several tragic incidents involving falls and accidents, resulting in fatalities over the years. Here are specific details about some of these incidents: 1. **2019 Incident**: In May 2019, a 16-year-old boy fell to his death from a cliff at Rising Park. Reports indicate that he had ventured off the designated trail and fell approximately 60 feet from a ledge. Despite warning signs posted in the area about the steep cliffs, the teen's tragic accident highlighted the dangers of not following posted safety guidelines. 2. **2016 Drowning Incident**: In July 2016, a drowning occurred in the reservoir at Rising Park. The victim, a man in his 20s, had reportedly ignored signs prohibiting swimming in the pond. Despite warnings from park authorities and others, he entered the water and drowned. The incident underscored the risks associated with disregarding posted warnings and the importance of respecting safety regulations in public parks. 3. Lancaster Police said a man was injured after he fell in a restricted area of Rising Park Sunday afternoon March 15, 2015\. The Lancaster Eagle Gazette reports the man was climbing when he slipped and fell about 15 feet down. He injured his leg. ![A yellow triangle warning sign depicting a person falling from a cliff edge](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1721099308878-danger-cliff-warning-sign-keep-out-danger-cliff-warning-sign-isolated-white-background-197289613.webp) These incidents serve as poignant reminders of the potential dangers present in natural recreational areas like Rising Park. They emphasize the critical need for visitors to adhere to posted signs and safety guidelines to prevent accidents and tragedies. Authorities continue to promote safety awareness and enforce regulations to ensure the well-being of park visitors. --- If you would like any more information or would like to submit some additional information, please contact us. 🥾 Don't get caught in the wilderness wishing you were more prepared. Find great deals on [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### Wahkeena Nature Preserve: Trails & Hiking Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/wahkeena-nature-preserve/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:18:37.000Z Trail FactsWahkeena Nature Preserve2.5 miDistanceModerateDifficulty300 ftElevation1.5 hrsDurationLoopTypeFallSpringScenic viewWaterfallWildlife **Wahkeena Nature Preserve** can best be described as a “living museum,” showcasing the rich natural diversity of the Hocking Hills region. With a focus on education, the site features a Nature Center with seasonal displays, self-guided interpretive trails, natural-history programs, and historical signage. **Visitor info (as of September 2026, Fairfield County Park District / Ohio History Connection):** **2200 Pump Station Road SE, Sugar Grove, OH 43155**. About **150 acres** (94 acres typically open to the public for hiking). Seasonal hours commonly **mid-March through mid-November, Wednesday–Sunday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.**; closed Mondays–Tuesdays and for winter mid-November to mid-March — **confirm before you drive**. Phone **740-652-4416** or **800-297-1883**. Admission free. **No pets** (service animals excepted). No picnicking; stay on trails. Official: [Fairfield County Parks — Wahkeena](https://fairfieldcountyparks.org/info/parks/wahkeena-nature-preserve/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) and [wahkeenanaturepreserve.com](https://wahkeenanaturepreserve.com/?ref=hiking-ohio.com). The preserve's history dates back to efforts by local conservationists and organizations dedicated to preserving its natural landscapes. --- ## History of Wahkeena Nature Preserve ![Carmen Warner bench at Wahkeena Nature Preserve](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1720141241247-carmen-on-bench.webp) In 1931, Dr. Frank Warner of Columbus gave his new bride, Carmen, an unusual wedding present: ninety-four acres of old farmland in southern Fairfield County. Mrs. Warner named her estate Wahkeena – a Yakama Indian word meaning “most beautiful” – after a waterfall she had seen in Oregon. The property was studded with old buildings, including a white log-framed house, log barn, hog house, smokehouse, and other structures. ![Wahkeena Nature Preserve scene](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1720138926821-image.png) Wahkeena’s appearance was profoundly transformed in the years after the Warner’s bought it. Some of the buildings were torn down, and their logs were used to build a lodge and garage. The old hog house became a charming guest house, while the smokehouse became a potting shed, an important part of Mrs. Warner’s gardening plans. ![Wahkeena Nature Preserve scene](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1720138951936-image.png) Around their new buildings, the Warners planted more that 100,000 trees on the hillsides and around the lodge. Mrs. Warner built terraces near the lodge by importing loads of top soil, and planted colorful flower gardens all along them. The cornfield near the lodge became a lake; two other ponds were also created. ![Wahkeena Nature Preserve landscape hero photo](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1720141697766-Wahkeena_HERO.jpg) Over the years, the Warners acquired more property until Wahkeena had grown to 150 acres of tree-covered hills. ![Wahkeena Nature Preserve scene](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1720141761660-image.png) Mrs. Warner bequeathed Wahkeena to the Ohio Historical Society in 1957 “to be used for nature study and as a preserve for birds and other wildlife.” Wahkeena has provided environmental education for school children, scout groups, garden clubs, and many others for over 50 years. In 2012, the Ohio Historical Society entered into a management agreement with the Fairfield County Historical Parks for the day-to-day management and staffing of Wahkeena Nature Preserve. This agreement remains in place today. This outdoor area is used exclusively for nature study and as a preserve for birds and other wildlife. Wahkeena Nature Preserve is one of 58 sites owned by the [Ohio History Connection](http://www.ohiohistory.org/?ref=hiking-ohio.com), a private, non-profit organization. Wahkeena is managed by the [Fairfield County Park District](http://www.fairfieldcountyparks.org/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) and generously supported by the [Ohio Association of Garden Clubs](http://www.oagc.org/?ref=hiking-ohio.com). Wahkeena Nature Preserve, located in Fairfield County, Ohio, is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, scenic beauty, and conservation efforts. The preserve's history dates back to efforts by local conservationists and organizations dedicated to preserving its natural landscapes. ![Wahkeena Nature Preserve informational signage](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1720140713941-Screenshot%202024-07-04%20205104.jpg) ## Admission is free (Confirm seasonal hours and closures above — Wahkeena is **not** open year-round dawn-to-dusk like many ODNR parks.) --- ## Wahkeena Nature Preserve Trails: ### Casa Burro Trail - Length: Approximately 1 mile - It's a moderate hike suitable for visitors of all ages. ### Shelter Trail - Length: Approximately 0.5 miles - It's an excellent trail for birdwatching and observing native plant species. ### Pond Loop Trail - Length: Approximately 0.1 miles - It's a short and accessible trail suitable for families and casual hikers. ### Boardwalk Trail - Length: Approximately 0.05 miles - It's a short and accessible trail suitable for families and casual hikers. ### Connector Trails - Length: Varies see map - Allows the trails to be connected --- ## Biodiversity The preserve includes upland forests, bottomland hardwoods, wetlands, and meadows, supporting a variety of plant and animal species. The site hosts an abundance of plants and animals typical of unglaciated Allegheny Plateau. Black Hand sandstone cliffs are forested primarily with tulip trees and oak. Rhododendron, mountain laurel, ferns and orchids are among the preserve's showiest plant species. # ORCHIDS Wahkeena has twelve different species of Orchids that can bloom throughout the growing season. If you are only familiar with the grocery store type of orchids, well, you may be disappointed with the native ones. However, if you give them a chance and a closer look (literally) I think you might be surprised. Many of the orchids native to North America are quite small, hard to find, and in special habitats. Bogs are great places to find native orchids and so are Prairies. Unfortunately, all of those habitats are pretty rare in Ohio. But, it can make finding these elusive plants all the more exciting! None of our orchids are exceptionally rare or anything, but because we can tell you exactly when they are blooming and make sure that you can actually find the plants, we’re a great place to get good photos or get started on a life list. Many of our orchids can be seen right from the trail. **May**: Showy Orchis Pink Lady’s Slipper Whorled Pogonia\* Puttyroot **June**: Tway Blade Orchid– can also be late **May** Ragged Fringed Orchid Adder’s Mouth Orchid **July**: Club-spur Orchid Cranefly Orchid\* Downy Rattlesnake Plantain\* **August/September**: Autumn Coral Root Oval Ladies’ Tresses # FERNS Wahkeena lists on the order of **\~30+ fern species** (preserve materials; counts vary by survey). The majority of these can be observed from the trail system, especially the Shelter Trail. Ferns are ancient plants dating back to around 300 million years ago! At that time ferns were huge tree-like plants and dominated the landscape. In fact, we can thank those ferns for much of our electricity today. Why? Those plants over time became coal, which in Ohio, is our main source of electricity! ## **Wahkeena’s Animal life:** ![Snakes exhibit or wildlife at Wahkeena Nature Center](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1720404222945-snakes%20together.jpg) Visitors may encounter wildlife such as white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, migratory birds, and various reptiles and amphibians. The preserve is known for its birdwatching opportunities due to its diverse habitats. - Over 100 species of birds documented - Over 35 species of mammals - Over 30 species of amphibians and reptiles - Hundreds of insect species such as dragonflies, damselflies, bees, wasps, butterflies, moths, beetles and more! The preserve offers educational programs and guided hikes that highlight its natural history, ecology, and conservation significance. These programs are designed to engage visitors and deepen their understanding of local ecosystem ## Nature Center The Nature Center began its life in the early 1900’s as a farmhouse. In 1931, Wahkeena’s founders, Frank and Carmen Warner, remodeled the farmhouse to the lodge you see today. The inside of the Nature Center features natural history displays, an observation beehive, taxidermized animals, as well as live animals. The Nature Center is a favorite for visitors of all ages, and is open during preserve hours. ![Bear mount display in Wahkeena Nature Center](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1720402968108-bear1.jpg) ![Bird displays at Wahkeena Nature Center](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1720402968399-birds1.jpg) ![Bobcat mount at Wahkeena Nature Center](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1720402970020-bobcat.jpg) ![Duck display at Wahkeena Nature Center](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1720402972875-ducks.jpg) ![Fox and owl mounts at Wahkeena Nature Center](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1720402971811-fox%20owl.jpg) ![Wahkeena Nature Preserve scene](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1720402970523-Image1.jpg) ![Wahkeena Nature Preserve scene](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1720402972629-IMG_3358.JPG) ![Squirrel mount at Wahkeena Nature Center](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1720402969376-squerl.jpg) ![Turkey mount at Wahkeena Nature Center](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1720402968355-turkey.jpg) ## Personal Experience I noticed the sign for Wahkeena Nature Preserve many years ago. I always wanted to stop to explore. Recently Rob and I stopped by the preserve. It is a very beautiful site and the history of the land and former owners adds a personal element to the preserve. It seems it was a labor of love for the Warners. --- Wahkeena serves as an outdoor education area for nature study groups, school groups, garden clubs and visiting natural resource professionals. Wahkeena is owned by the [Ohio History Connection](https://www.ohiohistory.org/visit/museum-and-site-locator/wahkeena-nature-preserve?ref=hiking-ohio.com) and managed by [Fairfield