Here in Ohio, our nature scene is severely underrated. There’s simply so much more to see and do than most people ever realize! If you have an insatiable appetite for adventure, read on! We’ve put together 10 bucket list adventures in Ohio sure to satisfy even the most acute case of wanderlust. Get ready for some incredible experiences in The Buckeye State!

  1. Old Man’s Cave (Hocking Hills State Park)

Karlis Dambrans/Flickr Hocking Hills State Park is arguably Ohio’s most beloved state park, where waterfalls, caves and hiking trails abound. The Old Man’s Cave hiking trails feature approximately 5.1 miles of sandstone gorges, breathtaking waterfalls, eerie caves and unique rock formations that will make you feel like you’re living in a “Lord of the Rings” film. Bonus: Hocking Hills is also an inexpensive road trip in Ohio!

  1. Oak Openings Nature Preserve (Swanton)

Trover/Google Local Close to Toledo you’ll find what’s considered to be Ohio’s rarest ecosystem (and one of the world’s rarest ecosystems) where rare plants and animals, oak forests, sand dunes, savannas, tall-grass prairies and swamp forests all thrive in harmony. Oak Openings Nature Preserve is a true Ohio treasure.

  1. Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Peninsula)

Tom Gill/Flickr Ohio’s very own national park features stunning waterfalls (pictured: Brandywine Falls), incredible views and rugged ledges to explore. There are more than 125 miles of hiking trails in Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

  1. Holden Arboretum Canopy Walk (Kirtland)

Erik Drost/Flickr Not many people are aware that Ohio is home to an incredible canopy walk. It’s a breathtakingly beautiful experience—unless you’re absolutely terrified of heights, that is. The Judith and Maynard H. Murch Canopy Walk at Holden Arboretum in Kirtland, Ohio features a 500 ft. long elevated walkway suspended 65 ft. above the forest floor. (And as an added bonus, there’s an observation tower on site that takes you up even further up—so much further that you end up above the trees.)

  1. Magee Marsh Wildlife Refuge (Oak Harbor)

Benny Mazur/Flickr Arguably the state’s top bird-watching spot –featuring more than 300 species of birds – you can find this peaceful refuge along western Lake Erie, between Toledo and Port Clinton.

  1. Mohican-Memorial State Forest (Ashland County)

Tom Hart/Flickr This beautiful 4,525-acre forest features several hiking trails that lead to attractions such as Pine Run Creek, the Fire Tower and Clearfork Gorge. (Pictured: Big Lyons Falls, a 300-foot deep sandstone gorge with two beautiful waterfalls.)

  1. Rockbridge State Nature Preserve (Rockbridge)

April Dray/Only In Your State The Rockbridge State Nature Preserve in the small town of Rockbridge features a natural bridge that stretches more than 100 ft. long – and it’s truly incredible. (After steady rainfall, the water trickling down into the ravine increases and forms what locals call “Rockbridge Falls” beneath the bridge.)

  1. Rocky River Reservation (Cleveland Metroparks)

Jen Goelllnitz/Flickr The All Purpose Trail at Rocky River Reservation features scenic views of the Rocky River and a total of 13.6 miles for cycling, walking, skating, and more. Along this trail you’ll encounter others, such as the 1.3-mile Rockcliff Springs Fitness Trail, (which we also recommend.)

  1. Shawnee State Forest (Scioto and Adams counties)

Analogue Kid/Wikimedia Commons Ohio’s largest state forest is known as The Little Smokies of Ohio, and covers 63,747 acres. It features 60 miles of bridle and hiking trails, 60 miles of backpacking trails, 58 horse camp sites and an 8,000-acre wilderness.

  1. Mill Creek Park (Youngstown)

Jess/Flickr Youngstown’s Mill Creek Park features some beautiful scenery and landmarks. The 1.5-mile asphalt surface East Cohasset Hike/Bike Trail features a scenic route above Lake Cohasset. It’s perfect for a leisurely day hike.

