With the fall season settling in, you’re probably wanting to get out and explore your home state during one of the most beautiful times of the year. (Click here to find out where and when the best places and times are to view fall foliage in Ohio.) From trails less than 5 miles you can spend the day exploring to trails less than a mile you can take an hour to enjoy, the following are some of the best hikes in Ohio during the autumn season.

1. Rowe Woods Edge Trail (Cincinnati Nature Center)
Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Rd, Milford, OH 45150, USA
Facebook/Cincinnati Nature Center
With just .66 miles to explore, Rowe Woods Edge Trail features gorgeous views of Powel Crosley Lake. It makes the perfect fall day hike when you don't have a lot of time to explore, but you need to get out and take in the autumn foliage. The low-key path makes this walk one of the most kid-friendly hikes in Ohio.
2. Old Man’s Cave Loop (Hocking Hills State Park)
Hocking Hills State Park Cabins, Benton Township, OH 43138, USA
Cheyenne Rommel/AllTrails
What is arguably Ohio's most scenic hiking trail is approximately 1 mile long and can be completed in about one hour. In addition to Old Man's Cave, you'll encounter the Devil's Bathtub, Sphinx Head, A-Frame Bridge and the Upper and Lower Falls.
3. Rocky River Reservation Trails (Cleveland Metroparks)
Cleveland Metroparks, 100 Valley Pkwy, Cleveland, OH 44130, USA
Jen Goellnitz/Flickr
The All Purpose Trail at Rocky River Reservation (pictured) features scenic views of the Rocky River and a total of 13.6 miles for cycling, walking, skating, etc. Along this trail you'll encounter others, such as the 1.3-mile Rockcliff Springs Fitness Trail, (which we also recommend.)
4. Orange Trail (Sugarcreek Metro Park)
Sugarcreek MetroPark, 4178 Conference Rd, Bellbrook, OH 45305, USA
Ohio Hiking Trails and Historical Sites./Facebook
Along the 1.3-mile Orange Trail, you'll see the Osage Orange Tunnel. It's a breathtaking natural wonder you'll absolutely love.
5. Stone House Loop Trail (Salt Fork State Park)
Salt Fork State Park, Cadiz Rd, Lore City, OH, USA
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
This 1.8 mile-long moderate trail in Salt Fork State Park takes you to the Kennedy Stone House, which is a hidden gem listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

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6. Towpath Trail (Metroparks Toledo)
Toledo Metroparks Farmhouse at Wildwood, 4830 Central Ave, Ottawa Hills, OH 43615, USA
Historic Roscoe Village/Facebook
Part of the Buckeye Trail System, this 8.3-mile trail follows remains of the Miami and Erie Canal through the Metroparks Toledo. Bikes are allowed on this trail. The Bend View Overlook to Providence Trailhead section of the trail is especially beautiful. In fact, we think it's one of the most scenic hikes in Ohio!
7. East Cohasset Hike/Bike Trail (Mill Creek Park)
Mill Creek Park - South End, Boardman, OH 44512, USA
Jack Pearce/Flickr
Youngstown's Mill Creek Metro Park features some beautiful scenery and landmarks. The 1.5-mile asphalt surface East Cohasset Hike/Bike Trail features a scenic route above Lake Cohasset. It's perfect for when you're looking for an easy hike in Ohio.
8. Squire’s Castle Loop Trail (North Chagrin Reservation)
North Chagrin Reservation, 3037 SOM Ctr Rd, Willoughby Hills, OH 44094, USA
Lagged2Death/Flickr
Tucked away in one of the Cleveland Metro Parks, you'll find the fairytale-like landmark of Squire's Castle. It's unexpected and really neat to explore. Within the North Chagrin Reservation, you can take a 2.2-mile loop trail that leads right to Squire's Castle. (The trailhead is located at 2794 River Rd., Willoughby 44094.)
9. Conkle’s Hollow Rim Trail (Hocking Hills State Park)
Hocking Hills State Park Cabins, Benton Township, OH 43138, USA
Jim Pater/Flickr
This rugged, rocky gorge is often considered one of the deepest in Ohio, according to the state park's website. Conkle's Hollow Rim Trail at the top of the 200 ft. cliffs features breathtaking views. (Note: The trail can be fairly strenuous in some parts.)
10. Clifton Gorge Trail (John Bryan State Park)
John Bryan State Park, 3790 OH-370, Yellow Springs, OH 45387, USA
See 1, Do 1, Teach 1/Flickr
Coming in at just about 5 miles, the local favorite day-hike of Clifton Gorge Trail features the calm waters of the Little Miami River and a deep limestone chasm.

What do you think of this list? Have you hiked any of these trails in the fall? What is your favorite Ohio trail to hike during the autumn season? Share your thoughts, photos and experiences with us!

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More to Explore

Best Hikes in Ohio

Danielle Schwartz | August 11, 2022

What are the best kid-friendly hikes in Ohio?

When you're out with the kids, you'll want to find some great trails that aren't too difficult or dangerous, so check out any of the best kid-friendly hikes in Ohio for some safe family fun. Cattail Trail in the Garfield Park Reservation is a storybook-worthy hike that features idyllic stonework and natural beauty all around you. It's short and sweet at 0.2 miles long. Rowe Woods Edge Trail in the Cincinnati Nature Center is another lovely choice, with just over half a mile of pretty path around Powel Crosley Lake.

What are the best waterfall hikes in Ohio?

Whether it's summer or not, sometimes you just need to hear the rushing water of a pretty waterfall on your hike. Head out on some of the best waterfall hikes in Ohio this season for a break from the city and a relaxing adventure. Charleston Falls Loop Trail is a great choice. All of Charleston Falls Preserve is gorgeous, and this hike is not too long or difficult. Glen Helen Falls and the Yellow Spring is another nice place to go to see a waterfall, with the added bonus of checking out a natural spring.

What are the best wildflower hikes in Ohio?

When it's spring, you'll definitely want to experience all the season has to offer. That means enjoying the best wildflower hikes in Ohio when the blooms are at their peak beauty. Bigelow Pioneer Cemetary State Nature Preserve in Irwin is an unexpected flower haven full of colorful florals. While you might not think of cheerfulness when you see the word "cemetery," this place might make you think twice. Springfield Bog Metro Park in Akron is another stunning spot for viewing flowers, and you'll be able to see for miles around you.

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