County Parks](https://www.fairfieldcountyparks.org/parks/wahkeena-nature-preserve/?ref=hiking-ohio.com). And to think it all started with a gift from a husband to his wife. ![Wahkeena Nature Preserve grounds](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/07/1720402906672-resize.jpg) > 🥾 ### Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/charles-young-buffalo-soldiers-national-monument/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:24.000Z Trail FactsCharles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument0.5 miDistanceEasyDifficulty20 ftElevation30 minDurationLoopTypeYear RoundKid-friendly ## Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers Experience the Rich Military History at Ohio's Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument. The Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument is located at: 1120 U.S. Route 42 E Wilberforce, OH 45384 There is no fee for entry. As you wander through the park, you feel a sense of reverence for the man it was named after - Charles Young. Despite facing immense racism and inequality, Young persevered and rose through the military ranks to become a highly respected leader. His dedication to duty and unwavering commitment to his beliefs is truly commendable and something that continues to inspire visitors to this park. --- ## History This park is a testament to the resilience and dedication of African American soldiers who served in the United States Army during the Civil War. Charles Young was born into slavery in Kentucky in 1832\. Despite his difficult circumstances, Young was determined to succeed and pursue his dreams of becoming a soldier. He enlisted in the Union Army in 1861 at the age of 29 and quickly proved himself to be a skilled and dedicated soldier. Young served in a number of key battles during the Civil War, including the Battle of Fort Wagner and the Battle of Chancellorsville. He was also involved in the Reconstruction period, helping to rebuild the South after the war. Despite his many accomplishments, Young faced significant discrimination and challenges throughout his military career. He was repeatedly passed over for promotion and assigned to lower-ranking positions simply because of his race. But Young refused to let these obstacles deter him from achieving his goals. In 1877, Young was promoted to the rank of colonel and became the first African American to command a regiment of Buffalo Soldiers. The Buffalo Soldiers were a group of African American soldiers who were recruited in the West and trained to fight in Indian Territory. They were known for their bravery, discipline, and skill in combat. Under Young's command, the Buffalo Soldiers proved themselves to be some of the most effective soldiers in the army. They were deployed to a number of conflicts, including the Spanish-American War and the Philippine-American War. Young's leadership and dedication to his troops earned him the respect and admiration of his superiors. He was promoted to the rank of brigadier general in 1901 and became the first African American to hold that position. In addition to his military career, Young was also a prominent civil rights leader. He was a founding member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and was a vocal advocate for racial equality. **Youngsholm** Early in his career in 1894, Charles Young received a detached service assignment as an instructor of military science and tactics at Wilberforce University. He developed the curriculum and served as a role model for the young men in the program. In 1907, the Young's purchased a large house about a mile from the campus which he later named "Youngsholm." The house was built in 1839 and was once used as a stop on the Underground Railroad. Young's residence quickly became the social hub for friends, university colleagues and even strangers alike. Frequent and notable visitors from around the area often visited the house. Although his military career took him across the globe, Young considered "Youngsholm" his sanctuary where he raised a family, mentored a successive generation of leaders, and found intellectual refuge. Even after his untimely death, "Youngsholm" would remain in the Young family for over another half century. Young died while serving in Lagos, Nigeria, on January 8, 1922\. His remains were returned to the United States in 1923, and Colonel Charles Young became only the fourth soldier to be honored with a funeral service at the Arlington Amphitheatre before burial in Arlington Cemetery. Young's legacy is still felt today. The Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument is a testament to his bravery and dedication to his country. The park is located in West Point, New York, where Young attended the United States Military Academy. The monument features a statue of Young, a museum, and a visitors center that tells the story of the Buffalo Soldiers and their contributions to American history. --- ## Trails The monument features several trails that offer visitors opportunities to explore the surrounding area and learn about the history of the Buffalo Soldiers. While I don't have the exact lengths of each trail, here are some details about the monument's trails: 1. **Colonel Charles Young Homestead Trail**: This trail leads visitors to the restored home of Colonel Charles Young, the third African American to graduate from the prestigious United States Military Academy at West Point and the first to achieve the rank of colonel. The homestead trail provides insights into Young's life and legacy. 2. **Buffalo Soldiers Memorial Loop Trail**: This loop trail showcases various points of interest related to the Buffalo Soldiers, including interpretive signs and monuments. Visitors can learn about the challenges and triumphs faced by these courageous soldiers during their service. 3. **Forest Loop Trail**: This trail takes visitors through the wooded area surrounding the monument, providing opportunities for nature walks and birdwatching. While not directly related to the Buffalo Soldiers, it offers a peaceful retreat into nature. 4. **Educational Trails**: The monument also features educational trails with interpretive signage detailing the history of the Buffalo Soldiers, their contributions to American history, and their impact on the Wilberforce community. Overall, these trails offer visitors a chance to engage with the history and natural beauty of the area while honoring the legacy of Colonel Charles Young and the Buffalo Soldiers. For specific trail lengths and additional details, it's best to contact the monument directly or visit their website for updated information. ### --- ## Conclusion The story of Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument is a remarkable testament to the resilience and dedication of African American soldiers who served in the United States Army during the Civil War. Charles Young overcame countless obstacles and discrimination to become one of the most respected leaders of his time. His legacy continues to inspire us today, and his memory will always be honored at this park. --- If you have something you would like to submit to have posted on this website, such as a blog submission or a new hiking trail you think we should check out, please contact us. > 🥾 ## Related Ohio history trails Pair this monument stop with [Hopewell Culture National Historical Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/hopewell-culture-national-historical-park/) near Chillicothe and the [James A. Garfield National Historic Site](https://hiking-ohio.com/james-a-garfield-national-historic-site/) for another Ohio heritage day trip. ### Buckeye Trail: Ohio's Premier Long-Distance Hike URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/buckeye-trail/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T13:01:00.000Z The Buckeye Trail is a gem nestled in the heart of Ohio, weaving its way through diverse landscapes, historical sites, and natural wonders. The Buckeye Trail was conceived in the early 1950s by Clarence "Johnny" Appleseed Miller, who envisioned a continuous loop trail encircling the state of Ohio. His dream was to create a pathway for people to connect with nature, appreciate Ohio's beauty, and foster a sense of community among hikers. With determination and support from fellow outdoor enthusiasts, Miller's vision became a reality. ### The Buckeye Trail Association (BTA) In 1958, Merrill Gilfillan proposed a trail from Cincinnati to Lake Erie. In June 1959 they formed **The Buckeye Trail Association (BTA)**. The trail eventually spanned over **1,444 miles** across Ohio, completed in 1980. [Blue blazes — Buckeye Trail Association](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) The trail is identified by blue blazes, 2" wide by 6" high, on trees or poles. [Overview map — official BTA maps](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/hike/maps?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### Sections to click and discover - [Overview](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/sections?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [Akron](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/sections/akron?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [Bedford](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/sections/bedford?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [Belle Valley](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/sections/belle-valley?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [Bowerston](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/sections/bowerston?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [Burton](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/sections/burton?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [Caesar Creek](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/sections/caesar-creek?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [Defiance](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/sections/defiance?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [Delphos](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/sections/delphos?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [Loveland](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/sections/loveland?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [Massillon](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/sections/massillon?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [Medina](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/sections/medina?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [Mogadore](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/sections/mogadore?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [New Straitsville](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/sections/new-straitsville?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [Norwalk](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/sections/norwalk?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [Old Man's Cave](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/sections/old-mans-cave?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [Pemberville](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/sections/pemberville?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [Road Fork](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/sections/road-fork?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [St. Marys](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/sections/st-marys?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [Scioto Trail](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/sections/scioto-trail?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [Shawnee](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/sections/shawnee?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [Sinking Spring](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/sections/sinking-spring?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [Stockport](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/sections/stockport?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [Troy](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/sections/troy?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [West Union](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/sections/west-union?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [Whipple](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/sections/whipple?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - [Williamsburg](https://www.buckeyetrail.org/sections/williamsburg?