Columbus is definitely not known as the outdoor capital of the Midwest. But I have quickly fallen in love with the metro parks here in and around the city. One of my personal favorites is Highbanks Metro Park. Between the Olentangy River Front and the gorgeous meadows the park has a lot to offer. It is also well known for the fall colors – which of course we explored during the Fall 2022 season. While not completely dog friendly, Winter and I make the best of what we are able to access. Below are some of our spots in the park we like the most.
Scenic River Trail + Big Meadows Path
Honestly, I couldn’t figure out if dogs are “allowed” here or not. Some areas did not have signs, others did, and I felt like they were all conflicting. We have never been the only people with dogs on the paths here, so I just assume that it is one of the dog friendly areas. And that definitely makes me happy because it is also one of the prettiest areas of the park.
Spring, Summer, and Fall this area has so much to offer. The dogs can take a dip in the river, the fall colors reflect on the water, and the spring blooms are always popping off. I dont truly know the distance for this little walk in the woods but you can honestly choose your own adventure. You can access the trail all along the western side of the park from the various parking and picnic areas. From there hike as far or as little as you want. I’ll just let the photos do the rest of the talking.
Coyote Run Trail at Highbanks Metro Park
One of the only dog friendly trails at Highbanks Metro Park is Coyote Run Trail. Of course Winter and I learned this the hard way after discovering so many others had the dreaded “no dogs” signs. We obviously make the best of this hike/walk and it has become on of our favorites in northwest Columbus. The benefit of this trail as well is that it connects to the other dog friendly areas of the park via the perimeter multiuse trail and creates a longer out and back loop as an option to hike/walk.
The true Coyote Run Trail starts out at the Nature Center Parking area. There are two loops within the trail around giant meadows. One of which include a Native American mound. So you can definitely get some history about the area while you are out and about.
The trail alternates between shaded and exposed areas as you make your way between the meadows. And you ever cross a little creek – great for a stop on a hot day to let the dogs play. Overall the 3.4 miles is a great little morning hike.
Before you go
Before you go is probably one of my favorite sections to write because I get to tell you what I messed up on so you don’t. In this case its do your research! I just assumed the metro parks were super dog friendly because they were a city park. BOY WAS I WRONG. Highbanks Metro Park and pretty much all other metro parks in Columbus actually have very few dog friendly trails for hiking. I haven’t looked into it too much to be honest, but it is the sad reality of living in Ohio.
For Highbanks Metro Park specifically, you will also want to check their website for events schedules. They have some pretty cool ones. But this will also give you an idea of when the Nature Center and overflow parking is going to fill up quickly. Otherwise go out and be in nature!
While Ohio doesn’t provide the same views as hiking in Utah does, it is unique in its own way and has some really gorgeous pockets of wilderness. Check out more of my Ohio adventures on the website!