Norma Johnson Center
Hiking in the Norma Johnson Center in Ohio is an excellent way to connect with nature, explore the beautiful scenery and get some exercise. The Norma Johnson Center is a 303-acre nature preserve located in Tuscarawas County, Ohio. It offers a variety of trails that wind through forests, wetlands, meadows, and streams.
One of the most popular trails in the Norma Johnson Center is the Conservation Trail. This trail is a little over a mile long and takes you through a beautiful meadow filled with wildflowers and tall grasses. Along the way, you’ll see many bluebird boxes, which are used to attract bluebirds to the area. It features a pond, three walking bridges, and even a suspension bridge. The trail is easy to walk and is suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
Another popular trail is the Ash, Oak, Pine, Dogwood Loop Trail. This trail is two miles long and takes you through the forested areas of the preserve. Along the way, you’ll see many different types of trees, including oak, hickory, and maple. The trail does have some hills to climb, but it is rated Easy, and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
For those who want a longer hike, the Full Double Loop Trail is a great option. This trail is 4.8 miles long and takes you through a variety of habitats, including forests, wetlands, and meadows. Along the way, you’ll see many different types of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and birds of prey. The trail is rated Moderate, and you will have to cross a road a quarter of the way through, but this is the best way to traverse the many different areas of this hidden gem in Ohio.
In addition to hiking, the Norma Johnson Center offers many other outdoor activities, including birdwatching and fishing. There are also educational programs and events held throughout the year, including guided hikes, nature walks, and workshops.
Trail Information:
Directions: https://goo.gl/maps/JfScytogyDf7mWvU6
Conservation Loop:
Length: 1.40 miles
Elevation: 170 ft
Ash, Oak, Pine, Dogwood Loop:
Length: 1.90 miles
Elevation: 308 ft
Full Double Loop:
Length: 4.80 miles
Elevation: 410 ft
Wetland Loop:
Length: 0.70 miles
Elevation: 101 ft
Preservation Loop:
Length: 1.70 miles
Elevation: 183 ft
Johnson Loop:
Length: 1.40 miles
Elevation: 223 ft
Basswood Trail:
Length: 1.20 miles
Elevation: 88 ft
Type: Loop
Where to Stay:
- Carlisle Inn: https://dhgroup.com/inns/carlisle-inn-sugarcreek/
- Comfort Inn & Suites: https://www.choicehotels.com/ohio/dover/comfort-inn-hotels/oh792?mc=llgoxxpx
- Ramada by Wyndham: https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/ramada/strasburg-ohio/ramada-strasburg-dover/overview?CID=LC:RA::GGL:RIO:National:10825&iata=00093796
Where to Eat:
- Dutch Valley Restaurant: https://dhgroup.com/restaurants/dutch-valley-sugarcreek-oh/
- Breitenbach Winery: https://breitenbachwine.com/
- Pangrazio’s Pizza: https://www.facebook.com/pangraziosdover/