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Bender Mountain Nature Preserve
4.7 ★★★★★ 252 Google reviews · Running trail in Cincinnati, Ohio · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Bender Mountain Nature Preserve's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Family-friendly 130-acre nature preserve featuring a scenic stream and clean trails.
What runners say about Bender Mountain Nature Preserve
“There are many well maintained trails and most of the terrain is steep, it can get very muddy on the low trails after a rain.”
“With all of the trees and shade, the trail can be quite muddy but when you get to the top, the views are stunning and worth it.”
“The trail offers breathtaking scenic views, serene surroundings, and a great hiking experience.”
Before you come to explore, please know that Bender Mountain Trail is a hidden gem and that not everything is going to be perfect but aren't you up for the adventure? I HIGHLY recommend downloading the AllTrails app so that you can see the full path of this hike and keep on course.
This is a good trail system considering the location. The staff and volunteers at Western Wildlife Corridor have done a great job at restoring a good portion of the woods, with honeysuckle and other invasive species removed and a huge variety of native species reintroduced.
Lots of rest points. I love that you can make the trail as long or short as you like. Mostly covered, so it’s even a nice hike on a hot day. My pup and I love it out at Bender M!
Bender Mountain Trail is a nature lover's paradise! The trail offers breathtaking scenic views, serene surroundings, and a great hiking experience. However, it can be challenging for beginners due to steep terrain. Remember to wear sturdy shoes that are slip resistant.
Trail conditions & character
“On the ridge trail there are many benches facing the Ohio River and Kentucky, though once the trees are leafed out the view might be obstructed.”
“Would not recommend with small Children under 6 Dogs tread with caution ⚠️ lots of up hills and deer Isn’t the best for running You will have an incredible hike!”
“There is no sign to state where it's at but the parking lot is gravel and you'll see a line full of trees.”
“With all of the trees and shade, the trail can be quite muddy but when you get to the top, the views are stunning and worth it.”
“Would not recommend with small Children under 6 Dogs tread with caution ⚠️ lots of up hills and deer Isn’t the best for running You will have an incredible hike!”
“The trail offers breathtaking scenic views, serene surroundings, and a great hiking experience.”
Plan your run at Bender Mountain Nature Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitewesternwildlifecorridor.org
- Phone(513) 921-9453
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 6 AM–9 PM |
| Tuesday | 6 AM–9 PM |
| Wednesday | 6 AM–9 PM |
| Thursday | 6 AM–9 PM |
| Friday | 6 AM–9 PM |
| Saturday | 6 AM–9 PM |
| Sunday | 6 AM–9 PM |
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