The best walks and hikes in Trumbull County

The East Cohasset Trail offers a delightful escape into nature, winding alongside Mill Creek through lush forested surroundings. You'll encounter picturesque views of Lake Cohasset and the historic Mill Creek Suspension Bridge, with the charming Pioneer Pavilion adding a touch of history to your journey. The path provides a sense of seclusion, making it a peaceful retreat from the everyday.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with parking generally available within Mill Creek MetroParks, often near the Pioneer Pavilion or the Mill Creek Suspension Bridge. This easy 3.3-mile (5.3 km) hiking route has a gentle 154 feet (47 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 1 hour and 23 minutes, making it a great option for a casual outing. Just be sure you're on the dedicated hiking trail, not the paved East Cohasset Hike & Bike Trail.

This trail stands out for its blend of natural beauty and historical elements within Mill Creek MetroParks. Recent infrastructure improvements, including new aggregate surfacing and rebuilt sandstone walls, have enhanced its accessibility and longevity. It's a fantastic choice for anyone seeking an easy, scenic walk with interesting landmarks, suitable for families or those new to hiking.

The Gray Fox Trail and Wagon Trail Loop offers a delightful, easy hike through diverse scenery, often featuring a pleasant mix of riparian woodlands and open, oak-dotted hills. You might find yourself traversing well-maintained paths that wind through natural settings, occasionally opening up to provide expansive views of the surrounding landscape. It's a gentle experience, perfect for unwinding and enjoying nature without any strenuous effort.

This accessible route is a great choice for a casual outing, typically starting from a convenient trailhead with ample parking. Given its easy nature, it's suitable for most seasons, though a morning or late afternoon start is always recommended to enjoy cooler temperatures and potentially avoid crowds. Always check local conditions, especially if you're hiking in an area known for seasonal changes or specific access requirements.

What makes the Gray Fox Trail and Wagon Trail Loop notable is its versatility and accessibility, often catering to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. Some versions of this trail are even designed to be wheelchair accessible, highlighting its inclusive nature. It's a fantastic option for families, beginners, or anyone looking for a quick, rewarding walk that showcases a variety of ecosystems, from lush green areas to more open, scenic vistas.

An easy 2.4-mile (3.9 km) hike on the Trout Island Trail, featuring river views, wetlands, and opportunities to spot eagles.

The Ackerman Trail offers a delightful, easy hike perfect for a quick escape into nature. This route follows the gentle contours of Ackerman and Carrituning Bays, providing serene water views and opportunities to spot local wildlife, including osprey from a dedicated nesting platform. The path, formerly a railroad corridor, is flat and clear, making it an ideal choice for beginner trail users or anyone seeking a peaceful, undemanding walk.

Planning your visit to the Ackerman Trail is straightforward. The trailhead is easily accessible, and parking is generally available. Since it's a short 0.9-mile (1.5 km) route with only 5 feet (2 metres) of elevation gain, you can complete it in about 22 minutes, making it suitable for a spontaneous outing. No permits are required, and it's a great option for a morning or afternoon stroll.

What makes the Ackerman Trail notable is its accessibility and the chance to observe nature up close. Beyond the bays, a shaded pine forest section offers a cool, quiet atmosphere where you might find animal prints. This trail is a fantastic family-friendly hike, providing a high-payoff nature experience without significant effort, and it's a popular route for those looking to enjoy the outdoors without a strenuous climb.

The MetroParks Bikeway offers a unique long-distance hiking experience, guiding you through a pleasant mix of Ohio's suburban fringes and tranquil countryside. As you follow the paved path, you'll encounter open fields, peaceful wooded areas, and agricultural scenery, including the engaging MetroParks Farm with its exhibits. Keep an eye out for wildlife in the Sawmill Creek Preserve, especially during the vibrant fall season when the foliage is at its peak.

Planning your hike is straightforward, with several well-equipped trailheads like Kirk Road and MetroParks Farm providing ample parking, restrooms, and water fountains. The trail's gentle grade and paved surface make it accessible for many, but be prepared for a significant undertaking; this difficult route covers 67.5 miles (108.7 km) with 1103 feet (336 metres) of elevation gain, requiring approximately 27 hours and 42 minutes to complete. Starting early, especially on longer segments, is always a good idea.

