Get Fit–Where to Run in Columbus: Highbanks Metro Park
Whether you are one of those really fit types that just loves to run outdoors, or you are like me and just barely able to get up a brisk walk, you will love the trails at Highbanks Metro Park.
My “fit” friends all tell me this is the best park in the Columbus area to jog in, and many drive in from other parts of town to enjoy Highbanks’ jogger friendly trails. Here you will find everything from short, flat, paved and very easy, to long, hilly, unpaved and very difficult. With trails rated everything from beginner to advanced it is easy to see why runners of all fitness levels enjoy Highbanks. Highbanks also has a pet friendly trail, so if your running or hiking partner is of the four-legged variety, this is the place to take him.
I recently took a run with one of my friends there. Now, I am definitely a beginner, so I appreciated the amount of time she took lagging behind her usual pace (Thanks Lisa!). But due to my slow going, she was able to take the time and really look around at the beauty of autumn in Ohio parks. The explosion of color and the more moderate temperatures this time of year make for a really enjoyable run.
Another benefit to the many trails at Highbanks is that there are many trail access points, and in turn, plenty of parking. The roads can get a bit maze like though, so if you are new to the park, stop at the information area right near the front gate and take a look at the map.
To get to Highbanks (which is actually in the suburb of Lewis Center) from Columbus you will need to take 270 around to the St. Rt. 23 north exit on the north side of town, leading toward Delaware. Take 23 north from the exit and drive about three miles. The entrance to Highbanks is on the left, before Powell Rd.
Click HERE to learn more about Highbanks Metro Park.
The park is open Open 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. April through September and 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. October through March.
9466 Columbus Pike
Lewis Center, OH 43035
(614) 846-9962
Columbus, Ohio, OH, Ohio parks, Columbus parks, Columbus Metro Parks, Highbanks, fitness, jogging, hiking, walking
November 15th, 2007 at 11:42 am
Thx for the link.
May 19th, 2008 at 10:09 am
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