Posts with tag 'Outdoors'

Is it truly time to shake off the winter chill, and welcome the first signs of spring? You bet! The days are growing longer, the temperatures are rising, and the first flowers are emerging from the soil at greenspaces all around Columbus. Whether you're interested in a quiet, tranquil walk, a chance to gaze at gorgeous gardens, or the perfect place for a fun, outdoor family outing, there's certain to be a local greenspace with your name on it. Find your happy place with our guide to 9 of the best greenspaces in Columbus.

John F. Wolfe Columbus Commons

160 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43215

There's always something new to experience when you visit the John F. Wolfe Columbus Commons, a popular urban greenspace located in the heart of downtown Columbus. This park offers a little bit of everything, from flowery gardens and community events to a food truck court that features flavors from around the world. It's also home to the unique NEOS Electric Playground, which is certain to be a hit with younger members of the family.

Goodale Park

120 W. Goodale St., Columbus, OH 43215

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With beautiful fountains, a scenic pond, and stunning views of the Columbus skyline, Goodale Park is the perfect place to shake off the winter chill. This is the oldest public park in the city, built on land that was donated by the first physician to practice in Columbus. Along with the scenery, this park has tennis courts for enjoying some outdoor recreation, a playground that is sure to keep the kids entertained, and plenty of lovely places to plan a picnic.

Schiller Park

1069 Jaeger St., Columbus, OH 43206

Ever since the land was first converted into a park in the 1800s, Schiller Park has been a local favorite for outdoor recreation and relaxation. The park is named for German poet Friedrich Schiller, and the scenery just might be enough to inspire you to write some poetry of your own. At Schiller Park, you'll find a peaceful fishing pond, a collection of beautifully maintained gardens, and a wide variety of outdoor recreation facilities for enjoying your favorite sports. Schiller Park is also home to the Actor's Summer Theater, where you can enjoy public performances of Shakespeare during the warm weather seasons.

Columbus Park of Roses

3901 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214

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What could be a better way to celebrate the signs of spring than visiting a beautiful rose garden? And the Columbus Park of Roses isn't just any old garden. It features one of the most extensive selections of roses in the entire country, with more than 12,000 specimens when the garden is in full bloom. There are paved paths that make it easy to explore the gardens and plenty of places to snap some great pictures for social media sharing. Be sure to check out the Park of Roses website, where you can see which roses are in bloom before you visit.

Chadwick Arboretum & Learning Gardens

152 Howlett Hall 2021, Fyffe Rd., Columbus, OH 43210

Looking for an educational setting where kids can learn while enjoying the great outdoors? The Chadwick Arboretum & Learning Gardens offer a unique blend of outdoor fun and education. The facility is located on the Ohio State University agriculture campus and is free to visit all year long. Enjoy expansive gardens, native trees, gorgeous greenhouses, and plenty of opportunities to learn more about all of the flora on display.

Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens

1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203

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When you're in the mood for a lush, scenic outdoor setting with activities galore, it's hard to top the experience at Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens. This facility features more than 100 acres of natural beauty to explore, with some of the most stunning gardens that you'll find anywhere. While you're here, be sure to check out the schedule of gardening workshops, educational classes, community events, seasonal farmer's market, and expert-guided tours.

Scioto Audubon

400 W. Whittier St., Columbus, OH 43215

For unique outdoor recreation activities in Columbus, it's hard to top all that the Scioto Audubon Metropark has to offer. Scale a massive rock-climbing wall that can accommodate climbers of all skill levels and enjoy a wide range of recreational facilities for playing your favorite sports. There's also a popular dog park on-site, perfect for celebrating the start of spring with your furry friend.

Scioto Mile

233 S. Civic Center Dr., Columbus, OH 43215

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In the mood for a full day of visiting some of the best greenspaces in Columbus? Scioto Mile is a beautiful greenspace on its own, and its paved, well-maintained paths connect to eight other greenspaces within the city. The paths wind along the Scioto River, and offer outstanding views of the city skyline. You'll find unique public art exhibits as you explore the area, and may even encounter some free, public performances depending on when you visit. Be sure to come back again in the summer, when kids can enjoy a splash in the interactive Scioto Mile Fountain.

