The best traffic-free bike rides around Columbus
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1,189
riders
14
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Columbus are characterized by an extensive network of multi-use trails, primarily the Central Ohio Greenways, which offer generally flat terrain with gentle elevation changes. The region features numerous river corridors, including the Olentangy, Alum Creek, and Scioto Rivers, providing lush green pathways through urban and suburban landscapes. These trails often connect to diverse Metro Parks, which encompass forests, prairies, and wetlands, enhancing the natural appeal for cyclists.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes around…
Last updated: May 12, 2026
5.0
(1)
33
riders
15.5km
00:53
40m
40m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
14
riders
89.6km
05:06
180m
180m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
12
riders
41.0km
02:21
70m
70m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
25
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
14
riders
21.4km
01:14
50m
50m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Columbus
Tips from the Community
This paved multiuse trail is one of the most popular in Columbus. It provides a great transportation corridor along the Olentangy River, linking users up with neighborhoods, recreation opportunities, local businesses, and the simple opportunity to enjoy some time by the water.
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This park derives its name from the confluence where Alum, Big Walnut, and Blacklick creeks come together. It comprises five areas with separate entrances, all interconnected, offering a variety of routes to explore.
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Alum Creek streches 58 miles until it drains into the Scioto River. The creek porvides drinking water source for Westerville, and historicly 2,000 years ago, the Adena built mounds along its valley, later inhabited by the Lenape tribe. During the War of 1812, locals built defensive blockhouses, such as Fort Cheshire, a vital role in the Underground Railroad, with the Sycamore Trail aiding escaped slaves. Today, Alum Creek flows through Alum Creek Lake, Westerville, and Columbus before joining Big Walnut Creek at Three Creeks Metro Park.
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The Olentangy Trail Hydration Station is one of a few water stations along this popular recreation route. Popular with hikers, runners, and bikers, the hydration station gives them a chance to stay hydrated.
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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 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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Here, you will cross a bridge that spans over Alum Creek, a 58-mile-long stream flowing through central Ohio. The creek begins in Morrow County, travels through Delaware County, and ends in Franklin County, where it merges with Big Walnut Creek, eventually draining into the Scioto River.
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Alum Creek Trails travels along one of Columbus's most scenic river corridors. Sections of the trail are also designated as part of the Ohio to Erie Trails and U.S. Bicycle Route 50.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in Columbus?
This guide features 14 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Columbus. The majority, 12 routes, are rated as easy, with one moderate and one difficult option for more experienced cyclists.
Are there family-friendly no-traffic cycling routes in Columbus?
Yes, Columbus is excellent for family cycling, with many routes designed for all abilities. The terrain is generally flat with gentle elevation changes. Routes like the Olentangy Trail loop from Franklin County are particularly suitable, offering a quiet and relaxing experience along the river.
What kind of scenic views can I expect on these car-free bike routes?
Columbus's no-traffic routes offer diverse scenic views. You'll find lush green corridors along rivers and creeks, forested areas, and open fields. The Alum Creek Trail loop from Historic Crew Stadium, for instance, runs along Alum Creek with numerous bridges for scenic stops. Many trails also pass through Metro Parks, offering natural beauty year-round.
Are there any loop touring bike trails without traffic in Columbus?
Yes, several routes offer convenient loop options. The Olentangy Trail loop from Franklin County is a great example of a circular route that keeps you off busy roads. The Columbus Loop, while not a single komoot tour in this guide, is a popular 30-mile, mostly level, traffic-free loop around the city, linking major trails.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Columbus?
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Columbus, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the extensive network of multi-use trails, the generally flat and accessible terrain, and the beautiful natural settings found within the city's Metro Parks and along its rivers.
What attractions or points of interest can I see along these routes?
Many routes offer access to natural attractions and urban green spaces. You can find beautiful lakes like Hoover Reservoir Park, Heron Pond, and Antrim Lake Deck. The trails also connect to Metro Parks such as Battelle Darby Creek, known for its Bison Prairie, and Scioto Audubon Metro Park with its city skyline views.
Are there any less crowded no-traffic bike touring routes near Columbus?
While popular trails like the Olentangy and Alum Creek can see more traffic, exploring sections of the Ohio to Erie Trail or routes through less central Metro Parks like Blendon Woods can offer a quieter experience. The Darby Creek loop from Cherry Creek provides a peaceful ride through natural areas.
What is the best season for no-traffic bike touring in Columbus?
Spring and fall are generally considered the best seasons for touring cycling in Columbus. Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, while fall offers stunning foliage. The Metro Parks, in particular, are beautiful year-round, with changing leaves in the fall and diverse flora in the spring.
Where can I find parking for these no-traffic bike touring trails?
Many of Columbus's multi-use trails, especially those within the Central Ohio Greenways and Metro Parks, offer designated parking areas at various access points. It's advisable to check the specific trailheads or Metro Park websites for detailed parking information before your ride.
Are there any routes that pass by unique natural features like waterfalls?
Yes, Quarry Trails Metro Park, a unique park developed from an abandoned quarry, features an impressive 25-foot waterfall. While not directly on a touring cycling route in this guide, its proximity to the trail network makes it an accessible and worthwhile detour for cyclists looking for unique natural features.
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