The best walks and hikes around Dayton
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Hiking around Dayton offers routes through a varied landscape defined by river corridors, rolling hills, and dense woodlands. The region's extensive park systems, including the Five Rivers MetroParks, preserve natural areas with features like limestone gorges and waterfalls. This network provides a range of trails suitable for different hiking abilities, encompassing forests, prairies, and wetlands.
Best hiking trails around Dayton
- The most popular hiking route is Eden Park Trail, a 1.8 miles (2.9 km) trail that takes around 50 minutes to complete. This route features gentle elevation changes within a well-maintained park setting.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Mount Adams – Eden Park loop from Cincinnati, a moderate 8.0 miles (12.9 km) path. The trail involves some elevation gain as it moves through parkland and urban green spaces.
- Local hikers also love the Twin Lakes – Eden Park loop from Mount Auburn, a 3.7 miles (6.0 km) trail leading through Eden Park, often completed in about 1 hour 40 minutes.
- Hiking around Dayton is defined by its river valleys, mature forests, and rolling hills. The extensive trail network within the Metroparks Dayton Ohio hiking system offers options for all ability levels, from short, easy walks to longer, more challenging routes.
- The routes in Dayton are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 15 reviews. More than 290 hikers have used komoot to explore Dayton's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
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9.60km
02:25
10m
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The Lunken Airport Trail offers a truly distinctive hiking experience, circling the Cincinnati Municipal Lunken Airport on a paved path. You'll enjoy a fascinating blend of urban activity and natural beauty, with planes taking off and landing as a constant backdrop. The trail also follows the Little Miami River, providing serene water views, and passes by local spots like Land of Make Believe Park, making it a great loop hike for all ages.
Planning your visit to the Lunken Airport Trail is straightforward, as ample parking is available right at the trailhead. This trail is accessible year-round due to its paved surface, so you don't need to worry about specific seasonal conditions. There are no permits required, and it's a popular spot for families and dog-friendly outings, though always check for current conditions before heading out.
Beyond its unique airport views, the Lunken Airport Trail is a significant hub for regional connectivity. It links directly to the Ohio River Trail, which extends into downtown Cincinnati, and is also part of the much larger Ohio to Erie Trail network. Additionally, the Armleder-Lunken Connector provides access to the Armleder Park Trail, making it a gateway for longer adventures and a notable trail in Cincinnati.
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Step into the enchanting world of the Highland Hills Park Loop, where lush greenery meets artistic surprises. This easy 1.7-mile (2.8 km) hike, taking about 44 minutes with 112 feet (34 metres) of elevation gain, winds through wooded hillsides and alongside babbling creeks. The trail's paths are a mix of gravel and unpaved sections, offering a pleasant journey through natural landscapes and mature trees like walnuts and hackberries.
Planning your visit to Highland Hills Park is straightforward; the trail is dog-friendly, allowing leashed pets to join your adventure. Be prepared for potentially muddy sections, especially after rain, as some areas have running water. While the closer-in trails are generally easier, some newer sections can be more challenging, so choose your path based on your group's comfort level.
What truly sets this Fort Thomas, Kentucky trail apart are the unique woodcarvings by chainsaw artist Chris Rust, scattered along the route. These whimsical figures, carved from dead ash trees, create a delightful scavenger hunt experience, perfect for families. Keep an eye out for cardinals, owls, gnomes, and aliens hidden among the trees, adding an unexpected artistic flair to your nature walk.
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This segment of the Ohio River Trail offers a delightful, accessible walk along the riverfront, connecting the active Schmidt Recreation Complex with the peaceful Turkey Ridge Park. You'll follow a paved path, enjoying continuous views of the Ohio River, with the terrain becoming gently rolling and winding as you enter Turkey Ridge Park, a hidden urban treasure shaded by a canopy of trees. It's an easy 1.2-mile (1.9 km) hike with only 18 feet (5 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 29 minutes, perfect for a quick, relaxing outing.
Both the Schmidt Recreation Complex and Turkey Ridge Park provide convenient parking, restrooms, and picnic areas, making logistics simple. Schmidt Recreation Complex also serves as a popular launch point for boats, so you might see some river activity there. This trail is suitable for all fitness levels and is a great choice for families or anyone looking for a leisurely stroll.
