Sep 8, 2023

You can get to some of the best hiking trails in the region within a short drive of Mansfield, OH. Enjoy exercise, fresh air, and natural Ohio beauty on one of our four favorite trails in the area.

4 Hiking Trails You Can Drive to Near Mansfield, OH

Donaldson Family Nature Trail

Part of Charles Mill Lake Park, the Donaldson Family Nature Trail is a 2.6-mile loop that traverses hills, meadows, and woods. You’ll stroll along the scenic Mohican River, which flows into Charles Mill Lake. It’s a great place to glimpse the area’s many native bird species. Depending on how fast you hike, you should plan to spend about an hour to complete this trail.

You can access the Donaldson Family Nature Trail at 3296 Crider Rd. It’s open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and allows leashed dogs. The trail may be muddy if it’s rained recently, so be sure to wear hiking boots.

Gorman Nature Center Trails

Explore Mansfield green space on 3 miles of trails at the Gorman Nature Center. Managed by the Richland County Park District, it features 150 acres of streams, ponds, meadows, and forested areas. We recommend starting on the main loop trail, which is about 1.4 miles long. If you want to extend your hike, you can take one of the many smaller trails that branch off into the center of the park. Don’t forget to climb the Wildlife Watchtower for a bird’s-eye view!

Gorman Nature Center is located at 2295 L

exington Ave. It’s open Tuesday through Sunday from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Clear Fork Valley Scenic Trail

If you’re ready for a longer hike, try this 8-mile trail that spans from Mohican State Park in Loudonville to the B&O Bike Trail in Butler. Along the Clear Fork Valley Scenic Trail, you can see rare, protected native plants, old-growth forests, prairies, and even a waterfall. As the elevation increases, you’ll experience breathtaking views of the Clear Fork River and the valley beyond.

The North Central Ohio Land Conservancy manages this trail, which is about a 25-minute drive from Mansfield. You can access the trail on Pleasant Hill Rd in Perrysville just off State Rt 95 NE.

Butternut Trail

Head to Malabar Farm State Park in Lucas to check out one of the most notable local trails. Although the loop is less than a mile long, you’ll be able to explore a cool cave about a quarter-mile into your walk.
When you’re done, you can head to the 1-mile Doris Duke Woods Trail or take a day hike on the Pleasant Valley Bridle Trail, which is just over 5 miles long. Malabar Farm State Park is located at 4050 Bromfield Rd. about a 20-minute drive from Mansfield.
The GMC Sierra has the four-wheel drive and diesel horsepower you need to travel off the beaten path. Contact the team at Mansfield GMC today to schedule your test drive.