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Cincinnati Hikes Resource Center

Everything Cincy Outdoors 

We are dedicated to making sure that the Cincy Outdoors Community is celebrated! We put together a list of some amazing maps and local organizations that represent the very best of Cincy Nature. These are folks committed to getting folks outside safely and preserving our Nati Nature for future generations to come! 
 

Just click on the link to visit their website and learn more!
Oh! And tell them Cincinnati Hikes sent you! 

 

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Informtion and Contacts Anchor

Important Information and Contacts for All Outdoorspeople

In case of any  emergency always call 911

Even in cases of low or no cell service, your phone will connect to the nearest cell tower regardless of carrier.

Poison Control
(800) 222-1222

For concerns in and outside of the home

1-800-Wildlife

ODNR Wildlife customer service number for questions on wildlife, licenses, and regulations

Leave No Trace Principles

For personal safety as well as lessening our environmental impact

10 Essentials

The 10 Essentials are a collection of first aid and emergency items that can help you in the event of minor injuries, sudden weather changes, or unexpected delays. They are only the basic items you should have with you. You may need additional items depending on the activity in which you participate.

Cincinnati Hikes Resource Center

Cincinnati Hikes Map Collection

Cincinnati Hikes has attempted to create a comprehensive guide to all things Nati Nature! Our map collection contains all the free to public the local parks, paved hikes, dog parks, backpacking trails, state parks of Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana, and some campground maps as well all in one place. There are interactive maps for some lists and you'll find the links to all the parks websites as well for further research. It is located in an easy to navigate Google Drive. And it's all free! Check it out!

**AND! Our map collection is now available on the Steps App in an interactive community mapping format. Join in the fun! Rate trails, tag trail heads, and give and receive real time trail updates from community members.**


Below is just one of the interactive maps! Enjoy! 

Cincinnati Hiks Map Collection Anchor

Ohio Spring Flower Identification Guide

Here's a great guide to learning the Spring wildflowers popping up around

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Our Parks Anchor

Our Parks

Here's a quick list of our State, County, and a few local parks. For a more complete list of parks and websites, please visit the Cincinnati Hikes Map Collection above! 

Ohio State Parks

Kentucky State Parks

Indiana State Parks

Great Parks of Hamilton County

Clermont County Parks

Warren County Parks

MetroParks of Butler County

Cincinnati Parks

Western Wildlife Corridor 

Cincinnati Nature Center

Thru Hikes and Long Trails

Did you know that several long trails pass through Cincinnati? Among these include the American Discovery Trail (6,800 mi), North Country Trail (4,800 mi), and Ohio's own long trail the Buckeye Trail (1,400-mile)

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Local Outfitters

Local Outfitters Anchor
Long Trails

Roads Rivers and Trails

Locally owned and operated by AT thru-hikers Bryan Wolf and Joe White and all around adventurer Emily White . They provide expertise and high quality gear from a bunch of friendly faces.
 

Located in Milford

Benchmark Outfitters

An independent outfitter, Benchmark is committed to sharing their experiences to give guests the best gear for their adventures. Outfitting Cincy since 1974.

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Located in Blue Ash

REI Cincinnati

Although this is a national retailer, our local REI works to in the community to provide gear expertise, classes, and activities. They have a bike and ski shop at this location as well. 

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Located in Rookwood Commons

Small Businesses, Non-Profits, and Organizations in Cincinnati Outdoor Community

In progress!
If you have more suggestions, let us know!
Businesses, if you want to be added or you see something you'd like to be amended on your square, let me know! cincyhikes@gmail.com

Business Anchor

2000 Miles Together

The true story of the Crawford family out of Bellevue, KY as they work to become the largest family to every hike the Appalachian Trail

60 Hikes Within 60 Miles by Tammy York

Book guide that covers the best and oftentimes little-known hiking destinations within 60 miles of the greater Cincinnati area. The hikes were selected based on family friendliness, scenery, and history. Many of the hikes fall between 3 to 5 miles in length, providing parents with a relaxing and revitalizing hike that even little ones can enjoy.2021 edition. 

Aclipse Camper Vans

Aclipse Campervans rents fully equipped campervans for those who are passionate about adventures big and small. We customize our vans to fit your travel so you can hit the road hassle free. If you want to hike, climb, kayak, or just unwind for the weekend, you will have a cozy place to settle in night after night.

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Adventure Crew

Ohio based non-profit organization dedicated to connecting city teens with nature through positive, engaging, and free recreation, education and conservation activities.

