Ohio’s trails are for everyone — even the littlest Buckeye State explorers! While there are family-friendly treks all across the state, there’s one trail that’s particularly perfect for little legs. In Montgomery, Ohio, just north of Cincinnati, Johnson Nature Preserve is a total hidden gem; it’s a seven-acre oasis that most people — even longtime Ohioans — don’t know about. But that’s not all; within this preserve, there is a kid-friendly loop trail that’s an amazing adventure for Ohio families, making it one of the best-kept secrets in the state.

In Montgomery, Ohio, Johnson Nature Preserve is a beautiful natural oasis teeming with flora and fauna -- and life.
City of Montgomery, Ohio Government/Facebook
The preserve, while serene and peaceful today, is a lesson in resilience. If you were a Cincinnati resident in 1999, you’ll remember the devastating tornado that hit the city. Montgomery was one of the areas most affected and the nature preserve stands as a testament to the tornado’s damage.
Danny Capaccio/Google Local
Some 90 percent of the trees at the Johnson Nature Preserve were destroyed. Animal habitats were wiped out. Native plants were violently uprooted. In the 20 years since, the preserve has flourished, with new trees and foliage sprouting through. The wind from the tornado actually dispersed seeds across the preserve, resulting in the abundance of plant life you’ll see today.
Soumya Prasad Mishra/Google Local

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And what is Johnson Nature Preserve today? Well, in addition to being beloved by photographers, birders, and wildlife enthusiasts, it is the perfect size for small kids.
Sarah McCosham, OIYS
The 0.35-mile loop trail at Johnson Nature Preserve is a great hike for little legs, and the park's abundance of plants and wildlife provides endless inspiration and intrigue for small explorers.
David Young/Google Local
A newly renovated footbridge is sure to delight Ohio's youngest hikers, who will eagerly amble across and "race" leaves and sticks in the running creek below.
City of Montgomery, Ohio Government/Facebook
It's so important for kids to get outside more; to experience the wide, wonderful world. And this accessible and beautiful little nature preserve in Southwest Ohio is the perfect place to start.
Sarah McCosham, OIYS

Have you been to this Ohio nature preserve before, and did you know about its kid-friendly loop trail? There are all sorts of adventures to be had in the Buckeye State, and it’s never too early to encourage kids to hit the trails! Visit the Montgomery Parks website to learn more.

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Johnson Nature Preserve, 10840 Deerfield Rd, Montgomery, OH 45242, USA