The best running trails in Franklin County

This challenging 14.2-mile (22.8 km) jogging route, known as the "Franklin Park Conservatory – Franklin Park loop from Columbus," offers a unique blend of urban running and natural beauty. With 263 feet (80 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 2 hours and 22 minutes, it's a demanding but rewarding journey. You'll traverse mostly paved paths, eventually reaching the serene Franklin Park, where you can enjoy features like The Cascades waterfalls, various gardens, and the impressive Franklin Park Conservatory.

Planning for this difficult route means preparing for a significant distance. While shorter loops within Franklin Park are easy, this extended "Franklin Park Columbus running trail" requires very good fitness. Ensure you carry enough water and consider starting early in the day or during cooler seasons to make the long run more comfortable. Parking is available near the starting point in Columbus, though specific details should be checked locally.

Franklin Park itself is a historical gem, once hosting the Ohio State Fair, and now serves as a vibrant urban oasis. Beyond the Conservatory's exotic plants and Dale Chihuly glass art, the park's diverse landscapes, including Japanese cherry trees and an Asian-themed garden, provide a rich backdrop for your run. This route stands out among "Franklin Park Columbus running trails" for its length and varied scenery, offering a comprehensive tour of the area.

Embark on a demanding urban adventure with the Historic Columbus Union Station Arch – Franklin Park loop, a difficult jogging route that showcases Columbus's blend of history and nature. This 25.7-mile (41.4 km) journey, with 461 feet (141 metres) of elevation gain, guides you past the grand Beaux-Arts Union Station Arch, along the scenic Scioto River with city skyline views, and through the expansive Franklin Park, home to its historic Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Expect mostly paved surfaces, making it a fast-paced exploration of the city's landmarks and green spaces, ideal for those with very good fitness. The estimated duration is around 4 hours and 16 minutes, making it a significant commitment.

To tackle this extensive loop, ensure you're well-prepared with adequate hydration and comfortable jogging gear. Parking is generally available near key points like McFerson Commons Park or Franklin Park, though it's wise to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot. While the route is predominantly urban, it's always a good idea to check local conditions before heading out. This trail is best enjoyed during cooler parts of the day or in milder seasons to manage the long distance comfortably.

This route stands out for its unique combination of historical significance and natural beauty within an urban setting. The Union Station Arch, a 35-foot tall landmark, is a testament to Columbus's past, famously saved from demolition and relocated. Franklin Park, with its Conservatory dating back to 1895 and featuring Dale Chihuly's glass art, offers a cultural highlight. The loop cleverly integrates parts of Columbus's extensive Greenway network, providing a continuous and engaging path through diverse cityscapes.

If you're seeking a significant and varied jogging experience in Columbus, the Ohio Stadium – Scioto Trail loop is a fantastic option. This difficult route spans 12.6 miles (20.3 km) with a gentle 226 feet (69 metres) of elevation gain, offering a diverse backdrop of urban and riverine scenery. You'll run along the Scioto River, enjoying views of the Columbus skyline and passing through the lively Scioto Mile, before shifting to the energetic Ohio State University campus and the Olentangy River. Expect well-maintained paved surfaces throughout, making for a smooth but demanding run that takes about 2 hours and 5 minutes.

To plan your visit, consider starting near Ohio Stadium, which serves as a unique focal point and immerses you in the university's athletic district. The route seamlessly connects the Scioto Trail with the Olentangy Trail, providing extensive running possibilities. While specific parking information isn't detailed, parking near the stadium or along the Scioto Mile would offer good access. This trail is generally accessible year-round, but checking local conditions, especially during extreme weather, is always recommended for a comfortable run.

This loop stands out for its integration of Columbus's key urban green spaces and landmarks. The Scioto Trail, the city's first greenway trail along the downtown riverfront, blends cityscapes with natural beauty, offering chances to spot local wildlife. You'll pass notable features like the distinctive Rich Street Bridge with its deer sculptures and the Scioto Audubon Metro Park, making it a prime example of how Columbus has revitalized its riverfront for public enjoyment and recreation.

This 9.9-mile (15.9 km) jogging loop offers a dynamic experience, transitioning from the quieter, tree-lined sections of the Olentangy Trail to the bustling energy of The Ohio State University campus. You'll follow the river, enjoying views of natural areas and light tree cover, before passing directly by the impressive Ohio Stadium. Despite its "difficult" rating, the trail is mostly paved and flat, with only 138 feet (42 metres) of elevation gain, making it a rewarding run that takes about 1 hour and 39 minutes.

To start this route, you'll need to navigate from Bishop Watterson High School through local streets to an Olentangy Trail access point, such as Tuttle Park. The trail is popular and can be crowded, especially on weekends, so an early start is advisable. Keep an eye out for potential construction detours, as sections of the Olentangy Trail are scheduled for improvement projects from summer 2024 to fall 2025.

The Olentangy Trail is a vital artery for Columbus, connecting numerous parks and institutions. This particular loop offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and urban vibrancy, showcasing the city's commitment to green spaces. You'll pass through areas like Whetstone Park, home to the Columbus Park of Roses, and experience the trail's integration with the OSU campus, offering a glimpse into university life and the surrounding natural habitats.

The Scioto Trail – Olentangy River loop offers a fantastic blend of urban energy and natural riverside calm, making it one of the best running routes in Columbus. As you jog this moderate 6.0-mile (9.7 km) loop, you'll experience the unique confluence of the Scioto and Olentangy Rivers, with the downtown Columbus skyline as a dramatic backdrop. The mostly paved paths, with just 161 feet (49 metres) of elevation gain, ensure a smooth run that typically takes around 1 hour and 2 minutes, perfect for a quick escape into nature without leaving the city.

Accessing the trail is generally easy, with ample parking available near various points along the route, such as Scioto Audubon Metro Park. You won't need any special permits or worry about seasonal closures, making it a convenient option for a spontaneous run. Public transport options are also available to reach different sections of this well-connected trail network.

What truly sets this route apart is its role as the spine of the Scioto Mile, a vibrant downtown riverfront area filled with parks, public art, and civic landmarks. It's also a vital link in Columbus's extensive trail network, connecting to other major paths like the Ohio to Erie Trail. Despite its urban setting, the area around the river confluence offers surprising opportunities for wildlife viewing, adding another layer to your jogging experience.

The Olentangy River – Olentangy Trail loop from Columbus offers a unique urban jogging experience, tracing the scenic Olentangy River on a fully paved path. You'll journey through diverse landscapes, from the quieter, tree-shaded northern stretches to the bustling areas around The Ohio State University campus, passing by landmarks like Ohio Stadium. This 11.6-mile (18.6 km) route, with its 215 feet (65 metres) of elevation gain, is rated difficult due to its length and potential for heavy traffic, but it's a rewarding run that typically takes around 1 hours and 57 minutes.

Planning your visit means considering the trail's popularity; it can get very crowded on weekends, so an early start or a weekday run is often best for a more peaceful experience. While the trail is generally easy to navigate, be aware of ongoing construction projects between Summer 2024 and Fall 2025, which may require detours. Numerous access points make it easy to hop on and off, and it connects seamlessly with the Scioto Greenway Trail for extended jogging routes.

This trail is renowned as one of the most popular running trails in Columbus, celebrated for its excellent connectivity and the way it blends natural riverine beauty with urban vibrancy. It's a multi-use path, attracting not just joggers but also cyclists and walkers, fostering a lively outdoor community. The blend of natural features along the Olentangy Trail and city views makes it a standout option for those looking to explore Columbus on foot.