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Archeological Research Institue: ARI

ARI is a nonprofit that through hands-on educational experiences, we focus on the identification, preservation, and responsible scientific exploration of archaeological sites in Southeast Indiana, Southwestern Ohio and Northern Kentucky areas.

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Arrow Adventure

Our goal? Adventuring that’s accessible for all.

Introductory adventures so you can try new things without intimidation.

Quality used gear you need to try new things without spending a lot

The benefit? Good times, affordability + sustainability!

Arrowhead Reptile Rescue

Arrowhead Reptile Rescue was started in 1991 and is a network of rehabilitators and foster homes located in the Greater Cincinnati area. We are a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue of displaced reptiles and to herpetological education.

Boy Scouts of America, Daniel Beard Council

For more than a century, the Boy Scouts of America has helped build the future leaders of this country by combining educational activities and lifelong values with fun. We believe – and, through more than a century of experience, know – that helping youth is a key to building a more conscientious, responsible and productive society.

Carriage House Farm

Established in 1855, we have been single-family owned for five generations. We produce fresh vegetables, fruits, and greens, herbs, whole and milled grains, and honey. Come to our farm market, enjoy a slowly widening selection of retail options in both local and artisan, high quality food and enjoy a leisurely lunch or early dinner at Chloe’s Eatery located behind the market. You can eat at the patio, take your meal to picnic at several locations around the property, or carry out.

Note: Check out the recipes on the website

Cincinnati Animal CARE

Find a new hiking buddy or volunteer to hike with dogs that are waiting for their furever home. We believe that every animal deserves a chance at a live outcome, should be treated as an individual, and that lifesaving is a community ethic.

Cincinnati Cycle Club

Cincinnati Cycle Club promotes cycling as an active, healthy lifestyle by organizing and offering the largest selection of group rides, social activities and cycling support in the tri-state region.

We are an all volunteer and an all-inclusive club.  We have rides for all levels.   We are always accepting new members. 

Cincinnati Parks Foundation

We are proud to be the official philanthropic partner of Cincinnati Parks. Our work has been mission-driven since 1995 with a commitment to supporting the conservation and enhancement of Cincinnati’s parks and greenspaces. When you invest in our most treasured public asset—our parks—you are making an impact for generations to come.

Civic Garden Center

Our mission is building community through gardening, education and environmental stewardship. Founded in 1942 out of the Victory Garden movement, we are THE place to go in Cincinnati to learn about gardening, sustainability, and horticulture. We are located at 2715 Reading Road on the former estate of Cornelius J. Hauck, Hauck Botanic Gardens.

Cincinnati Off Road Alliance: CORA

The Cincinnati Off-Road Alliance (CORA) is a 501c3 non-profit association of volunteers dedicated to developing a thriving community by creating and advocating for sustainable mountain bike access in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.

Explorer Chicks of Cincinnati

We provide exciting itineraries to local and global destinations, a supportive adventure-loving community, uncommon experiences, and our signature SHE-nanigans. Discover your awaiting adventure— from a local day tour, a weekend road trip, or your next travel bucket list vacation of a lifetime. 

Girl Scouts of Western Ohio

Girl Scouts bring their dreams to life and work together to build a better world.. Through programs from coast to coast, Girl Scouts of all backgrounds and abilities can be unapologetically themselves as they discover their strengths and rise to meet new challenges—whether they want to climb to the top of a tree or the top of their class, lace up their boots for a hike or advocate for climate justice, or make their first best friends.

Green Acres Kayak

Operating for over 20 years, Green Acres provides canoe and kayak rentals on the Whitewater River. With over 2,000 boats, this family operation is located in Harrison. 

Green Umbrella

Green Umbrella serves as the regional sustainability alliance of Greater Cincinnati, with hundreds of member organizations and individuals passionate about enhancing the environmental health and vitality of our region. 

Inner Trek

We offer therapy services and various experiences that are designed to foster learning and personal development.

Keep Cincinnati Beautiful

Through education, revitalization, and environmental initiatives, we turn people into catalysts for change in their communities. We help neighbors connect, collaborate and problem-solve through a grassroots network that spans our 52 neighborhoods. By putting passion to work, boots on the ground, and tools in our hands, we ignite a collective force for good that only continues to grow.

