6 of the best Dayton trails to help you enjoy the great outdoors

This weekend we will have some awesome weather, and there is no better time to hit the trails.

Now more than ever, in wake of the coronavirus pandemic, think about spending more time enjoying Dayton’s great outdoors. As the weather warms and for those who are healthy and itching to get out of the house, find a new park or trail to enjoy.

Last spring, with the help of MetroParks, we put together this guide to spring hiking.

We thought now would be a great time to share that with you again for some inspiration for things to do that allow safe social distancing and a chance to connect with nature.

Before you head out, check for the latest updates on coronavirus and how the parks system is responding.

“Each MetroPark offers something special during the spring, from budding trees to beautiful blooms. There’s something for all ages to experience and enjoy,” said Laura Stevens, MetroParks interpretation coordinator.

>> 12 of the best hiking trails in (and around) Dayton

Credit: Five Rivers MetroPark

Credit: Five Rivers MetroPark

1. Aullwood Garden MetroPark, 955 Aullwood Rd., Dayton

The 31-acre estate "hosts floral displays that reflect a natural look and harmonize with the surrounding woodland," said Kimberly Ballweg, Five Rivers MetroParks horticulture technician. The grounds of Aullwood overflow with dozens of spring blooms. Click here for park map.

More info: Website

>> 4 breathtaking waterfalls near Dayton you must visit 

Credit: Eamon Queeney

Credit: Eamon Queeney

2. Taylorsville MetroPark, 2000 U.S. 40, Vandalia

Wildflowers accompany hikers along the entirety of the Taylorsville bike path route, going north from the Tadmor parking lot. Stevens said the trilliums, a genus of perennial flowering plant native to temperate regions, is what makes the trail a must in the spring. Click here for park map.

More info: Website

Credit: Five Rivers Metroparks

Credit: Five Rivers Metroparks

3. Germantown MetroPark's Silver Trail, 7101 Conservancy Road, Germantown

The popular trilliums in Taylorsville also take over parts of the Germantown MetroPark silver trail. Click here for park map.

More info: Website

Credit: Five Rivers Metroparks

Credit: Five Rivers Metroparks

4. Germantown MetroPark's Bob Seibenthaler Natural Area, 7101 Conservancy Rd., Germantown

As soon as those first days of spring consistently show up, the trees in the Bob Seibenthaler Natural Area begin to wildly bloom. Click here for park map.

More info: Website

Credit: Five Rivers MetroPark

Credit: Five Rivers MetroPark

5. Cox Arboretum MetroPark, 6733 N. Springboro Pike, Dayton

The beautifully-paved loop paths of Cox Arboretum have practically been waiting all year for spring to line its paths with spring blooms. There is also a separate wildflower garden, as well as a daffodil display. Click here for park map.

More info: Website

Credit: Lisa Powell

Credit: Lisa Powell

6. Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton

One of Dayton's most enchanted day trips, Wegerzyn Gardens is possibly in its prime come spring. Arches crawling with wildflowers hover over walking paths, giving way lengthy boardwalks looping the gardens. Parts of the park damaged by the tornadoes are off limits, including the main boardwalk, but there's plenty of beauty to still enjoy. Click here for park map.

More info: Website

About the Author