The best walks and hikes in Portage County

Hike the easy 2.0-mile Sunny Lake Loop Trail in Aurora's Sunny Lake Park, a family-friendly route with minimal elevation gain.

The West Branch State Park Loop is a challenging 13.4-mile (21.5 km) hike that immerses you in the diverse natural features of northeastern Ohio. You'll traverse beech-maple woodlands and wetlands, with frequent, scenic views of the expansive Michael J. Kirwan Reservoir. The route offers a genuine sense of journey through changing terrain, making it one of the more popular routes for those seeking a longer, more demanding day on the trails.

Planning your visit to this difficult trail means preparing for its 5 hours and 39 minutes duration and 597 feet (182 metres) of elevation gain. The park is free to enter, and parking is available at various trailheads. Be aware that sections can be muddy after rain, so sturdy, waterproof footwear is highly recommended. It's a great option for hikers who appreciate a full day outdoors without needing permits or dealing with fees.

This loop connects to a significant portion of Ohio's statewide Buckeye Trail, offering a taste of a much larger trail system. The park's varied habitats support a rich array of plant and animal life, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife observation. It's a notable destination for its extensive trail network, allowing for various hiking experiences beyond just this main loop.

The Michael J Kirwan Reservoir Loop via Buckeye Trail offers a delightful escape into nature, winding through the diverse landscapes of West Branch State Park. You'll experience flowing single-track paths that hug the shoreline of the 2,650-acre reservoir, passing through dense beech-maple woodlands and open meadows. The route features numerous short climbs and descents into ravines, providing constant changes in scenery and glimpses of the water through shady hardwood forests.

This moderate 9.0-mile (14.4 km) hiking loop, with its 294 feet (90 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete. It's a great option for a half-day adventure. The trail is accessible from West Branch State Park, which provides amenities, and arriving early, especially on busy days, is recommended to ensure parking.

Part of the appeal of this trail is its inclusion of a section of the historic Buckeye Trail, Ohio's longest hiking trail. The Michael J. Kirwan Reservoir itself, a central feature, was constructed for flood control and recreation, adding a layer of historical context to your scenic journey through Portage County, Ohio. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like deer and turkey.

Morgan Park in Portage County, Ohio, offers a charming escape into nature with its diverse landscapes. You'll wander through open meadows, shaded woodlands, and serene wetlands, with the flat, limestone-paved Meadow Trail providing an easy walk, while natural surface paths like the Forest and Fern Trails immerse you deeper into the woods. The park is especially beautiful in the fall when the foliage bursts with color, creating a picturesque backdrop for your hike.

This easy 4.4-mile (7.2 km) hiking route, with a minimal 69 feet (21 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 49 minutes to complete. Parking is generally available at the trailhead, and no permits are needed. While the Meadow Trail is smooth, be ready for potentially muddy or uneven sections on the natural surface trails, especially after rain, so appropriate footwear is recommended.

Beyond its scenic trails, Morgan Park is part of a significant conservation effort, including stream and wetland restoration, which contributes to its rich natural environment. The park also features amenities like a Rain Garden and Pollinator Garden, adding to its ecological value. In winter, the park transforms into a spot for cross-country skiing, offering year-round recreational opportunities.

Hike the easy 1.3-mile Pond View Trail loop in Tinkers Creek State Park, offering tranquil views of Pond View Lake and lush forest.

The Ski Trail offers a delightful, easy hike, perfect for those seeking a quick nature fix without significant exertion. You'll find yourself on a wide, clear path, characteristic of trails also used for skiing or mountain biking, which makes for very comfortable walking. The scenery is generally open and pleasant, and during the warmer months, you might even spot some vibrant wildflowers along the way, making it a lovely spot for a relaxed outing.

Planning your trip to the Ski Trail is quite simple. This easy 1.4-mile (2.3 km) route, with its minimal 31 feet (9 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 35 minutes, making it ideal for a spontaneous walk. Parking access is generally straightforward, and the trail is accessible throughout the year, though spring and summer are particularly rewarding for their natural beauty.

While many trails at ski resorts are known for their steep ascents and challenging terrain, this particular Ski Trail stands out for its accessibility and gentle nature. It provides an excellent opportunity for a family-friendly walk or a beginner-level hike, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors without the strenuous effort often associated with ski resort trails. It's a great option for a casual stroll in Portage County, Ohio.

The Portage Hike & Bike Trail offers a delightful and varied outdoor experience, winding through quiet woods, open meadows, and alongside the Cuyahoga River. You'll find yourself on mostly paved asphalt, but some sections transition to fine gravel or crushed limestone, providing a mix underfoot. A particular highlight is Towner's Woods, where you can enjoy serene forest and wetland views, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful walk. The trail's generally flat profile and diverse scenery make it a rewarding outing for all ages.

Planning your visit to the Portage Hike & Bike Trail is straightforward, with multiple access points connecting various parks and downtown areas between Kent and Ravenna. The route is considered easy, covering 3.3 miles (5.3 km) with a gentle 105 feet (32 metres) of elevation gain, and typically takes about 1 hour and 22 minutes. Dogs are welcome on a leash, and you'll find benches and picnic tables along the way, making it a family-friendly option for a casual stroll or bike ride.

This trail isn't just a scenic path; it's a crucial link in Northeast Ohio's trail system, connecting to others like the Freedom Trail. It also boasts historical significance, following ancient Native American transportation routes and the historic Erie rail line. Keep an eye out for interpretive signs that share the area's rich past, including the ancient burial mound on the shores of picturesque Lake Pippen within Towner's Woods, adding a layer of cultural interest to your easy hike.

Explore the Herrick Fen Nature Preserve Trail, an easy 0.9-mile loop through a rare Ohio fen, featuring unique plants and boardwalks.

Hike the easy 1.7-mile Prairie Trail in Springfield Bog Metro Park, gaining 12 feet in 40 minutes for a quick outdoor escape.