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Little Miami Canoe Rental

Welcome to Little Miami Canoe Rental! As a family owned/operated business, We offer two scenic locations near the Cincinnati area - in Morrow and in Oregonia. Canoes, kayaks, tubes, rafts and riverside camping are available for your enjoyment. Whether you are a beginner on the river or an experienced canoeist, the scenic Little Miami River has something to offer for everyone.

Little Miami Conservancy

Little Miami Conservancy (LMC) is a citizen nonprofit organization founded in 1967 and dedicated to conserving the natural splendor of the Little Miami National Wild & Scenic River.

Loveland Bike Rental

Loveland Bike Rental is conveniently located at the Loveland Nisbet Park trailhead of the Little Miami Scenic Bike Trail.  We carry a large variety of bikes to rent. These include hybrids, single speed cruisers, child trailers, tandems, recumbents, and road bikes.

Loveland Canoe and Kayak

At Loveland Canoe & Kayak we strive to create a family friendly environment that encourages the exploration and appreciation of the Little Miami River through fun, outdoor adventures. You can kayak, solo or tandem, and leave the work to our friendly, professional staff.

You will enjoy the Little Miami River as you paddle through some of the most beautiful, natural surroundings in the Tri-State region. 

Luke 5 Adventures

Using very unique pieces of equipment, we are able to take individuals living with a disability on hikes to places never before accessible to them. For those unable to cross it, forge it, climb it, or ascend it, we can make it possible. Our volunteers assist in pushing and pulling. Basically, we are "Sherpas," helping individuals achieve the impossible. We are based near Cincinnati, Ohio, but can respond to requests anywhere.

Miami Rivers Chapter of the Buckeye Trail Association

The Buckeye Trail Association is a large, strong body of volunteers who maintain and promote the trail. Though the entire route is marked, the Buckeye Trail continues to change and improve. The BTA looks for ways to move road sections off the roads, and to upgrade those off-road sections to high quality trail.

Miami Group Sierra Club

The Miami Group Sierra Club is dedicated to exploring, enjoying, and protecting the planet in Southwest Ohio.

Morgan's Canoe and Outdoor Adventures

Morgan’s is a family owned, family operated, and family friendly establishment. We strive to provide your family, group or company with a clean, safe, and enjoyable outdoor experience. Whether it’s canoeing and camping with family and friends, or a river team-building program with your company, the Morgans will professionally cater to your every need. 

Mosaic Climbing

Rock climbing instruction, classes, and adventures.

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Located in Loveland 

No Strings Travel

Cincy-based small group travel company focused on authentic, life-changing adventures.

Ohio River Recreation Trail

The Ohio River Recreation Trail connects people and communities to opportunities for adventure on and along the Ohio River. We serve to provide information on river safety, help improve public access and infrastructure, and celebrate the unique beauty and culture of the Ohio River.

Ohio Veterans Outdoors

Ohio Veterans Outdoors, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit organization created by and for Combat-wounded, Ill, and Injured Veterans of the US Armed Forces. Promote Wounded Veteran wellness through outdoor experiences and education.

Orienteering Cincinnati: OCIN

Orienteering Cincinnati is a registered 501(c)3 not for profit charitable corporation and is a member of Orienteering USA, dedicated to providing orienteering opportunities for education, recreation, and competition in the Greater Cincinnati area.

Perfect North Slopes

Perfect North Slopes is a ski area in Southeast Indiana offering Skiing, Snowboarding, and Snow Tubing.  We offer ski and snowboard lessons, equipment rental, delicious food options, and a ski lodge where you can swap stories about your day on the snow.

Outside Time 

We rent camping equipment so that everyone can get outside and unplug, reconnect, and have fun. Our purpose is to make camping possible for all, and in the process we all can find a little bit of restoration and peace, and connectivity with the world around us.

RAPTOR Inc

RAPTOR Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of birds of prey via rehabilitation, education, research and community service. We hold the proper state and federal permits that allow us to rehabilitate over 300 birds of prey annually and deliver over 350 educational presentations each year at schools, libraries, senior centers, and other community events. We strive to cultivate respect for nature, inspire conservation action in our community, and protect raptor habitat.

Ride the Wind Wild Bird Rescue

We are a Songbird Rehabilitation Center with a special interest in Yellow-billed Cuckoos and neotropical species ( birds that migrate )

We also rehab other non migratory birds. Ride The Wind Wild Bird Rehab Center rehabilitates injured and orphaned native songbirds.

Rivers Edge Outfitters Canoe and Kayak Rental

We're all about making sure you have a really fun time when you book a trip at RiversEdge Outfitters. Our trained and professional staff makes sure all of our equipment is maintained and that our facilities are clean which is why people from Columbus, Dayton, and Cincinnati continue to come back to RiversEdge year after year.