Topiary Garden Park

480 E. Town St., Columbus, OH 43215

If you're searching for something that is uniquely Columbus, then a trip to the Topiary Garden Park is definitely in order. What is a topiary garden, you might ask? It's a good question because this is the only garden of its kind in the whole world! The Topiary Garden Park is a recreation of Georges Seurat's painting, "A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte." But instead of paint, the garden uses sculpted plants and landscaping features to recreate the painting. This is one Columbus attraction that art lovers won't want to miss.

Go Green(space)

Which outdoor oasis is at the top of your list for celebrating the first signs of spring? The diverse, beautiful greenspaces of Columbus are ready to be explored, with family fun waiting around every corner.

From improving your mood to strengthening your immune system, there are many benefits of going outside and taking a walk. The Cincinnati area is full of parks and outdoor areas perfect for everyone, from hardcore hikers to casual dog walkers. 

Next time you want to get some exercise and enjoy the great outdoors, consider visiting one of these eight beautiful parks. 

Buttercup Valley Preserve

1558 Stanford Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45223

Located in Cincinnati's Northside neighborhood, Buttercup Valley Preserve is a great option for avid nature hikers. The trails are very wooded, with steep inclines that will offer you a bit of a challenge. This trail is nestled in the middle of some of the city's best neighborhoods and is an excellent getaway that will make you forget that you're still in the city. 

You'll find lots of flora and fauna in the preserve, including some trees that are over 200 years old. There are multiple walking and hiking trails here, including one that will provide a memorable view of Spring Grove Cemetery. 

Ault Park

5090 Observatory Circle, Cincinnati, OH 45208

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As the highest point in Hyde Park, Ault park offers stunning views of the city. It's home to a 1.4-mile walking, hiking, and mountain biking trail that is one of the city's best-kept secrets. 

This trail is hilly and will offer a bit of a challenge. However, once you get through it, you'll find that the beautiful views, scenery, and wildlife are well worth the effort. Many residents and visitors agree that this is one of the most beautiful parks in the Cincinnati area. 

Ohio River Trail

Riverside Dr. & Corbin St., Cincinnati, OH 45226

You can't beat the views on the Ohio River Trail. Once it's complete, this 23-mile trail will span along the north bank of the river. It runs from Coney Island through downtown to Sayler Park. While areas are still under construction, you can still enjoy 10 miles of it now. When it's completed, it will connect downtown to the Little Miami Scenic Trail and eventually extend all the way to Lake Erie. 

There are many fun things to do here, including swinging on the 2-3 person swings, splashing in the interactive fountain, and riding the carousel. This family-friendly series of trails are ideal for running, walking, and biking. It's perfect for people of all ages and fitness levels. 

Red Bird Hollow Trail

6168 Given Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45243

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An easy urban trail with a lot of foot traffic, Red Bird Hollow Trail offers a nice walk near the river with plenty to see. It's a 3-mile in-and-out trail that's popular for running, hiking, and nature walks. We recommend starting at the top of the trail where you'll find plenty of parking spots. 

This trail is also dog-friendly, although you must keep your furry friend on a leash while your walk. Generally, it's safest and most pleasant to use this trail between April and October. 

French Park

3012 Section Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45237

One of the area's most underrated parks, French Park offers several looping trails that are good for walkers of all skill levels. Some areas offer a moderate challenge and a few inclines that might even qualify as strenuous. 

This is an excellent kid-friendly trail. Little ones especially love heading down by the creek to explore. When you finish your walk, plan to drive to the top of the park to enjoy a beautiful view and a picnic lunch.

Mt. Airy Forest

5083 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45223

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The 1,459-acre Mt. Airy Forest is Cincinnati's largest park. It offers miles of hiking trails, a multi-use mountain biking trail, and bridle trails for horseback riders. It also has an enclosed dog park, disc golf, and Ohio's only wheelchair-accessible public treehouse. There are also picnic tables, charcoal grills, and swing sets, so you and the family can relax and spend an entire day exploring the park and taking in the beautiful scenery. 

