Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy.
I practically grew up in the parks in Columbus, Ohio. From a young age, my mom had us exploring nature on the hiking trails in Ohio.
Now, as an adult, I still love hiking in Columbus and all around the state of Ohio. To help fellow trekkers, I’ve rounded up my list of favorite Columbus hikes in the best city parks.
About the Best Parks in Columbus, Ohio
Some of the best parks in Ohio are located within the Columbus Metropolitan area. This means there are plenty of opportunities for hiking near Columbus, Ohio. In fact, Columbus, Ohio Parks and Recreation maintains more than 350 parks in Franklin County alone!
Additionally, Columbus Metro Parks boast 20 of the most beautiful parks in Ohio. These cover 27,700 acres – with an astounding 230 miles of trails. If you are in Columbus and seeking out the best hiking in Ohio, you won’t have to go far!
12 Best Columbus Parks for Hikes
Our list features the best hiking near Columbus in some of the most beautiful parks in Ohio. For each of the Columbus walking trails, we include site information, a trail description and a map link.
#1 Highbanks Metro Park
Hands down the best park in Columbus, Highbanks is 1,200-acres with 10 different trails that range from easy to moderate/difficult.
Featuring deep ravines and exposed shale rock, the park offers some of the best hikes in Columbus, Ohio. Plus, there is ample picnic tables and playground areas for kids.
Highbanks Hiking Trails
Overlook and Dripping Rock Trails are the prime paths and, in our opinion, the two best Columbus Metro Park hikes overall.
The Overlook Trail (Trailhead MAP) is a 2-mile out-and-back trail (with an optional loop in the middle). The trail leads to an observation deck on 100-foot bluff overlooking the Olentangy State Scenic River. It is one of the best hiking spots in Ohio to see Bald Eagles, so bring your binoculars!
Dripping Rock (Trailhead MAP) is a 2.5-mile loop that climbs through beautiful forested ravines. It is one of our favorite places for a peaceful walk. While it can get crowded on weekends, on most weekdays the trail is quiet.
#2 Sharon Woods Metro Park
Sharon Woods is another one of the parks around Columbus, Ohio that we love visiting! The 761-acre space is centered on Schrock Lake and features multipurpose and hiking-only trails.
In addition to the paths, visitors can go fishing in the lake in the summer or sledding on the hill in the winter.
Sharon Woods Walking Trails
The 1.8-mile looping Spring Creek Trail (MAP) is our favorite route through Sharon Woods Park. The Columbus, Ohio hiking path winds through forest, up two hills and along the creek.
#3 Olentangy Trail
Not exclusive to a single park, the Olentangy River Trail extends 13 miles from downtown Columbus north to Worthington.
The route passes through several of the best parks in Central Ohio along the way. Although it is often referred to as the Olentangy Bike Trail, it is actually a multi-use path for bikers, joggers and walkers.
Olentangy Walking Trails
While it might not be one of the best hiking trails in Columbus, Ohio, it is a wonderful place to walk or bike in the city.
Along the route, there are several short trails that offer detours to the water. It is best to view an Olentangy Trail Map (North or South) to find the most convenient trailhead.
Pro Tip: Nearby Glen Echo Park – situated in a Clintonville ravine – water tumbles down a sheer shale cliffside after heavy rain.
#4 Antrim Park
Maintained by the City of Columbus Parks and Rec, Antrim is one of the many parks traversed by the Olentangy Trail.
Still, is well worth visiting all on its own! The highlight is the large quarried lake and the 1.2-mile loop trail that goes around it.
Antrim Loop
Although the pedestrian-only lakeside loop (Trailhead MAP) is the only official trail at Antrim, there are several paths that break off and lead down to Olentangy River. The Antrim Park Bike Trail also extends north and south of the lake.
#5 Battelle Darby Creek
Battelle Darby Creek is the best Metro Park in Columbus, Ohio to see amazing wildlife. Specifically, the American Bison that freely roam on the enclosed pasture lands.
While many people go here to see the Bison, what some do not realize is that there are miles of trails along Big and Little Darby Creeks.
In fact, there are numerous intertwining paths that take visitors through the forest, prairies, wetlands and picturesque rivers. These are truly some of the top hikes in Columbus, Ohio.