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### Maintaining the Trail Hiker usage of the different sections of the Buckeye Trail can vary greatly. Park systems and trail adopters share maintenance. ### Old Man's Cave Section Personal Experience I have spent a lot of time hiking the Buckeye Trail located in Old Man's Cave. It is one of my favorite hikes. ### Zaleski State Forest Section Personal Experience Zaleski State Forest offers the Zaleski Backpack Trail (about 28 miles) and other loops. Check out the Buckeye Trail and its Sections. You won't be sorry! > hiking ### James A Garfield National Historic Site URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/james-a-garfield-national-historic-site/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:02:51.000Z Trail FactsJames A Garfield NHS 0.8 miDistance EasyDifficulty 30 ftElevation 30 minDuration LoopType Year RoundKid-friendly ![](https://www.nps.gov/common/uploads/structured_data/3C8438A8-1DD8-B71B-0B1FAF95F1FC35BF.jpg) ## James A Garfield The Porch Have you heard of the James A. Garfield National Historic Site? It is located at: **James A. Garfield National Historic Site** 8095 Mentor Ave, Mentor, OH 44060 Stepping onto the front porch of a historic home of James A. Garfield known as Lawnfield, this porch isn't just any porch - it's the same one that James Garfield used as a platform to greet thousands of supporters during his presidential campaign in 1880\. But the porch is just the beginning of the adventure at the James A. Garfield National Historic Site. As you explore the grounds, you'll learn all about the Garfield family and their impact on American history. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/06/1717773871676-cmo8.jpg) In addition to its historical attractions, the James A. Garfield National Historic Site offers several hiking trails: ### Garfield Nature Trail: Here's what you need to know: - **Length:** Approximately 1 mile. - **Difficulty:** Easy to moderate. - **Features:** This scenic trail winds through diverse habitats, including woodlands and meadows, providing opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife observation, and nature photography. Interpretive signs along the trail offer insights into the area's ecology and history, enhancing the hiking experience. ### Carriage Road Trail: Here are the details: - **Length:** Approximately 1.5 miles. - **Difficulty:** Easy. - **Features:** This picturesque trail follows the path of the original carriage road that once served the Garfield family estate, offering scenic views of the surrounding countryside and historic landmarks. Along the way, visitors can explore the site's historic buildings, gardens, and landscape features, gaining insights into the area's rich history and heritage. ### Garfield Orchard Trail: The Garfield Orchard Trail winds through the picturesque orchard near the James A. Garfield National Historic Site, offering visitors a serene and immersive outdoor experience. Here are the details: - **Length:** Approximately 0.5 miles. - **Difficulty:** Easy. - **Features:** This short trail meanders through the historic orchard, where visitors can admire the fruit trees and enjoy views of the surrounding landscape. Interpretive signs along the trail provide insights into the orchard's history and significance. ### Cabin Trail: The Cabin Trail invites visitors to explore the wooded surroundings near the James A. Garfield National Historic Site, offering a peaceful retreat into nature. Here's what you can expect: - **Length:** Approximately 0.25 miles. - **Difficulty:** Easy. - **Features:** This short trail leads visitors through a wooded area near the historic site, providing opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife observation, and peaceful reflection. Along the way, hikers can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature as they stroll through the forest. ### 100-Yard Walk Between Visitor Center and Garfield Home Visitors should note that there is a 100-yard walk between the Visitor Center and Garfield home. --- ## History The James A. Garfield National Historic Site in Mentor, Ohio commemorates the life and legacy of the 20th President of the United States, James A. Garfield. This historic site provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about major events in American history, reflect on sacrifices made for the nation, and appreciate presidential history. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/06/1717772115721-asw2.jpg) Swearing in as President For history buffs interested in the Civil War era, the site's museum has exhibits detailing Garfield's earlier career as a major general in the Union Army. Visitors can learn about key Civil War battles Garfield fought in as well as his advocacy for civil rights for African Americans. The house where James and Lucretia Garfield lived is a historic home that is open to the public. The site also includes a museum that houses a collection of artifacts and memorabilia related to the Garfield family and their time in Ohio. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/06/1717772085716-cj68.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/06/1717772086214-dd22.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/06/1717772086296-dd32.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/06/1717772086062-poiu.jpg) The museum features a variety of items, including the original furniture from the Garfield house, political buttons and medals, and personal belongings of the Garfield family. There are also exhibits that explore the political career of James A. Garfield and his role in the Civil War. Garfield was an advocate for civil rights and educational opportunities for all Americans. The site includes a reconstructed schoolhouse from his time period, where kids can experience a 19th century classroom. The impact Garfield had on education in America is covered in exhibits as well. The Garfield family moved to Mentor in 1871, when James A. Garfield was elected to the United States House of Representatives. The house was built in 1865 and was the home of the Garfield family until James A. Garfield was assassinated in 1881 by Charles Guiteau, just 200 days into his presidency. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/06/1717770240735-xg42.jpg) ## Windmill The windmill, located on the grounds of the James A. Garfield National Historic Site, dates back to the 19th century when it was originally built to serve the Garfield family's estate. James A. Garfield, the 20th President of the United States, was known for his deep connection to the land and his passion for agriculture. The windmill played a vital role in the estate's agricultural operations, providing power for tasks such as grinding grain and pumping water. ### The James A. Garfield Monument and Lake View Cemetery ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/06/1717771188432-vq31.jpg) ## The Garfield Monument Located in the Lakeview Cemetery **Address:** 12316 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44106 The Garfield Monument, located in Lake View Cemetery in Cleveland, Ohio, is a memorial dedicated to James A. Garfield, the 20th President of the United States. Here's some information about the monument: ### Garfield Monument: - **Location**: Lake View Cemetery, Cleveland, Ohio, United States. - **Purpose**: Memorial to President James A. Garfield. - **Architect**: George Keller. - **Construction**: Completed in 1890. - **Description**: The monument stands tall at 180 feet and is made of Berea sandstone. It features a massive statue of Garfield himself, surrounded by various allegorical figures and decorative elements. ### Trails at the Garfield Monument Lake View Cemetery, where the Garfield Monument is located, primarily consists of roads and pathways for visitors to explore, rather than traditional hiking trails. These pathways wind throughout the cemetery, providing access to various monuments, gravesites, and scenic spots. While these pathways offer a peaceful and scenic environment for walking, they are not typically categorized as hiking trails with detailed lengths or difficulty ratings. Visitors often wander through the cemetery at their own pace, exploring its historical and architectural features. For more specific details about the pathways and walking routes within Lake View Cemetery, contact the cemetery directly or visiting their official website for updated information on visitor amenities and walking paths. They may provide maps or guides that can help you navigate the cemetery grounds and explore its points of interest, including the Garfield Monument. ### ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/06/1717772981446-dr54.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/06/1717772981522-ff47.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/06/1717772981496-fw42.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/06/1717772981394-qq25.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/06/1717772981861-uu75.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/06/1717772981808-ww24.jpg) ## Personal Experience I visited both sites with a friend in April of 2024\. I actually did not expect the sites to be so interesting and so beautiful. We took a tour of the Garfield House. Honestly, I did not know much about James Garfield before our visit. Then we traveled about 20 minutes to the James Garfield Monument. It was huge! I loved the gothic carvings on the monument. I suggest taking a trip to see both sites. If you have something you would like to submit to have posted on this website, such as a blog submission or a new hiking trail you think we should check out, please contact us! --- 🥾 Don't get caught in the wilderness wishing you were more prepared. Find great deals on [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park: Hiking Guide 2026 URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/battelle-darby-creek-metro-park/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:10.000Z Trail FactsBattelle Darby Creek Metro Park3.8 miDistanceEasyDifficulty120 ftElevation1.8 hrsDurationLoopTypeYear RoundDog-friendlyScenic viewWildlife ### Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park History Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park has 7,358 acres of forest, prairies, and wetlands (as of September 2026, per Columbus & Franklin County Metro Parks). It stretches along 13 miles of the Big Darby Creek and the Little Darby Creek. Both creeks are State and National Scenic Rivers. In 1945 when the report for future park recommendations it included the Big Darby and Little Darby Creeks. The metro park organization began acquiring land for the park in 1950\. The Darby Creek Metro Park opened to the public in 1959\. At that time the park had a mere 119 acres. During the 1960s the US Army Corps of Engineers planned to construct a dam on Big Darby Creek to help flood control in the Big Darby Creek Watershed, the Scioto River Basin, and the Ohio River Valley. Due to issues encountered, the project was put on hold and eventually decommissioned in 1978\. In 1984, the park acquired the 834 acres earmarked for the dam. Metro Parks wrote a proposal to the Board of Trustees of the Battelle Memorial Institute Foundation requesting a grant to acquire 2,440 acres of land. Battelle offered one million dollars to the project. Additional funding was provided the US Department of the Interior’s Heritage Conservation and Recreation Service and the US Federal Bureau of Outdoor Recreation. After this acquisition, the park was renamed as Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park. --- ### Locations and Trails The park encompasses lands and creek beds north & south of the confluence of the Big & Little Darby Creeks. The northern parcel lies just outside the town of West Jefferson (in Madison County). The park follows the Darby Creeks south past the village of Georgesville and continues towards the crossroads of Darbydale. Detached parcels of the park extend along Darby Creek to the village of Harrisburg (into Pickaway County). The different areas of the Battelle Darby Metro Parks are listed below along with a map of the trails and various trail details: Please note that many trails are accessible from the different park areas and entrances listed on Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park’s website. View the park map to find spots for fishing, picnicking, dog-friendly trails, wetlands, and areas with canoe access. | Trail | Distance | Difficulty | | -------------------------------------- | ---------- | --------------------- | | Ancient Trail | 1.7 miles | Easy \| Moderate | | Camp Chase Trail | 12.5 miles | Easy \| Moderate | | Cobshell Trail | 0.8 miles | Moderate \| Difficult | | Darby Creek Greenway Trail | 8.3 miles | Easy | | Dyer Mill Trail | 3.0 miles | Moderate \| Difficult | | Edgewood, Lake and Prairie Way Trails | 2.3 miles | Easy \| Pets | | Harrier Loop, Rail Way and Teal Trails | 3.0 miles | Easy\| Moderate | | Hawthorn | 0.8 miles | Easy \| Moderate | | Indian Ridge Trail | 0.6 miles | Moderate \| Difficult | | Osprey Lake Trail | 0.5 miles | Easy \| Moderate | | Riffle Run Trail | 0.2 miles | Moderate \| Difficult | | Terrace Trail | 2.1 miles | Moderate \| Difficult | | Turkey Foot Trail | 0.5 miles | Easy \| Moderate | | Wagtail Trail (dog trail) | 1.9 miles | Easy \| Moderate | ### Fort Ancient Mound ![The Voss Site Marker image. Click for full size.](https://www.hmdb.org/Photos4/498/Photo498839.jpg?10212019121400PM) The Ancient Trail runs alongside Darby Creek and loops through fields and woods while passing a Fort Ancient mound. Some Ohio mounds were built during the Woodland period about 1000 BC by the Adena culture and others were built later by the Hopewell Culture from 200 BC to 500 AD. The most recent mound builders are known as the Fort Ancient people from 1000 to 1750 AD. Archaeologists have uncovered arrowheads, scrapers and shards of ceramic bowl. Archaeologists have also found deer antlers that were fashioned into tools. In the 1960s the site was studied using magnetometry which allowed archaeologists to determine the layout of the village here without digging it up. ![Image1.