Mill Creek Greenway Trail 

Mill Creek Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45233

The multi-use Mill Creek Greenway Trail currently spans just three and a half miles along the historic Mill Creek. However, plans are in the works to someday extend it to run over 50 miles and link to the Ohio River Trail. 

There's a lot of cool stuff to see, including the Freedom Tree Edible Garden, where you're free to pick an apple or a pear and enjoy a tasty snack. You'll also want to visit the trail after dark so you can check out the 3/4-mile Space Walk, a 3.5-billion-to-one scale model of the solar system. Whether you prefer to walk, run, or bike, you'll want to add this trail to your list of "must-visit" sites.

California Woods Nature Preserve

5400 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45230

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The 113-acre California Woods Nature Preserve features more than 200 species of plants and 53 species of trees. Lick Run Creek also runs through the preserve. Here you'll find small fish, kingfishers, snapping turtles, beavers, ducks, and more.

There's also a hummingbird and butterfly garden in front of the nature center. If you keep your eyes peeled, you might see some woodpeckers and great horned owls as well. When you hike these trails, there's a good chance you'll get so caught up in the scenery that you'll forget you're also exercising. 

These Shoes Were Made for Walking

Which walk-worthy park will you visit first?

Bird watching may seem like a relatively tame activity, but it's actually beneficial for your mental and physical health. Walking is good for your cardiovascular system, while experts say bird watching reduces stress and anxiety while improving cognitive skills.

Another positive aspect of bird watching? It costs nothing to participate when you visit these fascinating sites around Columbus and Central Ohio.

Grange Insurance Audubon Center

505 W. Whittier St., Columbus, OH 43215

Named for the iconic ornithologist and painter, Grange Insurance Audubon Center is designed to show how conservation efforts enable nature to thrive in urban areas. This lush bird sanctuary stands on a former industrial site in downtown Columbus, right on the banks of the Scioto River. Kids can check out Adventure and Discovery Backpacks for curbside pickup that contain materials to help them get the most out of your visit. Check the website for information about current programs. The Scioto Audubon Park is open daily from 6:30 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Blendon Woods Metro Park

4265 E. Dublin Granville Rd., Columbus, OH 43081

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Where do turkeys go when it's not Thanksgiving? Chances are good you'll see some of them foraging for food at Blendon Woods Metro Park. The 653-acre grounds are also home to a variety of songbirds as well as Thoreau Lake, site of the Walden Waterfowl Refuge. Get a great view from the spotting scopes atop two elevated observation platforms. Stream-cut ravines and open fields provide a picturesque backdrop for a day of bird watching. Park hours are 6:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. seven days a week.

Glen Echo Park

510 Cliffside Dr., Columbus, OH 43202

Running from Fourth St. to Indianola Ave., the ravine setting of Glen Echo Park is so secluded that many Columbus residents are surprised to learn about it. The dog-friendly park offers a serene oasis that feels miles away from the traffic and activity above, making it a popular spot for local bird watchers. Don't miss the tunnel with colorful bird figures painted on the walls, which is a favorite attraction for park visitors. Glen Echo Park is open daily from 6 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Pickerington Ponds Metro Park

7680 Wright Rd., Canal Winchester, OH 43110

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The delightfully alliterative name of Pickerington Ponds Metro Park sounds like something you might find in the fields of England. In reality, this top bird-watching site is just minutes from Columbus. With more than 260 species of waterfowl, shorebirds and land birds spotted on 1,608-acre grounds, you're sure to have a productive day. Keep your eyes peeled for deer, beaver, fox, and other wildlife that also roam the park. Park hours are 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily.

Highbanks Metro Park

9466 Columbus Pike, Lewis Center, OH 43035

As the name implies, Highbanks Metro Park is noted for its 100-foot-tall shale bluff that looks out over the Olentangy State Scenic River. The 1,200-acre park has several trails in various degrees of difficulty that provide numerous opportunities for bird watching, including eagles, which have been seen at Highbanks. Many of the trails are pet-friendly, so bring Fido along. Highbanks is open 6:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. seven days a week.

Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park

1775 Darby Creek Dr., Galloway, OH 43119

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The sprawling 7,000 acres of Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park encompass a variety of different terrains, including forests, prairies, and wetlands. More than 1,600 acres of the land have been restored, with bison inhabiting two enclosed pastures. White Barn Lagoon is a spot favored by many bird watchers. Sightings of nearly 100 species, including peregrine falcons and European starlings, have been reported. A number of the dozen trails are well-suited for family and dog outings. Battelle Darby Creek is open year-round from 6:30 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Hogback Ridge Park

2656 Hogback Rd., Sunbury, OH 43074

On its own, Hogback Ridge Park is a lovely, dog-friendly place to spend a day of bird watching. Winding trails make their way through wooded ravines that are home to wild turkeys, pileated woodpeckers, and many other species. For a real treat, take the Woodland Ridge Trail to the Equestrian Trail to a spot on Alum Creek dubbed "Osprey Overlook." Enjoy breathtaking sights of these stunning birds fishing, feeding their young and interacting with other osprey. Hogback Ridge is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. - 7 p.m., with extended hours until 9 p.m. between March and October.

Wilma H. Schiermeier Olentangy River Wetland Research Park

352 W. Dodridge St., Columbus, OH 43202

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Bird watching is part of higher education at the Wilma H. Schiermeier Olentangy River Wetland Research Park. The 52-acre facility sits just on the northern edge of the Ohio State University Campus. Faculty and students use the park for research and training on ecosystems, landscapes, and other environmental matters. The park and its greenway trails, paved paths, and observation pavilion are open to the public daily from dawn until dusk.

Hoover Reservoir Park

7701 Sunbury Rd., Westerville, OH 43081

Few things are more exciting for veteran and novice bird watchers alike than a bald eagle sighting. Such occurrences are relatively frequent at Hoover Reservoir Park, a peaceful spot located a mere 20 minutes from Columbus. The Hoover Meadows Bluebird Trail and Hoover Mudflats are well-known bird-watching spots. Mud Hen Marsh, one of several preserves in the area, offers great opportunities to view the marsh's namesake as well as the Northern Cardinal, Eastern Kingbird, and House Finch. Park hours are 7 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily.

Free as a Bird

Man has long envied birds' ability to fly. If you could take flight, what's the first destination you'd head to?

The colder temperatures have blown in and turned Northeast Ohio into a winter wonderland. Though it may be a little chilly, the bright sun and blue skies create the perfect conditions for a relaxing hike through one of our many trails. Discover the beauty of Northeast Ohio in the winter with a hike at one of these area trails.

Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park

12440 OH-282, Garrettsville, OH 44231

Where does one go on a hike in the winter? The Devil's Icebox, of course! You'll find this rock formation as well as the Old Maid's Kitchen and Indian Pass within the Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park. There are four unique trails: the Red Trail is a half-mile, the Blue and Yellow Trails are three-quarters of a mile, and the White Trail is one-mile. Since many of these rock formations were made by receding glaciers, we can't think of a better time of the year to explore Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park than in the heart of winter.

Blue Hen Falls

2001 Boston Mills Rd., Brecksville, OH 44141

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If you're searching for a wonderful place to hike, there are few outside Cleveland better than the Cuyahoga Valley. Of its many trails, a hike to Blue Hen Falls is one of the best family winter hikes that you can take. This three-mile trek should take about two hours. You'll first follow the Buckeye Trail then head across Boston Mills Road before venturing half-mile downhill to reach Blue Hen Falls. This 15-foot waterfall is quite a sight, especially in the winter, so be sure to bring your camera.

South Chagrin Reservation

37374 Miles Rd., Bentleyville, OH 44022

Explore more of the Buckeye Trail in the South Chagrin Reservation. Located along the Chagrin River, the South Chagrin Reservation is a lovely place for a hike. What we love about this area is that it's full of both natural and manmade wonders. Henry Rock Church, for instance, was carved way back in the 1880s, while Lookout Lodge was constructed in the late 1930s. With opportunities to hike, sled, fish, and explore the natural, historical, and cultural elements of the area, South Chagrin Reservation deserves a spot on your winter hiking itinerary.

