Where to Find the Best Mahoning County Trails & Hiking Spots

It’s Fall in northeast Ohio, and there is no better way to enjoy the mild weather and vibrant colors than to go for a hike, bike, or leisurely stroll through nature. Mahoning County parks offer an abundance of breathtaking natural and paved trails for all ages and skill levels.

Mill Creek MetroParks

The Millcreek MetroParks consist of over 5,000 acres of public land winding through four cities and nine townships in Mahoning County. It’s home to the historic Mill Creek Park as well as numerous nature preserves, picnic pavilions and recreational facilities. There are miles and miles of gorgeous trails to enjoy. So many, in fact, that they’ve created the 2025 Trail Challenge as a fun way to keep track of your journeys. Located in the MetroParks Mobile App, the trail challenge points out all of the hiking, walking, and biking trails within the MetroParks system, along with important information like length and skill level.

Nature Preserves

Although the surrounding cities are bursting with growth and commerce, there are several nature preserves housed within the Millcreek MetroParks system that are silent, serene and utterly breathtaking.

Collier Preserve

Formerly known as the Millcreek Preserve Wetlands, this nature preserve is found in Boardman Township, with parking accessible off of Western Reserve Road. It consists of 300 acres of upland and wetland habitats, with over two miles of trails winding through the lush vegetation. These trails are perfect for spotting local wildlife up close in their natural surroundings.

Sawmill Creek Preserve

Another beautiful nature preserve found in the Millcreek MetroParks, the Sawmill Creek Preserve surrounds a mile of Sawmill Creek, a major tributary of the Meander Reservoir. Nearly three miles of trails wind through this preserve, highlighting the natural beauty of the sandstone cliffs carved by the running creek.

Mill Creek Park

Mill Creek Park serves as the heart of the MetroParks collaborative. Covering over 2,600 acres of Youngstown and Boardman township, Mill Creek Park is home to 45 miles of breathtaking trails for hikers and bikers alike.

Lanterman’s Mill

Lanterman’s Mill is a historic landmark that is a must-see for any visitor to Mill Creek Park, but it also serves as a trailhead, with four distinct hiking trails emerging from it. Ranging from four to seven miles, these trails lead you past stunning waterfalls, over the charming covered bridge and past several historic buildings. Fall is the perfect time to enjoy all that the Lanterman’s Mill area has to offer.

Mill Creek Gorge

The trailhead for this lovely journey can be accessed directly under the Canfield Road bridge. This scenic two-mile hiking trail loops down one side of Mill Creek, across the gorgeous steel suspension bridge, and back up the other side of the creek. This varied trail features wooden boardwalks, dirt paths, and paved roads winding past creekside habitats, stunning bedrock cliffs and even picnic tables to rest and enjoy lunch.

MetroParks Bikeway

The MetroParks Bikeway is a popular trail for hikers, skaters, and bicyclists of all ages and abilities. Snaking 11 miles from Canfield to Austintown Township, this paved trail can be conveniently accessed by parking lots located at the MetroParks Farm, Kirk Road and Mahoning Avenue, making it a favorite for locals looking for outdoor adventures. You can even rent an e-bike for the day for a fun new way to see the sights!

Lake Milton State Park

The MetroParks aren’t the only places to find gorgeous hiking trails in Mahoning County. The lush forests of Lake Milton State Park surround a 1700-acre man-made lake, making it a perfect one-stop shop for water sports, lazy beach days and, of course, exploring nature.

Lake Milton Mountain Bike Trail

Mountain bike enthusiasts and novices alike come from miles around to explore this family-friendly hidden gem. At over ten miles (and growing!), this nature trail is obstacle-free, making it a great course for children and beginners, but its unique short climbs and stunning views keep it fun and interesting for even the most experienced bikers. Trailheads are located off of both Ellsworth and Shillings Roads.

Storybook Trail

Are the children in your life always staring at a screen? Wish to get them outside in the fresh air and maybe spark a love of reading, too? It may sound too good to be true, but at Lake Milton’s Storybook Trail, you might do just that! This half-mile paved path, located at the north end of the beach, leads children through 16 colorful story segment displays and engaging activities. There’s even a “Free Little Library” where children can take a book home or leave a treasure for other visitors to enjoy.

Austintown Township Park

With 265 acres of natural woodlands, playgrounds and pavilions scattered throughout Austintown, the Austintown Township Park offers something for everyone. The kids can frolic in the Splashpad and expansive playgrounds, while older visitors may enjoy the volleyball, pickleball, or basketball courts. Even your furry best friend can tag along to visit the popular “Bark Park” dog park. However, it’s the hiking trails that really stand out as serving up inclusive outdoor adventures for everyone.

Corll Meadows Braille Trail

This ¼ mile loop around the peaceful Corll Meadows features an easy, stable path suitable for walkers, wheelchairs and nature enthusiasts of all abilities. There are nine interpretive signs along the path offering directions in both Braille and raised wording and graphics, and a nylon guide rope running the full length of the trail to assist all hikers.

Mile Loop Hiking Trail

For an easy-to-moderate walking trail, the Mile Loop is an unpaved hard-pack clay path that winds through the ravine and features two sets of wooden access stairs and a charming stepping-stone pathway across the stream. You can access this trail from the northwest corner of the park.

Whether you want a bike ride through rugged terrain or a leisurely stroll through quiet natural habitats, you can get your steps in, spot some amazing wildlife and enjoy the peace and quiet in one of the many trails and hiking spots that Mahoning County has to offer.

Don’t miss out on all the fresh-air activities available across Mahoning County. Download our free guide so you can plan your perfect outdoor escape.