What makes this trail notable is its blend of urban accessibility and natural tranquility. It's part of the larger Ohio River Trail system, offering a smooth, multi-use surface that's ideal for casual walkers, including those with strollers or wheelchairs. The trail provides a serene escape from city life, particularly within Turkey Ridge Park, where the rustle of leaves often drowns out distant traffic sounds, creating a true urban oasis.
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70m
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The Eden Park Trail offers a refreshing escape into nature and history, right in the heart of Cincinnati. This easy 1.8-mile (2.9 km) hiking route takes you past serene Twin Lakes, offers stunning views of the Ohio River Valley from Spencer Overlook, and introduces you to the charming Spring House Gazebo and Mirror Lake Fountain. With only 214 feet (65 metres) of elevation gain, you can comfortably complete this scenic loop in about 49 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a relaxed outing.
Planning your visit to Eden Park is straightforward, with ample parking available within the park itself, though it's always wise to arrive earlier on weekends to secure a spot. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for all ages, making it one of the best hiking trails Eden Park has to offer for families or those seeking a gentle walk. You can enjoy this trail throughout the year, but the mild weather of spring and fall often provides the most comfortable hiking conditions.
Eden Park is not just about natural beauty; it's also home to historical landmarks like the Eden Park Standpipe, adding a unique architectural element to your hike. This trail is a fantastic option for those looking for family friendly trails or dog friendly hiking, providing a peaceful environment for both two-legged and four-legged companions. It's a great way to experience some of Eden Park's natural features and scenic viewpoints without committing to a long or strenuous trek.
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This easy 3.4-mile (5.5 km) hike along the Cincinnati riverfront offers a delightful urban adventure, taking about 1 hour and 25 minutes with a minimal 97 feet (30 metres) of elevation gain. You'll stroll along the flat, paved Ohio River Trail, enjoying continuous views of the Ohio River and the city skyline. The route's charm comes from its blend of unique architecture, like the undulating Serpentine Wall, and the whimsical Cincinnati Flying Pig Statues scattered along the way, making it a perfect family-friendly outing.
Accessing the Serpentine Wall – Cincinnati Flying Pig Statues loop is straightforward, with ample parking available near the riverfront parks. Public transport options, including Cincinnati Metro bus routes, also serve the area well. This trail is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, and while enjoyable year-round, visiting during spring or fall offers the most comfortable weather for your walk.
The Serpentine Wall itself is a significant landmark, not just for its unique design but also as a historical landing point for Cincinnati's early settlers. The Flying Pig Statues celebrate the city's pork processing heritage, adding a fun, artistic quest to your walk. This trail connects vibrant city parks like Smale Riverfront Park and Sawyer Point, offering a rich experience of downtown Cincinnati's riverfront amenities.
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Popular around Dayton
Tips from the Community
Weekends on nice days draws many folk that are walking on this part of the trail. Slowly is the best way to enjoy the Ohio River vistas this trail section provides.
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This public landing is along the Ohio River Trail is a nice spot to stop for a quick dip or to just enjoy the views over the water. It is also near the National Steamboat Monument and the Great American Ball Park.
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The Lunken Loop Trail is a popular 5-mile paved trail located in Cincinnati, Ohio, encircling the Lunken Airport. This flat, multi-use trail is great for walking, running, and biking. The loop offers a unique experience, with portions of the trail running adjacent to the airport, which allow you to watch planes take off and land. This viewpoint overlooks the open, green field on the southern end of the airport.
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The Cincinnati Trailhead for the Ohio to Erie Trail is located at Smale Riverfront Park near downtown Cincinnati. It serves as the southern terminus of the 326-mile trail that traverses Ohio, connecting Cincinnati to Cleveland. This trailhead provides a nice starting point with amenities such as parking, restrooms, water fountains, and access to the scenic park on the Ohio River.
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Some people will use this as a starting / ending point
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One of the navigational landmarks in the area! You'll run right past it if you do the annual Flying Pig Marathon!
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Some of the best views of the Ohio River, as well as the Kentucky Border.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any good places to hike with my dog near Dayton?
