Just because the weather is getting colder doesn’t mean your adventures need to end! With the right gear, preparation, and awareness, you can enjoy the beauty of winter on the water while staying safe and warm.

There are endless trails along the Ohio River that offer a truly unique experience with a mix of scenic landscapes, rich history, and abundant wildlife. From dense woodlands and rolling hills to panoramic river views, these hiking spots provide a beautiful escape into nature while showcasing the Ohio Valley’s cultural and ecological significance. Along the way, you’ll encounter historic sites, Native American earthworks, and habitats for rare bird species and other wildlife. Here are some of our favorite hikes near or along the Ohio River. 

The Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge (ORINWR) has been a cornerstone of conservation and recreation since its establishment in 1990. Managed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS), this refuge currently spans 22 islands across West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Kentucky in the upper 470 miles of the Ohio River, playing a crucial role in protecting vital habitats and providing recreational opportunities. 

This year’s Ohio River Way Challenge is going to be a “boatload of knowledge,” including university students from throughout our region. The 10 day paddle will stretch 250 miles from Portsmouth to Louisville

The Ohio River Way is voicing enthusiastic support for Gov. DeWine's announcement of a $152 million investment in transformational riverfront projects along Ohio’s “Southern Coast.”

Check out this article on the natural heritage and local history of islands on the Ohio River. Some are publicly accessible, offering recreational opportunities for boaters, paddlers, and anglers.

Kentucky’s General Assembly has passed legislation creating a new authority devoted to developing land and water trails in Kentucky communities along the Ohio.

Our 2023 Year-In-Review dives into our successes over the past year and some of our plans for 2024.

Is it safe to swim in the Ohio River? Here are some tips to stay safe and have fun while swimming in the river!

Need some tunes about the Ohio River? The ORW has you covered with this perfectly curated playlist!

Check out this article on how the Queen City welcomes all with open arms to explore, recreate, and enjoy the river way of life!

Check this Courier Journal article on how our new Executive Director is embarking on a mission to change the reputation of the Ohio River.

Press release: On Oct. 25 and 26, we’ll be convening leaders from along the river for our 2023 Summit. How can we use recreation to catalyze restoration, tourism, and community revitalization?

This Courier Journal article covers our work to change the perception of the river, including applying to be a National Water Trail.

How did the Ohio River Way come to be? Check this blog post for the story, as well as reflections on our 2023 Ohio River Way Challenge and lobbying in DC.

Photos from the Cincinnati Enquirer from our 250-mile Ohio River Way Challenge in 2023

Press release: A team of intrepid paddlers is set to embark on the Ohio River Challenge, a 250-mile, 10-day expedition from Portsmouth, Ohio, to Louisville, Kentucky.

This LEO Weekly article covers our inaugural Guide to the Ohio River Way, full of inspiration for how you can find adventure along the river.

Press release: This week the first-of-its-kind, 52-page Guide to the Ohio River Way was just unveiled by the nonprofit Ohio River Way.