Calling all Central Ohioans! We’ve got a list of some amazing spots to take your next hike. Whether your goal is to tread through miles of uphill climbs, or to just take a slow walk of appreciation in Central Ohio’s lush landscape – we’ve got something for everyone on this list.
Hiking doesn’t have to be reserved for the warmer months. Now’s as good a time as ever to start trekking. Just remember to check the weather and bring along some hydration… just in case!
Lace up your tennis shoes (or your hiking boots), fill up a bottle of water, and get ready to sweat.
Your Next Trail Starts Here
Blendon Woods – Sugarbush Trail
4265 E Dublin Granville Rd, Columbus, OH 43230
Take a hike through oak-hickory forests at Blendon Woods‘ Sugarbush Trail. There’s no shortage of beauty to uncover within Blendon Woods’ 653 acres. Keep your eyes open for all kinds of wildlife, like songbirds, ducks, geese, and wild turkey. If you’re a nature enthusiast or enjoy birdwatching, visit either of the two observation centers to see the waterfowl. This is a dog-free hike, so you’ll have to leave your fur babies at home; just don’t forget to tell them they are very good.
Hayden Run Falls
4325 Hayden Run Road, Columbus, OH 43221
Take a quick hike to one of Columbus’ most well-known waterfalls that stretches as high 30 feet at Hayden Run Falls. Yes, compared to other waterfalls – 30 feet may not seem all that impressive. However, this somewhat small (but mighty) waterfall is definitely worth the trip. You’ll want to reserve this hike for a day that directly follows a heavy rain, as the falls will be much more powerful! Note that this hike is entirely on a boardwalk, so if you’re looking for something more “legitimate,” keep reading!
Olentangy Trail
Olentangy Trail, Columbus, OH 43210
The Olentangy trail is well-loved among us Cbusers, to say the very least. It is a beautifully-dense and green trail that stretches 13.6 miles along the Olentangy River. This is a great spot to bring your dogs, as long as they are leashed! Who could say no to some outdoor bonding time with a cute four-legged buddy? The Olentangy Trail is also a popular spot for biking and running, so hikers – prepare to hear quite a few, “on your lefts!” There are also offshoot areas that are fun to explore, particularly around Antrim Lake, so don’t be afraid to explore!
Alum Creek Trail
Alum Creek Trail, Columbus, OH 43219
The Alum Creek Trail is approximately 25 miles in length, and is a link between Westerville, Columbus, and Three Creeks Park. Alum Creek Trail is one of the better ways to feel somewhat removed from the bustle of the city without straying all that far away from Columbus. This trail is a good option for hikers on all levels, but may be more appealing to beginners as the terrain is mostly flat!
Camp Chase Trail
8465 Alkire Rd, Galloway, OH 43119
This may be one of the smaller trails near Columbus, but it’s still worth the mention. Camp Chase Trail runs along the Camp Chase Railroad and is about 15.2 miles in length. Though the trail may not be as vast as the others, it’s a good option for a quicker hike. The boardwalks make it easy to find your way, but be careful not to slip!
Quarry Trails Metro Park
2158 Old Dublin Rd, Columbus, OH 43228
In it’s past life, the Quarry Trails Metro Park was once the largest contiguous quarry in the United States. Now, it exists as one of Columbus’ hot spots for biking, hiking, fishing, rock climbing, and even sledding in the colder months. One of the latest additions to Quarry Trails is a via ferrata, the first major urban “iron path” of its kind in the country, letting climbers scale the old quarry cliffs on cabled rungs and a suspension bridge.
Big Walnut Trail
409 E Johnstown Rd, Columbus, OH 43230
If you’re on a time crunch and want to get outdoors for a quick hike, the Big Walnut Trail is one of the best places to do it! It’s a humble 4.4 mile out-and-back hike that you can complete in less than 2 hours and offers optimal bird-watching spots, fishing areas, and more. Also, feel free to bring your doggos as long as they’re leashed!
Sharon Woods Metro Park
6911 Cleveland Ave, Westerville, OH 43081
This park is heavily wooded and makes you feel as though you’re far away from any kind of city-living. Sharon Woods Metro Park has several trail options at varying fitness levels, designed for specific activities like dog-walking, biking, and walking. If you plan to bring your kiddos, there’s a playground area to make for a perfect family-outing!
Hocking Hills State Park
Logan, OH 43138
Hocking Hills State Park is one of the most picturesque areas in all of Ohio, thanks to its location in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. There are plenty of hikes that span all sorts of skill levels, so you are sure to find something that fits your needs and desires. Popular hikes in Hocking Hills include Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, and Upper Falls to Lower Falls.
One quick heads-up before you go: the park’s Visitor Center is temporarily closed, so it’s worth planning your route ahead of time instead of relying on it once you arrive. And you’d better bring along a camera because it’s truly gorgeous out there.
Clear Creek Metro Park
185 Clear Creek Rd, Lancaster, OH 43130
Whether you are looking for an easy in-and-out hike or a challenging hike with tons of elevation changes through gorgeous ravines and various types of terrain, Clear Creek Metro park is your one-stop-shop. There are also pet-friendly trails if your furry friend is your favorite hiking buddy.
Lace Up and Get Moving
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, logging miles on a paved greenway, or hiking through one of the most scenic state parks in Ohio, there’s a trail here for whatever kind of outdoor adventure you’re after. Some of these you can knock out on a lunch break, others deserve a whole afternoon. So, plan accordingly and bring water either way.
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