Easy hikes and walks in Franklin County
4.4
(115)
1,622
hikers
129
hikes
If you've ever tried to plan hiking in Franklin County, you know how overwhelming the options can be. With so many trails and parks, it's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it – you want the good stuff, the trails that deliver on scenery and experience without endless guesswork.
That's where komoot comes in. Our community has explored, mapped, and reviewed countless routes here, allowing us to…
Last updated: May 10, 2026
15
hikers
6.48km
01:41
40m
40m
The Terrace to Ancient Trail Loop offers a delightful and varied hiking experience, winding through open fields, peaceful woodlands, and wetlands. You'll follow sections of the Big Darby Creek, a…
9
hikers
7.81km
02:00
30m
30m
The Prairie Oaks Loop from Darby Bend Lakes Entrance offers a delightful journey through restored prairies and tranquil woodlands, providing continuous views of Darby Bend Lakes and the scenic Big…
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10
hikers
3.31km
00:50
10m
0m
The Schiller Park Trails offer a delightful, easy escape into the largest green space within Columbus's historic German Village. This 2.1-mile (3.3 km) loop is almost entirely flat, with only…
8
hikers
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…
7
hikers
2.78km
00:42
0m
0m
The Homestead Metro Park Loop offers a delightful, easy stroll through a unique park setting in Hilliard, Ohio. This paved path winds through a quiet, country atmosphere, showcasing a 2.5-acre…
8
hikers
3.51km
00:54
10m
10m
The Goodale Park Trails offer a delightful, easy escape into a historic urban green space, perfect for a leisurely stroll. You'll navigate largely flat, paved paths winding through an urban…
5
hikers
3.79km
01:01
50m
40m
The Milliken Falls via Tall Wall, Connector, and Milliken Falls Trail offers a unique blend of natural beauty and industrial history within Quarry Trails Metro Park. You'll traverse a 2.4-mile…
3
hikers
3.35km
00:51
10m
10m
The Big Walnut Trail offers a pleasant and accessible journey through Central Ohio's green spaces, primarily on a paved asphalt path. You'll find yourself winding through peaceful wooded corridors, passing…
4
hikers
3.30km
00:51
10m
10m
The REI River Trail offers a delightful escape into nature, tracing the banks of the Scioto River through mature forests. You'll navigate a gentle dirt path, occasionally transitioning to grassy…
3
hikers
2.94km
00:44
0m
0m
The Thompson Park Loop offers a wonderfully straightforward and accessible hiking experience, perfect for a quick escape into nature. You'll find a well-maintained, mostly flat path that winds through pleasant…
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Tips from the Community
Trail is rough gravel. There are several walking only trails along the lake.
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Tucked off the Heritage Rail Trail, this small park features playgrounds, a water fountain, toilets, lakes, a water park, and even a Conrail caboose—all set within a natural woodland setting with walking and biking trails.
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Schiller Park is an almost 25 acre park and is the city’s second‑oldest park. It has benches, a pavilion, playgrounds, and outdoor amphitheater.
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The Camp Chase rail trail cuts close to wide, placid Darby Creek here. If you follow the trail north it'll actually cross the creek on a bridge, then continue to the west.
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This is the only bridge over Big Darby Creek inside of Prairie Oaks Metro Park. It is open to foot or horse traffic.
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Darby Bend Lakes is a collection of three small lakes that are very close together. They get their name from their proximity to a sharp bend in Big Darby Creek. They are known for ample fishing and birding opportunities.
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REI River Trail offers views of the dense woodlands and of the river along which it runs, the Scioto River. Dogs are allowed on this trail and the path is made of hard-packed dirt.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in Franklin County?
Franklin County offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 100 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, there are 130 hiking tours available in the region.
What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes in Franklin County?
Easy hikes in Franklin County typically feature gentle elevation changes, traversing wooded areas, river corridors, and open parklands. You'll find paths through extensive metro parks and nature preserves, with diverse habitats ranging from prairies to wetlands.
Are there any easy loop hikes in Franklin County?
Yes, many easy trails in Franklin County are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to explore without retracing your steps. For example, the Terrace to Ancient Trail Loop and the Prairie Oaks Loop from Darby Bend Lakes Entrance are popular easy loop options.
What are some short and easy hikes under 2 hours in Franklin County?
For shorter excursions, consider the Big Walnut Creek Trail, which is about 1.2 miles (2.0 km) and takes around 33 minutes. Other short options include the Homestead Metro Park Loop or Thompson Park Loop, both offering easy walks under an hour.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along easy hiking trails?
Many easy trails in Franklin County offer views of significant natural features. You can explore areas around the Darby Creek, the Olentangy River, and the Hoover Reservoir Park. Some trails also pass by smaller lakes like Heron Pond or Thoreau Lake.
Are there family-friendly easy hikes in Franklin County?
Yes, Franklin County is well-suited for family-friendly hikes due to its gentle terrain and numerous metro parks. Trails like the Homestead Metro Park Loop or the Goodale Park Trails are excellent choices for families with children, offering accessible paths and pleasant surroundings.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in Franklin County?
The easy trails in Franklin County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 50 reviews. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the peaceful wooded areas, and the accessibility of the metro parks for a relaxing outdoor experience.
Are there opportunities to see wildlife on easy nature walks?
Yes, many easy nature walks in Franklin County, particularly those in metro parks and nature preserves, offer opportunities for wildlife viewing. Areas around Hoover Reservoir Park are known for diverse bird species, including American Bald Eagles, while trails along the Big Darby Creek may reveal other local fauna.
What is the best time of year for easy hikes in Franklin County?
Spring and fall are generally ideal for easy hikes in Franklin County, offering comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery with blooming wildflowers or vibrant autumn foliage. Summer can also be pleasant, especially on shaded trails, while winter hikes are possible, though some paths might be muddy or icy.
Are there any easy hikes that feature waterfalls?
While Franklin County is primarily known for its gentle river corridors and parklands, you can find trails that lead to smaller cascades. The Milliken Falls via Tall Wall, Connector, and Milliken Falls Trail is an easy route that specifically highlights a waterfall.
Are there any easy trails suitable for strollers or wheelchairs?
Many metro parks in Franklin County feature paved or finely crushed gravel paths that are suitable for strollers and some wheelchairs. While specific accessibility details vary by park, the generally flat terrain of many easy trails makes them more accommodating. It's always recommended to check specific park information for detailed accessibility features.
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