The best walks and hikes around Huber Ridge
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Hiking around Huber Ridge, Ohio, offers access to diverse outdoor environments, characterized by expansive parklands, scenic reservoirs, and river valleys. The region features well-maintained trail systems that traverse woodlands and natural preserves. These areas provide opportunities for both leisurely strolls and more active pursuits, connecting hikers with local ecosystems and green spaces.
Best hiking trails around Huber Ridge
- The most popular hiking route is Sharon Woods and Edward S. Thomas Nature Preserve loop — Westerville, a 3.9 miles (6.3 km) trail that takes 1 hour 37 minutes to complete. This easy route winds through woodlands and natural preserves.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Blendon Woods Metro Park loop via Brookside Trail — Columbus, Ohio, an easy 3.0 miles (4.9 km) path. This trail explores varied habitats within a metro park setting.
- Local hikers also love the Inniswood Metro Gardens loop — Westerville, Ohio, a 1.6 miles (2.6 km) trail leading through botanical gardens, often completed in about 39 minutes.
- Hiking around Huber Ridge is defined by expansive parklands, scenic reservoirs, and river valleys. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy walks to moderate trails.
- The routes in Huber Ridge are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 15 reviews. More than 200 hikers have used komoot to explore Huber Ridge's varied terrain.
Last updated: August 21, 2026
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2.01km
00:33
30m
30m
The Big Walnut Creek Trail offers a delightful, easy hike spanning 1.2 miles (2.0 km) with a gentle 105 feet (32 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 32 minutes to complete. This paved, multi-use path winds along the scenic Big Walnut Creek, providing glimpses of its high-quality waters and passing through varied landscapes, including wooded sections and open fields. You'll also encounter charming bridges and local artwork, making for a pleasant and accessible outdoor experience.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is generally accessible for hikers, runners, and cyclists. While specific parking information varies by segment, the trail's easy difficulty and paved surface mean it's suitable for most. Keep in mind that some parts of the trail are located within the Big Walnut Creek's floodway, a detail that has shaped its development to protect the natural environment.
This trail is a notable part of Central Ohio's developing greenway system, aiming to connect various parks and neighborhoods. It's highly regarded for its family-friendly environment, with smooth paths perfect for jogging strollers, and offers opportunities for wildlife observation along one of the region's significant waterways. The trail's ongoing development highlights its importance in creating an interconnected network for local residents.
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The Hoover Dam Park to Spring Grove North Park via Big Walnut Trail offers a wonderfully accessible outdoor experience, perfect for a relaxed outing. This easy 1.7-mile (2.8 km) hike features just 26 feet (8 metres) of elevation gain and takes around 42 minutes, guiding you along paved asphalt paths. You'll enjoy pleasant views of Hoover Reservoir, pass through open fields, and cross charming footbridges, all while following the scenic Big Walnut Creek.
Starting from Hoover Dam Park, this segment of the Big Walnut Trail is highly suitable for walkers, joggers, and families with strollers. Parking is typically available at the park, making trailhead access simple. Dogs are also welcome to join you on your walk, as long as they are kept on a leash, ensuring a pleasant experience for all users.
This trail is a key part of the ambitious Central Ohio Greenways system, with plans to connect existing segments into a nearly 26-mile continuous route. It provides an accessible way to connect with nature, offering opportunities for wildlife observation and linking communities to local parks and amenities. Its multi-use design and family-friendly environment make it a notable and valued asset in the region.
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4.5
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41
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6.34km
01:38
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The Multipurpose Trail offers a delightful and accessible outdoor experience, perfect for a relaxed stroll or a quick escape into nature. This easy 3.9-mile (6.3 km) route features a gentle 93 feet (28 metres) of elevation gain, guiding you through the pleasant forest setting of the Edward S. Thomas Nature Preserve. You'll find yourself on a well-maintained multi-use path, with potential views of Schrock Lake, making for a refreshing journey that takes about 1 hour and 37 minutes.