Battelle Darby Creek Park Trails
When visiting Battelle Darby Creek, we like to park at the Nature Center (MAP). From there, we walk south on the Darby Creek Greenway Trail through the Bison pastures to the Cedar Ridge Picnic Area.
Continuing on the trails, the best hikes are down to Darby Creek via the Cobshell Trail. This also links up with Hawthorn and Indian Ridge Trails for further exploration.
The Camp Chase Trail – part of the Ohio-to-Erie Trail (which we talk more later) – also passes through Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park.
#6 Blendon Woods Metro Park
Another great place for hiking around Columbus, Ohio is Blendon Woods. This Metro Park is comprised of more than 650 acres of land.
It is crisscrossed by interlinking, forested trails that are perfect for hiking Columbus, Ohio. The large Thoreau Lake, is a popular birdwatching spot at Blendon Woods.
Blendon Woods Hiking Trails
The network of connecting trails at Blendon Woods allows hikers to plan different routes. Of the several ways to explore the area, our favored route is to start on the Overlook Trail (MAP).
Then connect to Ripple Rock Trail and return via the Brookside Trail, which is about a 1.5-mile hike. There are easy options to detour to the lake (via Lake Trail) or to the meadow (via Sugarbush Trail).
#7 Three Creeks Metro Park
Located southeast of the city, the 1,100-acre Three Creeks Metro Park is a fabulous place to go hiking in Columbus.
The park is centered on the confluence of thee waterways: Alum Creek, Blacklick Creek and Big Walnut Creek. There are 14 miles of trails within the park – including forest trails that lead to the confluence.
Three Creeks Walking Trails
The best way to explore Three Creeks Park is by trekking on the forested trails that weave around and over the waterways. It’s one of the best places to hike in Columbus, Ohio!
We suggest parking at the Confluence Trails Area (MAP) and go on several short, interlinking hikes. Start on the Bluebell Trail, merge onto the Alum Creek Greenway Trail and cross the bridge.
Then hop back onto the Confluence Trail and return via the Alum Creek Trail. If you want to keep going, do a lap around Turtle Pond or the easy, looping Evergreen Trail.
The Alum Creek Bike Trail, which is also part of the Ohio-to-Erie Trail, is one of the best places to walk in Columbus, Ohio.
Like the Olentangy Trail, the Alum Creek Columbus Trail is a multi-use paved path that extends 25 miles from Westerville to Three Creeks Park.
The Blacklick Creek Greenway Trail – another multi-use trail in Columbus – connects Three Creeks Metro Park to nearby Blacklick Woods Metro Park.
#8 Scioto Grove Metro Park
Located along the riverside in Grove City, the Scioto Grove Metro Park features seven miles of intertwining trails.
In addition to the Columbus hiking trails, the 620-acre space also has picnic shelters, scenic viewpoint platforms, an archery range, a disc golf course and a canoe access point!
Scioto Grove Hiking Trails
We think the best trail at Scioto Grove is the looping combination of the REI River Trail and the Overlook Trail (MAP).
When hiked as a loop, it’s about 3 miles. Plus, it can easily be extended to a longer trek on adjoining trails. That said, the riverside trail can get muddy after rain – so keep that in mind as your plan your route.
#9 Hoover Dam Ohio Trails
Hoover Dam Reservoir Park is one of the cool parks in Columbus, Ohio. Covering 4,700 acres, top area activities are hiking, biking, boating and fishing.
Hoover Dam Hikes
On the east side of the dam is the Hoover Dam Nature Trail (MAP). It’s an easy 1-mile loop through scenic nature, but does include a set of steep stairs. The path connects to a paved trail across the dam and hooks up with Big Walnut Trail.
The Big Walnut Trail, a multi-use paved trail, runs along the western side of the reservoir. It is part of the Columbus Greenbelt Network and connects Hoover Reservoir Park to nearby Inniswood Metro Gardens (about 3 miles from the dam).
#10 Columbus Park of Roses and Whetstone Park
One of the most beautiful Central Ohio parks, the Whetstone Park of Roses is known for its gorgeous gardens. It’s located just north of downtown near the Ohio State University campus.
However, what many visitors might not know is that beyond the meticulously planned gardens are forested trails. The shaded paths follow Adena Brook, a meandering stream of exposed shale rock in a deep ravine.
Park of Roses Hiking Trails
Labeled the Olentangy Trail (MAP), there are actually trails on both sides of Adena Brook. The south side follows the top of the ravine, while the north side stays by the creek.
