(Featured Photo: Alley Park by kewhittphoto)

You CAN get outdoors with the family this winter and enjoy the beauty of it all. We have five of the most beautiful winter hikes in Central Ohio within a short drive from Cincinnati, plus, ideas on where to stay! 

Alley Park; Lancaster, Oh 43130

This lovely park in Lancaster has over 350 acres to get lost in. If make it over there in the winter, the covered bridges are worth seeing, especially when they are covered in the winter snow!

Clear Creek Metro Park by @hallielor

Clear Creek Metro Park; 23834 Clear Creek Road, Rockbridge, Oh

Ohio’s largest nature preserve, this picturesque park welcomes families with nine family-friendly trails where you’re bound to come across many of the 2,200 plant and animal species that call this preserve home. Insider Tip: Check out the Creekside Meadow trail for the best views!

 

Chestnut Ridge; 8445 Winchester Rd NW, Carroll, Oh

Chestnut Ridge is the first ridge in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and is perfect for bird watching. Kids love this! Be sure to bundle up and enjoy the scenic walk around the lake while you’re at it!

Indian Run-Falls by @zach.imwalle

Indian Run Falls; 700 Shawan Falls, Dublin, Oh

Only about 20 minutes from Columbus, you’ll find beautiful icicles and frozen waterfalls on this easy, family-friendly hike in Dublin. 

Hayden Run Falls; 4326 Hayden Run Road, Dublin, Oh

Want to check out more frozen waterfalls while you’re in Dublin? Double up the fun and head over to Hayden Run Falls! 

What a day! Now, where can you stay? How about booking a cozy and relaxing overnight stay at one of Fairfield County’s secluded cabins or cottages? Check out some some our favorites here, some equipped with toasty fireplaces, mouthwatering breakfasts, beautiful scenic views and more!

 

(Source: Visit Fairfield County and Visit Dublin, Oh)