3 Ways to Beat The Summer Heat

Summer is in full effect, which means it is the perfect time to take a trip outdoors and enjoy nature. But with temperatures well into the 90s, keeping cool can be challenging. Luckily, Cincinnati Parks offers lots of ways to have fun in the sun without getting burnt. Here are 3 park activities to beat the summer heat:

1. Go hiking in the forest

Cincinnati Parks offers many shaded hikes for those who want to enjoy nature during the hotter months. Pictured is French Park, known for the beautiful two-story French House at the center of the park and miles of scenic hiking trails weaving throughout the park. Check out the Creek Trail, which has plenty of forest canopy to keep you cool while you traverse over creeks and bridges situated throughout the park. Other parks for hiking include Burnet Woods, Mt. Airy Forest, Buttercup Valley, Ault Park, LaBoiteaux Woods, Caldwell Nature Preserve, Avon Woods and California Woods.

(Photo by Shannon Mowery)

2. Get soaked at one of the spraygrounds

The above picture showcases the spraygrounds at Washington Park. The 7,000 square foot splash park is a great way to keep the whole family cool during the hot summer days. Open daily from 10am-10pm, the park features 130 water jets that can synchronize to music & lights. Other splash areas to enjoy include Smale Riverfront Park Main Street, Smale Riverfront Park Walnut Street, Smale Riverfront Park Pichler, Smale Riverfront Park Water Play and Ziegler Park Sprayground. Click here for hours. 

(Photo by Kendal Fields)

3. Go creeking

Looking for an adventure within the city? Go creeking! The fresh water will keep you cool and refreshed in the heat. Visit Avon Woods, California Woods, Stanbery Park, French Park and Ault Park to explore all that the creek beds have to offer.

(Photo by Katie Jumper)

If you visit any of our parks, feel free to snap a pic and tag us on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter @Cincyparks. Stay cool!