With so many outstanding trails around the Greater Cincinnati area, narrowing the list to the best hikes for fall color can be difficult. After consulting with Tamara York, author of 60 Hikes within 60 Miles: Cincinnati, we compiled five favorite destinations that range from easy walks to more challenging adventures.
Cincinnati Nature Center’s Rowe Woods features the Perimeter Trail (11.47 miles). This wellmarked trail is easy to follow and shortened by utilizing connecting trails. Before leaving, spend a few quiet moments at Powel Crosley Lake, where turtles, fish, birds, and other wildlife are often seen. cincynature.org (search Rowe Woods)
California Woods Nature Preserve (3.7 miles) is known for its rolling hills and mature stands of maple, oak, and hickory trees, making it one of the area’s best places to enjoy brilliant fall color. Quiet hikers may even spot white-tailed deer along the trail. cincinnati-oh.gov (search cincyparks)
Miami Whitewater Forest offers trails for a variety of abilities. The paved Shaker Trace Outer Loop (7.7 miles) provides an accessible option, while the Badlands, Timberlake, and Oakleaf trails (4.7 miles) explore wooded hillsides. Benches overlooking the lake provide peaceful places to pause, and patient observers may spot beavers, belted kingfishers, or great blue herons. greatparks.org (search Miami Whitewater Forest)
North of Cincinnati, Cox Arboretum MetroPark (3.3 miles) combines loop trails with gardens, wetlands, creeks, prairies, and woodlands. Its diverse landscapes (especially the vast gardens) make it an excellent destination for hikers and photographers alike. metroparks.org (search places to go, then Cox Arboretum)
For those willing to drive a little farther, Edge of Appalachia Preserve: Buzzardroost Rock (4.4 miles) is a moderately challenging hike that rewards visitors with a spectacular overlook of the valley, especially in autumn. Nature enthusiasts will also appreciate the impressive variety of lichens found along the trail. nature.org (search Edge of Appalachia Preserve)
For detailed trail descriptions, maps, driving directions, hiking tips, and more, see 60 Hikes within 60 Miles: Cincinnati, available locally at the below locations.
Article originally appeared in September 2026