Char Mar Loop

The main Char Mar Loop is approximately 1.5 to 1.7 miles (2.5 to 2.7 kilometers) long. While the tour data suggests a duration of around 35 minutes, most hikers complete it in about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on their pace and how often they stop to enjoy the scenery or observe wildlife.

Yes, the Char Mar Loop is generally considered an easy hike, making it suitable for beginners and families. While it features gently rolling hills and a ridge and ravine system with some 'surprising ups and downs,' the overall elevation changes are minimal. The trail is well-maintained, primarily composed of packed earth and gravel.

The trail winds through mature woodlands, featuring packed earth and gravel paths. You'll encounter gently rolling hills, a ridge and ravine system, and cross creeks with a meandering stream. The path generally remains in good condition, even after rain, though winter conditions can bring slush and ice.

The Char Mar Loop offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. You might spot waterfowl like great blue herons, green herons, and wood ducks at the large pond, along with turtles, mink, muskrat, and beavers. Bird feeders attract woodpeckers, nuthatches, and bluebirds, and migrating songbirds pass through seasonally. White-tailed deer and wild turkeys are also common. In spring, the woodlands burst with wildflowers such as Yellow Trout Lilies, Toadshade, Spring Beauty, and purple violas.

The trail is enjoyable year-round. Spring is particularly beautiful for viewing abundant wildflowers. Summer offers a shaded hike through mature woodlands, providing relief on warm days. Autumn brings vibrant fall foliage. While accessible in winter, be aware that slush can turn to ice, so appropriate footwear is recommended.

Yes, leashed dogs are welcome on the Char Mar Loop. For your convenience, 'mutt mitts' are provided at the entrance to help keep the preserve clean.

No, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access the Char Mar Loop trail within the Char Mar Ridge Preserve. It is free and open to the public.

There is an expanded and paved parking lot available at the Char Mar Ridge Preserve, providing easy access to the trailhead. A short connector trail leads directly from the parking area to the main loop.

Yes, beyond its natural beauty, the trail features a wildlife viewing blind overlooking a large pond, a natural play area for children to engage with nature, and FLEX stations with equipment-free workout instructions. Educational signage describes geological and natural history, and identifies various tree species.

Yes, the Char Mar Ridge Preserve connects to the paved Ohio to Erie Trail (OTET), offering additional opportunities for cycling or longer walks. The route also passes through sections of the Genoa Trail and the 21 (Ohio) trail.

The Char Mar Loop is, as its name suggests, a looped path. This means you will return to your starting point without retracing your steps, offering a continuous and varied experience.