Are you looking to get out of the house and explore the great outdoor spaces in and around Columbus, OH? Whether you plan cycling, hiking, or birdwatching, you’ll discover fantastic biking trails, parks, and incredible scenery during a day’s drive or a weekend stay. Check out some of our favorite spots, listed below.
1. Alum Creek Trail
Alum Creek Trail is one of the most beautiful trails in the city, with scenic corridors along the river and access to several parks. It’s the perfect trail to explore by bicycle with the whole family, and you’ll encounter easy to moderate-level paths with many shady trees and bridges. All the trails and park areas are well-maintained, with incredible panoramas and opportunities for photography.
2. Olentangy Trail
This stunning trail follows the Olentangy River and offers a quiet, relaxing outdoor space ideal for walking and cycling. Olentangy Trail is a popular way to access Antrim Lake and Whetstone Park, and you’ll enjoy many forested areas and several pedestrian bridges during your visit. This path is well marked with signage and is available to visit year-round.
3. Camp Chase Trail
Camp Chase Trail is the ultimate city path for avid cyclists and visitors to Columbus. This spectacular trail offers convenient access to many downtown attractions, including dining, shopping, and entertainment venues. It’s an extensive trail ideal for cyclists planning a long tour, which reaches as far as Cleveland, Dayton, and Cincinnati. Camp Chase Trail is also ideal for hiking or jogging – and pets are welcome!
4. Wilson Road Park
This park was completed in 2017 and offers 47 acres that include picnic tables, a shelter, a water fountain, a bike repair station, and bike racks. It’s the ideal place to enjoy an afternoon of cycling, with access to connecting trails and excellent facilities, including Greenway Trail access, restrooms, lighted trails, and benches. There are over 125 miles of regional trails that are directly connected to Wilson Road Park, which includes the Ohio to Erie Trail.
5. Quarry Trails Metro Park, Mountain Bike area
This unique park was transformed from an abandoned quarry into a recreational space with mountain biking paths. You’ll enjoy the exceptional scenery at Quarry Trails Metro Park, including an impressive waterfall 25 feet tall, lakes, observation decks, and single-track trails for mountain bikes. It’s an excellent place for amazing views and challenging bike paths. This area is popular to visit in the winter for snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, and pets are welcome.
On your next drive to Columbus, you’ll find bike trail systems and numerous paths that offer an excellent tour of the city’s top attractions, venues, and spectacular scenery throughout the region. Start making your plans to get out and enjoy the sights today!
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