Rapid Run
Rapid Run Nature Preserve
12 acres of protected forest overlooking Sayler Park and the Ohio River Valley.
Located near Rapid Run Road, the preserve protects forest habitat, native plants, and wildlife as part of the larger effort to create a connected wildlife corridor along the Ohio River Valley.
Western Wildlife Corridor was able to purchase and protect Rapid Run Nature Preserve with support from a Clean Ohio Conservation Fund grant, along with generous contributions from donors, members, and community partners who believe in preserving natural spaces on Cincinnati’s west side. Their support helped ensure this land would remain protected as habitat for wildlife and as a peaceful place for people to experience nature close to home.
Today, Rapid Run Nature Preserve serves as an important site for habitat restoration and volunteer stewardship. Restoration efforts have focused on removing invasive plants, improving trail access, and enhancing wildlife habitat, including work around a wildlife pond. As part of the Western Wildlife Corridor, with over 1 mile of trails to explore, Rapid Run helps protect the forested hillsides that support biodiversity across Cincinnati’s west side.
How to Get Here:
Rapid Run Nature Preserve is located at 6800 Rapid Run Road, Cincinnati, OH 45238. Visitors can use the Google Maps listing for Rapid Run Nature Preserve to navigate directly to the preserve entrance, which is a dirt pulloff. Visitors can also park at Buckeye Trace and walk to Rapid Run Nature Preserve.
Hiking degree of difficulty:
The Rapid Run trail is an easy 1-mile natural trail with some challenging sections that may be slippery when wet.
Things to remember while you Recreate Responsibly:
- Dogs are welcome on the trails, but please be considerate of other hikers and clean up after your pets and keep dogs on a leash.
- Mountain bikes, horses, and motorized vehicles are prohibited on the trails. Foot traffic only.
- Hunting is prohibited for the safety of other hikers.
- Camping is prohibited.
- Camp fires are prohibited.
- Be prepared for varying trail conditions. Many trails (especially the steep South Paw Paw Gap Trail) are slippery in wet weather.
- Trails go up and down steep, rugged terrain and should only be used by persons who are in good physical condition.
- Stay on marked trails.
- Don’t hike alone.
- Dress for the weather, and wear suitable shoes.
- Travel at your own risk.
- Do not remove plants or items from the preserve.
- Do make sure to take your trash with you to dispose of properly. No dumping.
