Founded in 1915 when J. Nelson Caldwell donated 89 acres to Cincinnati Parks, Caldwell Nature Preserve is a great place to go for a hike, do some bird watching, and immerse yourself in nature.
Located just outside of Finneytown, the preserve contains a mix of old growth forest along with newly planted trees. With over 3.5 miles of total trails that weave throughout the preserve, it’s easy to spot wildlife including birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
The preserve also has a Nature Center where you can learn more about the wildlife in the area and talk with a park ranger. In addition, there is an amphitheater, picnic areas, and a paved cement trail that offers a nice overlook into the ravine below.
The following photos offer a visual guide to the preserve.
A Visual Guide to Caldwell Nature Preserve
The preserve has three different trailheads, all of which can be accessed from the parking lot near the entrance of the park.
Once you’ve entered the preserve, there are a variety of different trails that you can explore that are all interconnected, which means you can make your hike as short or as long as you’d like.
Some of the trails can be quite steep in some parts, but fortunately there are wooden steps and bridges throughout the preserve that make it easy to traverse the terrain.
The neat part about the preserve is that it’s located right in between several surrounding towns, yet you feel like you’ve entered a different world completely once you’ve gone far enough into the forest.
The paved cement trail is located along the Nature Center and offers easy access to some picnic areas, an amphitheater, and an overlook that offers some nice views of the forest.
Towards the end of the paved trail there’s a large wooden staircase that you can take if you wish to descend into the forest and hike along the trails below.
Visit Caldwell Nature Preserve
Caldwell Nature Preserve is an excellent spot to immerse yourself in nature, enjoy the outdoors, and get away from the city life.
You can visit the preserve located at 430 W North Bend Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45216 and you can find more information about the preserve including events going on at various times throughout the year at Cincinnati Parks.
Looking for more great nature areas around Cincinnati? Check out our Complete Guide to Cincinnati Parks, Gardens, and Nature Centers.
