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These Themed Hikes in Columbus Metro Parks Are the Perfect Way to Celebrate Fall

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.

Pumpkin Hike at Scioto Grove

Get into the fall spirit with this pumpkin-themed hike! Stroll through the beautiful trails at Scioto Grove Metro Park while hunting for hidden pumpkins along the way. It’s a fun activity for the whole family, and the best part? You get to take a pumpkin home (one per person, though, so no hoarding)! Be sure to register ahead of time—it’s free and sure to be a great time.
When: October 24, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Where: Scioto Grove Metro Park, 5172 Jackson Pike, Grove City

Sunrise Hike at Prairie Oaks

Not a fan of sleeping in? Join the early birds at Prairie Oaks Metro Park for a breathtaking sunrise hike around Darby Bend Lakes. There’s something magical about watching the sky turn shades of pink and orange while hiking through the stillness of the morning. No registration needed—just show up and soak in the serenity!
When: October 27, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
Where: Prairie Oaks Metro Park, 2755 Amity Rd, Hilliard

Sunset Hike to the Fire Tower

Scioto Grove offers up a stunning sunset hike that leads to the park’s fire tower. While the hike itself is a peaceful journey through the park, climbing the fire tower is where the adventure really kicks in! If you’re up for it, the view from the top is definitely worth the climb, with golden hour lighting up the landscape below.
When: October 28, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Where: Scioto Grove Metro Park, 5172 Jackson Pike, Grove City

Costume Lantern Hike at Walnut Woods

Looking for a spooky, festive adventure? Bring your best costume and a sense of adventure to Walnut Woods for a lantern-lit hike through the Tall Pines area. This 2-mile hike is a fun, slightly eerie way to embrace the Halloween spirit while enjoying the park’s towering pine trees.
When: October 29, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: Walnut Woods Metro Park, 6833 Richardson Rd, Groveport

Cemetery Hike at Quarry Trails

For the ultimate spooky season vibe, join the cemetery hike at Quarry Trails Metro Park. You’ll trek through the park’s trails to visit an old cemetery, learning about its history along the way. It’s a short hike but packed with local lore—perfect for a Halloween week outing!
When: October 30, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Where: Quarry Trails Metro Park, 2600 Dublin Rd, Columbus

If you’re looking for more amazing program from Metro Parks, you can head over to metroparks.net.

Featured image via Metro Parks (Facebook)