Scenic River Canoe

Scenic River Canoe operates on the only national wild scenic river in the tri-state area. We’ll admit we’re biased, but we think it’s the prettiest part of Ohio’s most beautiful river, located just a few miles from beautiful Historic Old Milford, Ohio.

Second Chance Wildlife

The mission of Second Chance is to provide compassionate, rehabilitative care to orphaned, ill, and injured wild animals, and to advise our community on helping animals.

Each year, concerned citizens and animal services officers bring Second Chance about 3,000 distressed native wild animals for medical treatment, attentive care, and release.

Southern Ohio Trail Association (SOTA)

It is our responsibility, as Users of trails to keep the trails safe for everyone, and to maintain our trails so that the younger generation will have trails to enjoy in the future, as we do today!

Spring In Our Steps

Spring in Our Steps is a Cincinnati-based 501(c)3 organization, committed to bringing a brighter future to the city’s most neglected public spaces–such as public alleys & stairways–through cleanup, coordinated activities, and comprehensive planning.

Summit Trek and Travel 

Looking for adventure? We plan and lead adventure trips world-wide. Come summit, trek and travel with us! Whether you are looking to join a group trip, want help planning your own adventure, need a guide for backpacking, or just want to live vicariously through photographs, we're here to help!

TrailHeadz Hammocks

As a husband and wife team of outdoor adventurers, our goal is to provide backcountry travelers with quality, ultralight gear for their adventures. Each piece of gear we make is made right in our home from the best materials we can source. 

Valley View Foundation

Valley View is a grassroots, nonprofit organization with a simple mission- Conserving Land, Preserving History and Sharing it with the Community.  

Wasson Way Project

Wasson Way is a key east-west corridor in CROWN, the Cincinnati Riding Or Walking Network.  CROWN will create a 34-mile trail loop connecting Wasson Way to the Murray Path, Little Miami Scenic Trail, Canal Bikeway, Ohio River Trail, Mill Creek Greenway Trail, and more.

Know an incredible organization you think should be up here?

Let us know! Fill out the contact form or send us an email to cincyhikes@gmailcom

Cincinnati Outdoor Groups, Challenges, and Opportunities

There are ALWAYS wonderful events going on at a park near you. Remember to check the park calendars regularly! These are other ways that you can get into and enjoy nature.


These groups are in no particular order

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Cincinnati Hikes

Cincinnati is the Queen City of outdoor enthusiasts and this is our space to come together. Cincinnati Hikes is our all human inclusive community of folks who love everything about Nati Nature and all the great places and people along the trail.

This is a safe space to ask your questions, post your adventures, and join us for group explorations of all kinds! All of our events are free and open to everyone! 

Cincinnati Hikes: Kids Collaborative and Events

Welcome to the Kids Collaborative! Here we celebrate the next generation of Cincinnati hikers!

Home of the Cincinnati Hikes Little Boots Hikers (8 and under) and our Trail Hawks (8 and up). They adventure often! All of the events are free and open to everyone! 

Cincinnati Hikes Yak Pack

Welcome to the Cincinnati Hikes Yak Pack. Here we celebrate everything Nati On The Water! From kayaking to canoeing to paddle boarding to just plain swimming! We're here for it! Please come hang out!

Mojo Running Club

Mojo Running Club is an inclusive group of runners – from newcomers to elites – who train, race, and have fun together while providing a supportive environment to help everyone reach his/her goals.

For all the runners and walkers in the West Chester-Cincinnati area.

RSVP via Facebook

Mt. Airy Trail Runners

A group for trail runners and hikers who enjoy using the trails in Mt. Airy Forest, with a focus on maintaining and preserving the existing trail system.

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RSVP via their FB Group

DaytonHikers.Org

The mission of Dayton Hikers is to provide opportunities for getting exercise, making friends, exploring nature, living a healthier lifestyle, and making our community a better place to live.

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RSVP via MeetUp

Urban Rangers

Bringing people together to explore the urban environment

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RSVP via website

Mt. Airy Hiking Club

Currently suspended due to Covid 19

Hike for Your Health Challenge

Pick up a Hike for Your Health passport at the Rowe Visitor Center for $4 and start hiking!

After completing each trail, come back to the Visitor's Center to get an official boot stamp on your passport to earn fun incentive prizes along the way. 

