By Meg Berno
Posted On: Jan 4, 2023
Winter in Ohio is one of the most beautiful times to explore an Ohio state park during a winter hike. Each year the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) invites outdoor enthusiasts and hiking beginners alike to join in the fun with their Winter Hike Series.
Throughout the winter months, hikes of state park trails, including well-known favorites and less-traveled options, will take place. You can also share pics of your outdoor adventures with #ODNRWinter.
Old Man's Cave at Hocking Hills State Park in Logan
Hocking Hills State Park in Logan
This Inviting Region offers numerous trails perfect for snowy sight-seeing, like frozen waterfalls at Ash and Old Man's Cave. There are several trails to try this season, including the Grandma Gatewood Trail which takes you past both Ash and Old Man's Cave. Or follow the 'blue blazes' of the infamous Buckeye Tail (which includes a part of Hocking Hills).
Join ODNR on Jan. 21 for the Hocking Hills Winter Hike. The 6-mile hike goes from Old Man's Cave to Ash Cave. And remember to bundle up and wear adequate footwear.
Hueston Woods State Park in College Corner
Although "College Corner" might suggest that Hueston Woods is located in a busy college town, this state park is nestled away from the hustle and bustle of Miami University. Hike one of their lesser known trails like the Hedgerow Road Project Trail.
Throughout January, you can join ODNR on several hikes, like the Morning Hike on Jan. 15. Or head out on Jan. 22 for the History Hike were where you'll learn all about the history of this area. Or stop by at the end of the month for the Big Woods Hike on Jan. 28.
Photo credit: Malabar Farm State Park, Facebook
Malabar Farm State Park in Lucas
Head to the glaciated Appalachian Plateau region and former estate of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Louis Bromfield for a hike this winter at Malabar Farm. Stroll along the state park's Butternut Trail and gaze at the beauty that's the backdrop of Bromfield's biography.
On Feb. 11, enjoy the winter sites (and sounds) of Malabar Farm State Park with the Winter Hike for Health. For even more fun, stick around the seasonal change into spring and catch the 46th Annual Maple Syrup Festival (from March 4-12).
Mary Jane Thurston State Park in McClure
This northwest Ohio state park near the Maumee State Scenic River offers 105 acres to explore this season. Hikers can venture out on the Blue Trail, which is an easy 1.2 mile hike. If you're taking the whole family for a day of outside fun, check out the Storybook Trail that displays parts of children's story along a short (0.45 mile) path.
This year, ODNR will be taking adventurers along the Storybook Trail on Jan. 9 and Feb. 13. So grab that scarf and get ready for a day of storied exploration!
Photo credit: Ohio State Parks, Facebook
Mt. Gilead State Park in Mt. Gilead
While most might head to Mt. Gilead State Park for the ice fishing at the lake, it's also a great place to hike trails and enjoy the outdoors. This smaller park has all the natural benefits of the larger parks, while creating a charming environment to explore and enjoy nature. Try the Big Oak Trail (0.4 miles) for a quick hike, or the Lakeview Trail (1.7 miles) for a longer scenic experience.
Nature lovers can learn all about the area's wildlife on Jan. 14 during the Animal Tracks and Winter Identification Hacks Hike. Or head out on Jan. 28 for their Winter Hike, where an ODNR naturalist will guide you on a 1.5-mile hike around the lake.
More Ohio Winter Hike Trails to Check Out:
- Beaver Dam Trail at Pymatuning State Park in Andover
- Buzzard Cave Trail at Lake Hope State Park in McArthur
- Cabin Road Trail at Maumee Bay State Park in Oregon
- Homestead Trail at Tar Hollow State Park in Laurelville
- Lakeview & Buckeye Trails at Burr Oak State Park in Glouster
- Lighthouse Trail at Marblehead Lighthouse State Park in Marblehead
- Lyons Falls Trail at Mohican State Park in Loudonville
- Storybook Trail at Wingfoot Lake State Park in Mogadore
- White Trail at Nelson Kennedy Ledges State Park in Nelson Township
- White Pine Trail at Strouds Run State Park in Athens
Embrace and enjoy winter in Ohio by finding your new favorite hiking trail this season. For more event details and winter activities, visit ODNR's website.
For more outdoor things to do this #WinterinOhio, check out #OhioFindItHere at Ohio.org.
