Nestled within the heart of the Midwest, Ohio may not be the first destination that springs to mind for avid hikers and trail runners seeking a rugged outdoor adventure. Yet, beneath its seemingly gentle terrain, the Buckeye State harbors a surprising array of challenging trails that promise to test the mettle of even the most seasoned outdoor enthusiasts. From the undulating ridges of the Appalachian foothills to the tranquil but demanding paths meandering through dense woodlands, Ohio’s diverse landscape offers a wealth of options for those seeking a taste of true trail grit. In this article, we’ll give you the hardest trails in Ohio for hiking and trail running. So no matter if you’re a dedicated hiker looking for a challenge or a trail runner looking for some vert to train on, prepare to be pleasantly surprised by the rugged adventures that await in the heartland.
Key Takeaways
- Ohio, often overlooked for outdoor adventures, offers challenging trails for hikers and trail runners in diverse landscapes.
- Hardest trails in Ohio include Mt. Airy Powerlines with steep climbs. Shawnee Ridge Trail for toughness and elevation. Shawnee State Forest Loop for backpacking and trail running, and Shawnee Ridge Loop with challenging terrain.
- Additionally, Cuyahoga Valley National Park Loop offers a mix of terrains, Wildcat Hollow Trail is known for training despite its condition, Jaite Mill Bridle and Buckeye Trail Loop features steep and slippery sections, and Cincinnati Nature Center – Rowe Wood Perimeter Trail offers a serene yet challenging trail.
- These Ohio trails cater to a range of outdoor enthusiasts, promising unforgettable experiences amid Ohio’s wilderness.
A List of The Hardest Trails in Ohio
1. Mt Airy Powerlines
If you’re seeking a challenging adventure and looking for the hardest trail in Ohio, then the Mt. Airy Powerlines Trail is the one for you. Affectionately referred to as the “Powerlines” trail by locals, it spans 5 miles as an out-and-back route connecting Mt. Airy Forest and Spring Grove Cemetery. If you’re looking to test your limits even further, this route boasts multiple steep climbs, offering some of the most rigorous mountain training in the state. Additionally, there are variations of this route, including 10 laps for a 50-mile challenge and 20 laps for an epic 100-mile endeavor.
Distance: 5 Miles
Elevation Gain: 1,600+ feet
Type: Out and Back
Link: https://fastestknowntime.com/route/mt-airy-powerlines-oh
2. Shawnee Ridge Trail
Coming in at number two on the list is the Shawnee Ridge Trail. Located near Kingston, Ohio, this trail is a point to point spanning over 12 miles and 2,800 feet of elevation gain. While many hikers and runners will turn this into a loop, see number three on the list, if you are looking for toughness and vert then doing the out and back is where it is at. Starting at the park’s northern most parking lot you will follow the blue blazes to the southernmost peak. But make sure to pay attention, there seems to be a lot of criss crossing blue blue blazes according to reviews.
Distance: 12.5 Miles
Elevation Gain: 2,800+ feet
Type: Out and Back
Link: https://fastestknowntime.com/route/shawnee-ridge-trail-oh
3. Shawnee State Forest Loop
The king of backpacking loops in Ohio is also one of the states top FKT and trail running challenges. Another trail located in the 60,000 acre Shawnee State Forest which has become affectionately known as the “:little Smokies of Ohio”. The trail itself is a loop that can be done in either direction for a total of just under 40 miles and over 8,000 feet of elevation gain. There are more than view filetable water stops along the trail along with a quick pass by the beautiful Turkey Creek lake.
Distance: 38 Miles
Elevation Gain: 8,000+ feet
Type: Loop
Link: https://fastestknowntime.com/route/shawnee-state-forest-loop-oh
4. Shawnee Ridge Loop
The more popular variation of the Shawnee Ridge, the loop is a great way to get in some miles with a decent amount of vert. That said, based on the all trails review it’s important to pay attention as their blazing can be a bit confusing. With double blazes where there are no turns, and lack of blazes in the most confusing parts. Combined with a lock of views once off the trails and a lot of bugs / spiders. The Shawnee Ridge loop lives up to it’s place on the list of the hardest trails in Ohio.