What other bucket list adventures in Ohio could you add? Did we miss any Ohio wonders? Let us know in the comments below!

Karlis Dambrans/Flickr

Hocking Hills State Park is arguably Ohio’s most beloved state park, where waterfalls, caves and hiking trails abound. The Old Man’s Cave hiking trails feature approximately 5.1 miles of sandstone gorges, breathtaking waterfalls, eerie caves and unique rock formations that will make you feel like you’re living in a “Lord of the Rings” film. Bonus: Hocking Hills is also an inexpensive road trip in Ohio!

Trover/Google Local

Close to Toledo you’ll find what’s considered to be Ohio’s rarest ecosystem (and one of the world’s rarest ecosystems) where rare plants and animals, oak forests, sand dunes, savannas, tall-grass prairies and swamp forests all thrive in harmony. Oak Openings Nature Preserve is a true Ohio treasure.

Tom Gill/Flickr

Ohio’s very own national park features stunning waterfalls (pictured: Brandywine Falls), incredible views and rugged ledges to explore. There are more than 125 miles of hiking trails in Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

Erik Drost/Flickr

Not many people are aware that Ohio is home to an incredible canopy walk. It’s a breathtakingly beautiful experience—unless you’re absolutely terrified of heights, that is. The Judith and Maynard H. Murch Canopy Walk at Holden Arboretum in Kirtland, Ohio features a 500 ft. long elevated walkway suspended 65 ft. above the forest floor. (And as an added bonus, there’s an observation tower on site that takes you up even further up—so much further that you end up above the trees.)

Benny Mazur/Flickr

Arguably the state’s top bird-watching spot –featuring more than 300 species of birds – you can find this peaceful refuge along western Lake Erie, between Toledo and Port Clinton.

Tom Hart/Flickr

This beautiful 4,525-acre forest features several hiking trails that lead to attractions such as Pine Run Creek, the Fire Tower and Clearfork Gorge. (Pictured: Big Lyons Falls, a 300-foot deep sandstone gorge with two beautiful waterfalls.)

April Dray/Only In Your State

The Rockbridge State Nature Preserve in the small town of Rockbridge features a natural bridge that stretches more than 100 ft. long – and it’s truly incredible. (After steady rainfall, the water trickling down into the ravine increases and forms what locals call “Rockbridge Falls” beneath the bridge.)

Jen Goelllnitz/Flickr

The All Purpose Trail at Rocky River Reservation features scenic views of the Rocky River and a total of 13.6 miles for cycling, walking, skating, and more. Along this trail you’ll encounter others, such as the 1.3-mile Rockcliff Springs Fitness Trail, (which we also recommend.)

Analogue Kid/Wikimedia Commons

Ohio’s largest state forest is known as The Little Smokies of Ohio, and covers 63,747 acres. It features 60 miles of bridle and hiking trails, 60 miles of backpacking trails, 58 horse camp sites and an 8,000-acre wilderness.

Jess/Flickr

Youngstown’s Mill Creek Park features some beautiful scenery and landmarks. The 1.5-mile asphalt surface East Cohasset Hike/Bike Trail features a scenic route above Lake Cohasset. It’s perfect for a leisurely day hike.

For more things to do and see in Ohio, check out our previous article: The Ultimate And Definite Bucket List For Everyone In Ohio.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Address: Hocking Hills State Park, Logan, OH 43138, USAAddress: Oak Openings Preserve Metropark, 4139 Girdham Rd, Swanton, OH 43558, USAAddress: Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio, USAAddress: The Holden Arboretum, 9550 Sperry Rd, Kirtland, OH 44094, USAAddress: Magee Marsh Wildlife Area, OH-2, Oak Harbor, OH 43449, USAAddress: Mohican-Memorial State Forest, 975 O D N R Mohican Rd 51, Perrysville, OH 44864, USAAddress: Rockbridge State Nature Preserve, 11475 Dalton Rd, Rockbridge, OH 43149, USAAddress: Rocky River Reservation, Valley Pkwy, North Olmsted, OH 44070, USAAddress: Shawnee State Forest Headquarters, 13291 US-52, West Portsmouth, OH 45663, USAAddress: Mill Creek Park - South End, Boardman, OH 44512, USA

The OIYS Visitor Center

Bucket List Adventures In Ohio May 11, 2021 Sarah What are some outdoorsy things to do in Ohio? The Buckeye State really is one giant playground for outdoor enthusiasts. From absolutely perfect waterfalls and hidden beaches, to stunning mountains and pristine lakes, beauty abounds in The Buckeye State. There is so much untapped potential here, just waiting to be explored. If you’re into hiking, you’ll find some of the most scenic trails in the country – right here in Ohio! We also love our water recreation here in The Buckeye State. One of our favorite places to get out on the water is Salt Fork State Park, 17,229 acres that showcases Ohio’s natural beauty. Often called the crown jewel of Ohio’s state parks, at the heart of Salt Fork you’ll find what is perhaps the most jaw-dropping lake in Ohio. Salt Fork Lake is a beautiful body of water that’s perfect for a variety of outdoor recreation, and is most notable for being one of the largest inland beaches in the state, spanning 2,500 feet. What are some fun outdoor adventures in Ohio? If the above list of bucket list adventures in Ohio whet your appetite for more, read on! From hidden waterfalls, to abandoned places nature is reclaiming, Ohio is FULL of unexpected adventures – all you have to do is take them. We outline 15 bucket-list level adventures in this article, but we’d be remiss not to share one of our favorite hidden gems.  “America’s Most Colorful Caverns” – the Ohio Caverns – can be found in West Liberty, Ohio. The caverns were formed thousands of years ago when an underground river cut through ancient limestone and created vast rooms and passageways. These passageways are now filled with crystal stalactites, stalagmites, and many other formations. Within the Ohio Caverns is one of the world’s largest and most perfectly formed stalactites. Crystal King is nearly five feet long, weighing an estimated 400 pounds, and is estimated to be more than 200,000 years old. Visiting the Ohio Caverns is one of the most unique things to do in Ohio. Does Ohio have many scenic hiking trails? You don’t have to travel out of the country for some awe-inspiring time in nature. You don’t even have to travel out of state. All you really have to do is explore your own backyard. Ohio is filled with beautiful hiking trails just waiting for an adventurous soul to take advantage of them. One of the state’s most scenic – and underrated – hikes is hiding in Caesar Creek State Park in Waynesville, Ohio. Part of a larger trail, the trek to Horseshoe Falls is an easy, eventful journey that’s perfect for a short day hike. Along this 1.2-mile portion of the trail, you’ll encounter gorgeous views, a swinging bridge, and a waterfall. Glen Helen Nature Preserve has towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and interesting rock formations, there’s so much to see within this little-known nature preserve. 

