From the east coast of Lake Erie, to the Ohio River Valley, through the rolling hills and plains of Appalachia, Ohio has something for hikers of all levels. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced hiker looking for a challenging trek, Ohio has some of the best hiking trails in the Midwest.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park. This park is located between Akron and Cleveland, and it offers more than 125 miles of hiking trails. From routes that follow along creeks and rivers to scenic overlooks and nature preserves, Cuyahoga Valley National Park has a wide variety of terrain to explore.
Hocking Hills State Park. This state park in southeastern Ohio is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the state. Its rugged terrain features deep gorges, cascading waterfalls, and towering cliffs. Hiking trails meander throughout this park for miles, offering unparalleled views of nature and great photo opportunities.
Zaleski State Forest. Located in southeastern Ohio near Athens, Zaleski State Forest is one of the largest state forests in Ohio. With over 25 miles of trails winding through its dense forested lands, this area provides hikers with an opportunity to commune with nature away from civilization.
Mohican State Park. Mohican State Park is located in north-central Ohio near Mansfield and offers more than 20 miles of well-maintained trails that are perfect for day hikes or overnight backpacking trips. The park also has a reservoir where visitors can go kayaking or canoeing while taking in the stunning scenery surrounding them.
Conclusion: With so many options available for hikers looking to explore Ohio’s beautiful outdoors, it can be hard to choose just one place to visit. However, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Hocking Hills State Park, Zaleski State Forest, and Mohican State Park are some of the best places to hike in Ohio due to their diverse terrain and stunning views. So lace up your hiking boots and explore all that these parks have to offer!