With warm weather taking a backseat and cooler days ahead, it is the perfect time to grab the kids and take a hike. The changing colors, fresh air and crunchy leaves underfoot make for a sensory feast that families will simply FALL in love with!
Check out this roundup of drive-worthy hiking spots for Cincinnati’s families:
- Glen Helen Nature Preserve
- Around 1 hour 20 minutes from Cincinnati
- Located in Yellow Springs, Ohio
- Impressive trees, limestone cliffs with waterfalls and overhangs
- Make a day of it- plan a visit to Young’s Jersey Dairy for a spin on the carousel and don’t forget to get a scoop of homemade ice cream
- Clifty Falls State Park
- Around 1 hour 30 minutes from Cincinnati
- Located in Madison, Indiana
- 4 Beautiful waterfalls
- Make a day of it- grab a meal at the riverfront Madison Lighthouse & Bar and some great small-town shopping
- Natural Bridge State Park
- Around 2 hours from Cincinnati
- Located in Slade, Kentucky
- Hike to the Natural Bridge or ride the skylift
- Make a day of it- grab a slice of pizza from Miguel’s and drive through the Nada tunnel. Be sure to visit in summer, too, to take a leap off of Jump Rock
- Hocking Hills State Park
- Around 2 hours 20 minutes from Cicinnati
- Located in Hocking Hills, Oh
- Many beautiful falls and caves to explore
- Make a day of it- fuel up at The Olde Dutch Restaurant‘s buffet and make some furry friends at Fox’s High Rock Farm
Tips to Successfully Hike with Littles
- Don’t rush! Let them stop to pick up and investigate a rock. Stop to literally smell the flowers. Slow down, take breaks and enjoy the moments.
- Be prepared. Pack a backpack with a first aid kit, wet wipes, water and a snack.
- Dress for Success. Check the weather and again, be prepared. Comfy shoes are a must! A light jacket is a good idea, and from a been-there-dont-that-mom… always have an emergency outfit in your trunk for your little ones! Take a slide in the mud? No problem because 1. Dirt don’t hurt and 2. We can change when we get back to the car.
- Print out a simple Nature Bingo card! Kiddos love being engaged in this activity and seeking out nature items to get “BINGO”.
- Play I-spy! Simple, easy, and a good way to make nature discoveries.
- Look for nature’s colors! Try to find every color of the rainbow on your hike.
