With over 23 miles of trails in more than 1,000 acres, these Natural Areas are ideal throughout the year for outdoor use.
The trails (except WRA) are all connected so whatever length of time or distance you desire, it is available. The trails have signs at all intersections with "you are here dots" showing just where you are. All signs point north so you can easily see where you are going and where you have been. Hiking clubs frequently choose the Natural Areas for their outings. Both a virtual and printable trail map are available.
You can view 60 species of wildflowers across the five-acre Silvoor Biological Sanctuary on a guided wildflower walk. The walks are led by a professional botanist from Miami University and children's activities are provided on some dates. Walks are usually held on Sundays at 1:00 p.m. in April-May. Meet your guide at Peffer Park Pavilion.
Every fall, Hike-A-Thon celebrates the outdoors and the exciting progress of the newly paved Oxford Area Trail and Miami University Natural Areas Trail systems. This event is family-friendly, pet-friendly (with a leash), and wheelchair accessible.
There are over 120 species seen in the Natural Areas with more than 60 species of warblers and waterfowl pass through each year on their semi-annual journey. You can visit the Bird Viewing Station located just north of Dewitt Log House in Bachelor Preserve from sunrise to sunset.
Birds of North America
Orienteering is a sport that involves racing and navigation. Each participant is given a topographical map and a compass to help them locate multiple control points across an unfamiliar terrain. The winner is determined by time, or by scoring points. It tests one's skills in navigation, concentration, and running.
The Orienteering Club in Cincinnati has frequent events in the Natural Areas. Check their schedule to learn when and where the next event takes place.
A permanent course is located at Hueston Woods. Maps can be bought from OCIN, or the campground store (open seasonally).
Geocaching is an outdoor recreational activity, in which participants use a GPS to find hidden containers called geocaches. There are millions of geocaches hidden all across the world. There are several geocaches within the Natural Areas, all located in interesting and scenic places that bring you in close proximity to our many splendors. If you would like to place a geocache within the Natural Areas, please read and follow the geocache policy.
Because the Natural Areas are so cherished, many individuals and groups, volunteer their time to ensure these areas are kept clean and tidy. After the spring and fall rains, litter is deposited along the stream beds that flow through the areas. Litter blows onto the trails from nearby roads and streets. And, less frequently, litter is dropped by users of the trails. Volunteers are many and include various student organizations such as AmeriCorps Service+. Contact the Natural Areas Field Manager at 513-524-2197 or NaturalAreas@MiamiOH.edu.
Miami University offers diverse student organizations and clubs that utilize its natural surroundings for outdoor activities, conservation, and environmental education, thriving within the campus's picturesque landscapes and ecosystems.