The trail is best accessed by the small parking lot along Hollenback Road (just before the main lot at the Roses Shelter House).
#11 Blacklick Woods Metro Park
Opened in 1948, Blacklick Woods was the very first Metro Park in Columbus, Ohio. The 643 acre site is home to one of the best beech-maple forests in the state.
With the gorgeous deciduous trees, Blacklick Woods offers the best hiking in Columbus parks during autumn when the leaves change colors.
Additionally, Blacklick Park has paved bike trails, workout stations, a basketball court and a golf course.
Recommended Walking Route at Blacklick Woods
Three interconnecting trails (Beech, Maple and Buttonbush) can be combined into a 2.2 mile looping nature walk. (MAP)
The flat dirt trails mixed with elevated boardwalks make this a simple and enjoyable nature walk. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for owls, deer and even foxes.
#12 Scioto Mile in Downtown Columbus
One of the newest trails in Columbus, Ohio is the Scioto Mile adjacent to downtown. Paved pathways line both sides of the Scioto River as it snakes its way through central Columbus.
Although the multi-use path is not immersed in nature like many of the other hikes in Columbus parks, the Scioto Mile trails and connecting bridges are the most beautiful places to view the city skyline.
Best Walking Trails at Scioto Mile
In total, there are more than 12 miles of Scioto Greenways recreational trails (MAP). The path is officially part of the Ohio-to-Erie Trail, too.
The Scioto Trail route passes through numerous Columbus parks – like Scioto Audubon Metro Park and Bicentennial Park. Plus, it connects to other Columbus trails, making for an extended hike around the area!
More Parks in Columbus, Ohio
Above, we shared our favorite parks for the best Central Ohio hikes. However, there are more fabulous greenspaces in and around Columbus that provide a full dose of nature.
Other Parks in Downtown Columbus
There are many Downtown Columbus parks that are ideal for relaxation and enjoyment, rather than hiking.
Some of our favorite parks in Columbus, Ohio Downtown area are Topiary Park (a 7-acre site of sculpted shrubs), Schiller Park (featuring a pond and outdoor theater) and Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens (entry fee required).
Goodale Park is another Downtown Columbus park that is close to the Short North. City festivals, like ComFest, are held here as well.
More Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks
The Central Ohio Metro Parks organization was established in 1945 with an aim to preserve nature spaces and make them free and accessible to all. The system now has over 28,000 acres spread across 20 parks in Central Ohio.
Some of these Columbus Parks – like Rocky Fork Metro Park in New Albany and Glacier Ridge in Plain City – have just a few trails. However, they do offer additional amenities, like picnic shelters, obstacle and disc golf courses as well as playgrounds.
In fact, the newest Metro Park, Quarry Trails, has a sledding hill, a natural play area and one of the best Columbus, Ohio waterfalls!
Dublin, Ohio Parks
If you are looking for nature near Dublin, Ohio, then we highly recommend seeking out Hayden Run Falls (MAP). It’s also one of the best waterfalls in Columbus, Ohio, streaming 35 feet into the gorge.
Not necessarily a top place for hiking near Columbus, Ohio anymore (they have built a boardwalk and viewpoint in an effort to protect the ecosystem), it’s still an absolutely gorgeous scene!
Other great parks in Dublin, Ohio are Indian Run Falls, with cascading waterfalls and nature trails, and Scioto Park, which features a picnic area and a 12-foot-tall statue of Native American Chief Leatherlips.
Nearby Thaddeus Kosciuszko Park is a lovely oasis with pleasant and easy paths. Deer are often spotted here and the fall colors are incredible.
Just a short drive north, Emily Traphagen Park in Powell has 2 looping trails (Whitetail and Meadow) plus a branching path to a pond overlook.
More Ohio Parks for Hiking
We have featured our favorite parks in Columbus for hikes and some of the top places for enjoying nature. But there are so many more places to hike in Ohio! For trekkers who want to go hiking beyond the city, we are highlighting a few of the best trails in Ohio.
Pro Tip: If you are looking for more things to do around the state, be sure to read our guide to The Best Things To Do in Ohio.
Hocking Hills Trails in Southeast Ohio
Hocking Hills State Park has some of the best hiking trails in Ohio! Located in southeastern Ohio in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Hocking Hills hiking is nothing short of phenomenal.