This bikeway is more than just a path; it's a segment of the ambitious Great Ohio Lake-to-River Greenway, connecting you to a larger network. Its historical roots trace back to the 1860s as part of the Cleveland and Mahoning Valley Railroad, a past echoed by features like the Mahoning Avenue overpass designed to resemble a historic railway trestle. At its northern end, the trail seamlessly links with the Niles Greenway, opening up possibilities for even longer excursions.

The Lanterman's Mill – Mill Creek Suspension Bridge loop takes you on a scenic journey through a shaded gorge, where Mill Creek carves its way between towering sandstone walls. You'll traverse diverse terrain, from boardwalks and steps on the East Gorge Trail to hilly sections and even a "tricky rock path" on the West Gorge Trail. Keep an eye out for Lanterman's Falls and the impressive sandstone outcroppings as you hike.

This moderate 5.5-mile (8.8 km) hiking loop, with 387 feet (118 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 22 minutes to complete. It's a popular route within Mill Creek Park, so consider an early start to find parking, especially on busy days. The trail is beautiful in all seasons, from vibrant summer greens to colorful autumn foliage and serene winter snows.

Beyond the natural beauty, this trail is rich in history, centered around the fully-operational Lanterman's Mill, built in 1845-1846. You'll also cross a charming covered bridge and pass the famed steel Mill Creek Suspension Bridge, originally built in 1895. The entire 2-mile Gorge Trail section is even listed in the Mid-America Walking Atlas for its beauty and geological insights.

The Lake Cohasset loop offers a delightful journey through Mill Creek Park, showcasing the tranquil waters of Lake Cohasset and the impressive historic Suspension Bridge. You'll wander among stately hemlock trees, enjoying a serene natural setting that feels far removed from city life. The path, a combination of the East and West Cohasset Trails, features a mix of gentle grades and some steps, providing a varied but always pleasant walking experience.

Planning your visit to this easy 2.1-mile (3.3 km) hike is straightforward, as it's easily accessible within the larger Mill Creek Park system. With only 114 feet (35 metres) of elevation gain, you can expect to complete the loop in about 53 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a quick outdoor escape. Parking is available within Mill Creek Park, and the trail is generally open and enjoyable throughout the year.

This loop is a fantastic introduction to the diverse landscapes of Mill Creek Park, which boasts over 52 miles of trails. The recent improvements to the East Cohasset Trail, including new aggregate surfacing and rebuilt sandstone walls, highlight the park's dedication to maintaining accessible and beautiful routes. It's a perfect option if you're looking for a family-friendly hike or a peaceful walk to clear your head, offering a taste of the park's natural beauty without requiring a full day's commitment.

The Lake Cohasset – Pioneer Pavilion loop in Mill Creek Park offers a delightful escape into nature, combining serene water views with historic charm. You'll trace the shores of Lake Cohasset, catching glimpses of the historic Mill Creek Suspension Bridge, and wander through peaceful forests dotted with stately hemlock trees. The route, which is an easy 3.8-mile (6.1 km) hike with a modest 234 feet (71 metres) of elevation gain, provides a varied landscape of primitive paths and well-maintained sections, making for a pleasant 1 hour and 38 minutes on the trail.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the Pioneer Pavilion often serves as a convenient starting point with available parking nearby. The trails within Mill Creek Park are known for being well-maintained, and recent improvements have made them even more accessible. While the park is open year-round, consider visiting in the spring for fresh greenery or in the autumn for spectacular fall colors. It's always a good idea to check the park's website for any current conditions or advisories before you go.

This loop is a fantastic option for families or anyone looking for a relaxed outing that blends natural beauty with a touch of local history. You'll encounter the charming Pioneer Pavilion, a historic structure that adds character to the landscape, and appreciate the craftsmanship of reinforced walls from the 1930s. The combination of water features, dense woodlands, and historical elements makes this one of the more popular routes in Mill Creek Park, offering a rewarding experience without being overly strenuous.