The best MTB trails in Franklin County
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Mountain biking in Franklin County offers diverse routes primarily along river corridors and through parklands. The landscape features gentle elevation changes, making it suitable for various skill levels. Trails often follow waterways like the Olentangy River and Alum Creek, providing scenic paths through urban and natural settings.
Best mountain bike trails in Franklin County
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Olentangy River Trail β Olentangy River loop from Pontifical College Josephinum, a 35.0 miles (56.3 km) trail thatβ¦
Last updated: August 4, 2026
1.84km
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10m
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Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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8.52km
00:42
30m
30m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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5.0
(2)
6
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Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
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Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Olentangy Trail extends from Worthington to the heart of Columbus, tracing the scenic route along the Olentangy River. This trail meanders through popular parks, recreational facilities, and preserved natural spaces.
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With the sparkling water in front of you and the city skyline in the background, this is a great place to stop and take in the view. It's especially great on calm, clear nights when the city lights reflect of the water.
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The Olentangy River reaches 97 miles from Morrow County through Delaware County to Columbus, where it meets the Scioto at Confluence Park. Originally called "Keenhongsheconsepung," meaning "sharp tool river," settlers renamed it "Whetstone River" before a legislative mix-up in 1833 assigned it the name "Olentangy." The river serves as a drinking water source for Delaware County, while the Delaware State Park Reservoir is used for flood control. Restoration efforts, including dam removals, have reduced the riverβs width and improved ecology.
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This 22-mile trail is one of the most important cycling routes in Columbus, connecting neighborhoods and Ohio State University to some of the city's best attractions: Natural areas, historical sites, cultural areas, and more.
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This 3.1-acre neighborhood park in Worthington, located right off the trail, features a small pollinating garden and serves as an ideal trailhead for the Olentangy Trail. It's the perfect spot to start or end a scenic hike along the river.
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The Olentangy Trail extends from Worthington to the heart of Columbus, tracing the scenic route along the Olentangy River. This trail meanders through popular parks, recreational facilities, and preserved natural spaces.
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Here, a bridge along the trail crosses over the Olentangy River. This bridge connects both sides of the park and is a great place for a quiet pause and good views of the river.
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The Olentangy Trail extends from Worthington to the heart of Columbus, tracing the scenic route along the Olentangy River. This trail meanders through popular parks, recreational facilities, and preserved natural spaces.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of mountain bike trails can I find in Franklin County?
Franklin County offers a mix of easy and moderate mountain bike trails. You'll find routes like the Scioto Trail, which is great for beginners, and more challenging options such as the Alum Creek Phase 1 Trail for those seeking a moderate ride.
Are there any family-friendly mountain bike trails in Franklin County?
Yes, Franklin County has options suitable for families. The Scioto Trail is rated as easy, making it a good choice for families looking for a less strenuous ride. Many trails here are designed to be accessible, allowing for enjoyable outings with varying skill levels.
What are the best trails for beginners in Franklin County?
Beginners will find the Scioto Trail to be an excellent starting point. It's classified as easy and provides a good introduction to mountain biking in the area without overly technical sections.
Are there any loop trails for mountain biking in Franklin County?
Yes, you can find loop trails in Franklin County. For example, the Delawanda Park β Olentangy River Trail loop offers a substantial ride that brings you back to your starting point, combining park and river trail sections.
What natural features or attractions can I see along the mountain bike trails?
Many trails in Franklin County run alongside beautiful natural features. You can ride near the Olentangy River, explore areas around Hoover Reservoir Park, or pass by Alum Creek. These routes offer scenic views and opportunities to enjoy the local waterways and green spaces.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about mountain biking in Franklin County?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.44 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessibility of the trails, the scenic river views, and the well-maintained paths that cater to various skill levels.
How long are the mountain bike trails in Franklin County?
Trail lengths vary significantly. You can find shorter routes like the Scioto Trail, which is under 2 km, up to much longer rides such as the Olentangy River Trail β Olentangy River loop, which extends over 56 km.
Are there any trails suitable for advanced mountain bikers in Franklin County?
Currently, the komoot guide for Franklin County primarily features easy and moderate trails. There are no routes specifically classified as 'difficult' for advanced riders in this selection. However, the longer moderate trails can still offer a good workout.
What are some notable viewpoints or scenic spots along the trails?
While riding, you can discover several scenic spots. Highlights include the Antrim Lake Deck and a bench with a view of the pond at Portman Park, offering picturesque breaks and photo opportunities.
What is the best time of year for mountain biking in Franklin County?
The diverse landscape of Franklin County makes it enjoyable for mountain biking across multiple seasons. Spring and fall generally offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer can be great, but it's advisable to ride earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
Can I find trails that are less crowded in Franklin County?
While some popular trails can see more traffic, exploring routes during off-peak hours or on weekdays can often lead to a more serene experience. The variety of trails available means you can often find quieter sections, especially on longer routes like the Olentangy River Trail β Olentangy River loop.
Most popular routes in Franklin County
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