The best cycling routes around Columbus

There are over 70 touring cycling routes around Columbus, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has rated these routes highly, with an average score of 4.5 stars.

Columbus's touring cycling routes offer diverse landscapes, from scenic riverfronts along the Olentangy and Alum Creek Trails to wooded areas, open fields, and urban scenery. You'll pass through numerous metro parks like Scioto Audubon and Blacklick Woods, and some routes even offer views of bucolic farmland and charming small towns.

Yes, Columbus is known for its generally flat terrain and extensive multi-use trails, making it ideal for easy rides. Over 50 of the routes are classified as easy. A great option is the Hoover Reservoir Park loop — Westerville, which is 12.5 miles (20.1 km) and offers pleasant views around the reservoir.

Yes, many routes in Columbus are designed as loops, providing convenient circular tours. For example, the Hoover Reservoir Park loop — Westerville and the Olentangy River – Delawanda Park loop from Broadmeadows are excellent circular options.

Many routes in Columbus pass by interesting natural and man-made features. You can explore areas like Hoover Reservoir Park, Antrim Lake Deck, or even the unique Bison Prairie at Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park. The Scioto Mile Promenade also offers stunning views of the downtown skyline.

Absolutely! Many trails, especially those running along rivers and through metro parks, offer opportunities for wildlife viewing. Cyclists on trails like the Columbus Loop might spot deer, hawks, and herons. The Blacklick Creek Greenway Trail traverses forests and wetlands, providing excellent chances for observing local wildlife, and bison can even be seen in Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park.

Columbus offers enjoyable touring cycling for much of the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. While winter cycling is possible, some trails may be affected by snow or ice. The extensive paved trail network makes it accessible across different seasons.

Yes, several Columbus trails are part of larger networks. For instance, sections of the Alum Creek Trail are part of the Ohio to Erie Trail and U.S. Bicycle Route 50, offering opportunities for much longer tours across the state.

The Scioto Greenway Trail, running through the heart of Columbus alongside the Scioto River, provides excellent views of the downtown skyline. It's a great way to combine urban exploration with natural beauty.

While many routes are available, the Alum Creek – Alum Creek Trail loop from Bexley is one of the longer options listed, covering 31.3 miles (50.4 km) and offering a moderate challenge.

Yes, Quarry Trails Metro Park, a unique transformation of a former quarry, features a 25-foot waterfall. While not directly on a touring cycling route listed here, it's a notable natural feature in the area that can be explored.

The touring cycling routes in Columbus are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an impressive average rating of 4.5 stars from over 100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained trails and diverse scenery.