Planning your visit to this trail is straightforward, as multipurpose paths are designed for ease of access. While specific parking information isn't detailed, these trails often have convenient access points and are suitable for a visit at any time of day. It's a great option for a spontaneous outing, requiring no special permits or extensive planning, just a desire to enjoy the outdoors.
Multipurpose trails like this one are a valuable community asset, providing dedicated, safe spaces for various non-motorized activities. They connect different parts of the community, fostering active living and offering an alternative to vehicular travel. This particular trail, with its easy difficulty and natural highlights, exemplifies how such paths contribute to both recreation and local connectivity in areas like Franklin County, Ohio.
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4.91km
01:17
40m
40m
The Brookside and Overlook Trail Loop offers a wonderfully accessible and easy 3.1-mile (4.9 km) hike through pleasant forested areas. You'll discover the Brookside Trail, which crosses a small brook with fascinating geological sections, before reaching the tranquil Thoreau Lake. With only 133 feet (40 metres) of elevation gain, this loop takes about 1 hour and 17 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a relaxed outing.
This trail is particularly beginner-friendly and suitable for various fitness levels, providing a refreshing escape into nature without being overly strenuous. Parking is generally available at Blendon Woods Metro Park, ensuring a hassle-free start to your hike. For the best experience, consider visiting in autumn, as the trail to Lake Thoreau is especially beautiful with the changing leaves.
What makes this loop notable is its ability to deliver a rewarding outdoor experience, including a scenic overlook, with minimal physical demand. You're even encouraged to explore off-trail into the surrounding hillsides and forests of Blendon Woods Metro Park if you're feeling adventurous. It's an excellent option for a quick, immersive nature walk near Columbus.
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2.61km
00:40
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The Inniswood Metro Gardens loop offers a charming and accessible escape into nature, perfect for a relaxed outing. This easy 1.6-mile (2.6 km) hike, with only 27 feet (8 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 39 minutes, guiding you through a delightful mix of meticulously cultivated botanical displays and peaceful natural woodlands. You'll discover vibrant themed gardens, serene wetlands, and even a children's discovery area, all on mostly paved or boardwalk paths.
Planning your visit to this family friendly trail is straightforward, as it's highly accessible for all ages and abilities, including those using wheelchairs or strollers. Spring is often considered the best time to hike the Inniswood Metro Gardens loop, when the extensive flora is in full bloom, providing a spectacular visual treat. Parking is generally available, and the trails are well-maintained for a comfortable experience.
What makes this loop particularly special is its unique blend of cultivated beauty and preserved natural areas, honoring the Innis sisters who donated the property. The 2.8-acre Sisters' Garden, with its play elements and elevated walkways, is a highlight for younger visitors. This trail is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a gentle, visually rich outdoor experience in Westerville.
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Popular around Huber Ridge
Tips from the Community
This segment of the multi-use trail that loops around the metro park and Edward S. Thomas Nature Preserve is ideal for both bicyclists and pedestrians, providing excellent views of the preserve. The northern portion of the preserve is mainly within the Spring Hollow Outdoor Education Center, where the ravine floor supports a variety of plant and wildlife species.
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Discover the serene beauty of Edward S. Thomas Nature Preserve, honoring the renowned Ohio naturalist. Immerse yourself in the legacy of Edward S. Thomas while enjoying a hike through this scenic sanctuary.
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Inniswood Gardens spans 123 acres within a nature preserve. The gardens are named after a pair of sisters, Grace and Mary Innis, who once lived on the grounds. The gardens are home to more than 2,000 species of plants in their themed gardens and specialty collections.
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Schrock Lake is a 14-acre lake in Sharon Woods Metro Park. The lake has four fishing docks in different areas on its banks. There are picnic shelters and opportunities for birding around the lake as well.
