The best walks and hikes around Columbus

Hiking around Columbus offers a diverse landscape, primarily shaped by the Scioto and Olentangy rivers and their tributaries. While the region is generally considered flat due to glacial activity, you'll find significant elevation changes and ravines, especially where creeks cut through shale and limestone. This creates varied terrains, from riverine paths and dense forests to open prairies and urban green spaces.

Yes, for those seeking waterfalls, the region offers some beautiful options. Quarry Trails Metro Park, one of the newer additions to the Metro Parks system, features a gorgeous waterfall. Additionally, while a drive from Columbus, Hocking Hills State Park is renowned for its thrilling waterfalls like Cedar Falls and the seasonal falls at Old Man's Cave and Ash Cave.

Columbus boasts numerous family-friendly trails within its extensive Metro Parks system. Parks like Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park offer varied landscapes and the chance to spot bison, while Glacier Ridge Metro Park has walking paths and a boardwalk through wetlands. For an easy, shorter option, consider the Little Bradley Falls Trail, which is an easy 1.8-mile route.

Many of Columbus's Metro Parks and trails are dog-friendly, though leash rules and specific restrictions may apply. It's always best to check the individual park's regulations before you go. Generally, most natural surface trails in the Metro Parks allow leashed dogs.

Yes, loop trails are available for hikers who prefer to start and end at the same point. An example is the Palmetto Trail: Blue Wall Passage loop, an easy 3.0-mile path offering varied landscapes. The Metro Parks system also features many trails that can be combined to form loops.

For scenic views, Highbanks Metro Park offers stunning vistas from its tall shale bluffs along the Olentangy River, particularly from the Eagle View Trail. The Scioto Audubon Metro Park provides unique urban outdoor experiences with impressive city skyline views. For more dramatic natural scenery, though a drive away, Hocking Hills State Park is internationally acclaimed for its towering cliffs and deep gorges.

To find less crowded spots, consider exploring some of the lesser-known Metro Parks or visiting during off-peak hours (weekdays, early mornings). Parks like Shale Hollow Park offer loop trails with both canopy cover and open sections, providing a peaceful experience. While popular, the vastness of parks like Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park can also allow for solitude.

Columbus offers great hiking experiences year-round. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers, while summer is ideal for shaded trails along rivers. Fall is particularly popular for its vivid foliage, especially in parks like Chestnut Ridge Metro Park or the more distant Hocking Hills. Even winter offers unique beauty, with ice formations in gorges and quiet, serene landscapes.

While much of Central Ohio is relatively flat, you can find trails with notable elevation changes. Chestnut Ridge Metro Park is known for providing trails with good elevation for a workout. Further afield, Hocking Hills State Park offers more challenging trails like Cantwell Cliffs and the Whispering Cave Trail, which feature rugged terrain and significant climbs.

The hiking routes in Columbus are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 3 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse natural surroundings, the well-maintained paths, and the variety of experiences available, from gentle river walks to more challenging forest trails.

For longer hikes, the Central Ohio Greenway Trails system offers over 230 miles of regional trails and paved paths connecting various parks and communities, allowing for extended walks. Within the Metro Parks, you can combine trails to create longer routes. For example, the Green River Cove Trail is a 6.4-mile route, and the Green River Trail & Pulliam Creek Trail loop extends to nearly 9.3 miles.

While many Metro Parks are best accessed by car, some urban parks like Scioto Audubon Metro Park are more accessible via public transport or by walking/cycling from downtown Columbus. For specific routes, it's advisable to check local COTA (Central Ohio Transit Authority) schedules and routes to see if they serve your desired trailhead.