Columbus, Ohio, offers several beautiful nature parks and outdoor spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy. These parks provide opportunities for hiking, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and a peaceful escape from the city. Here are some of the notable nature parks in the Columbus area:
- Highbanks Metro Park: Located in the northern part of the city, Highbanks Metro Park is known for its high shale bluffs overlooking the Olentangy River. It offers numerous trails, including woodland and river views. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer and various bird species.
- Sharon Woods Metro Park: This park is situated to the northeast of Columbus and offers picturesque lakes, woods, and wetlands. Visitors can explore numerous trails and enjoy the serene beauty of the park. Sharon Woods also has a beautiful garden with a variety of plant species.
- Blendon Woods Metro Park: Blendon Woods is a peaceful park in the northeast part of the city. It’s known for its quiet walking trails, a picturesque lake, and a nature center that provides educational programs and exhibits about the local flora and fauna.
- Inniswood Metro Gardens: Although not a traditional nature park, Inniswood Metro Gardens is a stunning botanical garden on the northern outskirts of Columbus. It features a wide range of gardens, including rose gardens, herb gardens, and rock gardens, making it a perfect place for a leisurely stroll.
- Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park: Located to the west of Columbus, this park is known for its vast open spaces and natural beauty. It’s one of the largest metro parks in the area and features a herd of bison, walking trails, and the Big Darby Creek, a designated National Scenic River.
- Scioto Audubon Metro Park: Situated just south of downtown Columbus, this park is known for its urban location and bird-watching opportunities. It has a climbing wall, a dog park, and a beautiful lake. The park is also home to the Grange Insurance Audubon Center, which hosts educational programs about birds and wildlife.
- Whetstone Park of Roses: Located in the Clintonville neighborhood, this park is famous for its beautiful rose gardens, featuring thousands of rose bushes. It’s a great place for a leisurely walk and enjoying the fragrant beauty of the roses.
- Alum Creek State Park: A bit farther from downtown Columbus, Alum Creek State Park offers a reservoir for boating and fishing, as well as a beach for swimming. The park is a popular destination for water sports and outdoor activities.
These are just a few of the nature parks and outdoor spaces in and around Columbus, Ohio. They provide a wide range of recreational opportunities and a chance to connect with nature in the midst of the city. Whether you’re interested in hiking, bird-watching, or simply enjoying a picnic in a serene setting, Columbus has a park to suit your needs.
Author: Kirill Shrayber, Ph.D.