Three unique hiking spots in Ohio

By: Mia Taylor

If you haven’t spent time in Ohio, you probably associate the state with cornfields, strip malls and the occasional amusement park. But in between the many acres of farmland, lie lush forests adorned with cliffs, gorges and waterfalls. Parks such as Hocking Hills and Cuyahoga Valley are some of the more popular spots, attracting hikers with their diverse trails and distinct rock formations. With more than 200 state parks and nature preserves around Ohio, there’s always something new to explore.

Mohican State Park

Mohican State Park is a playground for hikers who like to be kept on their toes. Choose from 11 different trails to lead you through dense forest, down rocky terrain and up ladders that make the hikes feel more hands-on. The swinging bridge over the Clear Fork Gorge connects two trails and adds a fun pit-stop to your trek, providing a sweeping view of the river below. 

Whether you’re climbing over boulders, taking in the various lookout points or posing for a photo at the historic covered bridge, Mohican brings both excitement and scenery in one trip.

Nelson Kennedy Ledges State Park

Nelson-Kennedy Ledges may be small at 167 acres, but its natural beauty brings an other-worldly feel. The trails weave you between towering rock walls, narrow passageways and mossy overhangs, creating a maze-like experience that’s exciting to explore. A standout feature of the park is a glass bottom walkway, providing visitors with an accessible way to view the formations below.

With four scenic hiking trails of varying difficulty, this park is perfect if you like exploring places that come with a bit of mystery.

Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve

Clifton Gorge is one of Ohio’s most impressive preserves, primarily due to its post-glacial canyons and layers of limestone. The trails follow the rim of the gorge, allowing hikers to look down onto rushing rapids and sheer rock walls. The cool, damp environment is the perfect place for plant life to flourish, making it one of the best areas in Ohio to see bloom in the spring. The hikes are simple but special, and each bend in the path reveals something new.

Just a short drive away is the town of Yellow Springs, which is a must-visit if you’re in the area. Known for its artsy community, the town is full of colorful storefronts, local cafes and people who embrace open-minded living. After spending the morning hiking around Clifton Gorge, Yellow Springs is the perfect spot to wind down and grab a bite.