As winter's chill takes hold, Ohio residents and visitors will find a unique opportunity to witness the state's natural beauty through the ODNR Winter Hike Series, set for the 2025-2026 season. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Parks and Watercraft is offering this seasonal program to encourage outdoor activity and appreciation of the winter landscape.
Spanning 48 nature-centric treks, the series caters to a diverse array of enthusiasts, whether you're a solitary wanderer pining for the hush of snowy trails, a birdwatcher along the icy fringe of Lake Erie, or a band of adventure-seekers in search of a shared brisk moment. According to the ODNR website, ODNR Director Mary Mertz stated, "Winter reveals an entirely different side of Ohio’s outdoors." Mertz emphasized that these hikes are a chance "to experience our parks in new ways."
The guided hikes, led by ODNR naturalists, promise to provide insights into the special qualities of Ohio parks in winter. Safety is a top priority for participants, who are advised to prepare for variable winter conditions by dressing in layers and sharing their plans with a friend or family member. Additionally, a limited-edition 2025-2026 Winter Hike Series decal will be given to hikers as a remembrance of their outing, while supplies last. Visitors keen on discovering a nearby hike can search the ODNR events page for the ODNR Winter Hike Series.
For those preferring self-guided exploration, the free OuterSpatial app presents a digital avenue to navigate Ohio's trails. It offers trail conditions, points of interest, and the ability to create personalized winter journeys. Users can engage in the Digital Passport Challenge, checking in at parks to accrue unique digital badges. The app is a modern tool for hikers, letting them forge connections with the landscape and ensure their safety, echoing ODNR's dedication to merging customer service, education, and conservation.
ODNR has garnered recognition for their diligence in park management, receiving the 2025 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management. Celebrated for its park system, rated number one in the United States, the division continues to balance serving customers, providing educational opportunities, and upholding conservation efforts. For further information on winter hiking safety, Ohioans can visit the ODNR website, where they can find a useful video on the subject.
