The best walks and hikes around Hilliard
5.0
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Hiking around Hilliard offers a mix of landscapes, from paved multi-use paths following former railway lines to natural-surface trails through woodlands and prairies. The area is largely flat, with routes running alongside the Big and Little Darby Creeks. Several large metro parks contribute to the trail network, providing both urban greenways and more rustic paths within nature preserves.
Best hiking trails around Hilliard
- The most popular hiking route is Heritage Rail Trail — Heritage Trail Park, a 12.3 miles (19.8 km) trail that takes about 5 hours to complete. This is a paved, multi-use path suitable for walking and cycling.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Homestead Metro Park Loop, an easy 1.7 miles (2.8 km) path. This route takes hikers past a covered bridge and a historic caboose.
- Local hikers also love the Milliken Falls via Tall Wall, Connector, and Milliken Falls Trail, a 2.4 miles (3.8 km) trail leading through woodlands and featuring a waterfall, often completed in about 1 hour.
- Hiking around Hilliard is defined by restored prairies, riverside woodlands, and paved rail trails. The network of paths provides options for both short, easy family-friendly hikes and longer distance outings.
- The routes in Hilliard are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from 10 reviews. More than 250 hikers have used komoot to explore Hilliard's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
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2.78km
00:42
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The Homestead Metro Park Loop offers a delightful, easy stroll through a unique park setting in Hilliard, Ohio. This paved path winds through a quiet, country atmosphere, showcasing a 2.5-acre fishing pond and a charming railroad theme, complete with a historic Conrail Caboose and a replica train station. It's a flat, accessible route, perfect for a relaxed outing where the scenery blends natural elements with playful, man-made features.
Planning your visit to this accessible trail is straightforward, with ample parking available at Homestead Metro Park. The 1.7-mile (2.8 km) loop, with only 13 feet (4 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 42 minutes, making it ideal for a quick escape. It's a fantastic option for families with young children, strollers, or leashed dogs, and you can enjoy it comfortably in any season.
Beyond the easy hiking route, Homestead Metro Park is packed with family-friendly amenities, including multiple playgrounds, an Elevate Fitness Course, and a Nature Center with educational exhibits. The park's distinctive railroad theme, inspired by its proximity to the Heritage Rail Trail, adds a unique historical touch, making this easy 1.7-mile (2.8 km) loop a fun-filled destination for all ages.
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3.79km
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40m
The Milliken Falls via Tall Wall, Connector, and Milliken Falls Trail offers a unique blend of natural beauty and industrial history within Quarry Trails Metro Park. You'll traverse a 2.4-mile (3.8 km) loop, encountering varied terrain from paved paths to rocky sections and dramatic limestone cliffs, all leading to the impressive 25-foot Millikin Falls. The route, rated easy with only 180 feet (55 metres) of elevation gain, provides a scenic experience that takes about 1 hour and 1 minute, making it an ideal choice for a quick, rewarding outing.
Planning your visit to this popular trail is straightforward. The park is pet-friendly, so your dog can join you on this adventure. While the Millikin Falls Trail portion includes some steep steps, the overall route is considered easy and accessible for most. For the most spectacular views of the falls, consider visiting after spring snowmelt when the water flow is at its peak.
This trail stands out in the Columbus metro park system due to Millikin Falls, a rare and significant waterfall feature. The entire Quarry Trails Metro Park is a testament to transforming a former limestone quarry into a vibrant recreational area, showcasing a unique blend of natural beauty and industrial heritage. It's a fantastic option for family-friendly outings and beginner hikers looking for natural features and viewpoints.
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3
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2.94km
00:44
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The Thompson Park Loop offers a wonderfully straightforward and accessible hiking experience, perfect for a quick escape into nature. You'll find a well-maintained, mostly flat path that winds through pleasant park scenery, providing a gentle environment for a relaxed walk. It's an easygoing route that prioritizes comfort and accessibility over rugged adventure, making it a great choice for a casual outing.
Planning your visit to the Thompson Park Loop is simple, as parking is typically easy to find near the trailhead. Given its short distance of 1.8 miles (2.9 km) and minimal elevation gain of just 13 feet (4 metres), you won't need extensive preparation. The trail is suitable for a quick 44-minute walk at any time of day, making it a convenient option for fitting a bit of outdoor activity into a busy schedule.
This easy-rated loop is particularly well-suited for beginners, families, or anyone seeking a low-impact way to enjoy the outdoors in Upper Arlington, Ohio. It's a great option if you're looking for family friendly trails or a quick, accessible walk without the demands of more challenging terrain. The Thompson Park Loop provides a reliable and pleasant option for a short, refreshing hike.
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5.84km
01:28
10m
10m
If you're seeking a tranquil, accessible outdoor experience, the Mudsock Trail delivers. This easy 3.6-mile (5.8 km) hiking path meanders alongside a small stream and past several picturesque ponds, offering a serene escape with minimal effort. With only 23 feet (7 metres) of elevation gain, it's a perfect choice for a leisurely walk, taking approximately 1 hour and 28 minutes to complete.
Accessing the trail is straightforward, as it connects Frank Park and Spindler Dog Park in Hilliard, Ohio, where you can typically find parking. There are no permits required, making it an easy-to-plan outing. It's an ideal spot for a relaxed stroll, especially if you're looking for a gentle route that's well-suited for families or those new to hiking.
The name "Mudsock" itself carries a bit of local lore, with tales of a farmer losing a sock in the mire or horses frequently getting mud resembling socks on their legs. This well-maintained trail, with its fine gravel surface, provides a pleasant journey through Ohio's natural beauty, serving as a convenient connector within the community.
