The best walks and hikes around Pickerington
3.5
(7)
63
hikers
10
hikes
Hiking around Pickerington offers diverse landscapes, from glacial wetlands to the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The region features varied terrain, including woodlands, open fields, and areas shaped by ancient glaciation. Elevations reach over 1,100 feet in some parks, providing scenic views and a range of natural features for outdoor exploration.
Best hiking trails in Pickerington
- The most popular hiking route is Chestnut Ridge Metro Park loop — Carroll, Ohio, a 2.5 miles (4.0 km) trail that takes 1 hour 6 minutes to complete. This easy route explores the Appalachian foothills with varied woodland.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Burning Lake Trail to Killdeer Trail — Pickerington Ponds Metro Park, a moderate 6.6 miles (10.6 km) path. This trail navigates through glacial wetlands and offers birdwatching opportunities around ponds.
- Local hikers also love the Sweetgum Trail to Buckeye Trail loop — Walnut Woods Metro Park, a 6.6 miles (10.6 km) trail leading through woodlands and open areas, often completed in about 2 hours 40 minutes.
- Hiking around Pickerington is defined by glacial wetlands, Appalachian foothills, and creek-side paths. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to moderate trails.
- The routes in Pickerington are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 3.0 stars from over 6 reviews. More than 60 hikers have used komoot to explore Pickerington's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
37.5km
09:31
90m
70m
Embark on a challenging hiking adventure along the Blacklick Creek Greenway Trail, a difficult route spanning 23.3 miles (37.5 km) with an elevation gain of 285 feet (87 metres). You can expect to spend around 9 hours and 30 minutes exploring its varied landscape. The trail closely follows Blacklick Creek, guiding you through a mix of peaceful wooded sections and expansive open fields that often resemble natural prairies. Keep an eye out for distinctive features like large wooden bridges and underpasses that mark your journey, offering a dynamic and engaging experience. You will find a bench at Portman Park with views of a pond, a perfect spot to pause and take in the scenery. This route offers a significant challenge for those seeking a long-distance hike. You will find a bench at Portman Park with views of a pond, a perfect spot to pause and take in the scenery. This route offers a significant challenge for those seeking a long-distance hike.
Accessing the Blacklick Creek Greenway Trail is straightforward, as it connects various metro parks, each providing convenient trailheads and parking options. While much of the route features a smooth, paved surface, be prepared for some sections within Blacklick Woods Metro Park that consist of crushed limestone. Additionally, a short dirt path through Portman Park, located south of Refugee Road, can become muddy after rainfall. It is always a good idea to check current trail conditions, especially if rain is in the forecast, to ensure a comfortable visit. Plan your start time to allow ample daylight for this extensive journey.
The Blacklick Creek Greenway Trail is a multi-use path that stands out for its commitment to preserving the natural environment of the Blacklick Creek corridor. As you traverse the route, you will notice the deliberate blend of maintained paths and areas left in their natural state, fostering a rich habitat. This makes the trail an excellent location for wildlife viewing, particularly for birdwatching enthusiasts who can spot various species throughout the year. The trail's design and location within Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks highlight its role in offering a substantial outdoor escape within an urban-adjacent setting.
14.3km
03:40
50m
60m
Embark on a moderate hike along the Blacklick Creek Greenway Trail, a 8.9-mile (14.3 km) route that follows Blacklick Creek. You will experience a tranquil journey through varied landscapes, from peaceful wooded areas to open fields and natural prairies. With an elevation gain of 156 feet (48 metres), this trail offers a pleasant outdoor experience that typically takes around 3 hours and 39 minutes to complete.
When planning your visit, be aware that the trail is mostly paved, but some sections feature crushed limestone, and a short dirt segment through Portman Park can become muddy after rain. You will find convenient amenities like ample parking, restrooms, and running water at various trailheads, thanks to its connections with several metro parks. Dogs are welcome to join you on your hike, provided they are kept on a leash.
The Blacklick Creek Greenway Trail is a highlight within Blacklick Woods Metro Park, known for its rich natural environment. As you hike, keep an eye out for diverse birdlife thriving among the maple and beech tree woodlands. This trail's seamless integration with multiple metro parks makes it a notable and accessible option for exploring the region's green spaces.
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1.80km
00:28
10m
10m
Embark on an easy hike along the Sycamore Creek Park Loop, a paved route that winds through lush landscapes and past a picturesque 2.3-acre pond. This gentle trail offers a relaxing experience, perfect for a quick outing. You will cover 1.1 miles (1.8 km) with a minimal elevation gain of 28 feet (8 metres), typically taking around 27 minutes to complete.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as Sycamore Creek Park provides ample parking for easy access to the trailhead. The park is a versatile destination, offering numerous amenities beyond the trail itself, including playgrounds, sports courts, and picnic shelters. This makes it a popular spot for families and anyone looking for a convenient escape into nature.
As you explore the loop, you will cross the charming Zeller-Smith Covered Bridge, a notable landmark that adds a touch of rustic beauty to your walk. The park also features an arboretum and a peaceful creek, enhancing the natural appeal of this accessible route. The pond is home to fish like largemouth bass and bluegill, adding to the park's ecological interest.
5.0
(1)
22
hikers
4.05km
01:06
60m
60m
This easy 2.5-mile loop in Chestnut Ridge Metro Park offers diverse terrain, scenic views, and is great for families and dog walkers.
3.0
(2)
14
hikers
3.66km
00:56
10m
10m
Embark on an easy hike along the Buttonbush, Maple and Beech Trail, a peaceful journey through the pleasant forest environment of Blacklick Woods Metro Park. This route offers a refreshing escape into nature, where you can enjoy the quiet atmosphere and keep an eye out for local wildlife. The trail covers 2.3 miles (3.7 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 24 feet (7 metres), making it accessible for most hikers. You can comfortably complete this loop in about 55 minutes, immersing yourself among the buttonbush, maple, and beech trees that give the trail its name.
