New Scioto Grove Metro Park opens tomorrow!

Just south of 270 in Grove City, Central Ohio’s newest Metro Park is opening: Scioto Grove.

Slated for a grand opening Friday May 6 at 10 a.m., the 620 acre park is nestled in a mature forest along the banks of the Scioto River, where visitors can hike along 7 miles of trail, canoe down the river, or simply watch wildlife at one of the park’s overlook decks or picnic shelters.

At the grand opening tomorrow, Richard Avenue Elementary schoolers will have the honor of cutting the ribbon, following a speech by a corporate head of outdoor goods retailer REI, which donated $20,000 to help build the park’s overnight backpacking trail.

“We feel it’s best we let the children, the next generation, cut the ribbon on the opening day,” Metro Parks spokesperson Peg Hanley told 614NOW.

After the ceremony, naturalists will be leading hikes and teaching outdoor skills, such as how to pack a backpack, tie knots and use a compass. Plus, a 42-passenger tram will be taking visitors around the park.

Starting next week, hikers can begin making reservations for the overnight backpacking trail by calling (614)-949-1078.

Next year, the park will be adding archery ranges and a building to be rented for weddings, Hanley said.

Scioto Grove will be open every day and admission is free. So what are you waiting for? Experience the great outdoors right in your back yard!

BROUGHT TO YOU BY