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The Heritage Rail Trail offers a delightful and accessible hike, winding through a tapestry of Pennsylvania's rural and small-town charm. You'll traverse well-maintained crushed stone paths, occasionally paved, as you pass through farmlands, woodlands, and alongside Codorus Creek. Keep an eye out for the historic Howard Tunnel, one of the oldest continuously used railroad tunnels in the country, adding a unique architectural element to your journey.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is designed for ease of use. You'll find amenities like benches, picnic tables, and restrooms strategically placed along the route, making it comfortable for longer outings. While specific trailhead parking isn't detailed, the trail's popularity suggests multiple access points, and its gentle nature means you can enjoy it at any time of day, though a morning start often provides cooler temperatures.
This trail is steeped in history, following the path of the Northern Central Railway, which was vital during the Civil War. It connects to the Maryland Northern Central Railroad Trail, forming a combined 44-mile pathway across two states. The Heritage Rail Trail is an easy 3.6-mile (5.9 km) hike with a minimal 2 feet (1 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 28 minutes, making it a perfect family-friendly option or a relaxing stroll for anyone interested in local heritage.
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Popular around Hilliard
Tips from the Community
Tucked off the Heritage Rail Trail, this small park features playgrounds, a water fountain, toilets, lakes, a water park, and even a Conrail caboose—all set within a natural woodland setting with walking and biking trails.
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This restored Conrail train caboose is a testament to the Heritage Rail Trail's origin as a once-abandoned railroad path. More information can be found on signs around this area in Homestead Metro Park.
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Millikin Falls is highest after spring snowmelt. The waterfall can be accessed either at the top of the falls or at the bottom from two trails that leave from the same parking lot off of Dublin Road.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any dog-friendly hiking trails in the Hilliard area?
Yes, many trails around Hilliard are great for hiking with your dog. The Roberts Millikin Ditch loop from The University is a popular choice. Additionally, local dog owners often enjoy the Scioto Run Nature Trail and the Darby Creek Trail, both of which offer woodland paths and opportunities for dogs to play near the water.
Can I find any waterfall hikes near Hilliard?
Absolutely. For a rewarding waterfall view, head to Hayden Run Falls. A short trail with a boardwalk and stairs leads down to a picturesque 30-foot waterfall in a small gorge. Another great option is the Millikin Falls Area within Quarry Trails Metro Park, which is a local favorite, especially after recent rainfall.
What are some good, easy hikes for families with children?
Homestead Metro Park is an excellent choice for a family outing. It features a nearly mile-long paved trail that is perfect for little legs, along with a picturesque covered bridge and a fishing pond. The park's gentle, country atmosphere makes for a relaxing day out.
Are there paved trails suitable for strollers or rollerblading?
Yes, the Hilliard area has several paved trails. The Heritage Rail Trail is a 7-mile multi-purpose path that is flat and paved, making it ideal for strollers, cycling, and rollerblading. It connects several parks, including Homestead Metro Park, which also has its own paved loop.
Where can I find a longer, more challenging hike?
For a more substantial hike, consider the River Rock Trail to Sycamore Plains Trail loop. This nearly 8-mile route in Prairie Oaks Metro Park offers a moderate challenge through beautiful restored prairies and woodlands along Big Darby Creek.
What kind of wildlife might I see while hiking near Hilliard?
The parks around Hilliard are rich with wildlife. Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park is famous for its herd of bison, which can be viewed from the trails. At Highbanks Metro Park, you might spot nesting bald eagles near the Olentangy River. On quieter trails like the Scioto Run Nature Trail, it's common to see deer and a variety of birds.
Are there any circular or loop trails available?
Yes, there are several great loop trails. The Quarry Trails Metro Park loop is a short, easy walk through a reclaimed quarry. For a longer option, the Roberts Millikin Ditch loop offers a pleasant 4.4-mile hike.
Where can I find trails with the best scenic views?
For dramatic scenery, Highbanks Metro Park is unmatched in the area. The Overlook Trail leads to a viewing deck on a 100-foot-high shale bluff with breathtaking views of the Olentangy River. Prairie Oaks Metro Park also offers beautiful vistas across its nearly 500 acres of restored flowering prairies.
What are some popular places for hiking in Hilliard?
Locals and visitors enjoy a variety of parks for hiking. Quarry Trails Metro Park is highly regarded for its unique landscape and waterfall. The Darby Creek Trail is a favorite for its beautiful riverside path, while the Scioto Run Nature Trail offers a quieter, more rustic woodland experience.
Are there any unpaved, natural-surface trails for a more rustic hike?
Yes, if you're looking for a more natural trail experience, the Scioto Run Nature Trail is a mile-long dirt and grass path that runs alongside a stream. For more extensive options, Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park features numerous wooded trails with some steep sections that follow the scenic Big and Little Darby Creeks.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails around Hilliard?
The trails around Hilliard are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the diversity of the scenery, from the paved, accessible Heritage Rail Trail to the wild prairies of Prairie Oaks Metro Park and the dramatic bluffs at Highbanks.
What is the best time of year to hike in the Hilliard area?
Hiking around Hilliard is enjoyable year-round, but each season offers something special. Spring and summer are fantastic for seeing the wildflower meadows at Homestead Metro Park and the lush prairies at Prairie Oaks in full bloom. Autumn provides beautiful fall colors, especially in the mature forests of Highbanks Metro Park. Winter offers clearer views through the trees and a chance to see the landscape in a different light.
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