The best walks and hikes around Lincoln Village
4.2
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181
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Hiking around Lincoln Village is characterized by its network of trails within the Central Ohio Metro Parks system. The terrain primarily features wooded areas and access to rivers like the Scioto and Olentangy. Elevation changes are generally gentle, offering accessible paths through natural settings. The region provides diverse outdoor opportunities across its various parks.
Best hiking trails around Lincoln Village
- The most popular hiking route is Milliken Falls via Tall Wall, Connector, and Milliken Falls Trail, a 2.4 miles (3.8 km) trail that takes 1 hour to complete. This easy route leads through wooded areas to Milliken Falls.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Big Run Park Loop, a moderate 5.9 miles (9.5 km) path. This loop explores Big Run Park, featuring varied terrain and natural surroundings.
- Local hikers also love the Scioto and Olentangy Trail Loop, a 11.6 miles (18.7 km) trail leading through riverfront parkland, often completed in about 4 hours 45 minutes.
- Hiking around Lincoln Village is defined by wooded areas, river access, and parkland trails. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to moderate excursions.
- The routes in Lincoln Village are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 3.8 stars from over 8 reviews. More than 150 hikers have used komoot to explore Lincoln Village's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
5
hikers
3.79km
01:01
50m
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.
2
hikers
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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2.24km
00:34
10m
0m
The Darby Creek Greenway Trail offers an easy hiking experience, winding through prairies, fields, and some wooded sections. You can expect a wide, flat path, mostly crushed gravel, making for a comfortable walk. A highlight is spotting the bison herd in their pastures, especially from the Bison Prairie viewpoint. The trail also follows the scenic Big Darby Creek, providing peaceful waterside views. This easy route covers 1.4 miles (2.2 km) with a minimal elevation gain of 29 feet (9 metres), taking about 34 minutes to complete.
When planning your visit to the Darby Creek Greenway Trail, remember it is located within Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park. The trail is suitable for hikers and dog walkers, and its flat, wide surface also accommodates mountain or hybrid bikes. While this specific route is easy, the larger park offers other trails if you are looking for more challenging terrain or a longer adventure.
This trail stands out for its unique opportunity to observe a herd of bison roaming freely in their pastures, a rare sight in the region. The path's proximity to the Big Darby Creek also adds to its appeal, providing a serene natural setting. It's a great option for a quick, accessible outdoor escape within the metro park.
9.48km
02:28
60m
60m
Embark on the moderate Big Run Park Loop, a 5.9-mile (9.5 km) hike that takes you through a diverse landscape of lush wooded areas, wetlands, and streams. As you follow the winding path, you will cross picturesque bridges and rock steps, eventually reaching notable spots like Derby Hill. This route involves a gentle elevation gain of 192 feet (59 metres) and typically takes around 2 hours and 27 minutes to complete, offering a refreshing outdoor experience.
When planning your visit, you will find Big Run Park to be highly accessible and welcoming to various activities, including walking, jogging, and even incline training. The trails are generally well-maintained, ensuring a pleasant journey for all users. If you have a furry friend, you are welcome to bring them along, as the park is dog-friendly. Convenient parking is usually available at Big Run Metro Park, making your arrival straightforward.
Beyond the scenic paths, the park is a haven for wildlife, providing opportunities for birdwatching and observing local fauna. Keep an eye out for deer, snapping turtles, and a variety of bird species, such as blue herons and red-tailed hawks, which frequent the area. The route also features a vibrant pollinator habitat, adding to the natural beauty and ecological significance of this urban green space.
18.7km
04:47
70m
80m
Hike the 11.6-mile Scioto and Olentangy Trail Loop in Columbus, offering moderate difficulty, river views, and city skyline vistas.
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Popular around Lincoln Village
Tips from the Community
With the sparkling water in front of you and the city skyline in the background, this is a great place to stop and take in the view. It's especially great on calm, clear nights when the city lights reflect of the water.