Then, after hiking all 17 trails at Rowe Woods and Long Branch Farm & Trails, bring your passport back to the Rowe Visitor Center to receive a Trailblazer prize.

Great Parks Walking Staff Program

The Hiking Staff Program requires that you hike seven different trails in the park district in a year. You then become eligible to purchase a wooden hiking staff for $3. Each year following, when you hike seven Great Parks’ trails, you are eligible to purchase an annual metal emblem for your hiking staff for $2 (limit one emblem per year.)

Mt. Airy Trail Runners

A group for trail runners and hikers who enjoy using the trails in Mt. Airy Forest, with a focus on maintaining and preserving the existing trail system.

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RSVP via their FB Group

Happy Trails Hiking Group

This a page to get people excited bout hiking!! We would love to see your hiking pics and hear bout your happy trails!! Feel free to join us and let’s find the beautiful places around us!!

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RSVP via their FB Group

American Walkers Association

A group of like minded hiking enthusiasts. We meet regularly for Hiking Events in Tri-State Area.
The Oldest Walking Club in the USA - Established December 1916

Enjoy your visit to our site and after reading of our aim and about membership, we hope that you will join us for a walk or Hiking. Indiana, Kentucky & Ohio.

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RSVP via MeetUp

Cincinnati Hiking

Welcome to Cincinnati Hiking Meetup Group! While the title of this group indicates hikes in Cincinnati, there are a number of hikes posted at parks within 1-2 hours from Cincy as well (i.e. Red River Gorge, Clifty Falls, John Bryan, etc.) While most events will be hiking, there may be other types of events posted as well like kayaking and urban walks.

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RSVP via MeetUp

Queer Cincy/Dayton Hiking Group

A hiking group dedicated for those whose identify as LGBTQIA+. It is a safe place to hike with others.

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RSVP via the FB Group

Tri-State Hiking Club

The Tri-State Hiking Club of Cincinnati Ohio is a regional non-profit group dedicated to creating a community of friends who enjoy hiking. Meet other fun people who love the outdoors as much as you do! Our group meets weekly for hikes. All are welcome from beginners to experts; locals to new transplants. Come experience the outdoors with us! We hike all around the Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana area. 

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RSVP via MeetUp

Tri-State Hiking Events Group

A group of like minded hiking enthusiasts. We meet regularly for Hiking Events in Tri-State Area for Hiking. Indiana, Kentucky & Ohio.

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RSVP via FB

Ohio State Park Passport

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ new Ohio State Parks Passport is a fun way to visit all of Ohio’s scenic state parks with the added benefit of giving visitors a chance to commemorate each visit.

Runners Club of the Greater Cincinnati Area

For over 40 years, the Runners' Club of Greater Cincinnati (RCGC for short) has promoted competitive running, recreational running, and walking and enhanced physical fitness in the Greater Cincinnati area.

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Check out events on website

Divrsion Treasure Hunt

An actual treasure hunt where you solve clues to find treasure chests with up to $400 cash. Based in Harrison. 

Cincinnati Kayak, Canoe, Paddlesports

This page is dedicated to the needs of Southwest Ohio paddlers. People, events, selling or looking for items, safety, outfitters, liveries, web links for info and anything else that will help paddlers get the most out of what this area has to offer to the paddlesporting community is welcome.

Greater Cincinnati Mountain Bikers

This page is dedicated to mountain biking in the Greater Cincinnati Area. Please feel free to post group rides and trips to other areas. Local trail stewards are welcome to post trail conditions, trail days, and events.

Greater Cincinnati/NKY Women's Mountain Bike Collective

This group is for women only to socialize, talk bikes, organize group rides and encourage each other on the trails. All riding levels are welcome from beginner to advanced and our hope is that we all share our experiences and support each other in our MTB adventures.

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RSVP via the Facebook Group

Cincy Disc Golfers

We are a local group of disc golfers trying to help maintain and promote the growth of the sport in the tri-state area(Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana) ! We meet up, throw small tournaments, promote all local events. Post when you are gonna play, invite people that do play. Feel free to upload anything disc golf related! Make new friends! Get out and throw!

Westside Cincy Walking Club

The Westside Cincy Walking Club (formerly the Price Hill Pacer Training Group) walks on Tuesday evenings at 6 pm and Saturday mornings at 9 am all over the Westside of Cincinnati.

Know an incredible group or challenge you think should be up here?

Let us know! Fill out the contact form or send us an email to cincyhikes@gmailcom

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