Planning your visit to the Buttonbush, Maple and Beech Trail is straightforward, as Blacklick Woods Metro Park is generally accessible. You will find parking conveniently available right at the trailhead, making your arrival simple. The trail is open year-round, offering a pleasant outdoor experience no matter the season. Before you head out, it is always a good idea to check the park's official website for any specific alerts or changes that might affect your visit.
This trail provides a wonderful opportunity to experience the natural setting of Blacklick Woods Metro Park. As you hike, you will pass through a diverse forest, home to various plant species and local wildlife. The quiet atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a relaxing walk, allowing you to connect with nature away from city noise. It stands out as a prime example of the accessible natural beauty found within the metro park system.
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Popular around Pickerington
Tips from the Community
This 92-acre park has a rain garden, picnic tables, athletic fields and some woods. It also serves as the trailhead for the Blacklick Creek Trail.
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This is one of two ponds within Chestnut Ridge Metro Park. These ponds have observation decks on their banks and small fishing docks that are open to the public.
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Chestnut Ridge Metro Park is a 486-acre park home to Chestnut Ridge, the first ridge in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The ridge is about 1,116 feet in elevation and about 4,500 feet long. The park offers around 4 miles of hiking trails and over 10 miles of mountain biking trails. The park also offers opportunities for fishing on two small ponds and a first-come-first-served picnic shelter.
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Blacklick Woods Metro Park is a 652-acre park with woods, fields, prairies, and ponds. It is home to one of the state's best remaining beech-maple forests. Visitors can take advantage first-come-first-served picnic shelters within the park or play a round of golf on the course within the park.
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Portman Park is a 91-acre park named after longtime city council member Maurey Portman. The park has picnic and playground facilities and a portion of the park is on the bank of Blacklick Creek.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Pickerington?
Pickerington and its surrounding parks offer a selection of hiking trails. You can find several routes on komoot, with a total of 6 tours listed in this guide, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Pickerington's hiking trails?
The region features diverse landscapes, from the Appalachian foothills to glacial wetlands. You'll find trails winding through woodlands, open fields, and alongside ponds. For example, the trails at Chestnut Ridge Metro Park offer ascents through dense woods, while Pickerington Ponds Metro Park features paths through marshes and wetlands.
Are there any trails suitable for families with children?
Yes, many trails in the Pickerington area are suitable for families. Parks like Sycamore Creek Park offer pleasant walking paths and amenities. At Chestnut Ridge Metro Park, the 0.4-mile Homesite Trail and the easy, pet-friendly Milkweed Trail are good options. Pickerington Ponds Metro Park also has easier paths like the 0.5-mile Yellowlegs Trail.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Pickerington?
Yes, many trails in the area are dog-friendly. For instance, the Milkweed Trail at Chestnut Ridge Metro Park is specifically mentioned as a pet-friendly option. The 1.5-mile paved Burning Lake Trail at Pickerington Ponds Metro Park is also suitable for pets. Always check specific park regulations for leash requirements.
Are there any trails with good viewpoints or natural landmarks?
Absolutely. Chestnut Ridge Metro Park offers scenic views, including the Columbus skyline from its summit, and features the first ridge in the Appalachian foothills. At Pickerington Ponds Metro Park, you'll find observation decks overlooking Pintail Marsh, perfect for birdwatching. You can also explore highlights like Bench with view of pond at Portman Park or Heron Pond.
What are the options for circular or loop trails?
Several parks offer excellent loop trails. A popular option is the Chestnut Ridge Metro Park loop, an easy 2.5-mile route. Another great choice is the Sweetgum Trail to Buckeye Trail loop at Walnut Woods Metro Park, which is a moderate 6.6-mile path. Pickerington Ponds Metro Park also features the 1.1-mile Killdeer Trail which circles Blue Wing Pond.
Is parking available at the trailheads?
Yes, all major parks in the Pickerington area, including Chestnut Ridge Metro Park, Pickerington Ponds Metro Park, and Sycamore Creek Park, provide designated parking areas for visitors accessing their trail systems.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Pickerington?
The region offers enjoyable hiking year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and migratory birds, especially at Pickerington Ponds. Summer is great for shaded woodland trails. Autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage, particularly in the Appalachian foothills of Chestnut Ridge. Even winter can be beautiful for a crisp hike, though some trails might be muddy or icy.
Are there any trails that are particularly good for birdwatching?
Yes, Pickerington Ponds Metro Park is a premier birdwatching destination in central Ohio, with over 250 different species recorded. The park's extensive wetlands, marshes, and ponds attract numerous migratory birds. The Burning Lake Trail to Killdeer Trail is an excellent route for exploring this area, with observation decks available.
Do I need any permits to hike in Pickerington's parks?
Generally, permits are not required for day hiking on the public trails within the Metro Parks and local parks around Pickerington. However, it's always a good idea to check the official websites of specific parks for any updated regulations or special event requirements.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Pickerington?
The routes in Pickerington are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.0 stars from over 6 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse natural environments, from the quiet woodlands of Chestnut Ridge to the abundant wildlife at Pickerington Ponds, and the well-maintained paths suitable for various skill levels.
Are there any longer trails or greenways that connect to other areas?
Yes, the 16-mile Blacklick Creek Greenway connects Pickerington Ponds Metro Park with other Metro Parks, providing a longer, paved option for hiking and biking. This allows for extended journeys beyond individual park boundaries.
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