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The Olentangy River reaches 97 miles from Morrow County through Delaware County to Columbus, where it meets the Scioto at Confluence Park. Originally called "Keenhongsheconsepung," meaning "sharp tool river," settlers renamed it "Whetstone River" before a legislative mix-up in 1833 assigned it the name "Olentangy." The river serves as a drinking water source for Delaware County, while the Delaware State Park Reservoir is used for flood control. Restoration efforts, including dam removals, have reduced the river’s width and improved ecology.
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Along the Scioto River Trail, visitors get views of the downtown Columbus skyline with the river in the foreground. Columbus is the nation's 14th largest city and this walking path provides some of the best views of its most well known buildings.
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This is one of two restored prairie pastures in Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park. This pasture is where the park's small herd of bison spend the summer and the other pasture, across the trail, is where the bison spend the winter.
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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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Along the Scioto River Trail, visitors get views of the downtown Columbus skyline with the river in the foreground. Columbus is the nation's 14th largest city and this walking path provides some of the best views of its most well known buildings.
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The Olentangy River is known for the interesting shale formations along its shores. It was originally known by the native Delaware people of the area by the name of Keenhongsheconsepung, meaning "sharp tool river". The river is 97 miles long and is a tributary to the Scioto River.
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Nice view on the railway bridges and the skyline of Columbus
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on hiking trails around Lincoln Village?
Hiking around Lincoln Village primarily features wooded areas and access to rivers like the Scioto and Olentangy, as it's part of the Central Ohio Metro Parks system. The terrain generally offers gentle elevation changes, making for accessible paths through natural settings.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners in Lincoln Village?
Yes, Lincoln Village offers several easy trails perfect for beginners. For example, the Milliken Falls via Tall Wall, Connector, and Milliken Falls Trail is an easy 2.4-mile route that leads through wooded areas to Milliken Falls. Another option is the Darby Creek Greenway Trail, which is also rated as easy.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks I can see while hiking in the area?
The region around Lincoln Village offers several natural features and landmarks. You can explore areas along the Olentangy River and Darby Creek. The Scioto Audubon Metro Park is a significant natural area, and you might even cross the Scioto River Bridge on some routes.
Are there any longer or more moderate hiking options available?
Yes, for those looking for a longer or more moderate experience, the Big Run Park Loop is a moderate 5.9-mile path featuring varied terrain. Another popular moderate option is the Scioto and Olentangy Trail Loop, an 11.6-mile route through riverfront parkland.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails around Lincoln Village?
Many trails within the Central Ohio Metro Parks system are dog-friendly, though specific rules may vary by park or trail section. It's always best to check individual park regulations before heading out, but generally, leashed dogs are welcome on most paths.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Lincoln Village?
Absolutely. The gentle elevation changes and wooded environments of the Central Ohio Metro Parks make many trails suitable for families. Easy routes like the Darby Creek Greenway Trail are great for walks with children.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Lincoln Village?
The trails around Lincoln Village are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.8 stars. Hikers often praise the accessible paths, the peaceful wooded areas, and the opportunities to enjoy nature within the Central Ohio Metro Parks system.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the area?
Yes, there are circular routes available. The Big Run Park Loop is a moderate 5.9-mile circular path that allows you to explore the park's varied terrain. Another option is the longer Scioto and Olentangy Trail Loop.
Is there public transport available to access hiking trails near Lincoln Village?
While Lincoln Village itself is a community, the broader Central Ohio Metro Parks system, which hosts these trails, has varying levels of public transport access. It's recommended to check local bus routes or ride-sharing options to specific park entrances, as direct public transport to all trailheads may not be available.
What is the best time of year to go hiking around Lincoln Village?
The Central Ohio region offers pleasant hiking conditions throughout much of the year. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer provides lush greenery, and autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage. Even winter can be beautiful for hiking, especially after a fresh snowfall, though some trails might be muddy or icy.
How many hiking trails are there in the Lincoln Village area?
There are over 15 hiking routes available for exploration around Lincoln Village, ranging in difficulty from easy strolls to more moderate excursions within the Central Ohio Metro Parks system.
Are there any trails that feature waterfalls?
Yes, you can find a trail that leads to a waterfall. The Milliken Falls via Tall Wall, Connector, and Milliken Falls Trail is an easy route that takes you through wooded areas directly to Milliken Falls.
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