12 Hikes to Work Off Thanksgiving Dinner

After a full day of pie, it might be time to leave the turkey legs behind and give your own legs a much-needed stretch. The good news is that park systems across our state have guided hikes scheduled for Black Friday and the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Whether you want to forgo the shopping trip for one into nature or get a quick day hike in, these treks promise plenty of fresh air, interesting sights and a few calorie-burning climbs.

Friday, Nov. 29

Trail Challenge Hike | 10–11 a.m.
Acacia Reservation, Lyndhurst
Take part in this hourlong, Black Friday hike at Lyndhurst’s Acacia Reservation. Enjoy a moderate and leisurely stroll along the paved, 2-mile Woodpecker Way Trail. A naturalist will lead the excursion, sharing insights about the natural surroundings. Cedar Road, between Richmond Road and Interstate 271 in Lyndhurst; clevelandmetroparks.com

Gobble Hobble | 10 a.m.–Noon
Glacier Ridge Metro Park, Plain City
This 2-mile jaunt at Plain City’s Glacier Ridge Metro Park follows the completely paved Marsh Hawk Trail. All ages are welcome to join in this easy hike that happens rain or shine. Let the hobbling begin! Hike starts at Glacier Ridge shelter house. 9801 Hyland Croy Rd., Plain City 43064, metroparks.net

Opt Outside Hike | 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
Clear Creek Metro Park, Lancaster
Hikers wishing to brave the rugged and steep terrain of Lancaster’s Clear Creek Metro Park should opt into this guided, backcountry trek that will cover 4 miles in over three hours. Be sure to wear sturdy footwear suitable for hiking. Hike starts at Clear Creek park office. 185 Clear Creek Rd., Lancaster 43130, metroparks.net

Long Haul Turkey Burner | Noon–4:30 p.m.
Bedford Reservation, Walton Hills
This hike has its name for a reason. Join a park naturalist at the Bedford Reservation in Walton Hills for this 9-mile loop around Tinker’s Creek Gorge. Although physically challenging, the hike provides an opportunity to take in incredible scenic views and breathtaking waterfalls. Hike starts at Hermit’s Hollow Picnic Area, located along the Gorge Parkway, just east of Dunham Road in Walton Hills. clevelandmetroparks.com

Opt Outside Bird Walk | 1–2:30 p.m.
Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park, Galloway
Grab your binoculars and head to Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park in Galloway for this 1.5-mile hike that aims to help you sight some of our feathered friends. All experience levels are welcome. The trail may be muddy, so dress accordingly. Hike begins at the Wet Prairie Access parking lot, across from the nature center.1378 Darby Creek Dr., Galloway 43119, metroparks.net

Adults 50+: Off The Beaten Path — Hike to the Apple Barn | 2–4 p.m.
Slate Run Living Historical Farm, Canal Winchester
This 3-mile hike for adults ages 50 and older at Canal Winchester’s Slate Run Historical Farm heads out to the old apple barn and teaches about the history of the area. Hikers stop along the way to enjoy cider and apple butter made on-site. Meet at the first parking lot on the right. Chestnut Ridge, 8445 Winchester Rd., Carroll 43112, metroparks.net

Black Friday Eagle Hike | 2:30–4:30 p.m.
Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation, Cleveland
The approach to winter offers a perfect time to spot bald eagles in northeast Ohio. Join a naturalist for this 3-mile hike at the Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation in Cleveland. The terrain is mostly paved, and there is only one hill to climb along the way. 4524 E. 49th St., Cleveland 44125, clevelandmetroparks.com

Saturday, Nov. 30

Whippoorwill Trail Hike | 10–10:45 a.m.
East Fork State Park, Batavia
This quick  hike makes for a fun diversion. Enjoy a walk on the half-mile Whippoorwill Trail at East Fork State Park in Batavia, while a naturalist points out and explains local species found along the way. This adventure is great for hikers of all skills levels. The hike begins at the Camp Store parking area. 2837 Old State Route 32, Batavia 45103, ohiodnr.gov

Nov. 30: Trail Trek | 10 a.m.–Noon
Shawnee State Park, West Portsmouth
Join a naturalist for two hours of hiking at Shawnee State Park in West Portsmouth and learn about the variety of local wildlife that calls southeast Ohio home. Hikers are advised to wear hiking boots and dress in layers. Meet in the lobby of Shawnee State Park Lodge. 4404 St. Rte. 125, West Portsmouth 45663, ohiodnr.gov

Nov. 30: Hosak’s Cave Hike | 11 a.m.–Noon
Salt Fork State Park, Kimbolton
Join a naturalist for an easy, half-mile hike to this geological landmark within Salt Fork State Park in Kimbolton. Weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear is a must. The hike is weather dependent, so be sure to check conditions before traveling. Meet at the Hosak’s Cave parking lot along R-4 in Salt Fork State Park. Visit website for more information. ohiodnr.gov

Last Chance Spree Hike | 1–2:30 p.m.
Liberty Park Nature Center, Twinsburg
Explore the nature and history of Liberty Park Nature Center in Twinsburg during one final guided fall hike before the snow starts to fly. Join a park naturalist for a 1.1-mile hike along the Ledges Trail. This trek is open to all ages. 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg 44087, summitmetroparks.org

3 Mile Hike | 2–4 p.m.
Side Cut Metro Park, Maumee
This hike for ages 16 and older offers a trek through Side Cut Metro Park in Maumee, offering views of the Maumee River. The focus of the hike is exercise, but the group will stop along the way to take in nature. Be sure to dress for the weather, wear sturdy footwear and bring water. Meet at the Riverview Area parking lot at Side Cut Metro Park in Maumee. 1025 W. River Rd., Maumee 43537, metroparkstoledo.com

For more Ohio travel inspiration, sign up for our Ohio Magazine newsletters.

Ohio Magazine is available in a beautifully designed print issue that is published 7 times a year, along with Spring-Summer and Fall-Winter editions of LongWeekends magazine. Subscribe to Ohio Magazine and stay connected to beauty, adventure and fun across our state.