Rocky River Reservation

24000 Valley Parkway, North Olmsted, OH 44070

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Bird-watchers and wildlife viewers will enjoy a winter hike through the Rocky River Reservation. A walk to the Berea Falls overlook is a must, as well as a stop with your toboggan at Barrett Sledding Hill. As you wind through the trails throughout the reservation, keep an eye out for Ohio's local wildlife, including the stunning white-tailed deer.

Mill Creek Park

Youngstown, OH 44509

Mill Creek Park is the ultimate destination for outdoor winter fun. It's the largest of all the MetroParks and features 45-miles of trails where you can sled, cross-country ski, and hike. We suggest taking a stroll over by Lake Glacier where you can easily access the East Glacier Trail and Old Tree Trail. If you want a super-quick hike, the Lily Pond Circle at Lily Pond is a better option. Lake Newport offers access to the West Newport Trail, Islands Trail, and West and East Channel trails, while Lake Cohasset provides access to the East and West Cohasset trails. With so many trails to hike, you can spend the entire winter exploring Mill Creek Park.

Munroe Falls Metro Park

521 S. River Rd., Munroe Falls, OH 44262

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Munroe Falls Metro Park offers two fantastic areas to explore during the winter. The Lake Area features the 2.2-mile Indian Spring Trail, which loops you through a stream, wetlands, and a hill perfect for sledding. The Tallmadge Meadows Area is perfect for cross-country skiing and features two trails. The shorter Meadow Loop Trail is only 0.35-miles and is accessible for wheelchairs, strollers, and canes/walkers. The longer Meadow Trail is two-miles long and gives you a glimpse at wildlife in the meadow.

Deep Lock Quarry Metro Park

5779 Riverview Rd., Peninsula, OH 44264

Grab your camera and get ready to snap photos of amazing vistas along the Quarry Trail in Deep Lock Quarry Metro Park. This 1.4-mile moderate trail isn't too strenuous and will lead you to the Erie & Ohio Canal's deepest lock. As you walk, you'll pass millstones and have the opportunity to spot amazing views of the Cuyahoga River.

Euclid Creek Reservation

850 Euclid Creek Parkway, Cleveland, OH 44121

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Though the Euclid Creek Reservation is a popular summertime picnic and exercise spot, it's also a wonderful place for a winter hike. There are four trails leading through the area, ranging from 1.1 to 2.5 miles. Each will take you through diverse landscapes like Bluestone quarries, Euclid Beach, and the Wildwood Marina. If you're searching for a little more fun to add to your hike, grab your sled and ride down the hill at the Kelley Picnic Area.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm

1828 Smith Rd., Akron, OH 44313

The F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm invites you to take a hike or enjoy the view this winter. Three basic trails wind through the area. The half-mile Cherry Lane Trail is a loop that leads to an amazing suspension bridge. The Fernwood Loop trail is nearly a mile in length and connects to the Cherry Lane Trail. For a slightly longer walk, the Seneca Trail is a mildly challenging unpaved loop that takes you deep into the forest. When you're finished with your hike, you can warm up at the Seneca deck fireplace.

Winter Wonderland

Where's your favorite place to take a whimsical winter hike around Northeast Ohio? Let us know in the comments!

The Northeast Ohio area is known for its vast number of recreational opportunities that make it a great place to live or visit. There's plenty to do outdoors throughout the year, but when the snow starts to accumulate, the real fun begins. Sledding is a popular activity for all ages, and you'll see young kids, as well as adults, zipping down local hills with abandon all winter long.

Fortunately, you can find many sledding hills to visit throughout the area, so you probably won't have to visit the same place twice in a season – unless you want to, of course! From the tamer hills that are appropriate for kids or beginners to steeper ones that will appeal to the more adventurous, Northeast Ohio has sledding hills to suit every age and comfort level.
  
