Stunning scenery and historic points of interest make the Miami Valley a prime area for winter hikes. When our real estate agents want some fresh air and exercise, they hit the trails at these beautiful parks that are only minutes from Dayton. 

• Twin Creek MetroPark - 9688 Eby Rd., Germantown, OH 45327
  Their website declares that Twin Creek MetroPark is the "best wilderness experience in the region," and that's no exaggeration. The dog-friendly 27-mile trail, which connects to an extended 45-mile network, features gently rolling hills and charming waterfalls. Be sure to make a stop at High View, just past the picnic area, for expansive views of the Twin Creek Valley. Check out the park's nightlife during their Owl Walk on Saturday, 1/25, from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. Registration fee is $3. Park hours are 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily through March and there is no charge for admission.
  
  
• Wegerzyn Gardens - 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton, OH 45414
  Brighten up a winter day with a delightful walk through Wegerzyn Gardens. From the colorful formal gardens to the Marie Aull Nature Trail that runs a mile through the Swamp Forest, visitors enjoy a full spectrum of nature. Popular spots include the Woodland Garden, filled with shade-loving plants such as ferns and witch hazel, and the Victorian Garden, designed in patterns recalling the style of the late 19th century. Kids love the Children's Discovery Garden, where they can solve a maze, explore a cave, and spot wildlife. Dogs are welcome in all areas except the Children's Discovery Garden. Park hours are 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily through March and there is no charge for admission.
  
  
• Possum Creek - 4790 Frytown Rd., Dayton, OH 45417
  At Possum Creek, what was once degraded farmland is now a peaceful oasis filled with woodlands and wildlife. With 5.5 miles of mostly level trails, the park provides a spot for family-friendly hiking, including four-legged members. In a nod to the past, there's a 100-acre farm on the grounds where visitors can see animals in the barn or out in the pasture while kids have fun exploring the nature play area adjacent to the farmhouse. Hiking for Older Adults, a free program from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, 3/5, demonstrates that walking in the park benefits all ages. Park hours are 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily through March, and there is no charge for admission.
  
  
• Lock 9 Park - 125 E. Water St., Piqua, OH 45356
  At a modest one acre in size, Lock 9 Park proves the old adage that good things come in small packages. The park rose from the remnants of the namesake site on the Miami & Erie Canal, where a paved walkway provides excellent views of the Great Miami River. If you're in the mood for more of a challenge, Lock 9 has access to Linear Park and the Ohio-to-Indiana Trail. The park is open seven days a week from dawn until dusk. 
  
  
• Charleston Falls Preserve - 2535 Ross Rd., Tipp City, OH 4537
  Learn firsthand why Charleston Falls Preserve is the most-visited nature park in the Miami Valley. The dog-friendly preserve's centerpiece is the eponymous falls, a 37-foot cascade over rock strata found in Canada and New York state. Thanks to this unique feature, Charleston Falls gained the nickname of "Miniature Niagara." Even in winter, the waters frozen in mid-drop create an impressive and picturesque scene. The park is open daily from 8 a.m. until sunset, and admission is free.

Life in the Miami Valley is four seasons of fun. If you're buying or selling a home, contact us at Irongate Realtors to get started.