The best walks and hikes around Norwood
4.7
(31)
461
hikers
66
hikes
Hiking around Norwood offers access to a network of trails within urban parks and green spaces in the greater Cincinnati area. The region is characterized by paved greenways, forested park paths, and gentle rolling hills. These routes provide accessible outdoor recreation options, connecting several local neighborhoods and points of interest.
Best hiking trails around Norwood
- The most popular hiking route is Ault Park – Ault Park Pavilion loop from Mt. Lookout Observatory, a 2.4 miles (3.8 km) trail that takes 1 hour 2 minutes to complete. This path explores the varied terrain within one of Cincinnati's large urban parks.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Cincinnati Observatory loop from Hyde Park, a moderate 4.7 miles (7.5 km) path. This route combines neighborhood walking with trails through parkland near a historic landmark.
- Local hikers also love the Wasson Way loop from Norwood, a 3.0 miles (4.9 km) trail leading through a multi-use paved greenway, often completed in about 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Hiking around Norwood is defined by urban park trails, paved multi-use paths, and walks through historic districts. The trail network provides numerous options suitable for a range of fitness levels, from easy strolls to more moderate park loops.
- The routes in Norwood are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 30 reviews. More than 400 hikers have used komoot to explore Norwood's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
2.59km
00:44
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
12
hikers
3.80km
01:02
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
4.85km
01:14
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
7.52km
02:00
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Norwood
Tips from the Community
The Cincinnati Observatory is the oldest professional observatory in the United States, at 178-year-old. Locally known as the Mt. Lookout Observatory, it allows public access for tours and regular viewings through both historical telescopes.
0
0
Wasson Way is a 6-mile long multi-use trail that is popular with walkers, runners and cyclists. It passes through several parks and links up with multiple other trails, so it is a great place for a long walk.
1
0
Ault Park is the city's fourth-largest park and was established in 1911 through the generous land donation by Levi Addison Ault and his wife, Ida May Ault. This spot is the heart of Ault Park. There is a Italian Renaissance-style Pavilion, constructed in 1930 with a large fountain in front of it. This elegant structure serves as a popular venue for weddings, dances, and private events, and provides visitors with panoramic views of the surrounding Little Miami River valley. Adjacent to the pavilion are the park's gardens, which feature the renowned Adopt-A-Plot program initiated in 1980, where volunteers maintain individual garden plots, contributing to the park's vibrant floral displays.
0
0
The Cincinnati Observatory is the oldest professional observatory in the United States and was built in 1843. The observatory is now open to the public for tours and viewings through historical telescopes. You can find more information about opening hours and current programs here: https://www.cincinnatiobservatory.org/home/
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many hiking trails to choose from around Norwood?
Yes, there are over 50 marked hiking routes in the Norwood area. These range from short park strolls to longer urban treks, offering plenty of options for different fitness levels.
What do other hikers think of the trails in this area?
The trails around Norwood are well-regarded by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths within the urban parks and the convenience of the paved greenways connecting local neighborhoods.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes near Norwood?
Absolutely. The majority of trails in the area are considered easy and are great for a family outing. A good choice is the Ault Park Pavilion loop from East Hyde Park, which is a pleasant walk through one of Cincinnati's largest parks.
Can I find any circular or loop trails?
Yes, loop trails are very common in the area's parks. For a route that combines neighborhood walking with park trails, consider the Cincinnati Observatory loop from Observatory Historic District.
Are the trails suitable for dog walking?
Many of the trails in Norwood's parks and greenways are suitable for walking with a dog, provided they are kept on a leash. Paved paths like the Wasson Way loop from Norwood are excellent for a straightforward walk with your pet.
What are the trail surfaces like around Norwood?
You'll find a mix of surfaces. The region is known for its paved greenways, which are great for all-weather walking. You will also encounter forested park paths with natural surfaces and gentle rolling hills.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced hikers?
While most trails are easy to moderate, you can find more of a challenge by combining routes or seeking out trails with more elevation gain. The Ault Park – Ault Park Pavilion loop from East Hyde Park offers some varied terrain and is one of the longer options in the immediate area.
Where can I find a hike with nice scenery or viewpoints?
For a mix of nature and interesting architecture, the Eden Park Standpipe – Eden Park loop from Walnut Hills is a great option. It takes you through one of Cincinnati's most scenic parks, known for its landmarks and views.
How accessible are the trails by public transport?
Many trailheads are located within urban parks and neighborhoods, making them relatively accessible via Cincinnati's public transport system. Since many routes start from parks like Ault Park or Eden Park, you can often find a nearby bus stop.
Is parking available near the trailheads?
Yes, the major parks in the area, which serve as starting points for many hikes, typically have dedicated parking lots. For trails that begin in residential areas, on-street parking is usually available, but be sure to check for any local restrictions.
What is the terrain like for hiking in this region?
The terrain is characterized by gentle, rolling hills rather than steep mountains. Hikes often take you through forested urban parks and along paved greenways that connect different neighborhoods, making for a pleasant and accessible hiking experience.
Most popular routes around Norwood
Most popular attractions around Norwood
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
