With so much to do right here in Cincinnati, it’s easy to forget that there are also plenty of adventures to be had that are just a short drive from downtown. If you enjoy being outside and relaxing in nature, then you’ve likely already discovered many of the hiking trails in our city. The next time you’re looking for a bit of a challenge that reveals some of the best views in the state, take the short drive to Adams County and take on the Buzzardroost Rock Trail. This four-mile hike culminates at an overlook that offers unforgettable views and will have you planning a return trip back before you even get back in your car.

If you head east from Cincinnati into Adams County, you'll eventually find yourself in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.
TripAdvisor/Tony P
Cincinnati is known for its hills, but this nearby region takes it to the next level with rising mountains and incredible views. The best scenic vista can be found along the Buzzardroost Rock Trail.
The trail is one of four that can be found in the privately owned Richard and Lucile Durrell Edge of Appalachia Preserve System.
Alltrails/Jeff Marshall
The Nature Conservancy, along with the Cincinnati Museum Center, work to preserve this naturally diverse region and visitors are welcome to respectfully enjoy it. There are other areas to visit within the Preserve (more info linked below), but for the best view and an interesting hike, you'll want to park your car in the lot for the Buzzardroost Rock Trail.
Buzzardroost Rock is an out-and-back trail that is a total of 4.4 miles. The trail meanders through thick woods, grassland, and creeks surrounded by abundant plants and wildlife.
Alltrails/Matt Garrett
When you reach the halfway point of the hike, a wooden boardwalk will lead you to the ultimate reward for making it this far - a sweeping view of the valley and mountains beyond.
Alltrails/Jeff Marshall

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The overlook is the perfect spot to take a break, capture a few pictures, and enjoy a relaxing picnic. Keep in mind that there are no facilities, so plan accordingly and definitely take any garbage back with you.
Alltrails/Chris Dyer
Buzzardroost Rock sits 900 feet above the land below and is unlike any other spot in Ohio.
Alltrails/Justin O
You'll see wooded mountaintops, farmland, and, on a clear day, miles and miles into the distance.
Alltrails/Tonia Lloyd
The hike is spectacular any time of year, but you can imagine the beauty of the fall color, but spring and summer bring plenty of flowers and other rare plant life to the landscape.
After you've enjoyed the view, you'll turn around and head back the way you came. The trail is easy enough for most people, yet still offers enough challenge and diversity to please experienced hikers as well.
Alltrails/Justin O
And, of course, there's the best view in Ohio, making the trek well worth it. You may not be viewing skyscrapers and the Ohio River, but the views from Buzzardroost Rock will make you feel like you're a million miles away, when you are just a short drive from Cincinnati.

With a skyline like ours, Cincinnatians love a good view and this nearby hiking trail definitely delivers. Have you hiked to Buzzardroost Rock or any of the other trails at the Edge of Appalachia? Share your experience with us in the comments!

Here are directions from Cincinnati:

Travel east on State Route 32 to State Route 41 at Peebles. Follow SR 41 south to West Union. Turn left (east) onto State Route 125. Travel east on SR 125 for about 7 miles toward the village of Lynx. The public access to the Buzzardroost Rock trail is a small parking lot on Weaver Road, which is entered from SR 125 just west of Lynx.

For more on the Edge of Appalachia and the partnership with the Cincinnati Museum Center, visit their website here.

And for more hiking adventures near Cincinnati, check out our previous article here.

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