The best walks and hikes around Union
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Hiking around Union offers a variety of trails, primarily featuring woodlands and riverside paths. The region includes routes that traverse diverse natural settings, from established metro parks to more secluded natural preserves. These trails generally present gentle elevation changes, making them accessible for various skill levels.
Best hiking trails around Union
- The most popular hiking route is Englewood MetroPark Green Trail Loop, a 1.9 miles (3.0 km) trail that takes 49 minutes to complete. This easy loop winds through a scenic metro park environment.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Great Miami River Recreational Trail, a moderate 6.3 miles (10.2 km) path. This trail follows the Great Miami River, offering extended riverside views.
- Local hikers also love the Locust Grove, Thorny Badlands, and Red Bud Valley Trails Loop, a 2.0 miles (3.2 km) trail leading through varied natural landscapes, often completed in about 50 minutes.
- Hiking around Union is defined by woodlands, river corridors, and natural preserves. The network offers options for different ability levels, with a strong emphasis on easy to moderate trails.
- The routes in Union are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 70 hikers have used komoot to explore Union's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
10.2km
02:34
20m
20m
Hike a moderate 6.3-mile section of the Great Miami River Recreational Trail, enjoying river views and historical canal remnants.
3.01km
00:49
40m
30m
Embark on an easy hiking adventure along the Englewood MetroPark Green Trail Loop, a pleasant route spanning 1.9 miles (3.0 km). You will experience a diverse landscape, moving through quiet, shady forests and wetlands. The trail follows the scenic Stillwater River, where you can spot impressive waterfalls like Patty Falls and Oak Falls, particularly after rainfall. This loop involves a gentle climb of 144 feet (44 metres) and typically takes around 48 minutes to complete. It offers a refreshing outdoor experience, perfect for a quick escape into nature.
Planning your visit to Englewood MetroPark is straightforward, as parking is readily available within the park itself. You can easily access the trailhead from the designated parking areas. This route is also dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your leashed canine companion along for the hike. Consider starting your hike earlier in the day to enjoy the tranquility of the park.
Beyond the river and falls, the trail features a unique pumpkin ash and swamp forest. You can explore this area via a boardwalk, offering a glimpse of rare trees and diverse wildlife. This section provides an interesting ecological contrast to the surrounding woodlands, making the loop a varied and engaging experience within the MetroPark.
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1.34km
00:21
10m
10m
Hike the easy Thorny Badlands and Red Bud Valley Loop, a 0.8-mile trail in Charleston Falls Preserve with diverse scenery and wildflowers.
5.0
(1)
9
hikers
2.49km
00:40
30m
30m
Hike the easy 1.5-mile Locust Grove Trail loop in Charleston Falls Preserve, featuring woods, a meadow, a pond, and a waterfall.
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
3.19km
00:50
30m
30m
Hike the 2.0-mile Locust Grove, Thorny Badlands, and Red Bud Valley Trails Loop in Ohio, an easy route with diverse scenery.
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Popular around Union
Tips from the Community
Unfortunately, there was no water to be seen during my visit.
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A moderately sized waterfall, Patty Falls boasts an 8-foot drop. The water cascades down a rocky face, creating a small pool at the bottom. Lush greenery surrounds the falls, and a lovely wooden bridge above, making it a picture-perfect spot.
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Oak Falls, while not the grandest waterfall in the park, it has its own charm. Standing at a modest 7 feet tall with a 4-foot crest, it offers a delightful cascade down a rock face. The trail leading to it is considered easy, making it a perfect destination for a casual stroll or a family outing with all ages.
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This bridge crosses the stream that flows down to the Great Miami River which passes east of the Charleston Falls Preserve.
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A sturdy staircase connects the trail to a pond with waterfalls. The trail and staircase follow the contour of tall rocks which almost look like a ridge.
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Thorny Badlands is the area in the north-east of the preserve. The nature here is very colourful and is a pleasure to walk through at any time of the year.
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The trails throughout the preserve are well maintained. There are a few bridges like this one crossing the streams and ditches. They are also very well maintained.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Union?
There are over 10 hiking trails around Union, offering a variety of experiences. The majority of these, about 10, are considered easy, while 3 are moderate, making the area accessible for various skill levels.
Are there any easy hikes suitable for beginners in Union?
Yes, Union is well-suited for beginners with many easy trails. A great option is the Englewood MetroPark Green Trail Loop, which is 1.9 miles (3.0 km) long and winds through a scenic metro park environment. Another easy choice is the Locust Grove Trail loop, covering 1.5 miles (2.5 km).
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect to see on hikes around Union?
Hiking around Union primarily features diverse woodlands and scenic riverside paths. You'll find trails traversing established metro parks and more secluded natural preserves, often with gentle elevation changes. The Great Miami River Recreational Trail, for example, offers extended riverside views.
Are there any loop hikes available in Union?
Yes, Union offers several enjoyable loop hikes. The Englewood MetroPark Green Trail Loop is a popular easy option. For a slightly longer experience, consider the Locust Grove, Thorny Badlands, and Red Bud Valley Trails Loop, which is 2.0 miles (3.2 km) and leads through varied natural landscapes.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Union?
The hiking trails in Union are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 10 reviews. Hikers often praise the quiet woodlands, accessible paths, and the peaceful riverside environments that define the region's outdoor experience.
Are there any interesting landmarks or attractions to see along the trails in Union?
Yes, you can discover several points of interest. Along some routes, you might encounter the impressive Taylorsville Dam. For unique natural features, look out for the Staircase to Pond and Waterfalls, or the charming Wooden Bridge on Yellow and Orange Trails.
What is the typical duration for hikes around Union?
Hikes around Union vary in duration. Many easy trails, like the Thorny Badlands and Red Bud Valley Loop (0.8 miles / 1.3 km), can be completed in about 20 minutes. Longer moderate trails, such as the Great Miami River Recreational Trail (6.3 miles / 10.2 km), typically take around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Are there any trails that offer views of waterfalls in Union?
While the region is known for its woodlands and rivers, you can find specific highlights like the Staircase to Pond and Waterfalls, which offers a chance to see cascading water features along certain paths.
Can I find trails that are suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. The trails around Union are generally accessible with gentle elevation changes, making many of them suitable for families. Easy loop trails like the Englewood MetroPark Green Trail Loop are excellent choices for a family outing.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Union?
Given the prevalence of woodlands and riverside paths, spring and autumn are particularly beautiful for hiking in Union. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming flora, while autumn offers vibrant fall foliage. Summer is also pleasant, especially on shaded trails, and winter can provide a serene experience, though conditions may vary.
Are there any trails that are considered 'hidden gems' or less crowded?
While specific 'hidden gems' are often discovered by local exploration, trails that venture into more secluded natural preserves, away from the main metro park areas, tend to be quieter. Exploring segments of the Locust Grove, Thorny Badlands, and Red Bud Valley Trails Loop might offer a more tranquil experience.
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