The best walks and hikes in Fairfield County

Hike the easy 1.9-mile Christmas Rocks Orange Loop Trail in Ohio, gaining 300 feet to Jacob's Ladder Overlook for valley views.

Embark on a challenging hiking adventure along the Blacklick Creek Greenway Trail, a difficult route spanning 23.3 miles (37.5 km) with an elevation gain of 285 feet (87 metres). You can expect to spend around 9 hours and 30 minutes exploring its varied landscape. The trail closely follows Blacklick Creek, guiding you through a mix of peaceful wooded sections and expansive open fields that often resemble natural prairies. Keep an eye out for distinctive features like large wooden bridges and underpasses that mark your journey, offering a dynamic and engaging experience. You will find a bench at Portman Park with views of a pond, a perfect spot to pause and take in the scenery. This route offers a significant challenge for those seeking a long-distance hike. You will find a bench at Portman Park with views of a pond, a perfect spot to pause and take in the scenery. This route offers a significant challenge for those seeking a long-distance hike.

Accessing the Blacklick Creek Greenway Trail is straightforward, as it connects various metro parks, each providing convenient trailheads and parking options. While much of the route features a smooth, paved surface, be prepared for some sections within Blacklick Woods Metro Park that consist of crushed limestone. Additionally, a short dirt path through Portman Park, located south of Refugee Road, can become muddy after rainfall. It is always a good idea to check current trail conditions, especially if rain is in the forecast, to ensure a comfortable visit. Plan your start time to allow ample daylight for this extensive journey.

The Blacklick Creek Greenway Trail is a multi-use path that stands out for its commitment to preserving the natural environment of the Blacklick Creek corridor. As you traverse the route, you will notice the deliberate blend of maintained paths and areas left in their natural state, fostering a rich habitat. This makes the trail an excellent location for wildlife viewing, particularly for birdwatching enthusiasts who can spot various species throughout the year. The trail's design and location within Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks highlight its role in offering a substantial outdoor escape within an urban-adjacent setting.

Hike the challenging Lancaster Bike Path, a 13.8-mile route with 272 feet of elevation gain, offering varied terrain and scenic views.

Hike the easy 0.7-mile Allen Knob Trail in Shallenberger State Nature Preserve, gaining 67 feet of elevation in about 19 minutes.

The Lakes Trail is an easy 0.4-mile hike in Chas Alley Nature Park, perfect for a quick 12-minute stroll.

An easy 0.9-mile hike through Wahkeena Nature Preserve, featuring diverse plant life, Lake Odonata, and a unique boardwalk.

Embark on an easy hike along the Sycamore Creek Park Loop, a paved route that winds through lush landscapes and past a picturesque 2.3-acre pond. This gentle trail offers a relaxing experience, perfect for a quick outing. You will cover 1.1 miles (1.8 km) with a minimal elevation gain of 28 feet (8 metres), typically taking around 27 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as Sycamore Creek Park provides ample parking for easy access to the trailhead. The park is a versatile destination, offering numerous amenities beyond the trail itself, including playgrounds, sports courts, and picnic shelters. This makes it a popular spot for families and anyone looking for a convenient escape into nature.

As you explore the loop, you will cross the charming Zeller-Smith Covered Bridge, a notable landmark that adds a touch of rustic beauty to your walk. The park also features an arboretum and a peaceful creek, enhancing the natural appeal of this accessible route. The pond is home to fish like largemouth bass and bluegill, adding to the park's ecological interest.

This easy 2.5-mile loop in Chestnut Ridge Metro Park offers diverse terrain, scenic views, and is great for families and dog walkers.