10 Best Scenic Trips in Ohio
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Home to chestnut trees and the Ohio River, Ohio has a lot to offer in terms of scenic views. From its forested state parks to water activities and vast rural farmlands, there are plenty of landscapes waiting to be discovered. Its natural beauty, combined with preserved Native American and early pioneer history, makes almost any trail an education, and one of the best ways to start your own trip to the region is one of our favorite Ohio scenic trails:
No. 10 - Seneca Lake Loop.
Start Location: Senecaville, Ohio
Final location: Senecaville, Ohio
Length: Mile 22
Best driving season: All
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Looping around one of Ohio's most popular lakes, this trail is perfect for spending a morning or afternoon stopping off to enjoy the recreational activities the area has to offer. Boating, fishing, swimming in warm weather and ice skating in cold weather, there is something for everyone. Seneca Lake Park also has a campsite for those who want to turn their trip into an overnight event.
No. 9 - Chagrin River Road
Start Location: Willoughby, Ohio
Final location: Chagrin Falls, Ohio
Length: Mile 16
Best driving season: All
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This road along the Chagrin River passes through quite a variety of terrain for such a short route, including green forests, open fields and rural farms. There are several small parks along the road with picnic areas where you can stop and recharge by the river, which is also known for its good fishing. Once in Chagrin Falls, stop at an old-fashioned Chagrin Falls popcorn shop for treats you might not have known you were missing out on and hike to the waterfall the town is named after.
No. 8 - Covered bridge, picturesque lane.
Start Location: Marietta, Ohio
Final location: Alledonia, Ohio
Length: Mile 66
Best driving season: Spring, summer and autumn
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As the name of this route suggests, travelers can find several covered bridges along the way that will inspire the inner photographer to jump ahead, including the restored Rinara Bridge over Little Muskingum. There are also many smaller towns with quaint department stores and specialty stores. However, the best part of the trip lies in the gentle hills you pass along the way.
No. 7 - Route 9 to Armstrong Mills.
Start Location: Cadiz, Ohio
Final location: Armstrong Mills, Ohio
Length: Mile 32
Best driving season: All
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Passing through prairies criss-crossed by meandering streams, this route through old mining country is a scene change from much of the state. About halfway through, stop in St. Clairsville to see what remains of the Saginaw Mine and downtown historic buildings like the 1890 Clarendon Hotel. There is also a good bike path for the more sporty, which runs through the railway tunnel and gazebos where you can stop and rest.
No. 6 - Highways 520 and 52.
Start Location: Killbuck, Ohio
Final location: Nashville, Ohio
Length: Mile 13
Best driving season: Spring, summer and autumn
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Starting in a region full of rocky outcroppings and moving into rolling countryside through rural towns and farmlands, this short trail is perfect for a leisurely morning or afternoon trip for a change of scenery. Its turns and hills are especially fun on a motorbike, but any car will do to enjoy the passing views. While there aren't many sights to see, hanging out with friendly Nashville residents at a local tavern for a beer or snack can make the trip more memorable.
Start Location: Whipple, Ohio
Final location: Woodsfield, Ohio
Length: Mile 32
Best driving season: Spring, summer and autumn
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A trip from Whipple to Woodsfield certainly fits the bill. Known as one of the most winding roads in the state, travelers should be careful but also take the time to stop and enjoy the lush forest all around. This path also passes through many sleepy towns, providing visual interest and a glimpse into someone else's life.
No. 4 - Route 255 Ohio.
Start Location: Woodsfield, Ohio
Final location: Sardis, Ohio
Length: Mile 20
Best driving season: Spring, summer and autumn
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This route may be relatively short, but it's very enjoyable with plenty of scenic views as you twist and turn through the Wayne National Forest. The elevation is constantly changing through hills and valleys, making it interesting everywhere. Near the end at Sardis, the road meets the Ohio River, where travelers can stop to try their luck fishing or have an afternoon picnic.
No. 3 - Ohio River Scenic Lane.
Start Location: Cincinnati, Ohio
Final location: Wheeling, Ohio
Length: Mile 289
Best driving season: Spring, summer and autumn
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Along the Ohio River, this route offers many views of the water as well as sites of historical interest. The path is littered with places to learn more about longtime residents, early pioneers, and those associated with the Underground Railroad, such as the historic Fort Steuben and the Northwest Territory's Martius Museum. Stop at Shawnee State Park for an outdoor experience in the rolling hills of the Appalachian Plateau, known as the "Little Smoky Mountains of Ohio."
No. 2 - Ohio Canalway and Lake Erie.
Start Location: Cleveland, Ohio
Final location: New Philadelphia, Ohio.
Length: Mile 87
Best driving season: All
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This winding route between Cleveland and New Philadelphia is a pleasant mix of culture and natural beauty. Before heading out, explore what Cleveland has to offer, from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame to the Cleveland Museum of Art, before heading to Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Down the road, take time to visit Hale Farm and Village, a living museum dedicated to preserving the way of life in the region in the 19th century.
No. 1 - Hocking Hills Scenic Lane.
Start Location: Rockbridge, Ohio
Final location: Logan, Ohio
Length: Mile 30
Best driving season: All
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Photo opportunities abound at every turn of this path through hemlock and pine trees, and it ends in a loop around Hocking Hills State Park. Once in the park, your eyes will be in awe of the sight of steep cliffs, unusual rock formations, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls. Stop at Rock Cave, a 200-foot-long, 25-foot-wide natural cave that was once used by the Native Americans as a hideout and hideout for thieves and bootleggers, but is now open to the public to walk through and enjoy.
