Englewood MetroPark is one of the Miami Valley’s most scenic parks, known for its trio of waterfalls, wooded ravines, wetlands, and wide river views. Spread across several sections along the Stillwater River, it’s a favorite spot for hiking, photography, birdwatching, disc golf, and quiet walks in the woods.

💦 Three Waterfalls on the Green Trail

One of the biggest draws at Englewood is the Green Trail, a loop hike that takes you past all three of the park’s waterfalls:

• Martindale Falls – A dramatic drop off a limestone and shale ridge into a wide rocky ravine.
• Patty Falls – A wide, rocky wet-weather falls with a peaceful bench overlooking the cascade.
• Oaks Falls – A smaller, quiet falls with pretty views into the surrounding forest.

The loop is a great half-day outing, especially in spring after rains or in fall when the leaves are changing.

🌳 Trails, Woods & Scenic Views

Englewood has a network of trails that range from short, easy loops to longer, more rugged hikes:

• Green Trail Loop: About 4 miles with waterfall views, hills, and river scenery.
• Yellow Trail: Leads to a boardwalk through a rare swamp forest.
• Short connector trails: Let you customize your hike for distance and difficulty.

You’ll walk through a mix of ravines, mature forest, open meadows, and Stillwater River overlooks, with plenty of spots to stop for photos or a quiet break.

🌿 Pumpkin Ash Swamp Forest

Hidden in one corner of Englewood is a unique wetland area — a remnant swamp forest with trees like pumpkin ash, swamp white oak, and black ash. A short walk on the Yellow Trail leads to a boardwalk that takes you into this rare habitat, designated as a State Natural Landmark and an interesting stop for nature lovers and photographers.

🦅 Birding, Disc Golf & More

• Birdwatching: Englewood is considered one of the area’s best birding sites, thanks to its wetlands and Stillwater River corridor.
• Blue Heron Disc Golf Course: An 18-hole course near the lake in East Park, with rolling hills and wooded fairways.
• Fishing & Paddling: Access to the Stillwater River and park lakes for anglers and paddlers.
• Picnic Shelters & Open Space: Plenty of spots to spread out for a picnic, toss a frisbee, or let the kids explore.

🧭 Visitor Tips

• Waterfall Access: Use the East Park entrance off U.S. 40 to pick up the Green Trail loop to all three waterfalls.
• Footwear: Trails near the falls can be muddy and steep in spots — hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers recommended.
• Seasonal Highlights: Spring for flowing waterfalls and wildflowers, summer for lush green woods, fall for color, and winter for icy waterfall views.
• Pack Water & Snacks: It’s easy to spend a couple of hours exploring the trails and overlooks.

With waterfalls, rare wetlands, forested trails, and wide river views, Englewood MetroPark is one of the Miami Valley’s best spots for a day of exploring outdoors.

If you love classic Ohio buckeyes, you’ll love these thick, fudgy brownies topped with a creamy peanut butter layer and smooth chocolate glaze. They’re perfect for game day, movie night, or just warming up a cold Dayton evening.

Ingredients

• 1 box fudge brownie mix (plus ingredients required on box)
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 4 Tbsp softened butter
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 2 Tbsp heavy cream or milk
• Optional: pinch of sea salt on top

Instructions

1. Prepare brownies according to package directions and bake. Let cool completely.
2. Mix peanut butter, butter, and powdered sugar until smooth. Spread over cooled brownies.
3. In a microwave bowl, heat chocolate chips and cream in 20-second bursts until melted; stir smooth.
4. Pour chocolate layer over peanut butter layer. Smooth with a spatula.
5. Chill 20–30 minutes, then cut and enjoy.

A sweet Ohio favorite — perfect for sharing (or keeping to yourself).

A fresh year means a fresh start at home. These simple winter tasks make life cozier, reduce energy use, and help your house recover from holiday chaos.

🧹 1. Do a Mini Post-Holiday Reset

• Pack away remaining décor and toss broken lights or worn-out ornaments.
• Return holiday dishes to storage before they become “February clutter.”
• Designate a spot for returns/gift cards so they don’t disappear.

🔥 2. Give Your Furnace a Quick Check

• Replace or clean the furnace filter — the #1 winter efficiency booster.
• Listen for unusual sounds and make sure vents aren’t blocked by furniture.
• Reverse ceiling fans (clockwise, low speed) to push warm air downward.

❄️ 3. Prevent Frozen Pipes

• Open sink cabinets on very cold nights to keep warm air circulating.
• Let faucets drip slightly during deep freezes to reduce pressure build-up.
• Know where your main shut-off valve is — just in case.

🧺 4. Winter Laundry Trick

• Add wool dryer balls or a rolled-up clean towel to reduce dry time.
• Run loads in the evening — heat from the dryer adds a bit of warmth.
• Wash blankets first — nothing says winter comfort like a warm throw.

🕯 5. Create a Cozy Winter Zone

• Keep blankets, books, board games, and a candle in one spot for easy relaxing.
• Swap bright bulbs for warm-tone lighting — instant cozy atmosphere.
• Place a rug near cold entryways to cut the chill.

Simple habits now make winter smoother — and your home warmer, calmer, and ready for the year ahead.