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Trails to Try in Central Ohio

Feel the need to get away from the noise and business of the day to day? A couple hours on a walk is usually just what the doctor ordered.

Columbus isn’t exactly known for its great outdoor scenery, but it does have some fantastic afternoon getaway locations. Having nothing but the sound of the wind through the pine trees can be just what the crowded mind needs in a busy spring season. Here is my personal list of favorite trails in Central Ohio.

 

My favorite trails around Central Ohio

 

1.Overlook Trail at Highbanks Metro Park (4.8 Miles)

This is a great forested trail made of four smaller hikes. Take the slightly hilly Dripping Rock Trail (2.4 miles) to the Overlook Trail, which is nearly completely covered in woods (1.3 miles) for a spectacular Cliff side view of the Olentangy River from about 150 feet up.

 

2. Columbus Park of Roses (13 Miles)

For those of you in the north side of the city, the Park of Roses is a fantastic place to get away from the noise. There are very large open field areas and a walking path through some very well kept garden beds. Continuing through the field area, you will find the Olentangy Trail. Take it south onto the Scioto Trail to get to the downtown area and eventually Scioto Audubon Metro Park. Take it north to pass several small parks on your way into Worthington.

 

3. Multipurpose Trail at Sharon Woods Metro Park (3.8 miles)

For an easy peaceful walk, head up to Sharon Woods Metro Park in Westerville. This park is relatively small compared to Highbanks and the Park of Roses. It’s made up of a 5 small trails that very from a distance of 0.3 miles to a 3.8 mile paved loop.

The River

Author The River

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Join the discussion 2 Comments

  • Linda says:

    Mitchell,
    Thanks for the information about how much walking we can get credit for if we do it. Do you remember it being spoken about the walks all over Columbus to see the different part of the city? At church in the summer we can offer different event for anyone interested in doing. Let me know if you have an idea of what I mean.
    Thanks
    Linda

    • Mitchell says:

      Linda, you’re welcome! As far as I know, there are no official walking routes around the city. The closest thing I can think of is the section of the Scioto Trail that goes along the Scioto Mile by the Leveque Tower and COSI. It was reconstructed in the last year or two and is a great scenic starting point to get to most places downtown. I hope that helps!

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