Sisson
Sisson Nature Preserve
22 acres of protected forest overlooking Sayler Park and the Ohio River Valley.
Sisson Nature Preserve is a public nature preserve in Sayler Park and Delhi Township, managed by Western Wildlife Corridor. Located at 6602 Hillside Avenue, the preserve protects wooded hillside habitat, native plants, and wildlife as part of the larger effort to create a connected conservation corridor along the Ohio River Valley. It features old-growth trees, a pristine stream, and an old agricultural field.
The preserve is named in honor of the Sisson family, whose commitment to land preservation and habitat restoration helped shape the Western Wildlife Corridor. Originally protecting 19 acres of the former Pessler Farm, Sisson Nature Preserve was later expanded with a 4.4-acre addition supported by the Clean Ohio Green Space Conservation Program, generous donors, members, and community partners. One day, the preserve could connect with nearby protected lands, including Buckeye Trace Preserve and Muddy Creek Preserve, strengthening wildlife habitat and public access to nature on Cincinnati’s west side.
How to Get Here:
Sisson Nature Preserve is located at 6602 Hillside Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45233, in Sayler Park. Visitors should use the Google Maps listing for Sisson Nature Preserve for directions to the preserve.
Parking is available at the pull-off on Hillside Avenue across from Monitor Avenue. After parking, visitors can access the preserve from the roadside entrance near the pull-off. Please park carefully, avoid blocking the road or nearby driveways, and use caution when entering or exiting your vehicle.
Hiking degree of difficulty:
The 1-mile loop trail is under still under construction and some sections are challenging and 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.