Grab your sled, bundle up, and check out the following 10 sled riding spots in Northeast Ohio that are sure to get your adrenaline pumping:
  

Goodyear Heights Metro Park Sled Riding Hill – Summit Metroparks

2077 Newton St., Akron, OH 44305

Goodyear Heights Metro Park's sledding hill is extremely popular, so you may want to try it during off-peak (early morning) hours to get the best experience. The hill is large and steep and has a rope along the side to help you get back up to the top, and you'll also find fire barrels along the way to help you warm up. And if you'd like to sled in the dark, Goodyear Heights has lights for nighttime sledding.  

Punderson State Park Sled Riding Hill

11755 Kinsman Rd., Newbury, OH 44065

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One of northeast Ohio's premier winter sports parks, Punderson has not only sledding but also cross-country skiing and snowmobile trails. There's even a cabin to warm up in and a lighted hill if you want to sled under the stars. And if you'd like to stay the night, family cabins, as well as a resort manor house, are available.  

Chapin Forest Reservation

9938 Chillicothe Rd. (Rt. 306), Kirtland, OH 44094

If you have young kids, they may not be ready for some of the area's larger sledding hills. But the small hill at Chapin Forest Reservation is perfect for young sledders. It's frequented by cross-country skiers to practice their control skills, but it's also used for sledding. You'll find the hill off the Hobart Road entrance to the park.  

Riverview Park Sled Riding Hill – Lake Metroparks

4895 Bailey Rd., Madison, OH 44057

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You'll find Riverview Park Sled Riding Hill conveniently located next to the parking lot, so you'll have an easy trip from your car before you can enjoy some fun sledding. This is the park district's steepest hill, and you can whiz down it until 11 p.m. If you need to warm up, there's a fire ring with firewood near the picnic shelter.  

Cascade Park

387 Furnace St., Elyria, OH 44035

You'll find one of Lorain County's most popular sledding hills at Cascade Park in Elyria. The large hill is visible from the main entrance, and you'll also find a small playground and restrooms conveniently located at the bottom of the hill – two things that will come in handy if you're bringing the kids along.

Firestone Metropark – Sled Hill Drop-Off – Summit Metroparks  

55 E. Warner Rd., Akron, OH 4431

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Firestone Metropark is great for all ages and for those who are thrill-seekers as well as those who would rather sled on a smaller hill. That's because it has a large hill that has steep sections as well as those with a slower incline. The hill isn't lighted, so come earlier in the day if you're ready to make your way down.

Boettler Park Sled Riding Hill

5300 Massilon Rd., North Canton, OH 44720

Summit County's Boettler Park Sled Riding Hill is large and is appropriate for a wide range of ages since the hill has varying inclines. There's also a 30,000-square-foot playground located nearby on Heritage Hill, as well as places to snowboard and cross-country ski. You'll also find heated restrooms conveniently located near the riding hill.

Sand Run Metro Park – North Hawkins Area Sled Riding Hill – Summit Metroparks

800 N. Hawkins Ave., Akron, OH 44313

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North Hawkins Area Sled Riding Hill has been popular for generations of sledders and is still a go-to destination for those who are looking for a large sled-riding hill. Go after dark if you'd like since the hill is lighted. You can also cross-country ski on trails or ice skate on a pond once it's frozen over.

Vermilion River Reservation – Mill Hollow Sled Riding Hill – Lorain County Metroparks

51211 N. Ridge Rd., Vermilion, OH 44089

Zooming down a large sled riding hill at Vermilion River Reservation has been a popular activity for many years, and that remains true. The large hill is on your right as you enter the Bacon Woods area of Vermilion River Reservation, and when you get too cold, you can warm up in a nearby shelter that's partially enclosed.

Kendall Hills Sled Riding Hills – Cuyahoga Valley National Park

5465 Quick Rd., Peninsula, OH 44264

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You'll find several hills of varying inclines to slide down at Cuyahoga Valley National Park once you go deep into the park (about a mile east of Akron Peninsula Road). There's a separate area for sleds and toboggans, and you'll find a burn barrel to help you warm up at the top.
  

Get Your Thrills on Sledding Hills

Which hills will you be zooming down this season? Bundle up and get ready to have some fun!