6 Best Cincinnati Parks Trails to Visit Year-round

Enjoying the outdoors isn't limited to any particular season. It's fun to explore year-round, however we understand if you prefer to hike during the warmer months when the days are longer, and things are blooming. Our Trail Technician helped compile a list of the 6 best Cincinnati Parks trails to hike now, or whenever! It is based on trails with the best flora and fauna, best maintained and ease of access. 

Check out the list (in no particular order):

Trillium Trail at California Woods (0.50 miles) - When you enter the park, the trail is off of the first parking lot you see. It takes you through parts of California Wood's old growth forest. There are bridges to cross, valleys to admire and gorgeous wildflowers and mushrooms at certain times of year. This is an unmissable trail, so add it to your list. 

PawPaw Loop at Caldwell Nature Preserve (0.72 miles) - This trail has this name for a reason. There are lots of pawpaw trees, native to Ohio, along this trail. When in season they produce a yummy fruit. If you happen to visit during this time, please do not forage! Also as the name suggests, it goes in a loop, which is perfect for a short hike in the woods.

B Loop at Buttercup Valley (1.42 miles) - Buttercup Valley is a great representation of a healthy forest in our area. It boasts lots of native plants and trees and attracts native wildlife. This trail also loops around, so no stopping to turn around is necessary. Part of the trail takes you along the creek, and other parts take you over bridges. It's a quick hike, but totally worth it. If you want to explore two parks in one, head towards Parker Woods after this hike. Check out the signs that will guide you.

Warbler Trail at Burnet Woods (0.17 miles) - This is the shortest trail on the list, but definitely not one to miss. If you're visiting the park on a warm day, find shade on this trail and even a chair made from a tree trunk. 

Creek Trail at French Park (0.65 miles) - Hike along the creek at French Park. Perfect for a hot day or for your kids to play!

Blue Spruce at Mt. Airy Forest (0.78 miles) - When you enter Mt. Airy Forest from Colerain Avenue, go off to the right and drive until you get to the disc golf course marked with the number 2. There is a small parking lot where you can leave your car and walk to the trailhead. The trail marker is a bit deeper into the trail, but be sure you go down the trail on your right. There are lots of tall trees to admire on this short hike. And if you want more, it connects to other trails in the park.

If you have the itch to hike, choose from the list and go explore. They all offer different things and are special in their unique ways. Did we miss your favorite trail? Let us know on social media! Here's to happy hiking.