Nature is meant to be appreciated and experienced and there are many places around Cincinnati to do so. One of our favorites is the Cincinnati Nature Center (which we previously featured here), and if you love it as much as we do, we think you’ll love this other naturally beautiful landscape near Cincinnati. Add Cedar Bog Nature Preserve to your to-visit list because this incredible area is filled with flourishing plant and wildlife that you can experience up close thanks to a beautiful boardwalk trail that is one of the most unique hikes around.
Cedar Bog Nature Preserve is located in Urbana, Ohio, just a quick hour and a half drive from Cincinnati.
Facebook/Cedar Bog Nature Preserve The preserve contains about 450 acres of protected land and is considered one of the most unique and naturally beautiful preserves in the state.
Its name is somewhat of a misnomer; Cedar Bog is not technically a bog, but rather a “fen.”
Facebook/Cedar Bog Nature Preserve A bog retains water, but this particular wetland actually drains it. No matter what you call it, you’re sure to experience a wide variety of plant and wildlife, some of which is difficult to find anywhere else in the region.
This preserve is so special because it allows you to immerse yourself in the wilderness via an easily accessible boardwalk trail.
Flickr/Dakota Calloway This raised wooden path is well-maintained and winds its way through the acreage of the preserve. It’s family-friendly and includes spots along the way to have a seat and take in the surroundings.
One of the most intriguing parts of the trail is that it leads you into thick foliage as you make your way through the tunnel of trees and wetlands.
Facebook/Cedar Bog Nature Preserve
There’s plenty of open space as well, which lends itself to some picture-perfect scenes.
Facebook/Cedar Bog Nature Preserve
There are more than 40 endangered, threatened, or rare plants and animals that live in Cedar Bog and many of them can be viewed along the trail.
Facebook/Cedar Bog Nature Preserve
If the word “bog” immediately makes you think of frogs, you are spot on, as there are many varieties at the preserve.
Facebook/Cedar Bog Nature Preserve
Be sure to take your time and enjoy the sights and the sounds of the croaking frogs, fluttering birds, and the breeze sweeping across the wetlands.
Facebook/Cedar Bog Nature Preserve
This habitat is one of the most precious in our state and Cedar Bog does a great job of allowing us to experience and appreciate it.
Facebook/Cedar Bog Nature Preserve
You can choose to explore the preserve on your own or join in on one of the guided walks, events, and activities offered here.
Facebook/Cedar Bog Nature Preserve The boardwalk is open daily from dawn to dusk, except during Deer Gun Season, and the Education Center is open Wednesday - Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. from February through mid-November. There is a small admission fee for adults and students, but children ages 5 and under are free.
If you love interacting with nature and trying something new, plan a trip to the Cedar Bog Nature Preserve.
Google/Ken Ostermiller You’re sure to see something you’ve never seen before and will leave with even more love and respect for our region’s natural wonders.
Cedar Bog Nature Preserve is an interesting place near Cincinnati that allows you to get up close and experience nature, learn from it, and definitely gain a deeper appreciation for our area’s natural beauty. Have you discovered this beautiful preserve and boardwalk trail? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
Facebook/Cedar Bog Nature Preserve
The preserve contains about 450 acres of protected land and is considered one of the most unique and naturally beautiful preserves in the state.
A bog retains water, but this particular wetland actually drains it. No matter what you call it, you’re sure to experience a wide variety of plant and wildlife, some of which is difficult to find anywhere else in the region.
Flickr/Dakota Calloway
This raised wooden path is well-maintained and winds its way through the acreage of the preserve. It’s family-friendly and includes spots along the way to have a seat and take in the surroundings.
The boardwalk is open daily from dawn to dusk, except during Deer Gun Season, and the Education Center is open Wednesday - Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. from February through mid-November. There is a small admission fee for adults and students, but children ages 5 and under are free.
Google/Ken Ostermiller
You’re sure to see something you’ve never seen before and will leave with even more love and respect for our region’s natural wonders.
Cedar Bog Nature Preserve is located at 980 Woodburn Rd., Urbana, OH 43078. For more information visit their website here.
If you enjoy the natural beauty of our city and state, be sure to join our Ohio Nature Lovers Group on Facebook to see photos snapped by fellow Ohioans and submit your own for a chance to see them featured!
For more excellent hiking trails around Cincinnati, check out our previous article here.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.