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/06/1717550530024-Image1.jpg) ![IMG_2077.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/06/1717550530510-IMG_2077.jpg) --- ### John Galbreath ![John W. Galbreath | National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame](https://www.racingmuseum.org/sites/default/files/hall-of-fame/pillars/Pillar-Galbreath_KenGrayson_0.jpg) *aug* John Galbreath grew up in rural central Ohio. He was born August 10, 1897, and died July 20, 1988\. He dealt in real estate transactions as a developer. World War I interrupted his education; he served as a lieutenant in the field artillery before returning to graduate in 1920. Soon afterward he went into the real-estate business with a college fraternity brother, founding John W. Galbreath and Co. in Columbus. His marriage to Helen Mauck produced two children, son Daniel and daughter Joan. When Galbreath took up polo, he bought a stallion named Tommy Boy and several mares, with the idea of breeding polo ponies. But one of his fillies, Martha Long, won a $400 race at Beulah Park in Columbus in 1935, and that hooked him on racing. He bought a farm near Columbus in Galloway, Ohio, and named it Darby Dan Farm after his son and the Big Darby Creek, which ran across the land. Born in Derby, Ohio, he grew up in Mount Sterling, Ohio, where he graduated from high school. He then graduated from Ohio University in 1920 and was a member of the Beta chapter of Delta Tau Delta International Fraternity. The non-denominational Galbreath Memorial Chapel on the Ohio University College Green was donated by Galbreath in memory of his first wife, Helen Mauck, who died in 1946. In 1955, he married Dorothy Bryan Firestone, widow of Russell Allen Firestone of the Firestone Tire and Rubber Company. Galbreath met his second wife Dorothy through horse racing. She had been involved in the sport with her first husband and was very active with Darby Dan breeding and racing. ### Thoroughbred horse racing In 1935, Galbreath founded Darby Dan Farm (named for his son Dan and Darby Creek) near the Darby Creek in Galloway, Ohio. In 1949, he purchased the 650-acre property of Idle Hour Stock Farm in Kentucky and renamed it Darby Dan Farm. The Darby Dan Farm raced several champion horses. John Galbreath is one of only four men to have raced both a Kentucky Derby winner and an Epsom Derby winner. The others are Paul Mellon, Michael Tabor, and Prince Ahmed bin Salman. In the early 1950s, he served as chairman of the Greater New York Association. During his time, he oversaw the construction of the new Aqueduct Racetrack and the extensive rebuilding of Belmont Park. In 2018, Galbreath was voted into the [National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National%5FMuseum%5Fof%5FRacing%5Fand%5FHall%5Fof%5FFame?ref=hiking-ohio.com) as one of its esteemed Pillars of the Turf. Galbreath died in Galloway, Ohio, three weeks prior to his 91st birthday. [File:National Museum of Racing.jpg - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:National%5FMuseum%5Fof%5FRacing.jpg?ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### BASEBALL ACCOLADES Also, he was famous as the owner of the Pittsburgh Pirates baseball team for 40 years. !\[\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/06/1717518139124-th jpeg.jpeg) ### Pittsburgh Pirates and the Galbreath's Frank McKinney, a cigar-puffing Indianapolis banker who owned the city’s Triple-A team, was seeking investors to buy the Pittsburgh Pirates. On Trautman’s recommendation, Galbreath joined McKinney’s syndicate as a minority shareholder, along with singer Bing Crosby and Pittsburgh attorney Thomas Johnson. They closed the deal in August 1, 1946. - The Galbreath's won the World Series four times – (Pittsburgh Pirates 1960, 1971 and 1979) (Washington Nationals 2019) - Only family to have won the Word Series with two different baseball teams. - Only family to have three generations in baseball ownership. He owned Darby Dan Farms, well-known locally for its miles of white fencing and green and white buildings, as well as an airstrip and a horse racetrack. *Darby Dan Farm* The Galbreath family donated and then sold some land to the Metro Parks system, and some of his property was incorporated into Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park along the greenway trail. Included on this property was a racehorse barn with an indoor track and an outdoor 1-mile racehorse track. A few years ago, repairs and improvements were made to this property so that hikers can see a bit of history as well as nature along the greenway trail. ### Bison Wild bison nearly went extinct due to overhunting. However, wild bison were relocated to Batelle Darby Creek 10+ years ago through a partnership with The Wilds, an animal conservation non-profit with the Columbus Zoo. The relocation came as an effort to restore the population of bison in Ohio. In turn, it has brought Ohioans the chance to view these massive mammals in the wild again. And although the bison are in the wild, they are still checked on by vets, and they receive vaccines to stay healthy. Catch them grazing at your next visit to the 7,000-acre metro park, as they roam freely year-round in enclosed pastures. The two bison pastures can be viewed best from the Darby Creek Greenway trail. ### Personal Experiences The first time I found out about Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park, I was working for the State of Ohio, Department of Development, Office of Community Development. We had a manager's retreat every year at different metro parks. I was amazed by the size of the park, the bison, and of course the beauty of the park. However, with having other Metro Parks like Blacklick Woods and Slate Run nearby, it was several years before I actually hiked there. After my foot surgery for bunion removal, we took our first hike there. We took the Cobshell Trail, the Terrace Trail and the Ancient Trail. The trails were amazing with lots of hills for cardio. ![IMG_2016.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/06/1717550330451-IMG_2016.jpg) ![IMG_2042.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/06/1717550330216-IMG_2042.jpg) ![IMG_2047.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/06/1717550330281-IMG_2047.jpg) Here are some pictures: ![IMG_2015_37.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/06/1717550210549-IMG_2015_37.jpg) ![IMG_2017.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/06/1717550210061-IMG_2017.jpg) ![IMG_2021.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/06/1717550210570-IMG_2021.jpg) ![IMG_2023.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/06/1717550210321-IMG_2023.jpg) ![IMG_2029.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/06/1717550208916-IMG_2029.jpg) ![IMG_2034.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/06/1717550209987-IMG_2034.jpg) ![IMG_2038.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/06/1717550210063-IMG_2038.jpg) ![IMG_2079.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/06/1717550209070-IMG_2079.jpg) If you haven't visited Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park, this park is definitely worth a visit.[](http://www.google.com/maps/place/1775+Darby+Creek+Drive+Galloway,+OH+43119?ref=hiking-ohio.com) If you have something you would like to submit to have posted on this website, such as a blog submission or a new hiking trail you think we should check out, please contact us below! ### First Ladies National Historic Site URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/first-ladies-national-historic-site/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:02:28.000Z Trail FactsFirst Ladies National Historic Site 0.5 miDistance EasyDifficulty 10 ftElevation 30 minDuration LoopType Year RoundKid-friendly Hey there fellow hiking enthusiasts! Have you ever heard of the First Ladies National Historic Site in downtown Canton, Ohio? If not, let me tell you all about this hidden gem that is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and the role of First Ladies in shaping our nation. The site consists of two properties - the home of First Lady Ida Saxton-McKinley and an Education Center where you can learn all about how the position of First Lady has evolved over time to include a public role. As a huge fan of hiking and exploring new places, I can't recommend this site enough for anyone looking to dive deeper into the history of our country and the incredible women who have served as First Lady. ## First Ladies of the United States | **"A position where I can do the most good..." - Eleanor Roosevelt** Over 50 women have held the role of First Lady as of today. However, not all those who have served as a first lady were spouses to the presidents. If the president was a bachelor or widower, or if his wife was unable or unwilling to perform the role, other female relatives or friends were called upon to carry out the first lady's official duties; thus, there have been more first ladies than presidents. For more information and biographies on each of the first ladies, visit the [National First Ladies Library](http://firstladies.org/biographies/?ref=hiking-ohio.com). **Our First Ladies** **Martha Washington** *Wife to President George Washington*1789-1797 **Abigail Adams** *Wife to President John Adams*1797-1801 **Martha "Patsy" Jefferson Randolph** *Daughter to President Thomas Jefferson*1801-1809 **Dolley Madison** *Wife to President James Madison*1809-1817 **Elizabeth Monroe** *Wife to President James Monroe*1817-1825 **Louisa Adams** *Wife to President John Quincy Adams*1825-1829 **Rachel Jackson** *Late Wife to President Andrew Jackson*1828 **Emily Donelson** *Niece to President Andrew Jackson*1829-1834 **Sarah Jackson** *Daughter-in-law to President Andrew Jackson*1834-1837 **Angelica Van Buren** *Daughter-in-law to President Martin Van Buren*1838-1841 **Anna Harrison** *Wife to President William Henry Harrison*1841 **Jane Harrison** *Daughter-in-law to President William Henry Harrison*1841 **Letitia Tyler** *Wife to President John Tyler*1841-1842 **Pricilla Cooper Tyler** *Daughter-in-law to President John Tyler*1842-1844 **Julia Tyler** *Second wife to President John Tyler*1844-1845 **Sarah Polk** *Wife to President James Polk*1845-1849 **Margaret Taylor** *Wife to President Zachary Taylor*1849-1850 **Mary "Betty" Bliss** *Daughter to President Zachary Taylor1849-1850* **Abigail Fillmore** *Wife to President Millard Fillmore*1850-1853 **Jane Pierce** *Wife to President Franklin Pierce*1853-1857 **Harriet Lane** *Niece to President James Buchanan*1857-1861 **Mary Lincoln** *Wife to President Abraham Lincoln*1861-1865 **Eliza Johnson** *Wife to President Andrew Johnson*1865-1869 **Martha Johnson Patterson** *Daughter to President Andrew Johnson*1865-1869 **Julia Dent Grant** *Wife to President Ulysses S. Grant*1869-1877 **Lucy Hayes** *Wife to President Rutherford B. Hayes*1877-1881 **Lucretia Garfield** *Wife to President James A. Garfield*1881 **Ellen Arthur** *Late Wife to President Chester Arthur*1880 **Mary Arthur McElroy** *Sister to President Chester Arthur*1881-1885 | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | **Rose Cleveland** *Sister to President Grover Cleveland*1885-1886 **Frances Cleveland** *Wife to President Grover Cleveland*1886-18891893-1897 **Caroline Harrison** *Wife to President Benjamin Harrison*1889-1893 **Mary McKee** *Daughter to President Benjamin Harrison*1892-1893 **Ida McKinley** *Wife to President William McKinley*1897-1901 **Edith Roosevelt** *Wife to President Theodore Roosevelt*1901-1909 **Helen Taft** *Wife to President William Howard Taft*1909-1913 **Ellen Wilson** *Wife to President Woodrow Wilson*1913-1914 **Margaret W. Wilson** *Daughter to President Woodrow Wilson*1913-1914 **Edith Wilson** *Second wife