Explore the best bike rides and hiking trails in Ohio’s Amish Country. Pair outdoor adventures with nearby vacation rentals for families and couples.
Ohio’s Amish Country is known for its rolling farmland, quiet forests, and scenic countryside — making it an incredible destination for outdoor lovers. Whether you’re planning a peaceful morning hike, a family nature walk, or a full day of cycling through charming towns and historic landscapes, you’ll find some of the best hiking in Amish Country Ohio right here in Tuscarawas and Holmes Counties.
When you stay at Amish Country Lodges, you’re just minutes from some of the region’s most beautiful trails. After a day exploring nature, you can return to your private lodge to relax, recharge, and plan your next adventure.
Below are some of our favorite bike trails in Amish Country, Ohio and nearby hiking spots to explore during your stay.
Crider Avenue Nature Trail
For a short and peaceful nature walk, the Crider Avenue Nature Trail is a hidden gem close to town. This 0.4-mile loop winds through a quiet semi-wilderness setting and includes benches along the path where visitors can pause and enjoy the natural surroundings.
This trail is perfect for families with young children or guests looking for a gentle stroll close to their lodging.
Best for: Family-friendly hiking and quiet nature walks
Note: Not suitable for bicycles
Zoar Valley Trail
Following the scenic Tuscarawas River, the Zoar Valley Trail offers a peaceful walk through history. Once part of the land farmed by the Zoarites — a communal society that lived in the area for nearly 80 years — this trail is now a popular route for hikers, runners, and cyclists.
The 4.3-mile out-and-back path is mostly flat, tree-lined, and ideal for spotting wildlife along the river.
Best for: Hiking, running, horseback riding, and mountain biking
Zoar Woods Trail
For a more secluded hiking experience, the Zoar Woods Trail offers a quiet forest escape. This 1.9-mile trail system features both short and long loop options with elevation changes, a small stream, forest paths, and scenic bluff views.
Because trails here are unmarked, it’s best suited for adventurous hikers who enjoy navigating natural terrain.
Best for: Hiking and nature exploration
Note: Dogs are not permitted and parking is limited
Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath and Zoar Valley Extension
Outdoor enthusiasts looking for a longer ride or hike will love exploring the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath, a historic trail system that follows the route of the former canal.
Starting from the Canal Lands Trailhead, you can enjoy the 5.7-mile Zoar Valley section along the Tuscarawas River. The mostly shaded trail is comfortable even during summer and works well for both hikers and cyclists.
Continue north toward Fort Laurens in Bolivar to extend your journey and cross several historic wooden trestle bridges along the way.
Best for: Hiking, biking, and scenic history walks
Camp Tuscazoar Trails
For visitors looking for more challenging terrain, Camp Tuscazoar features over 10 miles of trails winding through forested hills and valleys. This area is popular for both hikers and mountain bikers and offers beautiful views throughout the preserve.
Trail access is available from the Camp Tuscazoar Trailhead or the Preserve Trailhead, where you’ll also find helpful trail maps.
Best for: Mountain biking and scenic forest hikes
🔎 Camp Tuscazoar Mountain Bike Loop
🔎 South Woods, North Slope, Hill Top, and Skills Loop
Norma Johnson Center
The Norma Johnson Center is a 303-acre conservation area with more than 6 miles of easy hiking trails. This peaceful nature preserve is ideal for birdwatching, photography, fishing, and relaxing outdoor walks.
With well-maintained trails and educational programs throughout the year, it’s a wonderful destination for family outdoor adventures in Amish Country. Parking is available at the Red Barn or Yellow Barn trailheads.
Dundee Falls Trail
One of the most beautiful natural attractions in the area, Dundee Falls is located within the Beach City Wildlife Area. The waterfall flows year-round and sits in a picturesque forested gorge.
Visitors can explore the first waterfall with a short 1/4-mile walk from the parking area, or hike about one mile to the second waterfall deeper in the woods.
After your hike, consider stopping at the Dundee Marketplace nearby for a treat.
Best for: Hiking and scenic waterfall views
Note: Not suitable for bikes
Holmes County Trail
Located in the heart of Amish Country, the Holmes County Trail offers 26 miles of paved trail designed for bikes, pedestrians, and even Amish horse-and-buggy traffic.
From the Hipp Station trailhead in Millersburg, cyclists can ride:
- 9 miles north to Fredericksburg for lunch or ice cream
- 6 miles south to Killbuck for local shops and treats
The scenic drive to the trailhead takes you through charming Amish communities including Sugarcreek, Walnut Creek, and Berlin.
This is one of the most unique bike trails in Amish Country, Ohio.
Conotton Creek Trail
Cyclists will love the Conotton Creek Trail, an 11.4-mile paved rails-to-trails path that winds through forests and crosses five beautiful covered bridges.
Along the trail you’ll find:
- 7 shelters
- 50 benches
- Rest areas and small-town stops
- An ice cream stand about 6 miles from the Bowerston trailhead
This trail offers a scenic and relaxing ride through rural Ohio.
Tips for Hiking in East Central Ohio
To make the most of your outdoor adventure, keep these tips in mind:
- Wear sturdy shoes: Trails range from gravel towpaths to uneven forest terrain.
- Dress for changing weather: Ohio conditions can shift quickly — layers are helpful.
- Bring water: Even shorter hikes can be dehydrating in warm weather.
- Use bug protection: Ticks and insects are common in wooded areas.
- Leave no trace: Respect wildlife and carry out all trash.
- Check trail conditions: Flooding can occasionally impact river-adjacent trails.
Make Your Outdoor Adventure a Getaway
Exploring the Ohio hiking trails near Sugarcreek, Dover, and New Philadelphia is even better when you have a comfortable place to relax afterward.
At Amish Country Lodges, guests enjoy spacious lodge-style vacation rentals perfect for couples, families, or group getaways. After a day of biking or hiking, you can return to your private lodge to unwind, enjoy the quiet countryside, and plan the next day’s adventure.
Browse available lodges and start planning your Amish Country escape:
https://amishcountrylodges.com/search-results/