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Brookside Trail passes through Blendon Woods and over a small waterway. It is a great trail for an autumn walk to Lake Thoreau. The small brook that it crosses has sections of interesting geology of alluvial deposits and glacial till sediments. Visitors are encouraged to go off-trail to explore the hillside and forests of Blendon Woods Metro Park.
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Thoreau Lake is a small lake within Walden Waterfowl Refuge. This area has a bird blind observation building for birders to admire the many bird species of the area. Visitors can find educational signage and programming around local flora and fauna at the nature center immediately south of the lake along Lake Trail in the park.
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The Hoover Reservoir Park (area) offers over 4,700 acres of peaceful and serene landscape just North of Columbus. The park and lake provide guests with a range of recreational activities from picnicking, hiking, boating and fishing. For the bird watching enthusiasts, the park offers a wide variety of bird types ranging from common to rare. This includes frequent sightings of the American Bald Eagle throughout the year. The reservoir is an important feature for tourism, but also for the water it provides to the city of Columbus.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Huber Ridge?
There are over 20 hiking trails around Huber Ridge, offering a variety of experiences. Most of these, 21 to be exact, are considered easy, making the area accessible for many hikers.
Are there family-friendly hiking options near Huber Ridge?
Yes, Huber Ridge offers many family-friendly hikes. A great option is the Inniswood Metro Gardens loop — Westerville, Ohio, which is a short 1.6-mile trail through beautiful botanical gardens, perfect for a leisurely stroll with children.
Are there any trails with waterfalls near Huber Ridge?
Yes, a notable natural attraction near Huber Ridge is the Charleston Falls Preserve. It features a striking 37-foot waterfall, often called a 'Miniature Niagara,' with over three miles of trails winding through diverse habitats. It's a fantastic spot for scenic views and unique geological formations.
What kind of natural attractions can I explore along the hiking trails?
The Huber Ridge area is rich in natural attractions. You can explore the expansive Hoover Reservoir Park, the historical Alum Creek valley, or the peaceful green spaces of Delawanda Park along the Olentangy River. These areas offer diverse landscapes from serene reservoirs to riverine forests.
Are there any loop hikes available in the Huber Ridge area?
Yes, loop hikes are popular in the region. For example, the Blendon Woods Metro Park loop via Brookside Trail — Columbus, Ohio is an easy 3.0-mile path that explores varied habitats within a metro park setting, offering a complete circular experience.
What do other hikers say about the trails around Huber Ridge?
The trails around Huber Ridge are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 15 reviews. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths and the diverse natural environments, from woodlands to botanical gardens.
Are there any moderate difficulty hikes for those seeking more of a challenge?
While most trails are easy, there are options for moderate difficulty. The Inniswoods Gardens and Hoover Damn Park via Big Walnut Creek Path — Westerville is a moderate 5.4-mile route that offers a longer and slightly more challenging experience, combining garden exploration with reservoir views.
Where can I find convenient parking for hiking trails?
Many parks in the Huber Ridge area, such as Ridgewood Park and Blendon Woods Metro Park, offer dedicated parking facilities. For trails like the Sharon Woods and Edward S. Thomas Nature Preserve loop — Westerville, you'll typically find parking available at the preserve entrances.
Can I spot wildlife while hiking in Huber Ridge?
Yes, the diverse natural environments around Huber Ridge provide opportunities for wildlife spotting. Hoover Reservoir Park is particularly known as a haven for birdwatchers, with frequent sightings of various bird types, including the American Bald Eagle, throughout the year.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Huber Ridge?
The Huber Ridge area offers pleasant hiking experiences year-round. Spring brings blooming flora, summer provides lush greenery, and autumn showcases vibrant fall colors. Even winter can be beautiful, especially in areas like Hocking Hills State Park (a short drive away), which features unique icy formations.
Are there any trails that connect to larger trail systems?
Yes, the Olentangy River Trail, a prominent 22-mile route in Columbus, connects to various natural areas and historical sites, offering hikers access to a broader network of outdoor environments beyond the immediate Huber Ridge vicinity.
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