to President Woodrow Wilson*1914-1921 **Florence Harding** *Wife to Warren G. Harding*1921-1923 **Grace Coolidge** *Wife to President Calvin Coolidge*1923-1929 **Lou Hoover** *Wife to President Herbert Hoover*1929-1933 **Eleanor Roosevelt** *Wife to President Franklin D. Roosevelt*1933-1945 **Bess Truman** *Wife to President Harry S. Truman*1945-1953 **Mamie Eisenhower** *Wife to President Dwight D. Eisenhower*1953-1961 **Jacqueline Kennedy** *Wife to President John F. Kennedy*1961-1963 **Lady Bird Johnson** *Wife to President Lyndon B. Johnson*1963-1969 **Patricia Nixon** *Wife to President Richard Nixon*1969-1974 **Betty Ford** *Wife to President Gerald Ford*1974-1977 **Rosalynn Carter** *Wife to President Jimmy Carter*1977-1981 **Nancy Reagan** *Wife to President Ronald Reagan*1981-1989 **Barbara Bush** *Wife to President George H.W. Bush*1989-1993 **Hillary Clinton** *Wife to President Bill Clinton*1993-2001 **Laura Bush** *Wife to President George W. Bush*2001-2009 **Michelle Obama** *Wife to President Barack Obama*2009-2017 **Melania Trump** *Wife to President Donald Trump*2017- 2021 **Dr. Jill Biden** *Wife to President Joe Biden*2021- | --- ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1717190914402-Old-Postcard.png) ## National First Ladies Visitor and Education Center Begin your visit at the visitor center, located in Canton's historic City National Bank. At the visitor center visitors can explore our small museum of rotating exhibits, watch a film, earn Junior Ranger badges, and get their official passport cancellation. ### Address 205 Market Avenue South Canton, OH 44702-2105 ## Directions Of Course You Want To Go! [205 Market Ave S · 205 Market Ave S, Canton, OH 44702Building![](https://www.google.com/images/branding/product/ico/maps15_bnuw3a_32dp.ico)205 Market Ave S · 205 Market Ave S, Canton, OH 44702![](https://geo0.ggpht.com/cbk?cb_client=maps_sv.tactile&output=thumbnail&thumb=2&panoid=I5BRCUk-SH4l-Zwk6v7STw&w=900&h=900&yaw=291&pitch=0&thumbfov=75&ll=40.797530,-81.375157)](https://www.google.com/maps/place/205+Market+Ave+S,+Canton,+OH+44702/@40.7975867,-81.3779273,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x8836d0787ee26d69:0xdbdef194d5f8f661!8m2!3d40.7975867!4d-81.3753524!16s%2Fg%2F11bw4clv6n?entry=ttu&ref=hiking-ohio.com) --- ## Saxton-McKinley House ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1717191301436-house.jpg) Saxton-McKinley House ### Home of the National First Ladies Library In 1998, the Saxton-McKinley House became the home of the National First Ladies Library. The new library was dedicated at a ceremony attended by former first lady Rosalynn Carter. The purpose of the National First Ladies Library is to house and make available the collection and library of materials about the first ladies. This library is the only one of its kind, focusing solely on the First Ladies of the United States. ### The Education Center The Education Center, located at 123 E. Market Street, is a modern facility that houses educational programs and exhibits about the First Ladies of the United States. The center features interactive displays, multimedia presentations, and artifacts from the collections of the National First Ladies' Library. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1717191415373-clothes.jpeg) Part of the exhibits ### Ida Saxton-McKinley's House The library itself is unique, as is the story of the Saxton-McKinley House. The National First Ladies Library took great care in carefully restoring the home to the Victorian era with the help of Dr. Sheila Fisher. After leading the restoration process of the Saxton-McKinley House, Dr. Fisher described the job as being one of "historic restoration and historic renovation." Aside from being a beautiful Victorian building, the Saxton-McKinley House is the last remaining home with direct ties to Ida and William McKinley in their hometown of Canton, Ohio. Ida Saxton McKinley was born and raised in the home, and it remained in her family until 1919\. Additionally, the house served as the primary residence for Mr. and Mrs. McKinley from 1878 to 1891 while William served in the United States House of Representatives. As is the case with many historic residences, the Saxton-McKinley House was constructed in several parts. The rear of the home was built in 1841 by George Dewalt, Ida's maternal grandfather. George would later will the home to Ida's parents, Katherine Dewalt and John Saxton. In 1870, John added the front section onto the home to make room for his large family, which included Katherine, Ida and her two siblings, and their Grandfather Dewalt. Walking through the home of Ida Saxton-McKinley, you can truly feel the presence of history as you learn about her life and the impact she had on the country during her time as First Lady. ## Not Your Average Hike As someone who loves spending time outdoors and immersing myself in nature, I found the First Ladies National Historic Site to be a refreshing change of pace from my usual hiking adventures. It was fascinating to learn about the challenges and triumphs that these women faced during their time in the White House, and how they used their platform to advocate for important causes. From the fight for women's right to vote to tales of heartbreak and hope inside the White House, First Ladies National Historic Park explores the humanity behind the women of the Presidential families. Through their stories, we better understand the history of our nation and the changes these remarkable women inspired. ## Well this is a Hiking Blog! In addition to the parks's historical attractions, there are also plenty of other activities to enjoy. The park has several walking trails. For example there is the First Ladies Heritage Trail, which takes you on a tour of the park's historic buildings and landmarks. So next time you're looking for a new hiking destination, why not consider a trip to the First Ladies National Historic Site in Canton, Ohio? You won't be disappointed by the rich history and fascinating stories that await you at this unique and educational site. And there are many hiking and biking trails of all different distances and difficulty nearby to enjoy. I have not visited these trails. I plan to do so in the future. If anyone has visited these trails, please let me know. - Middle Branch Trail [https://starkparks.com/parks/middle-branch-trail/](https://starkparks.com/parks/middle-branch-trail/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - Fairhope Nature Preserve [https://cantonparksandrec.com/park/fairhope-nature-preserve/](https://cantonparksandrec.com/park/fairhope-nature-preserve/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - West Branch Trail [https://starkparks.com/parks/west-branch-trail/](https://starkparks.com/parks/west-branch-trail/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - Hoover Park Trail [https://starkparks.com/](https://starkparks.com/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - Covered Bridge Park [https://cantonparksandrec.com/parks/](https://cantonparksandrec.com/parks/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - Martindale Park [https://cantonparksandrec.com/parks/](https://cantonparksandrec.com/parks/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - Ink Park [https://cantonparksandrec.com/parks/](https://cantonparksandrec.com/parks/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - Frank Esmont Park [https://starkparks.com/parks/esmont-park/](https://starkparks.com/parks/esmont-park/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) - Devonshire Park [https://starkparks.com/](https://starkparks.com/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) It is really amazing that Ohio has this historic park. If you have something you would like to submit to have posted on this website, such as a blog submission or a new hiking trail you think we should check out, please contact us! 🥾 Don't get caught in the wilderness wishing you were more prepared. Find great deals on [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) ### Foundation Park Heath Ohio: Trail Guide & History 2026 URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/foundation-park/ Last updated: 2026-09-07T02:17:37.000Z Trail FactsFoundation Park1.5 miDistanceEasyDifficulty50 ftElevation45 minDurationLoopTypeYear RoundDog-friendlyKid-friendly Foundation Park is a community park in Pataskala Ohio. This multipurpose park, developed in 1998, encompasses 78 acres. It has basketball courts, little league softball and baseball fields, soccer fields, two playgrounds and a pond. **Trail at a Glance — Foundation Park** | **Distance** | 1.5 miles (loop) | | ------------------ | ----------------------------------------------------- | | **Elevation gain** | 50 ft | | **Difficulty** | Easy | | **Best season** | Year-round | | **Dogs** | Leashed dogs welcome | | **Highlights** | Historic ironworks ruins, Raccoon Creek, kid-friendly | | **Location** | Heath, Licking County, Ohio | --- ## Thomas J. Evans Foundation The park was developed by the Thomas J. Evans Foundation. Thomas J. Evans was born February 6, 1874\. After graduating from Ohio Normal University's (now Ohio Northern University) school of Pharmacy in 1894, he moved to Newark Ohio. He became a very successful businessman and is credited with many things such as the Newark branch of the Ohio State University, and the Licking Memorial Hospital among other things. In 1965, with the help of Attorney J. Gilbert Reese, he started the Thomas J. Evans Foundation. This Foundation is responsible for many projects around Licking County Ohio like the land for the J.T. Evans Park, the Johnstown bikeway, sports facilities for the Newark School system and noteworthy projects like Foundation Park. After a long life as an entrepreneur, pharmacist and philanthropist, Thomas Evans passed away in March of 1967\. The Foundation has carried on, and with the work of J. Gilbert Reese and Sarah Wallace, Foundation Park became a reality. --- ## Visiting Foundation Park The hidden gem of this park is the hiking trails. The first trail is a 1.4-mile trail around the perimeter of the park. It's a fairly new all-purpose trail project with the goal to have it topped with stone or asphalt. This trail is a fairly flat walk around the sports fields. My favorite trail in Foundation Park though is the one-mile trail in the woods. This dirt trail loops through a twenty-two acre stand of trees with half of the trail following South Fork of the Licking River. This river, once known as Pataskala Creek, joins the North Fork of the Licking River to form the Licking River. This is my favorite part of the trail. ![5rt.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1715531153350-5rt.jpg) ![ase.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1715531152794-ase.jpg) ![bqe.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1715531153938-bqe.jpg) ![dywe.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1715531150295-dywe.jpg) ![vve.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1715531152257-vve.jpg) ![weq.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1715531151026-weq.jpg) ![xaty.jpg](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1715531154250-xaty.jpg) *The South Fork Licking River.* Even though it rained the day before, the trail wasn't too wet. Despite this trail also being flat, you do climb a hill on the north end of the trail that provides a nice view of the river. --- ![Foundation Park, Licking County, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1715821034991-final.jpg) *Image from All Trails* --- ## Our History in Pataskala We moved to Pataskala in the late nineties. Our first introduction to Foundation Park was our two boys playing soccer there. The park was pretty new then and the soccer fields were about all that was there. I don't even remember if the pond was there. Next, they added the baseball and softball fields. I do remember the pond being there at this point. They also added the first playground, the basketball courts and the trail in the woods. We would bring our dogs to the park to get some exercise. They put in an extra parking lot for the trail in the woods and added a shelter house for the community. Years passed. Our kids grew up and we moved away. We retired and our kids started their own families. We weren't around for the changes that were made to the park. Until now. It was nice to go back for a visit. The trails are better than ever, and we couldn't believe how nice the park is. The Thomas J. Evans Foundation has done an amazing job. --- !