Described by the recreational information resource 365 Cincinnati as “a Cincinnati favorite,” the Cincinnati Nature Center (CNC) is much more than a building. Although it does feature multiple physical visitor centers, the CNC is actually a substantial nature preserve that spans two locations, which are Rowe Woods and Long Branch Farm and Trails. Covering roughly 1,800 acres in total, the CNC gives paid members the opportunity to explore natural environments that range from prairies and forests to ponds and wetlands.

The Rowe Woods location of the CNC features 15 trails of various lengths and levels of difficulty. Hikers who complete all these trails and mark the completion of each in a “Hike for Your Health” passport are eligible to receive a special prize. Acquired by the CNC in 1973, Long Branch is a former working farm. The Long Branch nature preserve of today extends over 767 acres and contains hiking trails that span roughly five miles.