Autumn is in full swing, and there’s no better way to soak up the season than with a scenic hike through Columbus Metro Parks!
The parks are known for their impressive landscapes, thriving wildlife, and peaceful trails that provide an escape from city life. As the leaves have finally begun to change, the parks are undergoing a gorgeous transformation right now. So grab your hiking boots, because these upcoming hikes are the perfect excuse to enjoy nature while it’s at its most beautiful.
Trick-or-Treat Trail at Blacklick Woods
Families can hit the Buttonbush Trail for a half-mile of Halloween fun. Collect treats along the way, show off your costume, and enjoy a relaxed evening surrounded by fall colors.
When: October 23, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Where: Blacklick Woods Metro Park, 6975 E Livingston Ave, Reynoldsburg
Costume Lantern Hike at Walnut Woods
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A fan favorite returns! Bring your best costume and join this lantern-lit, two-mile hike through the Tall Pines area of Walnut Woods. The glow of lanterns under towering pines makes for a perfectly spooky fall evening.
When: October 23, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: Walnut Woods Metro Park, 6723 Lithopolis Rd, Groveport
Cryptid Night Hike at Blacklick Woods
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Think you know what lurks in the forest? Join a naturalist for a 1.25-mile walk exploring mythical creatures rumored to roam the woods. It’s part folklore, part fun, and all adventure.
When: October 24, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Where: Blacklick Woods Metro Park, 6975 E Livingston Ave, Reynoldsburg
Fall Colors Hike at Blacklick Woods
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Nothing beats the Midwest in autumn. Enjoy peak foliage on this 1.25-mile guided hike through the Walter Tucker Nature Preserve while learning about the changing season from a park naturalist.
When: October 25, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Where: Blacklick Woods Metro Park, 6975 E Livingston Ave, Reynoldsburg
Spooky Scavenger Hunt at Scioto Grove
Perfect for families and fall lovers alike, this Halloween-themed scavenger hunt invites visitors to explore the park in a fun, interactive way. Meet at the Arrowhead Picnic Shelter to grab your activity sheet and start the adventure!
When: October 27, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Where: Scioto Grove Metro Park, 5172 Jackson Pike, Grove City
Cemetery Hike at Quarry Trails
For those who like their fall hikes with a side of local history, this one’s for you. Join a naturalist to visit the White/Britton Cemetery and learn about the area’s past on this short, atmospheric walk.
When: October 31, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Where: Quarry Trails Metro Park, 2600 Dublin Rd, Columbus
If you’re looking for more amazing events from Metro Parks, you can head over to metroparks.net.
Featured image via Metro Parks (Facebook)
