Whether it’s a leisurely family ride or you’re training for a triathlon, Columbus is full of epic bike trails.
Columbus has always had a hardcore group of cyclists, but lately, riders have been increasing. Between cycling to work to save the environment and training for the annual Columbus Pelotonia, biking has become somewhat of a trend in our city.
With the advancement of projects like Rapid 5 and other new bike lanes popping up around Columbus, the city is working to expand access to trails and other natural spaces to residents.
Bike trails new and old are spread out all around the town and beyond to help you get back on your bike. Check out eight of the best trails and greenways around Central Ohio.
Alum Creek Trail
Distance:Â 22 miles
This path spans from Westerville to Groveport through Bexley and Easton. It runs along, or rather over, Alum Creek with plenty of bridges to cross making for great spots to stop and take photos. The Alum Creek trail also connects to the Blacklick Creek Greenway trail at Three Creeks Metro Park.
Blacklick Creek Greenway Trail
Distance:Â 17 miles
This trail runs parallel to Blacklick Creek for most of the ride. Passing through multiple parks this is a great trail to make stops if you want to pack a snack, or just like to rest in the grass for a minute. The trail goes from Reynoldsburg, through Blacklick Woods Metro Park, down to Three Creeks Metro Park near Groveport.
Big Walnut Trail
Distance:Â 10 miles (five sections combined)
This renovated trail runs in sections spread from Three Creeks Metro Park, through Gahanna’s Creekside, up to Hoover Reservoir. Creekside is a great place to stop for a bite to eat, catch some live music, or just relax and watch the water. The new renovations have connected a few of the sections that were previously separate trails. Now you can ride a little farther on the new smooth pavement.
Scioto Trail
Distance:Â 10 miles
Beginning just South of German Village and ending in Upper Arlington this path takes you up to the Scioto River through downtown where you’ll get an epic view of the city skyline. Along the way you’ll pass the Scioto Audobon Park, a great place to relax or get an extra workout in at their free rock wall- you do need your own supplies though.
Camp Chase Trails
Distance:Â 16Â miles
This trail stretches from Columbus to London and actually runs much farther beyond 16 miles, but the first 16 miles are the most commonly ridden. You can actually take this trail 34 miles out to South Charleston, Ohio. The path takes you through the Battelle Darby Metro Park and can easily connect to the Scioto Greenway Trail if you want to make it downtown.
Olentangy Trail
Distance:Â 14 miles
From downtown Columbus up to Worthington this trail takes you along the scenic Olentangy river. The trail will be undergoing quite an overhaul, beginning in 2024. The redesign aims to help keep riders safe while protecting the nature in the area.
Darby Creek Greenway
Distance: Eight miles (two sections combined)
This trail has two sections going through two different parks- Battle Darby Creek Metro Park and Prarie Oaks Metro Park. Both are great places to ride on a sunny days to keep you cool given the amount of shaded pathways.
You can view the Darby Creek Greenway map here.
Genoa Township Trail
Distance: Four miles
This trail runs from Westerville to just South of Galena at the Hoover Reservoir. There’s a Scenic Trail along Hoover that’s perfect for taking photos or just enjoying what mother nature has to offer. The trees in the area make this trail extra beautiful, any time of the year. Click here to see a map of the trail.