\[Foundation Park, Licking County, Ohio\](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1715994909246-Screenshot 2024-05-17 210532.png) *The Licking River watershed* ## I never noticed I have lived around central Ohio almost all of my life. I can't count the times I've hiked Black Hand Gorge Nature Preserve, be it the Black Hand or the Marie Hickey trails, only to now realize how prominent the Licking River is. I have spent many days at Dillon State Park, either camping, fishing, water skiing or just relaxing, not realizing that it is from the waters of the Licking River. As I have stated earlier, I wasn't aware that the South Fork of the Licking River flowed through Pataskala, only to now read that the North Fork runs through the small town of St Louisville Ohio. My sister has lived there for over 30 years. I have walked or biked many miles be it the Johnstown trail, the Newark trail or the Black Hand Gorge trail never truly aware I was on the banks of the Licking River. Although I was oblivious to the name of the river, I never lost sight of its beauty. The clean water with all of the wildlife around the river always kept me coming back. You could always count on seeing birds and deer, not to mention a surprise sighting of who knows what. --- ## Johnathan Chapman Another surprise I uncovered researching for this entry, but it probably won't be my last, is discovering that Johnathan Chapman's legacy started on the Licking Creek. That's what it was known as at the time. Today it is called the South Fork of the Licking River. In history books he is known as Johnny Appleseed, born in Leominster, Massachusetts on September 26, 1774\. He made his way to Ohio in the early 1800's and planted his first apple orchard in Licking County. He went on to plant apple trees in Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Indiana, Illinois and Ontario, Canada. Going forward, I will have a newfound interest in visiting these parks in the future. I want to explore in depth the way these areas are not only tied together today but how they were connected in the past. How important was the Licking River system when this country was forming? Or even before. > 🥾 ## Explore Nearby Trails More Ohio trail guides worth a visit: - [Three Creeks Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/three-creeks-park/) - [Scioto Grove Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/scioto-grove-met/) - [Deer Creek State Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/deer-creek-state-park/) - [The Dawes Arboretum](https://hiking-ohio.com/the-dawes-arboretum/) - [Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve](https://hiking-ohio.com/blackhand-gorge-state-nature-preserve/) - [Best Hikes Near Columbus](https://hiking-ohio.com/best-hikes-near-columbus-ohio-15-trails-worth-your-weekend/) ### Pine Quarry Park: Trails, Map & Hiking Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/pine-quarry/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:03:25.000Z Trail FactsPine Quarry Park 1.8 miDistance EasyDifficulty 80 ftElevation 45 minDuration LoopType Year RoundDog-friendlyKid-friendly This 39-acre park in Reynoldsburg, Ohio, is a hidden gem for hiking and exploring. Located at 8000 Kingsley Drive, where the road dead-ends into a small parking lot. Seven trails run through the tall pinewoods and a rocky gorge. French Run Creek runs through the park. French Run Creek (why it is called Run and Creek no one knows because run and creek mean about the same thing) starts at Blacklick Creek just west of Lancaster Ave. It runs east through Pine Quarry Park and ends just east of Taylor Road Southwest between Priestly Drive and Oak Street. 0:00 /0:26 1× French Run Creek The park's coordinates are 39.9627 N, 82.7880 W.6 The land was donated to the city in the 1970s for a recreation area. In 1980 the city began to develop Pine Quarry Park into what it is today with various trails and a small parking lot. In 1995, Reynoldsburg spent $95,000 to buy the lot to the north, 1106 Waggoner Road. A house on the property since has been demolished and plans call for that site to be combined with the property at 1140 Waggoner Road for a second entrance and parking area. There is not a second parking lot at this time, but it is planned. In 2018, the city replaced two dilapidated bridges that cross French Run Creek, which runs along the eastern portion of the park. The parking lot was resurfaced the same year and new timber fencing, a retaining wall and a trench drain were installed. ![Pine Quarry Park in Reynoldsburg, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1715825548335-cuee.jpg) ![Pine Quarry Park in Reynoldsburg, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1715825518610-43we.jpg) Note: Trails are not named or marked, but it would be hard to get lost since the park is small and nestled in a housing development. Pets are allowed. --- ## Pine Quarry Park History Pine Quarry Park was originally a limestone quarry. It was opened by Henry Besse in 1828\. Limestone from the quarry was shipped to many parts of Ohio. The limestone is freestone. Freestone is rock that can be cut easily in any direction. It was first used for bridging purposes. Most of the abutments on Broad Street and National Road bridges were originally made of this freestone limestone. An abutment is a structure built to support the lateral pressure of an arch or span, e.g. at the ends of a bridge. ![ A unique type of bridge construction used along the National Road.](https://www.nps.gov/parkhistory/online_books/founders/images/sitec35.jpg) Example of National Road Bridge Henry Besse sold the quarry to William Forrester. Mr. Forrester built a mill for sawing the limestone to use for building purposes. The cut blue freestone was popularly used in lentils and doorsteps. --- ### The Livingston House The foundation of the Livingston House was locally cut in the quarry. Also the limestone was used to construct the summer kitchen, washhouse floors and basement walls. Livingston House is located at 1792 Graham Road, Reynoldsburg, Ohio. Alexander Livingston owned the Livingston House until 1880\. Starting in 1870 he improved and stabilized the wild tomato for commercial use. Alexander W. Livingston (1821-1898) improved and stabilized the wild tomato for commercial use, producing disease-resistant tomatoes suitable for every taste, soil, and climate. ![Pine Quarry Park in Reynoldsburg, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1715996089814-paragon.jpg) Beginning in 1870 with the red Paragon. It was the first tomato in the world that was large, uniform in shape and had smooth skin that was evenly red throughout. Most consumers today take tomatoes that are smooth, red and round for granted but when his tomato hit the market it was a huge success. He perfected fourteen or more new, stable varieties, including his purple Acme and yellow Golden Queen. Livingston's True Blue Seeds were nationally recognized as highest quality. Many Reynoldsburg residents worked there at the 136-acre A.W. Livingston Buckeye Seed Gardens, or grew seed tomatoes for Livingston on their own land. In 1965, the Franklin County Historical Society recognized Reynoldsburg as "The Home of the Tomato." Reynoldsburg holds an annual festival in recognition of his vast accomplishments in agriculture. It is called the Tomato Festival and 2024 is the 58th. ![The Livingston House](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1715996532966-lh.jpg) The Livingston House 1792 Graham Road In Reynoldsburg, there are only two houses built in town using entirely of limestone from William Forrester's quarry. ![Pine Quarry Park in Reynoldsburg, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1715820058301-fd44.jpg) ![Pine Quarry Park in Reynoldsburg, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1715820058407-rt45.jpg) The quarry stayed operational until about 1909\. Over the years the quarry land changed hands and eventually, landowners Bernard Redman, Evan Williams and others donated the land the old quarry stood on to the city for a park. --- ## What is Limestone? Limestone is a sedimentary rock composed primarily of calcium carbonate in the form of the mineral calcite. It forms in shallow, warm and clear marine waters. It is usually an organic sedimentary rock that forms from shells, algae, and fecal matter. ![Pine Quarry Park in Reynoldsburg, Ohio](https://img.geocaching.com/cache/large/0cf2d80a-e356-42b7-b23c-7ad783525655.jpg) --- ## My Personal Experience With Pine Quarry Park Growing up in Reynoldsburg, Ohio in the 1970's I had no idea that a limestone quarry was ever located there. However, when I was graduating from high school in 1982, I did some exploring. There was a sign denoting the Pine Quarry Park was located in the Green Tree Housing Development. Since this was the time before cellphones and Garmin, it took me a little time to actually locate the park. I was very glad I did. The Park reminded me of the Hocking Hills with its cliff faces and the babbling French Run Creek. Frankly, it was one of the only times I ever felt at home in Reynoldsburg. My Dad had died when I was 14 and he was my hiking buddy, so finding places to hike made me feel closer to him. And since he was buried at Glen Rest Cemetery which is across the National Road (East Main Street), it was convenient for me to drop off flowers at his grave and go for a hike at Pine Quarry Park. --- ### Friends of Pine Quarry Park Facebook Group This is a quote from the Facebook page: 'The purpose of the Friends of Pine Quarry Park is to raise public awareness of the park and encourage more folks to visit. It is our hope that park visitors will appreciate this gift of Mother Nature, enjoy time spent in the park with family and friends and develop lasting relationships in our neighborhood community. We are advocates for the park; its preservation, upkeep and the safety of its visitors. ' They conduct clean-up days and community events such as "Dog's Night Out" at the park. --- Bottom line, this small park has a lot to offer! ### Some Pictures of Pine Quarry Park ![Pine Quarry Park in Reynoldsburg, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1715997035522-dyrr.jpg) ![Pine Quarry Park in Reynoldsburg, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1715997030520-grye.jpg) ![Pine Quarry Park in Reynoldsburg, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1715997037234-mlii.jpg) ![Pine Quarry Park in Reynoldsburg, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1715997032483-mmuo.jpg) ![Pine Quarry Park in Reynoldsburg, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1715997039003-teuy.jpg) ![Pine Quarry Park in Reynoldsburg, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1715996983907-gdtr.jpg) ![Pine Quarry Park in Reynoldsburg, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1715997034868-vyec.jpg) 🥾 Don't get caught in the wilderness wishing you were more prepared. Find great deals on [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com) **Trail at a Glance — Pine Quarry Park** | **Distance** | 1.8 miles (seven short loop trails) | | ------------------ | --------------------------------------------------- | | **Elevation gain** | 80 ft | | **Difficulty** | Easy | | **Best season** | Year-round | | **Dogs** | Leashed dogs welcome | | **Highlights** | Tall pinewoods, a rocky gorge, and French Run Creek | | **Address** | 8000 Kingsley Drive, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068 | ## Explore Nearby Trails More Ohio trail guides worth a visit: - [Three Creeks Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/three-creeks-park/) - [Homestead Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/homestead-metro-park/) - [Rocky Fork Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/rocky-fork-metro-park/) - [Scioto Grove Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/scioto-grove-met/) - [Best Hikes Near Columbus](https://hiking-ohio.com/best-hikes-near-columbus-ohio-15-trails-worth-your-weekend/) - [All Columbus & Franklin County Metro Parks](https://hiking-ohio.com/columbus-franklin-county-metro-parks/) ### Blacklick Woods Metro Park: Trails & Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/blacklick-woods-metro-park/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:01:56.000Z Trail FactsBlacklick Woods Metro Park 3.2 miDistance EasyDifficulty 80 ftElevation 1.5 hrsDuration LoopType Year RoundDog-friendlyKid-friendlyWildlife Located in Reynoldsburg, Ohio, Blacklick Woods Metro Park is owned and operated by Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks. Established in 1948, it was the first park in the Metro Park system. The address is 6975 & 7309 E. Livingston Ave., Reynoldsburg, Ohio 43068\. Coordinates 39.94595,-82.80999\. Blacklick Woods is 643 acres of seasonal swamp ponds, woods, fields, prairie and golf course. [Blacklick Woods Golf Course | Reynoldsburg Golf Courses | Reynoldsburg Public GolfBlacklick Woods Golf Course is open to the public, located in Reynoldsburg, OH. Please inquire about golf memberships. Call (614)-861-3193 today.![](https://blacklickwoodsgc.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo2-80x80.png)Blacklick Woods![](https://blacklickwoodsgc.