Shoemaker State Nature Preserve - Peebles, OH
Shoemaker State Nature Preserve – Dog-Friendly Hiking in Peebles, Ohio
Shoemaker State Nature Preserve offers a peaceful escape for nature lovers and dog owners alike. This pet-friendly park in Peebles, Ohio features scenic hiking trails winding through cedar and hardwood forests, alongside the beautiful Cedar Fork Creek. The easy to moderate trails make it a perfect spot for dog-friendly hiking, featuring wildflowers, unique rock formations, creek views, and a tranquil, uncrowded atmosphere.
While the park does not have a dedicated off-leash dog area or fenced-in sections, leashed dogs are welcome throughout the trails. The preserve is also known for its solitude – visitors often have the entire trail to themselves, making it a great option for quiet walks with your dog. Although amenities like water fountains, covered shelters, and large parking lots are not available, this hidden gem is ideal for those looking for natural beauty, peaceful hikes, and quality time outdoors with their pets.
FAQ
- Are dogs allowed at Shoemaker State Nature Preserve? Yes, dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times while on the trails.
- Is there a fenced area or off-leash zone for dogs? No, the park does not have any fenced or designated off-leash areas for dogs.
- Are there hiking trails at this park? Yes, Shoemaker State Nature Preserve features pet-friendly hiking trails ideal for leashed dogs and their owners.
- Is the park good for kids? Yes, the trails are noted as kid-friendly, though the beginning of the trail may be a bit tough with strollers.
- Is there parking available? Yes, there is a small parking lot available at the park.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? No, the entrance is not wheelchair accessible and the trails have roots, stairs, and uneven areas.
- Is there shade along the trails? Yes, much of the trail is shaded by cedar and hardwood forest.
- Are there any other dog-friendly parks or trails nearby? Yes, several parks and trails such as Miller’s, Highland, Arc of Appalachia, and the Buckeye Trail are close by.
Reviews
Beautiful little park, 2 mile hike, great rock faces.
Great 1.3 mi hike into cedar and hardwood forest. Cedar Fork Creek follow much of trail. Rock formations easy to see close up. Many wildflowers along forest floor. Path has roots, bridges, steps but not difficult. If you’re quiet, creatures are everywhere.
This is a quaint little hiking trail. The beginning of the trail was a little difficult for the stroller but smoothed out after about a quarter of a mile. I think the trails could have been marked a little better. Very small parking lot. There was nobody else on the trail when we went. So you may have the whole trail to yourself. There’s a deer feeder in a field near the trail so you might be able to see deer.
It’s a nice little nature preserve with just one short trail. There’s a creek and as others have pointed out, some nice rock formations. It’s mostly and easy walk with only a few inclines and places with stairs. There’s really not much parking here, but it may not matter as most people probably won’t be here for very long.
Great scenic hike! Lots of fantastic rock formations, a few small arches, great creek with clear, green/blue water rushing through the middle.
I went at about 10 on a Thursday and spent a couple hours, the hike is less than 2 miles but I was thoroughly enjoying the solitude, because as of when I left at about 2, I didn’t encounter a single other person the entire time.
There are also several other great little trails and parks nearby, Miller’s, Highland, Arc of Appalachia, the Buckeye trail also runs parallel to the west.