Looking to pedal your way through the best of Central Ohio?
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or someone who still struggles to not flip over the handle bars (guilty as charged), Columbus has some fantastic biking trails that you simply can’t miss out on.
From scenic river paths to urban adventures, these five trails offer something for everyone. So, strap on your helmet, grab an extra water bottle (trust me, you’ll need it), and get ready to explore the top must-see biking trails in Columbus. And if you spot someone awkwardly fumbling with their bike lock, feel free to say hi—it’s definitely just me.
Olentangy Trail
The Olentangy Trail? It’s like the LeBron James of Columbus trails (i.e. it’s the greatest of all time), stretching all the way from Worthington to downtown, following the Olentangy River’s winding lead. This trail is the perfect way to soak up the beauty of dozens of iconic parks, spots like Ohio State’s Campus, and the buzzing energy of the city. It’s really an adventure package. You start in Worthington, maybe grab a coffee, and before you know it, you’re in downtown Columbus, where the Olentangy Trail meets up with the Scioto Trail, opening up a world of possibilities.
Big Walnut Trail
Starting at the Hoover Reservoir, you can make your way all the way up to the totally underrated Inniswood Metro Garden. As you meander through the trees and over charming creeks, the trail takes you right into the heart of Gahanna’s Creekside area, with no shortage of retail therapy and food options. It’s more than just a path—it’s a journey through some of the most scenic spots in the region. Even though the trail isn’t fully connected yet, the sections that are open offer a perfect mix of transportation, park access, and wildlife observation.
Quarry Trails Metro Park
If you have ever wondered what it would be like to bike through an abandoned quarry turned incredible recreation spot, stop daydreaming and head on over to Quarry Trails Metro Park. The bike trails here weave through Marble Cliff Quarry, once the largest in the entire United States. As you explore, you’ll encounter observation areas with breathtaking views, a single-track mountain bike trail, and even a 25-foot waterfall that will look even better on your Instagram account.
Alum Creek Trail
The Alum Creek Trail is not just one of Columbus’s most scenic river corridors, it’s one of the country’s most scenic river corridors. This trail stretches from Westerville through the east side of Columbus and all the way to Three Creeks Park. It’s like a greatest hits album of Central Ohio’s natural beauty. Following the picturesque Alum Creek allows bikers to enjoy the blend of urban and natural landscapes, with some sections of this trail designated as part of the Ohio to Erie Trail and U.S. Bicycle Route 50.
Camp Chase Trail
Imagine me, cruising along Ohio’s Camp Chase Trail, regretting not bringing an extra water bottle because, let’s face it, being “in shape” is so 10 years ago! Who needs bulging muscles when you’ve got the scenic views of cornfields and the rhythmic clack of the railroad tracks to keep you company? What’s cool about this trail is the juxtaposition of Ohio’s serene countryside and the industrial vibes of the railways. It’s like nature and infrastructure decided to have a dance-off, and I’m just here for the entertainment (and a lot of sweating).
