South Columbus to Westerville loop

This loop is generally considered easy to moderate. Much of the route, especially on dedicated trails like the Alum Creek Trail and portions of the Ohio to Erie Trail, is flat to gently rolling. You might encounter mild hills on some on-road connections, for example, climbing from the Olentangy Trail up to High Street in Worthington. The trails are predominantly paved, making them suitable for road cycling.

Many segments of the interconnected trail system offer convenient parking and access points. While specific starting points can vary, you'll find parking available near major trailheads along the Olentangy Trail and Alum Creek Trail, as well as in parks like Three Creeks Metro Park.

You'll experience a diverse landscape. The trails follow scenic river corridors like the Alum Creek and Scioto River, offering views of the Columbus downtown skyline, including the View of Downtown Columbus and Scioto River. You'll also pass through parks, woodlands, and fields, with opportunities to spot wildlife. In Westerville, the trails wind through historic homes and near Mirror Lake. Further north, the scenery transitions to country roads and farmland.

Yes, as a multi-use path, the trails that make up this loop are generally dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash at all times and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all users.

The spring and fall seasons are generally ideal for cycling this route, offering pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. While accessible year-round, be mindful of potential heat in summer and icy conditions or snow in winter, which can affect trail surfaces.

No, you do not need a permit or have to pay an entrance fee to cycle the public trails and roads that comprise the South Columbus to Westerville loop.

Yes, this loop utilizes and connects several key trails. It forms a vital part of the larger Ohio to Erie Trail (OTET) and incorporates sections of the Olentangy Trail and the Alum Creek Trail. You'll also encounter segments of the Scioto Trail and the Central Ohio Greenways network.

Yes, the route connects urban areas with suburban environments, particularly in Westerville, where you'll find access to restaurants and cafes. Along the Olentangy and Alum Creek Trails, you might also find amenities in nearby parks or accessible via short detours into adjacent neighborhoods.

With its generally flat to gently rolling paved surfaces, much of this loop is suitable for beginners and families, especially on the dedicated trail sections. However, some on-road connections might have higher traffic or mild hills, so consider your comfort level with urban cycling and the overall distance of 73.6 km (45.7 miles).

Many segments of the trails are well-signed. However, some connections, particularly where you transition between dedicated trails and on-road sections or urban streets, might require careful navigation. It's advisable to have a map or GPS device handy to ensure you stay on track.

The vast majority of this loop is on paved surfaces. This includes dedicated multi-use paths like the Olentangy Trail and Alum Creek Trail, as well as sections with wide bike lanes or shoulders on urban and suburban roads.