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United States

Ohio

Franklin County

Sweetgum Trail to Buckeye Trail loop

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

United States

Ohio

Franklin County

Sweetgum Trail to Buckeye Trail loop

Moderate

2.6

(5)

hikers

Sweetgum Trail to Buckeye Trail loop

Q: How long does it take to hike the Sweetgum Trail to Buckeye Trail loop?

This loop typically takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes to complete, covering a distance of approximately 10.6 kilometers (6.6 miles).

Q: Is this loop suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, the Sweetgum Trail to Buckeye Trail loop is considered easy and is suitable for a wide range of hikers, including beginners and families. The terrain is relatively flat with minimal elevation changes.

Q: What is the terrain like on this trail?

The terrain is generally easy. The Sweetgum Trail features a mix of paved and gravel surfaces, while the Buckeye Trail is primarily paved. The Monarch Trail, which connects them, is also a paved path. You can expect well-maintained trails with mostly flat ground.

Q: How do the Sweetgum and Buckeye Trails connect to form a loop?

The Sweetgum and Buckeye Trails are connected by the Monarch Trail. This 1.4-mile paved path serves as a crucial link, allowing you to complete the full loop through Walnut Woods Metro Park.

Q: What kind of scenery can I expect along the route?

You'll experience diverse scenery, including the impressive stands of towering pines and sweetgum trees in the Tall Pines Area , meadows, and wooded sections. The Buckeye Trail offers views of Walnut Creek and areas with old nursery trees like serviceberries and red maples. The Monarch Trail also passes through wetlands and alongside the creek.

Q: Are there any specific points of interest or landmarks on the trail?

Key points of interest include the unique Tall Pines Area , a former city nursery, and the scenic Walnut Creek . You'll also pass by a Pond and restored wetlands, which are great for nature observation.

Q: Is the Sweetgum Trail to Buckeye Trail loop dog-friendly?

Yes, the trails in Walnut Woods Metro Park, including this loop, are dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash.

Q: What are the parking options for this loop?

Walnut Woods Metro Park offers ample parking facilities. You can access the trails from various parking lots within the park, which are well-marked and provide convenient access to the Sweetgum and Buckeye Trails.

Q: Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to hike in Walnut Woods Metro Park?

No, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access Walnut Woods Metro Park or to hike its trails, including the Sweetgum Trail to Buckeye Trail loop. The park is free and open to the public.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike this loop?

The loop is enjoyable year-round, but summer and fall are particularly pleasant. The Monarch Trail, which connects the Sweetgum and Buckeye Trails, is known for its butterflies during these seasons, offering an especially vibrant experience.

02:40

10.6km

20m

Hiking

Embark on the Sweetgum Trail to Buckeye Trail loop for a moderate hike through varied landscapes. You will journey 6.6 miles (10.6 km), gaining a gentle 59 feet (18 metres) in elevation, which typically takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes to complete. The route guides you through the impressive…

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

1.51 km

Pond

Highlight • Lake

This is one of many ponds and wetlands within Walnut Woods Metro Park. This area provides opportunities for bird-watching and enjoying the many native species of amphibians and reptiles of Ohio.

Tip by

4.61 km

Tall Pines Area

Highlight • Forest

This small area within Walnut Woods Metro Park is filled with towering pines and sweetgum trees along a semi-paved path. Pets are allowed on this trail.

Tip by

9.70 km

Walnut Creek

Highlight (Segment) • River

Walnut Creek is a scenic creek that offers ample opportunities for fishing and water recreation. Along this portion of the trail in Walnut Woods Metro Park, there are two canoe and fishing access points.

Tip by

10.6 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

8.60 km

1.73 km

253 m

Surfaces

8.77 km

866 m

863 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Sunday 12 July

29°C

21°C

60 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to hike the Sweetgum Trail to Buckeye Trail loop?

This loop typically takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes to complete, covering a distance of approximately 10.6 kilometers (6.6 miles).

Is this loop suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, the Sweetgum Trail to Buckeye Trail loop is considered easy and is suitable for a wide range of hikers, including beginners and families. The terrain is relatively flat with minimal elevation changes.

What is the terrain like on this trail?

The terrain is generally easy. The Sweetgum Trail features a mix of paved and gravel surfaces, while the Buckeye Trail is primarily paved. The Monarch Trail, which connects them, is also a paved path. You can expect well-maintained trails with mostly flat ground.

How do the Sweetgum and Buckeye Trails connect to form a loop?

The Sweetgum and Buckeye Trails are connected by the Monarch Trail. This 1.4-mile paved path serves as a crucial link, allowing you to complete the full loop through Walnut Woods Metro Park.

What kind of scenery can I expect along the route?

You'll experience diverse scenery, including the impressive stands of towering pines and sweetgum trees in the Tall Pines Area, meadows, and wooded sections. The Buckeye Trail offers views of Walnut Creek and areas with old nursery trees like serviceberries and red maples. The Monarch Trail also passes through wetlands and alongside the creek.

Are there any specific points of interest or landmarks on the trail?

Key points of interest include the unique Tall Pines Area, a former city nursery, and the scenic Walnut Creek. You'll also pass by a Pond and restored wetlands, which are great for nature observation.

Is the Sweetgum Trail to Buckeye Trail loop dog-friendly?

Yes, the trails in Walnut Woods Metro Park, including this loop, are dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash.

What are the parking options for this loop?

Walnut Woods Metro Park offers ample parking facilities. You can access the trails from various parking lots within the park, which are well-marked and provide convenient access to the Sweetgum and Buckeye Trails.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to hike in Walnut Woods Metro Park?

No, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access Walnut Woods Metro Park or to hike its trails, including the Sweetgum Trail to Buckeye Trail loop. The park is free and open to the public.

What is the best time of year to hike this loop?

The loop is enjoyable year-round, but summer and fall are particularly pleasant. The Monarch Trail, which connects the Sweetgum and Buckeye Trails, is known for its butterflies during these seasons, offering an especially vibrant experience.

Are there any recent changes or important conditions to be aware of on the trail?

An EF0 tornado in February 2024 significantly impacted the Tall Pines Area and Sweetgum Trail. However, extensive cleanup efforts have since made the trail fully accessible again. The park maintains its trails well, so you can expect a smooth hiking experience.