When people think of Cincinnati, they often think of our famous skyline, vibrant downtown, and growing suburbs. We are not typically known as a place to get out and explore nature, when in fact, our city has many places to do just that. While some hiking trails and parks are well known, this particular property has somehow stayed hidden from mainstream Cincinnati. The Cincinnati Nature Center in Milford is a natural oasis that is ideal for all ages and every type of nature-seeker. It’s so incredible that it may actually be the best-kept secret in the Queen City.
If you ever feel overwhelmed by the craziness of everyday life and need someplace to escape and relax, head to Milford and the Cincinnati Nature Center.
Facebook/Cincinnati Nature Center Rowe Woods, the main location of the Center, includes more than 1,000 acres of forest and natural features that are just waiting for you to come explore. There are two different ways you can visit the center: you can buy a membership and then all of your visits are included, or you can purchase a daily pass. If you plan on visiting multiple times a year, a membership is actually quite affordable and all of the cost information is listed on their website, linked below.
Within the acreage of the nature center, you’ll find more than 16 miles of hiking trails, ponds, creeks, wildlife, and a wide variety of plant life.
Photo Courtesy of Steve Zeinner
Facebook/Cincinnati Nature Center The trails range in levels from easy to difficult and are truly a one-of-a-kind hiking experience near Cincinnati. You’ll feel so far away from the noise of the city, that it truly allows you to unplug and relax.
The Cincinnati Nature Center is a lovely oasis all year long, and you really should try to visit with each changing season.
Flickr/Paul Davis With thick tree cover and old growth forest, the colors in the fall are breathtaking.
Facebook/Cincinnati Nature Center Winter is also a magical time, especially when the property is covered with a blanket of glistening snow. If the weather is severe, however, any time of year, be sure to check the Nature Center’s website for any updates on trail closures.
Facebook/Cincinnati Nature Center And when you visit in spring, prepare to be greeted with a sea of yellow and wildflowers everywhere. Try one of the trails near the entrance and walk through fields and woods of several types of blooming plants and trees.
The Cincinnati Nature Center is perfect for kids, especially the Nature Playscape.
Flickr/Angie Six The Playscape is basically a child’s dream come true and a parent’s, as well. It’s a completely fenced off section of the center, with 1.6 acres in which to play. Children can climb, splash, dig in the dirt and mud, and use plenty of imagination to create and interact with natural habitats. And don’t worry, there’s a place to wash off and bathrooms nearby, as well.
The Cincinnati Nature Center also hosts many events throughout the year and provides historic sites that blend perfectly with their natural surroundings.
Facebook/Cincinnati Nature Center There are guided hikes, movie nights, craft activities, and many more events offered throughout the year. Be sure to keep an eye on their calendar here.
Facebook/Cincinnati Nature Center And on your visit to the Nature Center, be sure to seek out the Abner Hollow Pioneer Cabin. This historic home was built by a pioneer in the early 1800s and was moved here from Adams County in 1997. This, as well as other historic and informative additions to the Center, are what make it even more special.
The Cincinnati Nature Center is a beloved place for many, but still rather unknown to much of the city.
Photo Courtesy of Steve Zeinner If you have yet to discover this jewel of the Queen City, then make plans to take the entire family as soon as possible.
The Cincinnati Nature Center has miles of trails, countless spots to relax, and an abundance of natural beauty. Did you know about this hidden gem in Milford? Is it already a favorite? Let us know in the comments!
Facebook/Cincinnati Nature Center
Rowe Woods, the main location of the Center, includes more than 1,000 acres of forest and natural features that are just waiting for you to come explore. There are two different ways you can visit the center: you can buy a membership and then all of your visits are included, or you can purchase a daily pass. If you plan on visiting multiple times a year, a membership is actually quite affordable and all of the cost information is listed on their website, linked below.
Photo Courtesy of Steve Zeinner
The trails range in levels from easy to difficult and are truly a one-of-a-kind hiking experience near Cincinnati. You’ll feel so far away from the noise of the city, that it truly allows you to unplug and relax.
Flickr/Paul Davis
With thick tree cover and old growth forest, the colors in the fall are breathtaking.
Winter is also a magical time, especially when the property is covered with a blanket of glistening snow. If the weather is severe, however, any time of year, be sure to check the Nature Center’s website for any updates on trail closures.
And when you visit in spring, prepare to be greeted with a sea of yellow and wildflowers everywhere. Try one of the trails near the entrance and walk through fields and woods of several types of blooming plants and trees.
Flickr/Angie Six
The Playscape is basically a child’s dream come true and a parent’s, as well. It’s a completely fenced off section of the center, with 1.6 acres in which to play. Children can climb, splash, dig in the dirt and mud, and use plenty of imagination to create and interact with natural habitats. And don’t worry, there’s a place to wash off and bathrooms nearby, as well.
There are guided hikes, movie nights, craft activities, and many more events offered throughout the year. Be sure to keep an eye on their calendar here.
And on your visit to the Nature Center, be sure to seek out the Abner Hollow Pioneer Cabin. This historic home was built by a pioneer in the early 1800s and was moved here from Adams County in 1997. This, as well as other historic and informative additions to the Center, are what make it even more special.
If you have yet to discover this jewel of the Queen City, then make plans to take the entire family as soon as possible.
The Cincinnati Nature Center’s main location is Rowe Woods, which is located at 4949 Tealtown Rd., Milford, OH 45150. For more information, visit their website here and follow along with them on Facebook here.
And if you need a bite to eat after exploring this lovely nature center, try some of the best BBQ in the city that’s just a few minutes away, featured in a previous article here. (Keep in mind, they now have a carryout storefront, located at 1149 OH-131 Milford, OH 45150.)
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