If you’re lucky enough to call Cincinnati or its surrounding suburbs home, you know there’s no shortage of fun things to do. And if you share that home with a four-legged friend, you also know that dogs love a good adventure just as much as you do. Whether you’re seeking a quiet hike in the woods, a relaxing day at a dog-friendly winery, or an off-leash romp in a private play yard, the Greater Cincinnati area has something for every pup (and their person).
Of course, getting to all these places requires a vehicle that can keep up with your lifestyle and your dog’s. That’s where Ford SUVs shine. Built for adventure, comfort, and durability, they make traveling with pets simple, clean, and stress-free. So, buckle up, grab the leash, and check out some of the best dog-friendly destinations in Greater Cincinnati paired with the perfect Ford SUV for each trip.
1. Summit Park – Blue Ash, OH
Tucked away in the suburbs, Summit Park in Blue Ash is a quiet, open park perfect for daily walks or weekend strolls. It doesn’t have a dog park or off-leash area, but its wide walking paths and peaceful setting make it a favorite among locals with leashed pups. There are benches and shaded picnic areas, making it a relaxing stop for both dogs and their humans.
This park is especially ideal for older dogs or dogs new to public spaces, as it’s not overly busy. Pair this low-key outing with a Ford Escape, which is compact enough for city and suburban streets, yet spacious enough to bring all your pet gear with ease.
2. Redbird Hollow Trail – Indian Hill, OH
If you’re craving a little solitude and nature, Redbird Hollow Trail offers a scenic escape without leaving Hamilton County. This 3-mile trail winds through wooded ravines and follows a bubbling creek providing a cool, shaded walk that’s perfect for curious pups who love to sniff and explore.
Because it’s a natural trail, it can get muddy, especially after rain. That’s where the Ford Bronco Sport really shines. With its off-road capability, rubberized cargo flooring, and optional Dog Outfitter package, it’s built for messes and rough terrain. Your pup can roll in the leaves, splash in the mud, and hop back in without you worrying about your interior.
3. East Fork State Park – Bethel, OH
A little farther out about 45 minutes east of the city, East Fork State Park is a dream for dogs and humans who love outdoor recreation. With over 4,800 acres of land and 2,100 acres of water, it offers hiking, boating, fishing, camping, and scenic trails galore. Dogs are welcome on most of the trails and green spaces (just not the designated swimming beach).
East Fork is a full-day or weekend trip, especially if you plan to camp. That makes the Ford Explorer a strong match for this adventure. Its flexible cargo area, folding rear seats, and tri-zone climate control help you keep your dog and your gear comfortable whether you’re hiking, relaxing, or loading up after a long day.
4. French Park – Amberley Village, OH
Just a few miles from downtown, French Park offers a perfect blend of woods, hills, and streamside trails. It’s not a massive park, but it packs in enough scenic routes and elevation changes to keep your pup engaged. Dogs must stay leashed, but they’ll love splashing in the shallow creek beds or sniffing along the forest paths.
For quick getaways to parks like French, the Ford Escape works wonderfully. It’s fuel-efficient, easy to maneuver in urban traffic, and has enough space in the back for muddy paws or travel crates. Bonus: its low lift-in height makes it easier for senior dogs to hop in.
5. Dog-Friendly Wineries – Greater Cincinnati Area
If your perfect day includes your dog and a glass of wine, you’re in luck. Several wineries near Cincinnati allow leashed dogs in their outdoor spaces. Two great picks are:
- Vinoklet Winery (Colerain Township) – Offers scenic vineyard views, an outdoor grill, and a peaceful atmosphere for sipping wine with your pup nearby.
- Valley Vineyards (Morrow, OH) – Known for their cook-your-own-steak weekends and spacious outdoor seating.
These laid-back outings are ideal for a relaxed drive in the Ford Explorer, which combines comfort and versatility. Its panoramic sunroof and ample cargo space make the ride enjoyable for both human and canine passengers.
6. Sniffspot Private Dog Parks – Greater Cincinnati Area
Sometimes, your dog just needs room to run without the chaos of a crowded dog park. Sniffspot is a platform that connects dog owners with private landowners who rent out their yards, fields, or even wooded trails by the hour. Many are fully fenced, and some even include agility equipment, pools, or shaded areas.
With Sniffspot options scattered around Northern Kentucky, East Cincinnati, and beyond, they’re a great choice for reactive dogs, training sessions, or one-on-one fetch time. The Ford Bronco Sport is ideal for these kinds of trips mud-proof, trail-ready, and easy to clean up after some energetic outdoor fun.
7. Great Parks of Hamilton County
Your $10–$15 annual Great Parks pass gives you access to an incredible network of dog-friendly locations, including:
- Winton Woods – A 2.6-mile paved loop, lakefront views, and picnic areas.
- Miami Whitewater Forest – Longer trails and even a dog agility course.
- Sharon Woods – Lakeside trails with lots of shade and squirrel sightings.
Dogs are welcome on leash, and many trails offer water access and open areas for play. The Ford Expedition shines for family outings like these, especially if you’re packing for kids, dogs, coolers, and more. It offers unmatched space and comfort, including three rows of seating and a giant cargo area for crates, leashes, water bowls, and everything else your pup needs.
The Best SUV for Every Kind of Adventure
| Adventure Type | Best Ford SUV | Why It Works |
| Local park visits | Ford Escape | Compact, easy to park, quick to clean |
| Trail hiking (mud, off-road) | Ford Bronco Sport | Rugged, washable, ventilated interior |
| Winery or city day trip | Ford Explorer | Comfortable, spacious, pet-friendly cabin features |
| Long road trips/camping | Ford Explorer or Expedition | Flexible space, climate control, power liftgate |
| Private dog park (Sniffspot) | Ford Escape or Bronco Sport | Compact yet rugged, great for solo adventures |
| Multiple pets or large breeds | Ford Expedition | Maximum cargo and seating space |
Final Thoughts
Greater Cincinnati is packed with dog-friendly destinations whether you’re looking for a peaceful hike, a social spot to sip wine, or an off-leash play zone all to yourselves. No matter what your pup’s personality or energy level, you’ll find a space that suits them (and you). But to make the most of those outings, you need a vehicle that’s just as versatile and resilient as your best friend.
From the trail-ready Ford Bronco Sport to the spacious Ford Expedition, the Ford SUV lineup offers the perfect ride for every type of adventure. Durable interiors, pet-friendly accessories, and clever storage mean fewer worries and more tail-wagging fun.
So, leash up, load up, and hit the road, your next great dog-friendly outing is just a drive away.
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