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo2-300x300.png)](https://blacklickwoodsgc.com/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) Blacklick Creek flows south along the eastern boundary of the park. The creek and the golf course have sentimental meanings for me. We lived right up the street from Huber Park so it was easy to access the creek without driving anywhere. My father and I would take my dog Holly and I on walks along Blacklick Creek exploring the creek via Huber Park. We especially searched for rocks in the creek bed and for crawdads. I remember one walk in mid-summer when Holly was overheating and needed some water. We had already walked pretty far from the creek so creek water was not really an option. So my father and I trespassed on the golf course(although nobody saw us) to get some for her. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1715190037095-73100297007-metro-parks-ac-002.webp) ## Canopy Walk ![CANOPY WALK TO BE COMPLETED AND OPENED IN MAY, 2024](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1714840873848-73100297007-metro-parks-ac-002.jpeg) 🦓 ****Canopy was completed and opened May 2024\. The canopy walk was a$2.8 million project that has a 40-foot elevator tower near the entrance walk to the nature center. It takes visitors to a 1/8th of a mile long, 35-foot-high walkway with several play features for kids including a fireman's pole and an encapsulated rope bridge. It also has a 55-foot-high observation tower and deck with a hammock style rope structure. This boardwalk-style walkway at Blacklick Woods Metro Park has a treetop canopy that includes maples, oaks, hickories and beech trees. The boardwalk allows for a great view of the forest--and offers opportunities for wildlife viewing. UPDATED 9/9/2025** ## Trailside Zoo and Deer Pen Blacklick Woods is a multi-use park that Rob and I both visited as children. Blacklick Woods has changed over the years and continues to evolve. During the 50's and the 60's Blacklick Woods had a trailside zoo. Various animals were displayed and some of the resident animals became famous. Sam the Red Fox was on television several times in the early 1950's and Jerry the Coyote lived at the zoo during the 1960's. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1715192360729-RED_FOX_GZVrd.jpg) red fox slipping through the trees The trailside zoo was phased out during the mid 1970's and a Nature Center was built. I remember being fascinated by the animals, but I also remember how smelly the area was. At its peak, the trailside zoo housed up to 75 animals and 25 different species. Also, though hard to believe, Blacklick Woods had a deer pen. When I was a child, there were very few deer in the area. This pen had very high fences and usually had 3 or 4 deer inside. The purpose of the deer pen was to showcase deer. Few deer were scene back then but now there are so many deer everywhere. We even have deer in our housing development now. ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1714846667502-20231103_165107.jpg) Deer just chilling in a backyard. I wish I could find pictures of the trailside zoo and the deer pen, but I was unable to locate any images on the Internet. If someone has any pictures, please share with me. ## Programs and Trails As with the other Metro Parks, Blacklick Woods offers many programs for both children and adults. There are educational programs both night and day. The upcoming activities are listed on the website. There is also a map of the park and trail maps on the website. [Blacklick Woods - Metro Parks - Central Ohio Park SystemBlacklick Woods features 643 acres of woods, fields, seasonal swamp ponds, a small prairie and a golf course. It has one of the best remaining beech-maple forests in central Ohio along with a buttonbush swamp. The forest areas are laced with trails that wind through a swamp forest with oaks, red maple, elm, shagbark, bitternut hickory and dogwood.![](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/cropped-metroparks-icon-300x300.png)Metro Parks - Central Ohio Park System![](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/BLK_buttonbush-swamp-w-sedge-grasses_J-Watts.jpg)](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blacklick-woods/?ref=hiking-ohio.com) It is definitely a go-to for a quick and easy hike as it is close to home. There are numerous easy trails geared to families and athletes looking to have a no fuss workout. Many of the trails link together so a hike can be customized by distance, ability and time. --- Here are the trails listed for Blacklick Woods: 1. Beech 0.7 miles easy-hike-gravel | ADA 2. Blacklick Creek Greenway 16 miles easy-hike-gravel | ADA 3. Maple 0.9 miles easy-hike-gravel | ADA 4. Buttonbush 0.5 miles easy-hike-gravel | ADA 5. Multipurpose 2.6 miles easy-hike-bike-gravel | ADA 6. Walter A Tucker 0.1 miles easy-hike-gravel-boardwalk | ADA ADA - American Disabilities Act Compliant We sometimes use Blacklick Woods as a starting place for hikes. The Blacklick Creek Greenway allows connection by trail to Pickerington Ponds and Three Creeks. It is also excellent for bike riding. ## Did you know? Blacklick Woods was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1974\. The National Natural Landmark (NNL), is the only national natural areas program that recognizes and identifies examples of geological and biological features in both private and public ownership. --- If you haven't had an opportunity to visit Blacklick Woods, I highly recommend it. Please feel free to contact us with any information and/or pictures about Blacklick Woods Metro Park. ### Christmas Rocks State Nature Preserve: Jacob's Ladder Hiking Guide URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/jacobs-ladder-and-christmas-rocks/ Last updated: 2026-07-02T18:02:16.000Z Trail FactsHocking Hills State Park 3.5 miDistance HardDifficulty 500 ftElevation 2.5 hrsDuration LoopType FallSpringScenic viewWaterfall **Christmas Rocks State Nature Preserve** · near Lancaster, Fairfield County 4.6-mile combined loop · 685 ft elevation gain · 2–2.5 hours · Moderate to strenuous · No pets · No restrooms There's a sandstone cliff in Fairfield County that drops nearly 300 feet into a forested valley, and most hikers in Ohio have never heard of it. Christmas Rocks State Nature Preserve sits about an hour south of Columbus, tucked away on a dead-end road with a gravel parking lot that holds maybe eight cars. No gift shop, no visitor center, no crowds fighting for selfie position at the overlook. Just 4.6 miles of trail through one of the most dramatic geological landscapes in central Ohio. The preserve protects over 400 acres of deep forest, Black Hand Sandstone cliffs, and recess caves that have been weathering into existence for roughly 340 million years. The centerpiece, Jacob's Ladder, is a sandstone formation that towers about 250 feet above the valley of Arney Run, with a sheer cliff face nearly 100 feet high that shows the honeycombed weathering unique to this bedrock. Stand at the top and you get an unobstructed view of forested ridgelines rolling toward the Hocking Hills. And the name has nothing to do with Christmas trees. The preserve takes its name from the Christmas fern (*Polystichum acrostichoides*), an evergreen fern that carpets the forest floor and stays green through the dead of winter. Ohio settlers used to harvest these ferns to decorate their homes for the holidays. There's also an older theory that early settlers called them "Christ Rocks" because large fissures in the sandstone reminded them of the biblical account of rocks splitting. Either way, the name stuck. ## Getting there Christmas Rocks is in the southern part of Fairfield County, southwest of Lancaster. For GPS, use 2340 Meister Rd SW, Lancaster, OH 43130, but double-check your route before you go, because cell service gets spotty as you approach. **From Columbus (about 1 hour):** take US-33 south toward Lancaster, then head west on US-22 for about 4.3 miles and turn left onto Delmont Road. After half a mile, stay left at the split onto Stony Hill Road, continue 0.8 miles, and turn right onto Hopewell Church Road. Follow that for 1.9 miles, then turn left onto Meister Road; the parking area is about 0.7 miles down on the right. Parking coordinates: 39.6397, -82.6500. The lot is a small limestone pad with room for roughly eight vehicles, and there's no overflow parking, so an early start on a spring weekend is wise. Right beside the parking area stands the Mink Hollow Covered Bridge, a fifty-four-foot span over Arney Run built in 1887 by Jacob R. "Blue Jeans" Brandt. It's worth a look before you hit the trail. From the lot, walk north along the gravel road, Old Mill Hollow, until you reach the first information kiosk, where the road becomes a mowed grass path and connects to the main trail. ## The trail Two blazed loops branch from the same trailhead. Hike them separately, combine them, or just do the orange one if you're short on time. ### Orange Trail: Jacob's Ladder Loop (\~1.8 miles) This is the flagship, and the reason most people make the drive. The orange-blazed loop starts flat and easy, a deceptive warm-up through mature hardwood forest, with a couple of small stream bridges before the terrain shifts. The climb to Jacob's Ladder is where it gets real: the trail gains elevation steadily and the footing turns rough, with ankle-twisting stones and exposed roots. "Moderate to strenuous" is the official rating, and it's accurate. You're not scrambling with your hands, but you're working. At the top you reach Jacob's Ladder itself, a Black Hand Sandstone outcrop perched roughly 250 to 300 feet above Arney Run. The overlook delivers one of the most expansive views in central Ohio. Forested ridgelines stack up to the southwest until they go hazy, and you keep expecting the view to end and it doesn't. On a clear fall day the contrast between the dark sandstone and the orange canopy below is stunning. There's no railing and no fence, so stay behind the safety boundary; a 300-foot drop offers no second chances. The descent loops back through more forest and past several recess caves, shallow sandstone overhangs carved by millennia of freeze-thaw and water. Light comes through them at an angle and catches the moss on the rock. It's the kind of thing that makes you stop walking for a minute. ### Blue Trail: Christmas Rocks Loop (\~1.6 miles) The blue-blazed loop is the mellower sibling, covering similar forest and ridgeline but with a gentler grade and less rough footing. You won't get the dramatic cliff-edge overlook, but you'll walk through some of the preserve's most pristine forest and past outcrops draped in Christmas ferns. The trail crosses several stream bridges and follows Arney Run before climbing to a secondary ridgeline with filtered valley views. On a quiet morning you can hear the creek and the birds and not much else. ### Combining both loops Most hikers combine the orange and blue trails for about 4.3 to 4.6 miles total. AllTrails lists the combined route at 4.6 miles with 685 feet of gain, roughly 2 to 2.5 hours at a moderate pace. Do both: Jacob's Ladder earns the drive out, and the Christmas Rocks loop earns the extra hour. For a shorter day, take a right at the trail junction and return the way you came for a 2.8-mile lollipop that still hits Jacob's Ladder. 