Some of the top Hocking Hills hiking trails (and some of the best Ohio hiking trails, for that matter) are Conkles Hollow, Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave and Rock House.
Pro Tip: Read our dedicated article on all the Best Hikes in Hocking Hills!
Mohican State Park
Mohican State Park (located 1 hour north of Columbus) is a fantastic area full of outdoor activities, historic sites, scenic landscapes and some of the best hikes in Ohio.
Long one of my favorite places to visit in the state of Ohio, we can definitely recommend adding it to your outdoor adventures!
Pro Tip: Read all about the Best Things To Do at Mohican State Park!
Clear Creek Metro Park
Highly rated as one of the best places to hike in Ohio, Clear Creek Metro Park encompasses more than 5,300 acres of land.
The forest is filled with Canadian hemlocks, but the rhododendrons are a big attraction when they bloom in early summer. With a range of treks – the Creekside Meadows Trail is our favorite – the area offers some of the best hikes near Columbus, Ohio.
Slate Run Metro Park
Slate Run is a 1,700-acre space – and one of the fun places to go hiking in Ohio! Comprised of forest, meadow, waterways, wetlands and featuring a cute covered bridge, the area is incredibly diverse.
In addition to the numerous hiking trails near Columbus, the park features a Living Historical Farm. It’s an interesting and entertaining place to learn more about the history of Ohio.
Deer Haven and Havener Park
Deer Haven (part of the Preservation Parks of Delaware County) and Havener Park (in Liberty Township) are two of the most underrated and beautiful parks near Columbus, Ohio. They sit side-by-side and have joining trails.
Together, the two parks feature forested terrain, wetland ponds, grassy meadows and a river ravine. The trails are rated easy to moderate (there is even a shallow creek crossing) – and, all together, there are about 4 miles of paths.
We prefer to park at the Havener Park lot (MAP) and then walk in a looping pattern. This way we do not back track until the last leg returning to the car.
Shale Hollow Park
Part of the Preservation Parks of Delaware County, Shale Hollow is a 211-acre nature site near Columbus that is marked by a tributary of the Olentangy State Scenic River.
A stream winds through the center next to 40-foot-tall cliffs. Exploration of the stream, shale wall and round rock formations is encouraged – and it’s a great place to cool off in the summertime. The Great Horned Owl Trail and Overlook Trail are ideal trails for hiking in Central Ohio.
Schnormeier Gardens
A hidden gem near Mount Vernon, Ohio, the Schnormeier Gardens is a privately owned park that is open to the public on certain weekends.
There are nine different gardens, more than 50 sculptures and a Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired residence on the 75 acres of land. Go to their official website to find information on Open House event dates.
Clifton Gorge
The Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve in Yellow Springs is one of the cool hikes not far from Columbus, OH.
Although the park is small with just about 3 miles of intertwining trails, the trek is stunningly beautiful. The trail follows the Little Miami River through the deep gorge.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
The Cuyahoga Valley NP in Cleveland is one of the top places to hike in Ohio. The 32,500-acre site is the only national park in Ohio.
At Cuyahoga Valley there are more than 125 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. Plus, we feel CVNP has the best hiking trails in Ohio with waterfalls.
Brandywine Falls is a fairly easy 1.5-mile loop – and one of the most popular walking trails in Ohio for its spectacular waterfalls.
The epic 87-mile Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail runs through the park, as does part of the Ohio Buckeye Trail, which is a 1,444-mile trail that loops through the entire state.
Ohio to Erie Trail for Bicyclists
The Ohio-to-Erie Trail (OTET) is a 326-mile path that links Cleveland and Cincinnati and is designed for bicyclists.
Called Ohio Bike Route 1, more than 80% of the trail is off-street, paved surfaces that takes cyclists through the state’s biggest cities. Many portions of the path – especially those that run through city parks – are designated as multi-use trails.
Central Ohio Hiking Club
Those who want to meet fellow trekkers or are more confident hiking in Ohio with others might want to join the Central Ohio Hiking Club (COHC).
The Columbus hiking club is a membership club for adults interested in walking with fellow members. The club organizes day hikes for members, which are usually about 4 to 6 miles, on the most popular and off-the-beaten-path trails in central Ohio.
Get more in our Top Things To Do in Columbus, Ohio!
Start planning your trip in the USA! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board.
