Photo courtesy of SkyDive Cincinnati
Sure, you think you're tough now. Just wait until the plane door opens at 16,000 feet! For the daredevils among us, skydiving is perhaps the ultimate outdoor experience — offering the chance to see the world from freefall. Tandem skydiving is the most popular option for beginners, allowing you to jump attached to an instructor and simply enjoy the view. If you're looking for something a little more hard core, enroll in a course at SkyDive Cincinnati, and take steps towards earning your skydiving license.
Biking on the road is definitely fun, but why not switch it up a little bit and hit the trails? Mountain biking challenges the mind as well as the body, offering spectacular views and a chance to overcome obstacles on the trail. Whether you're a beginner or an athlete looking for a challenge, the Cincinnati Off-Road Alliance is a spectacular resource for finding groups, trails and gear. Earn your turns!
In Cincinnati, we are lucky to be surrounded by plenty of gorgeous rivers, all perfect for different outdoor adventures. If it's a canoe or kayak trip you're after, you'll probably want to hit the Little Miami River or the Mad River, which are both scenic and fun.
There are a plethora of local rental companies that can outfit you with gear and point you in the right direction. Our favorites include Little Miami Canoe, Scenic River Canoe Excursions, Morgan's Outdoor Adventures and Whitewater Canoe Rental. Check out CincyPaddlers if you're looking for a community of like-minded adventurers!
If cruising down the river isn't your thing, maybe you'd enjoy being near the water instead! The Great Miami River offers so many awesome fishing holes perfect for catching bluegills, bass, carp and channel catfish via fly fishing or lures, and the Mad River is one of the best trout streams in the state. Take to the many lakes in our area if you'd rather sit calmly and avoid the current — rumor has it that Acton Lake and Rocky Fork will both be teeming with great catches this year. Gear up at On the Way Bait & Tackle, conveniently located near the river.
You can never spend too much time enjoying the great outdoors! Extend your stay in the wilderness by pitching your tent and staying the night. The daytime will allow for hiking, biking, fishing (and almost everything on this list), while the nighttime is perfect for relaxing with friends and family, cooking on the campfire, and counting the stars. Here are our 15 favorite campgrounds in Ohio to get you started on your adventures. Don't forget the graham crackers and marshmallows!
Photo courtesy of Wake Nation Cincinnati
If you have access to a motor boat, wakeboarding on our nearby lakes and rivers is a must! Wakeboarding is a fun and challenging activity the whole family can enjoy while soaking in the Ohio sun. No boat? No problem. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, Wake Nation Cincinnati will take you on a wakeboarding or waterskiing adventure you will love, all sans motor. Enjoy private lessons or go off on your own, and make sure to check out the Aqua Glide Waterpark when you're done!
If you're training for a marathon, trekking through the hills on a trail run, or just hitting the pavement a few times a week to improve your fitness, you're engaging in one of the toughest and most rewarding physical workouts — so well done! While challenging, running also offers the chance to get to know your surroundings, adventure in new places and meet some wonderful people. The Runners' Club of Greater Cincinnati is your new favorite resource for finding routes and scheduling group runs!
Before you hit the trails, you'll need a great pair of running shoes! Find yours at Bob Roncker's Running Spot, which offers friendly service, a great selection, and knowledge about the surrounding routes and trails.
Photo courtesy of Cincinnati Parks
Mount Airy Forest is just as magical as it sounds, with gorgeous scenery and well-maintained trails perfect for hiking or horseback riding. The park includes nearly 1,500 acres with plenty of routes for your chosen activity. After adventuring, take to one of the 23 picnic areas in the park to enjoy a leisurely meal with friends and family.
Photo courtesy of Ohio State Parks and Watercraft
Sure, Cincy is home to some gorgeous community pools — and we're proud of that! But when the weather warms and you're looking to cool off in the water, switch it up a bit and head out to Caesar Creek State Park. Hike, bike, or ride around the park before hitting the beach — such an oasis so close to home. Campgrounds are available if you feel like making a weekend out of it, and a new swinging bridge has recently been completed in the area. The bridge was funded 100% by donations from people who love the trail, and built by volunteers and partner organizations. Its unique beauty enriches the surrounding area and allows easier access to the nearby scenic waterfall and steep rock gorge.