The OIYS Visitor Center

Bucket List Adventures In Ohio

May 11, 2021

Sarah

What are some outdoorsy things to do in Ohio? The Buckeye State really is one giant playground for outdoor enthusiasts. From absolutely perfect waterfalls and hidden beaches, to stunning mountains and pristine lakes, beauty abounds in The Buckeye State. There is so much untapped potential here, just waiting to be explored. If you’re into hiking, you’ll find some of the most scenic trails in the country – right here in Ohio! We also love our water recreation here in The Buckeye State. One of our favorite places to get out on the water is Salt Fork State Park, 17,229 acres that showcases Ohio’s natural beauty. Often called the crown jewel of Ohio’s state parks, at the heart of Salt Fork you’ll find what is perhaps the most jaw-dropping lake in Ohio. Salt Fork Lake is a beautiful body of water that’s perfect for a variety of outdoor recreation, and is most notable for being one of the largest inland beaches in the state, spanning 2,500 feet. What are some fun outdoor adventures in Ohio? If the above list of bucket list adventures in Ohio whet your appetite for more, read on! From hidden waterfalls, to abandoned places nature is reclaiming, Ohio is FULL of unexpected adventures – all you have to do is take them. We outline 15 bucket-list level adventures in this article, but we’d be remiss not to share one of our favorite hidden gems.  “America’s Most Colorful Caverns” – the Ohio Caverns – can be found in West Liberty, Ohio. The caverns were formed thousands of years ago when an underground river cut through ancient limestone and created vast rooms and passageways. These passageways are now filled with crystal stalactites, stalagmites, and many other formations. Within the Ohio Caverns is one of the world’s largest and most perfectly formed stalactites. Crystal King is nearly five feet long, weighing an estimated 400 pounds, and is estimated to be more than 200,000 years old. Visiting the Ohio Caverns is one of the most unique things to do in Ohio. Does Ohio have many scenic hiking trails? You don’t have to travel out of the country for some awe-inspiring time in nature. You don’t even have to travel out of state. All you really have to do is explore your own backyard. Ohio is filled with beautiful hiking trails just waiting for an adventurous soul to take advantage of them. One of the state’s most scenic – and underrated – hikes is hiding in Caesar Creek State Park in Waynesville, Ohio. Part of a larger trail, the trek to Horseshoe Falls is an easy, eventful journey that’s perfect for a short day hike. Along this 1.2-mile portion of the trail, you’ll encounter gorgeous views, a swinging bridge, and a waterfall. Glen Helen Nature Preserve has towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and interesting rock formations, there’s so much to see within this little-known nature preserve. 

The OIYS Visitor Center

The OIYS Visitor Center

The Buckeye State really is one giant playground for outdoor enthusiasts. From absolutely perfect waterfalls and hidden beaches, to stunning mountains and pristine lakes, beauty abounds in The Buckeye State. There is so much untapped potential here, just waiting to be explored. If you’re into hiking, you’ll find some of the most scenic trails in the country – right here in Ohio! We also love our water recreation here in The Buckeye State. One of our favorite places to get out on the water is Salt Fork State Park, 17,229 acres that showcases Ohio’s natural beauty. Often called the crown jewel of Ohio’s state parks, at the heart of Salt Fork you’ll find what is perhaps the most jaw-dropping lake in Ohio. Salt Fork Lake is a beautiful body of water that’s perfect for a variety of outdoor recreation, and is most notable for being one of the largest inland beaches in the state, spanning 2,500 feet.

What are some fun outdoor adventures in Ohio?

If the above list of bucket list adventures in Ohio whet your appetite for more, read on! From hidden waterfalls, to abandoned places nature is reclaiming, Ohio is FULL of unexpected adventures – all you have to do is take them. We outline 15 bucket-list level adventures in this article, but we’d be remiss not to share one of our favorite hidden gems.  “America’s Most Colorful Caverns” – the Ohio Caverns – can be found in West Liberty, Ohio. The caverns were formed thousands of years ago when an underground river cut through ancient limestone and created vast rooms and passageways. These passageways are now filled with crystal stalactites, stalagmites, and many other formations. Within the Ohio Caverns is one of the world’s largest and most perfectly formed stalactites. Crystal King is nearly five feet long, weighing an estimated 400 pounds, and is estimated to be more than 200,000 years old. Visiting the Ohio Caverns is one of the most unique things to do in Ohio.

Does Ohio have many scenic hiking trails?

You don’t have to travel out of the country for some awe-inspiring time in nature. You don’t even have to travel out of state. All you really have to do is explore your own backyard. Ohio is filled with beautiful hiking trails just waiting for an adventurous soul to take advantage of them. One of the state’s most scenic – and underrated – hikes is hiding in Caesar Creek State Park in Waynesville, Ohio. Part of a larger trail, the trek to Horseshoe Falls is an easy, eventful journey that’s perfect for a short day hike. Along this 1.2-mile portion of the trail, you’ll encounter gorgeous views, a swinging bridge, and a waterfall. Glen Helen Nature Preserve has towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and interesting rock formations, there’s so much to see within this little-known nature preserve.