Yes, many parks in the Dayton area are dog-friendly, but policies can vary. Most Five Rivers MetroParks, like the popular Taylorsville MetroPark, welcome leashed dogs on most trails. It's always a good practice to check the specific park's regulations before you go to ensure you're on a permitted path.
Where can I find hiking trails with waterfalls?
For a stunning waterfall, Charleston Falls Preserve is a local favorite. It features a 37-foot waterfall cascading into a rocky gorge. The park has well-maintained trails and boardwalks that offer great views of the falls. Another excellent option is John Bryan State Park, known for its beautiful limestone gorge carved by the Little Miami River, which creates several smaller cascades and scenic water features along the trails.
What are the best hiking spots for beginners or families with children?
Cox Arboretum MetroPark is an excellent choice for families and beginners. It offers a mix of paved and unpaved trails through gardens and forests, plus a popular observation tower. For a simple and scenic walk, the Serpentine Wall loop from Cincinnati is a very easy 3.7-mile (5.9 km) route along the riverfront.
What are some popular parks for hiking around Dayton?
Dayton is home to the extensive Five Rivers MetroParks system, which offers a wide variety of hiking experiences. Some of the most highly-regarded parks by locals include:
- Sugarcreek MetroPark: Known for its beautiful woodlands and rolling hills.
- Taylorsville MetroPark: Offers scenic river views and trails that wind through historic ruins.
- Hills & Dales MetroPark: Features a mix of woodlands, creeks, and a pond with abundant wildlife.
- Charleston Falls Preserve: A must-visit for its impressive waterfall and surrounding trails.
Are there any challenging, long-distance hikes in the area?
Yes, for those seeking a longer trek, Caesar Creek State Park offers a lengthy loop trail that provides a more immersive, full-day hiking experience. If you're looking for a route with significant elevation gain, the 8.0-mile (12.9 km) Mount Adams – Eden Park loop from Cincinnati is a moderately challenging option that explores parkland and green spaces.
How many hiking trails are available around Dayton?
You can explore over 55 hiking routes around Dayton. The region's trails cater to all abilities, with the majority being easy walks perfect for a casual day out, but there are also a good number of moderate trails and even a few difficult ones for those seeking a challenge.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Dayton?
The hiking routes around Dayton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained trails within the MetroParks system, the beautiful scenery along the river corridors, and the variety of landscapes, from dense woodlands to serene wetlands.
What kind of terrain should I expect on Dayton's hiking trails?
The terrain is quite varied. You'll find many trails following relatively flat river valleys, like the Great Miami River Trail. Other parks, such as Sugarcreek MetroPark and John Bryan State Park, feature more rolling hills and rocky gorges. Expect mostly natural surface trails through woodlands, with some paved sections in more developed parks like Cox Arboretum.
Is it possible to go hiking in the Dayton area during winter?
Absolutely. Winter hiking can be a beautiful experience in Dayton's parks. Trails in places like Hills & Dales MetroPark or Taylorsville MetroPark remain accessible and offer a different kind of quiet beauty. Just be sure to wear appropriate footwear for potentially icy or muddy conditions and dress in layers.
What kind of wildlife might I see while hiking?
Dayton's parks are rich with wildlife. It's common to see white-tailed deer, squirrels, and a wide variety of bird species. In parks with ponds and wetlands, like Hills & Dales MetroPark, you can often spot waterfowl, turtles, and fish. Keep an eye out as you walk quietly through the wooded areas for the best chance of a sighting.
Are there good options for circular or loop hikes?
Yes, many parks are designed with loop trails, which are perfect for returning to your starting point without backtracking. Sugarcreek MetroPark is well-known for its 5k loop. Another great option is the 3.7-mile (6.0 km) Twin Lakes – Eden Park loop from Mount Auburn, which provides a scenic circuit through parkland.
Where can I find the most scenic views?
For dramatic gorge views, the trails along the clifftops at John Bryan State Park are hard to beat. For a unique perspective, the observation tower at Cox Arboretum MetroPark provides panoramic views over the park and surrounding area. Many trails within the Five Rivers MetroParks also offer lovely, serene views along the Great Miami and Stillwater rivers.
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