Distance: 11.7 Miles
Elevation Gain: 2,000+ feet
Type: Loop
Link: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/ohio/shawnee-ridge-loop
5. Cuyahoga Valley National Park (CVNP): Brandywine, Boston, Jaite, Red Lock, Valley Bridal Loop
This route is a diverse and scenic loop starting and ending at the Brandywine Falls Parking lot. It offers a mix of single track, towpath, hills, creek crossings, and level areas.
Begin by following the trail toward Brandywine Falls, taking the boardwalk and avoiding the observation deck. After crossing a bridge, you can choose to continue on the Brandywine Gorge Trail or turn right onto the Standford Trail, staying left at any trail deviations. Eventually, you’ll reach the Standford House and follow a gravel driveway to Standford Road. After crossing the road, join the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath and head towards Boston Mills Road, eventually reaching the Buckeye Trail. After exploring Blue Hen Falls, continue on the Buckeye Trail, passing Snowville Road and eventually rejoining the towpath via Vaughn Road. Follow the towpath, look for the Valley Bridal Trail marker on the left, and continue along Latta Lane, circling Averill Pond. Return to Standford Road and the Brandywine Gorge Trail, and finally, back to the parking lot.
Distance: 11.2 Miles
Elevation Gain: 1,400+ feet
Type: Loop
Link: https://fastestknowntime.com/route/cuyahoga-valley-national-park-cvnp-brandywine-boston-jaite-red-lock-valley-bridal-loop-oh
6. Wildcat Hollow Trail
Located near Glouster, Ohio, the Wildcat Hollow trail is a popular backpacking route for those training for bigger hikes, especially since it offers a decent amount of elevation gain and plenty of access to filterable water. The loop itself wouldn’t be considered especially scenic, as it is more of a green tunnel with more than a few downed trees and muddy patches. Based on reviews, this trail is overdue for some much-needed maintenance. But then again, that just adds to the difficulty and why it’s on this list
Distance: 15.1 Miles
Elevation Gain: 1,600+ feet
Type: Loop
Link: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/ohio/wildcat-hollow–3
7. Jaite Mill Bridle and Buckeye Trail Loop
Explore the 12.0-mile loop trail near Peninsula, Ohio, known for its challenging terrain, typically taking about 4 hours and 46 minutes to complete. This popular spot is great for birdwatching, hiking, and horseback riding, so you can expect to see other people on the trail. Dogs are allowed but must be leashed. The trail offers a long, muddy trek through wooded terrain, featuring some steep and potentially slippery sections. Expect wet shoes at a few creek crossings. Despite occasional overgrowth and mud, the trail offers a pleasant experience with consistent elevation changes, making it worth the visit.
Distance: 11 Miles
Elevation Gain: 1,100+ feet
Type: Loop
Link: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/ohio/jaite-mill-bridle-and-buckeye-trail-loop
8. Cincinnati Nature Center – Rowe Wood Perimeter Trail
The Cincinnati Nature Center – Rowe Wood Perimeter Loop offers a serene and challenging trail along its perimeter loop, beginning and ending at the Visitor Center parking area. You have the option to take on the main loop and two smaller loops in either direction. There is also a short out-and-back section on the Lookout Trail. The well-maintained trails wind through tree tunnels, occasional ponds, and meadows, providing a refreshing and picturesque experience with its lush forests and vibrant wildflower meadows, making it an idyllic place to get in some miles with a bit of challenging vert. Placing it at number eight, and last on our list of the hardest trail sin Ohio.
Distance: 11 Miles
Elevation Gain: 1,100+ feet
Type: Loop
Link: https://fastestknowntime.com/route/cuyahoga-valley-national-park-cvnp-brandywine-boston-jaite-red-lock-valley-bridal-loop-oh
Closing Thoughts on the Hardest Trails in Ohio
Ohio, often underestimated in its outdoor offerings, presents a surprising array of challenging trails that can put even the most seasoned hikers and trail runners to the test. From the heart-pounding ascents of the Mt. Airy Powerlines to the rugged, backcountry beauty of the Shawnee State Forest Loop, Ohio’s diverse landscape offers a playground for those seeking true trail grit. Whether you’re looking to conquer the toughest trails or simply yearning for an adventure in the heartland, these Ohio trails are bound to exceed your expectations. So lace up those hiking boots or trail running shoes, embrace the rugged beauty of Ohio’s wilderness, and let these challenging trails lead you to unforgettable outdoor experiences.