There is something super magical about being out in nature during the winter.
If it’s snowed recently, the snow helps dampen the sounds of the world and being out in the great outdoors can be such a rejuvenating experience. Even if there hasn’t been a recent dusting, the sunsets can be gorgeous.
The air is crisp and it’s a great time to get outside. If you’ve never gone hiking in the winter, Metro Parks offers an awesome Winter Hikes series that are great for beginners.
But if you’re looking to set out into the wild winter on your own, you won’t want to miss out on these gorgeous hikes.
Tall Pines at Walnut Woods Metro Park
This park will probably make every season hiking roundup because it’s literally always beautiful. But Walnut Woods is never as magical as it is with a little snow on the ground. The Tall Pines area will provide plenty of jaw-dropping scenery during your hike. The Sweetgum trail will take you through the area. It’s 2.6 miles long and classified as easy.
More info: Tall Pines at Walnut Woods Metro Park
Clear Creek Metro Park
Clear Creek Metro Park has some challenging hikes, but since it’s winter, we’ll recommend an easier (but still incredibly beautiful) trail. The Creekside Meadows trail follows the banks of Clear Creek through open fields for 1.7 miles, perfect for a quick jaunt in the picturesque, frozen landscape!
More info:Clear Creek Metro Park
Glacier Ridge Metro Park
Is there a better winter hiking destination than one that’s named after a glacier? I think not. Glacier Ridge is stunning in the winter, and the paved path on the Ironweed Trail is a great place to get in a few steps. The trail is 2.8 miles long and weaves through woods and fields, plus there’s a good chance you’ll see some incredible wildlife along the way.
More info: Glacier Ridge Metro Park
Battelle Darby Metro Park
Battelle Darby is such a gorgeous park. Curling alongside Big Darby Creek and out into fields and woods, there are a variety of trails you can take to satisfy your winter hiking itch. But no matter which trail you take, leave room to stop by and visit the herd of bison living at the park. They’re stunning.
More info: Battelle Darby Metro Park
Inniswood Metro Garden
At Inniswood, it would be criminal to only recommend one trail. There is so much beauty at the park. And although the gardens may not be in full bloom, the park is just as pretty when it’s covered in snow! All of the paths at Inniswood are rated easy, so it’s a great place to enjoy a leisurely hike.
More info: Inniswood Metro Garden
Want to spend some more time exploring the Metro Parks this winter?
Be sure to check out the Metro Parks Winter Hike Series, which runs through the end of February. For more info, visit metroparks.net/winter-hikes.
