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Hiking trails & Routes
Montgomery County
Dayton

Buckeye and North Country Trail

Moderate

Buckeye and North Country Trail

03:22

13.1km

60m

Hiking

The Buckeye and North Country Trail offers a pleasant escape into nature, guiding you through a diverse landscape that includes wooded footpaths and potentially historic towpaths. Starting near Eastwood MetroPark, you might catch glimpses of the lake before the trail leads you past the notable Wright Brothers Hill, blending natural beauty with local heritage. It's a chance to experience a segment of two of Ohio's most significant long-distance trails.

This moderate 8.1-mile (13.1 km) hike, with a gentle 190 feet (58 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 21 minutes to complete. Parking is readily available near Eastwood MetroPark, making it an accessible day trip from Dayton. Consider an early start, especially on busy days, to ensure a smooth beginning to your adventure.

This particular section highlights the unique overlap of the Buckeye Trail, a 1,440-mile loop entirely within Ohio, and the North Country Trail, the longest National Scenic Trail in the country. These two trails share a substantial portion of their routes in Ohio, providing a rich hiking experience that showcases the state's varied environments.

Last updated: June 9, 2026

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

1

652 m

Eastwood MetroPark

Highlight • Lake

Eastwood MetroPark totals over 400 acres and includes a mile-long lake, picnic area, and a number of different walking and running paths. The main unpaved trail in the park is the Buckeye Trail, and the paved Mad River Recreation Trail passes through the property as well.

Tip by

2

6.64 km

Wright Brothers Hill

Highlight • Historical Site

Wright Brothers Hill is where aviation history took flight! It's the very spot where Wilbur and Orville Wright conducted their pioneering experiments in 1904 and 1905. The hill sits right next to Huffman Prairie Flying Field. This was the field where the Wright brothers truly learned to fly after their initial experiments on the hill. Standing on Wright Brothers Hill, you can see this field where aviation history continued to unfold after their groundbreaking flights.

Tip by

3

11.6 km

Buckeye Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

Buckeye Trail is the main nature trail in Eastwood MetroPark. It gets right up next to the water at times and includes other sections that are on tight singletrack in the trees. You can combine this trail to a few of the other paths to make different loops in the park.

Tip by

B

13.1 km

End point

Parking

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

8.84 km

1.89 km

1.45 km

923 m

Surfaces

8.61 km

1.66 km

1.45 km

1.37 km

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (280 m)

Lowest point (230 m)

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Weather

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Today

Wednesday 15 July

35°C

21°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park to access the Buckeye and North Country Trail?

You can typically find parking within Eastwood MetroPark, which serves as a primary access point for this section of the trail. Specific parking areas are usually well-marked within the park.

Are there any fees or permits required to hike this trail?

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike this section of the Buckeye and North Country Trail within Eastwood MetroPark. However, it's always a good idea to check the park's official website for any updated regulations or special event fees.

Is the Buckeye and North Country Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, this trail is generally dog-friendly. Dogs are typically allowed but must be kept on a leash at all times to ensure the safety of other hikers and wildlife. Please remember to clean up after your pet.

What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The best time to hike this trail is often during the spring and fall. Spring offers lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while fall provides stunning foliage. Summer can be pleasant, but be prepared for warmer temperatures and potential humidity. Winter hiking is also possible, but conditions can be muddy or icy.

What kind of terrain can I expect on this route?

This section of the trail offers varied terrain, including paved and unpaved paths, often following riverbanks and through wooded areas. Given its location, you can expect relatively flat sections with some gentle inclines, characteristic of the Ohio landscape. It's considered a moderate hike.

What are the notable sights along the route?

Along this route, you'll pass through Eastwood MetroPark, offering scenic views of the Mad River. You'll also encounter Wright Brothers Hill, a significant historical site. The trail itself is part of the extensive Buckeye Trail system, providing a glimpse into Ohio's natural and historical beauty.

Does this trail connect with other paths?

Yes, this route significantly overlaps with the Buckeye Trail (Troy) and the North Country National Scenic Trail (OH). It also intersects with the Mad River Recreation Trail, T-Connector, Wright Brothers Bikeway, and Huffman Prairie Bikeway, offering opportunities for longer or alternative routes.

Is the trail suitable for beginners or families?

With its moderate difficulty and varied terrain, this trail can be suitable for beginners and families, especially those accustomed to walks of a few hours. The relatively low elevation gain makes it accessible, but some sections might be longer than what very young children can comfortably manage.

Are there facilities like restrooms or water sources available?

As the trail passes through Eastwood MetroPark, you can typically find restrooms and water fountains available at various points within the park, especially near popular access areas and picnic spots. It's advisable to carry your own water, especially during warmer months.

How long does it typically take to complete this hike?

This particular route is approximately 13.1 kilometers (8.1 miles) long and typically takes around 3 hours and 20 minutes to complete at a steady hiking pace. Your actual time may vary depending on your speed, stops for breaks, and exploration of points of interest.

What wildlife might I encounter along the trail?

Given its location along the Mad River and within a metro park, you might spot various birds, including waterfowl, and possibly deer, squirrels, and other small mammals. Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna, especially near the river and wooded sections.

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