Take a Hike: 5 parks to take a scenic seasonal stroll

The changing of the leaves and crisp air make autumn one of the most exciting times of the year in Ohio. The reds, oranges, and yellows bring city streets to life and make waterfronts even more stunning. You may catch glimpses of the fall foliage during the hustle of your everyday life, but I encourage you to take time to stop and smell the roses, or rather, stop and see the leaves.

Below are five Metro Parks where you can soak up the season.

Inniswood Metro Gardens
940 S Hempstead Rd, Westerville

This botanical garden and nature preserve in Westerville is home to more than 2,000 plant species including dozens of different tree types bursting with reds, yellows, and greens.

Blendon Woods Metro Park
4265 E Dublin Granville Rd, Columbus

Blendon Woods contains spectacular stream-cut ravines with exposed ripple rock sandstone and open fields to give hikers a spectacular view of the surrounding maple- and hickory-studded forests.

Walnut Woods Metro Park
6723 Lithopolis Rd, Groveport

Walnut Woods features 1,170-acres of woodlands and fields, bordered by Walnut Creek to the north. The Tall Pines Area features dramatic stands of pines and sweetgum trees, and the Buckeye Area has long rows of old nursery trees such as serviceberry, crab apple and red maples that look exceptional this time of year. 

Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park
1775 Darby Creek Dr, Galloway

The subtle rolling hills of Battelle Darby Creek create a beautiful landscape of cascading fall colors. Scatter some bison in the foreground and you’ve got a regular Bob Ross masterpiece before you!

Highbanks Metro Park
9466 Columbus Pike, Lewis Center

Trees heavy with colorful leaves hang over the scenic Olentangy State Scenic River during the fall months, just begging for you to snap the perfect nature photo.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY