It's time for another Hamilton County Park highlight!  This week's park is one which is probably well known to a lot of Cincinnatians, Winton Woods.  Winton Woods is typically considered the headquarters for most of Hamilton County Parks. The park is a fantastic place to go for a great outing with your dog!  There are 2.6 miles of paved trails.  Most of that trail circles the large lake at the park.  There are about 4 miles more of unpaved rustic trails.

The trails are incredibly well suited for taking the dogs on a walk.  There are trash cans and poop bag dispensers along the paved trail every few hundred feet.  There are drinking fountains in a few places, and even a dog bowl fountain at one of them!  Zoe knows its location by heart and gets excited every time we get close to it.  The typical HCP rules apply when it comes to dogs.  They must be on no longer than a 6 foot lead, and all feces must be picked up.  The trail is generally very busy.  Dogs that have issues with bikes or other dogs are going to have a hard time on this trail.  You pass them or you get passed a lot! 

Because of that activity, it is a great place to train on behavior however!  When you need a break, there are plenty of places to get away from the people and find nature. It is a park after all!  In addition to the paved trails, there are also some more rustic, but well kept trails that go into the woods around the lake.  These trails are gorgeous and can offer a much needed reprieve from the city hustle and bustle.  The trails are well marked, and fairly short.  There's no huge time commitment when you decide to take one.  They are long enough though that you can stay out there for a little while and enjoy some quality time in nature with your furry friend.  I would not recommend letting your dog off leash even in the quiet areas though.  The park is very popular.  Even in the secluded sections people will occasionally wander close by. 

The park offers a lot of other options for family outings though they are not as pet friendly.  There are children's play areas, a water park, kayak and paddle boat rentals, camping sites, a petting zoo.  There is plenty to do at this park!  If you've never visited Winton Woods before and want to give it a shot, you won't be disappointed.  There will be plenty to do and explore!  Have fun!

Matthew Laver, Paw Joggers Pet Fitness and Care Professional