National Parks and Natural Wonders That Make Ohio a Must-Visit
Just a short drive north from Columbus, about 45 minutes near Delaware, lies Alum Creek State Park, a lush expanse where the shimmering Alum Creek Lake invites visitors to paddle, fish, and hike. The park’s network of trails, such as the 6-mile Alum Creek Loop, offers a moderate trek through hardwood forests and open meadows, perfect for spotting local wildlife like white-tailed deer and migratory birds. What makes Alum Creek special is its seamless blend of water and woodland, creating postcard-perfect vistas especially vibrant in the fall when amber and crimson leaves frame the lake’s calm surface. Early mornings here are magical, as mist often hovers above the water and the trails remain quiet, ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat close to Ohio’s capital.
Further east, near Cleveland and about 30 minutes south, Cuyahoga Valley National Park stretches over 33,000 acres of rolling hills and forested valleys. The park is famous for the Towpath Trail, a smooth, mostly flat path tracing the historic Ohio & Erie Canal. Visitors can bike or walk along this scenic route, passing through wetlands and past the iconic Brandywine Falls—a 65-foot waterfall that plunges dramatically into a gorge. The park’s blend of cultural history and natural beauty sets it apart, with preserved 19th-century structures scattered amid the landscape. Late spring is particularly enchanting when wildflowers bloom, and the Brandywine Falls area buzzes with the sound of cascading water and songbirds.
In the southeastern corner of Ohio, about 40 minutes south of Athens, Hocking Hills State Park offers a rugged contrast of cliffs, caves, and waterfalls that captivate hikers and nature lovers alike. The Old Man’s Cave trail, a 1.5-mile loop of moderate difficulty, winds through deep ravines and past striking rock formations, including a narrow gorge with a cascading waterfall. This park’s unique geology, carved from Blackhand sandstone, creates dramatic landscapes that seem almost otherworldly. Visitors often time their visits for autumn when the fiery reds and golds of the forest canopy make the trail feel like a fairy tale setting, or in early spring when the waterfalls swell from seasonal rains.
Heading to the western part of the state near Toledo, Oak Openings Preserve Metropark is a hidden gem about 20 minutes south of the city center. This vast preserve features rare oak savanna ecosystems, one of the most endangered habitats in Ohio. Walking the Oak Openings Trail, visitors encounter wild orchids, pitcher plants, and a variety of butterflies that thrive in this sunny, grassy landscape dotted with towering oak trees. What sets this place apart is its botanical diversity and the chance to experience a pre-settlement Ohio ecosystem. Spring and early summer bring the best conditions for wildflower blooms and insect activity, making it a favorite for naturalists and photographers.
In northern Ohio, just outside of Sandusky and roughly a 15-minute drive from Lake Erie’s shores, Magee Marsh Wildlife Area is renowned among birdwatchers worldwide. The marsh is a critical stopover for migratory songbirds on the Lake Erie Flyway, especially during May’s spring migration. Walking along the boardwalk trail, visitors can witness vibrant warblers, vireos, and other feathered gems in a dense, lush habitat of reeds and wet woodlands. This seasonal spectacle draws nature enthusiasts eager to catch a glimpse of species that vanish from other parts of the state. Early mornings in spring offer the best light and bird activity, transforming the marsh into a lively symphony of wings and calls.
In the heart of Ohio’s Amish Country, near Millersburg about an hour northeast of Columbus, lies the peaceful Holmes County countryside. Here, visitors can explore the scenic Amish Farmlands by car or bike, cruising along quiet country roads bordered by rolling fields, white fences, and traditional Amish barns. The area’s charm is found in its timeless rural beauty and the chance to witness an enduring way of life. Stop at the Amish & Mennonite Heritage Center to learn more about the local culture through exhibits and tours. The landscape is especially picturesque in late summer when golden crops ripple in the breeze, inviting visitors to slow down and savor a simpler pace.
Finally, on Ohio’s southern edge near Cincinnati, Shawnee State Park beckons with its rugged hills and dense forests less than an hour’s drive east of the city. The park features the Shawnee State Forest, often called the “Little Smokies” for its resemblance to the Great Smoky Mountains. The Irondale Trail, a strenuous 7-mile loop, rewards hikers with panoramic views from rocky overlooks that rise above the Ohio River Valley. The park’s isolation and varied topography make it a haven for black bears and other wildlife, offering a true wilderness experience in the Midwest. Fall colors here are spectacular, blanketing the hillsides in deep reds and oranges, while springtime brings a fresh, green renewal that highlights the lushness of this scenic refuge.