🪧 The orange and blue blazes are painted on posts and tied to trees, and they're generally easy to follow, but a few junctions get confusing. If you lose the blazes, stop and backtrack to the last marker you saw. ODNR asks that you stay on the marked trails to protect endangered-species habitat. ## History and nature ### 340 million years of sandstone The geological backbone here is Black Hand Sandstone, laid down during the Mississippian Period roughly 340 million years ago. It's harder and more erosion-resistant than the surrounding shale and limestone, which is why it forms the dramatic cliffs and overhangs you see across the Hocking Hills region and into Fairfield and Licking counties. The "Black Hand" name comes from a large dark hand once painted on a sandstone cliff by Native Americans along the Licking River, a landmark destroyed during canal construction in the 1800s, though the geology endures across dozens of preserves in southeastern Ohio. At Christmas Rocks the rock shows the honeycombed weathering geologists call tafoni: water seeps into the porous stone, freezes, expands, and slowly excavates small cavities, creating the pitted, almost organic texture on the cliff faces and recess caves. ### A forest full of rarities One plant matters more than the rest: Bradley's spleenwort (*Asplenium bradleyi*), a small fern listed as state endangered in Ohio. That's a big reason you're required to stay on marked trails; the cliff-edge and recess-cave habitats support species that can't tolerate foot traffic. Beyond the spleenwort you'll find the namesake Christmas ferns carpeting the forest floor, especially along the Blue Trail, plus poke milkweed, wild ginger, spotted wintergreen, and the Jacob's Ladder wildflower (*Polemonium reptans*), which shares its name with the rock formation. ### Ninety-nine bird species and counting eBird lists 99 bird species at Christmas Rocks, which makes this a legitimate birding stop and not just a hike. The mature oak forest pulls in migratory warblers each spring, and Scarlet Tanagers are a reliable sighting in breeding season. Along the stream crossings, watch for Ebony Jewelwing damselflies, their iridescent dark wings catching the light over the creek. Chipmunks and squirrels are everywhere, and the deeper forest holds deer, wild turkey, and a few woodpecker species you'll hear before you see. ### From permit-only to public access Christmas Rocks was a permit-only preserve for years under ODNR's Division of Natural Areas and Preserves. The restriction was lifted around 2012, opening the trails without advance registration, but ODNR still monitors visitor impact; if damage becomes significant, the permit requirement could return. Treat it like a guest in someone else's living room: stay on the trails, pack out your trash, and leave the ferns where you find them. ## A local's take We've hiked Christmas Rocks several times over the years, and two things are worth admitting. The first loop is where Jacob's Ladder is, and that climb is steep but well worth the effort; the view from the top might be the best we've seen in Ohio, the kind that makes central Ohio feel like the Smokies. The second admission is funnier: even though Christmas Rocks is marked on the map, we've never been completely sure we've found the actual rocks. That doesn't bother us. It just gives us a reason to keep going back. The preserve hasn't been over-developed into a state park, and that undisturbed quality is exactly what makes it special. A short video from the Jacob's Ladder overlook at Christmas Rocks State Nature Preserve. ## Tips and seasonal notes ### What to wear and bring Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support are a must, especially for the Orange Trail; the rocky terrain and root-covered ascent to Jacob's Ladder will punish trail runners and basic sneakers. If it's rained in the last couple of days the trail can be genuinely muddy, so plan for dirty boots and bring trekking poles if you have them. Pack water and snacks, because there are no water sources or restrooms at the preserve. What you carry in, you carry out. ### Best seasons to visit **Spring (April–May)** is the best, and it's not close: wildflowers bloom, the Christmas ferns send up fresh fronds, and migratory warblers fill the canopy while the creeks run strong with snowmelt. The actual Jacob's Ladder wildflower blooms along the path to the rock formation, a satisfying coincidence. Time a dry stretch, because spring rain makes the trail muddy. **Fall (October–November)** brings gorgeous foliage from the overlook, but fallen acorns blanket the steep sections and turn the ground into a rolling hazard; several hikers have flagged this on the steeper descents, so take it slow. **Summer** is hot, humid, and buggy under the canopy, doable but best started early. **Winter** shows off the Christmas ferns against snow, though north-facing slopes near the overlook can ice up, so microspikes are smart when it's frozen. ### Rules to know - **No pets.** This is a state nature preserve, not a park; dogs are prohibited. - **Stay on marked trails.** Off-trail hiking is illegal here, for good reason given the endangered-species habitat. - **Hours:** dawn to dusk. No camping, no fires. - **Cell service** is unreliable, so download offline maps or print directions before you go. ## Nearby trails Christmas Rocks sits in a pocket of Fairfield County rich with options. If you're making a day trip from Columbus, pair it with one of these: - [Shallenberger State Nature Preserve](https://hiking-ohio.com/shallenberger-state-nature-preserve/) — the one to pair with Christmas Rocks. Fifteen minutes east in Lancaster, same Black Hand Sandstone, its own cliffs, shorter and easier. If you only have time for one add-on, make it this. - [Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve](https://hiking-ohio.com/boch-hollow-state-nature-preserve/) — about 25 minutes south, 607 acres of forested hills and ponds on the edge of the Hocking Hills, far less crowded, with excellent fall color. - [Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve](https://hiking-ohio.com/rhododendron-cove-state-nature-preserve/) — thirty minutes away in Hocking County, with wildflower displays that rival anything in the region and gentler terrain. - [Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve](https://hiking-ohio.com/blackhand-gorge-state-nature-preserve/) — about 40 minutes northeast near Newark, a flat paved river-gorge trail and the place that gave Black Hand Sandstone its name. - [Little Rocky Hollow State Nature Preserve](https://hiking-ohio.com/little-rocky-hollow-state-nature-preserve/) — forty-five minutes south, for solitude and gorge trails. 🥾 **Gear up for the trail.** Christmas Rocks demands solid footwear and trekking poles for the rocky climb to Jacob's Ladder. See our [tested gear notes for Ohio trails](https://hiking-ohio.com/comparing-backpacking-pouch-meal-brands/). ### Hiking in Ohio: Complete Trail Guide & Resources URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/hiking-in-ohio/ Last updated: 2026-06-10T10:35:25.000Z ## We Love to Hike We just aren't great at it... Welcome to our blog! We were married in 1984, and from the beginning we loved hiking. We have trekked in State Parks, National Parks, Metro Parks, anywhere we could find. From hikes on the beach to climbing mountains, we would go anywhere to see new things or to face a new challenge. With all our travels and explorations around the country though, we would always end up back home, hiking in Ohio. Now that we are retired, we have decided to share our experiences with everyone. We will write about our experiences, both past and present, of everything Ohio has to offer in nature. In addition, to blog entries, we will add pictures and videos and maybe even try our hand at live streaming! There will be new posts weekly, be it visiting our favorite spots in the Hocking Hills or exploring new parts of the state that will be a new experience. We would love it if we received requests to check out something new. --- ## National Parks [NPS.gov Homepage (U.S. National Park Service)The National Park Service cares for special places saved by the American people so that all may experience our heritage.![](https://www.nps.gov/common/commonspot/templates/images/icons/favicon.ico)National Park Service![](https://www.nps.gov/common/commonspot/templates/images/logos/nps_social_image_02.jpg)](https://www.nps.gov/index.htm?ref=hiking-ohio.com) When most people think of "hiking in the United States" they don't generally think of Ohio in their top states. But, that is where most people get it wrong, because Ohio has great hiking spots scattered all around. There are different types of places to hike in Ohio including national parks, state parks, and county/city parks. There are also preserves and reserves, some of which require a permit to access. Parks consist of all types of protected areas and vary in size, purpose and governance. Cuyahoga Valley National Park is the only national park in Ohio. National parks are usually very large and scenic. Each national park has its unique ecosystem and geological features. These parks are managed by U.S. National Parks Services and are intended to provide education, conservation and enjoyment. --- ## State Parks State parks are very similar to national parks; however, they are managed by state governments. In the case of Ohio, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources manages state parks. State parks vary in size and purpose. But most provide recreational resources for people to enjoy. There are 75 state parks in Ohio. Ohio's system of state parks officially was formed in 1949 when the Ohio Department of Natural Resources was created. However, it has roots in the 19th century. When the canal era ended in Ohio, there were a number of artificial lakes and surrounding lands that became family destinations for recreation and adventure. Currently there is no entry fee or parking charge at state parks in Ohio. Ohio remains one of the few states in the country that does not charge for state park access. Day use of facilities including trails, beaches, picnic areas, boating and fishing facilities are free of charge. ### Buckeye Lake In 1949 Buckeye Lake became the first state park in Ohio. The lake served as a feeder lake for Ohio's canal system during the early 1800s. At the start of the 20th century, it was transformed into the "Atlantic City of the midwest" with such attractions as arcades, amusement rides, a skating rink and a 20,000 square foot swimming pool. The Crystal Ballroom and the Lake Breeze Pier Ballroom was the place that you could enjoy the best entertainment of the time. Performers such as Louis Armstrong and Frank Sinatra could be heard alongside bands such as Tommy Dorsey and Guy Lombardo. The demise of the Buckeye Lake Amusement Park started during the Great Depression when the rail line went out of business. Most of the visitors would travel to the lake by train so between this and the hardships of the time, attractions started to close. The Amusement Park officially closed in 1070. Today, the 3,100-acre lake is a popular spot for water sports such as boating and fishing. Many people love to relax on the banks of the lake where you can still enjoy the fountain, the only remnant of a time gone by. --- ## Metro Parks Another park system in Ohio is County and City Metro parks. They are usually smaller in size than state parks and national parks. Whereas national parks and state park's purpose is to protect cultural and natural resources, Metro parks are focused on communities and often include picnic areas, playgrounds, sports facilities (football, baseball, soccer, etc.) and natural areas for walking and hiking. We mostly enjoy the Columbus Metro Park System with its 20 natural areas. --- ## State Preserves Part of the State Parks are 145 State Nature Preserves and natural areas that have been dedicated in Ohio. These diverse areas include remnants of Ohio’s past. A nature preserve is a designated area where plants and animals are protected and there are few buildings or homes. There is a permit application available on the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Natural Areas and Preserves at least 14 days in advance of visit. The permits are mailed 7 days before the visit. The permit is valid for 10 days. There are rules for every preserve that are preserve specific. Also, there are usually no restrooms, picnic areas or playgrounds. --- ## Nature Reserve A nature reserve is a protected area of importance for features of geological or special interest which is reserved and managed for conservation and to provide special opportunities for research. It can also be land set aside for indigenous peoples or land set aside to re-introduce wildlife protected by law. A reserve can be part of a state park, county/city and metro park. The area designated as a nature reserve usually has few amenities as well. --- Here are some of the places we have hiked, but there are *a lot* more, and plenty more to come! ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1714655572841-20210515_115410 1.jpg) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1714655584290-IMG_1167.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1714655579034-IMG_1260.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1714655583382-IMG_1268.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1714655583954-IMG_1278.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1714655583560-IMG_1353.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1714655573632-IMG_5551.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1714655572233-IMG_6300.JPG) ![](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2024/05/1714655572938-IMG_6317.JPG) Thanks for reading and please consider becoming a subscriber! We are going to post weekly about our excursions and lots of other topics related to hiking. If you have questions, feel free to [contact us](https://hiking-ohio.com/contact/). 🥾 Don't get caught in the wilderness wishing you were more prepared. Find great deals on [Hiking Gear.](https://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&tag=darkcitadel-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=509df929a607e9d7c3c43140594deb7a&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=sporting&keywords=hiking%20gear&ref=hiking-ohio.com)