The best walks and hikes around Columbus

Hiking around Columbus offers diverse landscapes. While generally flat due to glacial history, the region features varied terrain including shale bluffs, wetlands, forests, and prairies. You'll find ravines near rivers and creeks, providing interesting elevation changes. Notable areas like Highbanks Metro Park feature impressive 100-foot shale bluffs overlooking the Olentangy River, while Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park offers extensive wetlands and prairies.

Yes, Columbus has many easy trails perfect for beginners and families. For example, the Blendon Woods Metro Park loop via Brookside Trail is an easy 3.1-mile route through diverse forests. Another great option is the Antrim Park Lake Loop, an easy 1.9-mile path circling a lake. Many of the 38 easy routes available in the area are suitable for a relaxed outing.

For scenic viewpoints and unique natural features, consider Highbanks Metro Park, known for its 100-foot shale bluffs overlooking the Olentangy State Scenic River. Shale Hollow Park also offers exploration of shale cliffs and Big Run Creek. For a truly dramatic experience, Hocking Hills State Park, about an hour southeast of Columbus, is renowned for its towering cliffs, thrilling waterfalls, and deep gorges. Closer to the city, the Overlook Deck provides a nice vantage point.

While Columbus itself has fewer dramatic waterfalls, the internationally acclaimed Hocking Hills State Park, located about an hour southeast, is famous for its stunning waterfalls. You can explore areas like Cedar Falls and the challenging Whispering Cave Trail, which features a 105-foot seasonal waterfall. These are particularly impressive after rain or during spring thaws.

Columbus offers several excellent loop trails. Popular choices include the Blendon Woods Metro Park loop, the Antrim Park Lake Loop, and the Scioto River Trail loop in Scioto Audubon Metro Park. Another option is the Quarry Trails Metro Park loop, offering varied scenery within a manageable distance.

Many parks within the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system are dog-friendly, typically requiring dogs to be on a leash. It's always best to check specific park regulations before you go, but generally, you'll find plenty of options to enjoy with your canine companion across the region's extensive trail network.

Along Columbus's hiking trails, you can encounter various attractions. For instance, Blendon Woods Metro Park is home to Thoreau Lake, ideal for birdwatching. At Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park, you might spot American Bison roaming freely in the Bison Prairie. Urban trails like those in Scioto Audubon Metro Park offer views of the Scioto River and the city skyline. You can also find historical sites like the Fort Ancient Burial Mound nearby.

While most trails in Columbus are easy to moderate, there are options for those seeking more challenge. The region offers one difficult route, and areas like Chestnut Ridge Metro Park provide trails with noticeable elevation changes for a good workout. For truly challenging terrain with significant elevation and rugged paths, Hocking Hills State Park, with trails like Whispering Cave, offers a more demanding experience.

Many of Columbus's Metro Parks and urban trails offer good accessibility. Most Metro Parks provide ample free parking at trailheads. For public transport, some urban parks like Scioto Audubon Metro Park and sections of the Olentangy Trail are more accessible via COTA bus routes. It's advisable to check specific park locations and bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.

The hiking experience in Columbus is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 30 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from serene riverine environments to varied terrain including shale bluffs and wetlands. The well-maintained trails and the variety of options for different skill levels are frequently highlighted as key attractions.

Yes, trails like the Olentangy Trail offer longer, linear paths connecting different parts of the city, such as Worthington to The Ohio State University campus. A moderate route like From Northmoor Park to Antrim Lake via Olentangy Trail covers over 8 miles, providing a good option for extended walks or combining with other activities.