Ohio is a beautiful state with stunning landscapes and picturesque hiking trails. It has lakes, rivers, grassy plains, wetlands, and four seasons for your dog to enjoy. If you’re a dog owner, you probably know that finding dog-friendly hiking trails can be a challenge. But don’t worry, we have you covered! Here are 20 dog-friendly hiking areas with trails in Ohio that are sure to give both you and your furry friend an amazing time.
The 20 Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Ohio
1. Glen Helen Nature Preserve
Corry Street entrance leads to a waterfall
Most trails are shaded and thus perfect for hot summer days
Comprised of 1,040 acres of forests, glacial wetlands, limestone cliffs with over 25 miles of trails
Wildlife, including birds, turtles, and frogs can be seen
Leads to the Historic Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve, a popular day hike in the area
2. Hocking Hills State Park
Six major hiking areas (Old Man’s Cave, Rock House, Conkle’s Hollow, Cedar Falls, Ash Cave, and Cantwell Cliffs)
Breathtaking scenery, including waterfalls, rock formations, and cliffs
Extensive trail system for varying degrees of difficulty
Picnic areas and cabins available for overnight stays
Frequent wildlife sightings, such as deer and wild turkey
3. Lake Hope State Park
Beautiful lake views along the hiking trails
Over 25 miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking
Various accommodations, including camping sites and cabins
Abundant wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and Canadian geese
Scenic beach area and paddleboat rentals available
4. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
America’s 11th most-visited national park
Over 100 miles of trails that vary in difficulty
Impressive waterfalls and natural features
Historical landmarks such as the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail and the Boston Store Visitor Center
Hiking options ranging from gentle strolls to challenging hikes
5. Mohican State Park
Scenic views of the Clearfork Gorge
Access to the Mohican River for fishing and canoeing
Over 13 miles of hiking trails
Campsites, cabins, and lodges available for overnight stays
Abundant wildlife, including black bears, white-tailed deer, and bald eagles
6. Shawnee State Park
The park’s trails consist of a variety of terrains, from rocky hillsides to lush, green forests
Great opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting
Over 60 miles of hiking and bridle trails
Lake Roosevelt offers fishing, boating, and swimming
Cabins and camping available for overnight stays
7. Great Seal State Park
Trails for varying degrees of difficulty, including flat and rocky terrains
Abundant wildlife, including white-tailed deer and wild turkey
Off-leash policy for well-behaved dogs
Picnic areas and playgrounds for children
Interpretive signage along the trails provides information about the local flora and fauna
8. Alum Creek State Park
Over 4 miles of trails specifically designated for dog walking
Access to a dog beach and swimming area
Picnic areas and playgrounds
Boating opportunities on Alum Creek Lake
Wildlife sightings such as turtles, herons, and beavers
9. Caesar Creek State Park
Over 50 miles of trails ranging in difficulty
Beautiful lake views and opportunities for swimming and boating
Campsites and cabins available for overnight stays
Frequent wildlife sightings, including deer and birds of prey
The iconic Pioneer Village offers a glimpse into Ohio’s past
10. Highbanks Metro Park
Over 10 miles of trails with scenic river views
Observation decks to view local wildlife, including bald eagles
Educational programs and nature center
Picnic areas and playgrounds
Canoeing opportunities on the Olentangy River
11. Scioto Grove Metro Park
Over 7 miles of trails that take you through fields, woods, and along the Scioto River
Opportunities for fishing and kayaking
Dog-friendly picnic areas
The Arrowhead Picnic Area offers stunning views of the river
Multiple playgrounds for children
12. Indian Lake State Park
Over 10 miles of trails that take you around the lake
Numerous camping and cabin options for overnight stays
Opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming
Picnic areas and volleyball courts
A popular spot for viewing bald eagles during the winter months
13. John Bryan State Park
Over 10 miles of scenic trails
Stunning views of the Little Miami River
The Clifton Gorge offers unique geological formations and wildflowers
Picnic areas and fishing opportunities
The historic Clifton Mill is nearby for additional sightseeing
14. Salt Fork State Park
Over 14 miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking
Opportunities for fishing and boating
Multiple camping and cabin options for overnight stays
Scenic overlooks to view the lake and surrounding wildlife
The Salt Fork Lodge and Conference Center offers dining options and recreational activities
15. East Fork State Park
Over 20 miles of trails that take you around the lake and through stunning woods and meadows
Boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities
Picnic areas and playgrounds for families
Frequent sightings of local wildlife like beavers, muskrats, and geese
The canoe livery offers guided tours of the lake and its tributaries
16. Findley State Park
Over 11 miles of hiking trails
Beautiful lake views and opportunities for picnicking
Campsites and cabins for overnight stays
Abundant wildlife, including deer and herons
A fantastic disc golf course
17. Mount Airy Forest
Over 30 miles of trails, perfect for dogs who love long hikes
Conveniently located in the heart of Cincinnati
Disc golf courses and mountain biking trails
Great opportunities to see wildlife, including deer and wild turkeys
Multiple picnic areas and playgrounds
18. Dillon State Park
Over 12 miles of hiking trails through wooded areas and along the lake
Opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming
Multiple camping options for overnight stays
Excellent birdwatching opportunities
Unique rock formations created by glaciers thousands of years ago
19. Sippo Lake Park
Over 6 miles of trails, perfect for a morning or afternoon walk with your dog
Scenic lake views
Opportunities for fishing and boating
The Exploration Gateway offers exhibits on local wildlife and history
Multiple picnic areas and playgrounds
20. Lake Erie Bluffs
Over 600 acres of hiking trails and stunning lake views
The Observation Tower and Lakefront Lodge provide breathtaking views of Lake Erie
The beach area is perfect for swimming or simply soaking up the sunshine
The Steven A. Mather Woods is a designated wildlife habitat
The park is also perfect for birdwatching activities
Final Thoughts
These are only a few of the many dog-friendly hiking trails available in Ohio. Whether you’re looking for a challenging trek or a leisurely stroll through nature, Ohio has something for everyone. So, grab your furry best friend and head out for a day of adventure on these incredible hiking trails.
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Featured Photo Credit: Osadcha Olga, Shutterstock