Top 8 Cincinnati Hiking Trails for Scenic Views and Outdoor Escape
Mitch Kenney
Top 8 Cincinnati Hiking Trails for Scenic Views and Outdoor Escape
Think you need to hop on a plane or drive hours to find rugged trails, scenic overlooks, or forest escapes? Think again. Nestled within and around the Queen City are some of the Midwest’s most underrated hiking spots, and the best part—they’re all within the I-275 loop.
Cincinnati hiking isn’t just a pleasant surprise—it’s a bold reintroduction to how much green space thrives right under your nose. Whether you're chasing peaceful solitude, craving cardio in the hills, or need a weekend plan with the kids, here are eight of the best hiking trails in Cincinnati that deliver major adventure with minimal drive time.
1. Bender Mountain – West Side’s Forested Treasure
📍 Delhi Township | Distance: 2.3 miles (loop) | Difficulty: Moderate
Don’t let the word “mountain” intimidate you—Bender Mountain is one of Cincinnati’s most beloved hidden gems. Tucked just past Mount St. Joseph University and near Sayler Park, this trail system offers steep inclines, shaded woodland paths, and a ridge that opens up to panoramic views of the Ohio River.
Rated the #1 trail on AllTrails for good reason, Bender is the perfect balance of nature immersion and accessible adventure. Hike the perimeter loop for just over two miles of steady elevation and scenic payoffs. Pro tip: Pair it with a post-hike picnic at nearby Fernbank Park.
2. Mount Airy Forest – The Urban Wilderness
📍 Northside | Distance: Various | Difficulty: Easy to Challenging
Cincinnati’s largest park spans a whopping 1,400 acres of wooded terrain, ravines, and meadows—all without technically leaving the city. Whether you're in the mood for a quick nature escape or a long, exploratory trek, Mount Airy Forest delivers.
Highlights include:
The Treehouse Trail—great for kids and casual walkers.
Disc Golf Course—a pro-level, multi-hole experience with an on-site shop.
Mountain Biking Trails—5 miles of loops and jumps for riders of all skill levels.
A hidden Arboretum—ideal for quiet strolls among rare trees and native flora.
This park is a neighborhood sanctuary and a must-hike for any Cincy local.
3. Sharon Woods – Northern Cincinnati’s Scenic All-Star
📍 Sharonville | Distance: Up to 6 miles | Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Located in the northern stretch of the city, Sharon Woods is one of Hamilton County’s crown jewels. The Gorge Trail is its standout feature, winding alongside a babbling creek, past waterfalls, and through lush gorges that feel far more Appalachian than Midwestern.
For those who like their hikes with bonus activities:
Paddleboat, kayak, and rowboat rentals
Fishing along the lake’s edge
Fitness stations built into certain trails
A massive playground and an 18-hole golf course
📌 Note: Entry requires a Great Parks permit ($10/year for Hamilton County residents).
4. Winton Woods & Glenwood Gardens – The Northside Duo
📍 Springfield Township & Woodlawn | Distance: Varies | Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
These two neighboring parks—soon to be connected by a new trail system—form the north side’s ultimate hiking combo meal.
Winton Woods Highlights:
Kingfisher Trail (1 mile): A breezy forest stroll
Parkours Trail (2.5 miles): Wooded loops with water views
Kayak, canoe, paddleboard, and even pontoon boat rentals
Horseback riding center for guided trail rides
Glenwood Gardens Highlights:
Garden Loop Trail (2 miles, paved): Ideal for strollers and low-impact walks
Highfield Discovery Garden: A whimsical, interactive experience for children
Quiet, serene, and Instagram-worthy
🎟 These are also part of the Great Parks network—annual permit required.
5. French Park – Woodland Peace in Amberley Village
📍 Amberley Village | Distance: 2–3 miles | Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
French Park is the sort of place where time slows down. Tucked into the scenic neighborhood of Amberley, the park’s loop trails wander through shaded woodlands, along Amberley Creek, and open into bright, breezy meadows.
Features that make it a favorite:
Kid-friendly creek splashing zones
Historic French House at its heart, used for weddings and gatherings
Dog-friendly trails with plenty of shade
For a casual afternoon hike that still delivers on beauty and tranquility, French Park is a local favorite.
6. Ault Park – Iconic Views Meet Natural Beauty
📍 Mt. Lookout | Distance: Varies | Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Known for its elegant landscaping and stunning pavilion overlooks, Ault Park is equal parts city park and hiking haven. The wooded trails loop through serene ravines and connect directly to the Wasson Way Trail, a 6-mile paved path stretching into Norwood.
Why Ault Park deserves your footsteps:
Breathtaking views of the Little Miami River Valley
Sunrises and sunsets that are hard to beat
Seasonal events like yoga, festivals, and outdoor concerts
Ideal picnic and play areas for families
This is the perfect mix of date-worthy vibes and family-friendly convenience.
7. California Woods Nature Preserve – A Hidden Forest Escape
📍 California Neighborhood | Distance: 4+ miles | Difficulty: Moderate
Step into another world at California Woods, where you’ll find towering trees, winding trails, and utter serenity. This 113-acre preserve is one of Cincinnati’s best-kept secrets for hikers and bird watchers alike.
Expect:
Quiet, less-trafficked trails with rolling hills and shaded paths
Wildlife sightings and native plants galore
Seasonal programming through the on-site Nature Center
Top-tier birdwatching during migration seasons
This preserve is a soul reset for those looking to completely unplug—just 15 minutes from downtown.
8. Devou Park – Kentucky’s Crown Jewel with a Skyline Bonus
📍 Covington, KY | Distance: 7+ miles of trails | Difficulty: Easy to Difficult
Just across the river, Devou Park offers some of the most breathtaking views of Cincinnati’s skyline—paired with robust trails and diverse terrain.
What you’ll find:
Backcountry trails for hiking and mountain biking
Trail names like “Incinerator” and “Train Server” for adrenaline junkies
Skyline overlook points that’ll make you pause and stay awhile
Playground, golf course, and Prisoners Lake for fishing
And for a bonus? Live music and community events often happen right in the heart of the park.
Tips for Maximizing Your Cincinnati Hiking Experience
🥾 Start early or late: Trails like Bender and Ault Park are magical at sunrise or sunset.
🎒 Pack layers and hydration: Cincinnati’s weather shifts quickly—be prepared.
🗺 Use AllTrails or the Great Parks app to navigate and check trail conditions.
🐾 Check leash rules: Most parks are dog-friendly, but leash laws vary.
🎟 Buy the Great Parks Permit for year-round access to Sharon Woods, Winton Woods, and more.
Final Thoughts: The Trails Are Closer Than You Think
Cincinnati may not have snow-capped peaks or red rock canyons, but what it does have is accessible, authentic nature—woven right into the fabric of its neighborhoods.
You don’t need plane tickets or national park passes to escape. Just a trailhead, a pair of shoes, and a free hour.
So lace up. Step out. And let the Cincinnati hiking scene surprise you.
Want more insider tips on living your best Queen City life—from neighborhoods to eats to adventures? Subscribe to our newsletter or check out our latest guides. Let’s keep exploring.
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