Cincinnati Parks + Rec for Wellness Winter Hiking Series w/ Explore Nature

Get ready to explore the great outdoors with our Winter Hiking Series, part of our Cincinnati Parks + Rec for Wellness program! Join us in person as we hit the trails (and stairs!) to stay active and soak up some fresh air this winter. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a fun way to boost your wellness, these hikes are perfect for all levels. Lace up your boots and come enjoy nature, good company, and some healthy adventure!

From November through February, we’re exploring a new Cincinnati Park or greenspace each week—discovering winter overlooks, deep forest trails, hillside views, and hidden gems across our 65 miles of trails. Each hike is guided, free, and designed for all experience levels. Every weekend, we'll explore winter’s wonderland—whether it’s mindfulness, movement, nature connection, or simply the joy of getting outside together. The weather won’t stop us from exploring, so layer up and embrace the season with us!

For this week’s hike, we’re teaming up with Lara Wardlow of Explore Nature and Cincinnati Parks to kick off the new year with movement and elevation. We’ll meet at LaBoiteaux Woods Nature Center, and head out on a winter route along the Water Fountain trail or other. Whether you’re looking to learn more about the forest, unwind from the week, or simply enjoy time outdoors, this hike offers a chance to see one of our city’s true natural gems in a whole new season.

Lara Wardlow is an experienced Naturalist with Cincinnati Parks’ Explore Nature team, where she leads environmental education, guided hikes, and nature programs for people of all ages. She is passionate about helping community members discover the beauty, complexity, and resilience of local ecosystems. Lara’s hikes blend ecological insight, wildlife observation, and a welcoming approach that encourages people of all comfort levels to explore Cincinnati’s natural landscapes year-round.

🌐 https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/cincyparks/explore-nature/

Upcoming hikes include:
• Eden Park with We Outside / Sierra Hayden
• Caldwell Nature Center with Naturalist Emily Buckley
• California Woods with Andrea Schenck
• Mt. Airy Forest with the UC Osher Center
• City Steps + Hillside Parks with the Urban Rangers
• LaBoiteaux Woods with Lara Warlow (Explore Nature)
• French Park, Burnet Woods, and Stanbery Park (TBD)
• Mt. Airy with Cincinnati Children’s be.well program

Each hike lasts about an hour and offers a chance to breathe fresh air, take in winter beauty, and stay active throughout the colder months. All are welcome—bring a friend, bring the family, or come solo and connect with others on the trail.

Let’s explore winter together. See you on the trail!

Also check out other Trips & Adventurous Activities in Cincinnati, Health & Wellness events in Cincinnati.