Metro Parks Launches 2025-2026 Winter Hike Series

November 25, 2025

Supplied picture. Adult and child in snow.

Columbus, November 25 – Columbus & Franklin County Metro Parks (Metro Parks) invite the community to get outdoors this winter with its annual Winter Hikes series. From December through February, residents and visitors can explore 19 Metro Parks at their own pace, enjoy seasonal treats, and experience the unique beauty of the parks during the colder months.

“Winter transforms our parks in ways that are both peaceful and magical,” said Tim Moloney, Metro Parks Executive Director. “Whether you’re hiking with family, friends, or on your own, the Winter Hikes are a wonderful way to enjoy fresh air, stay active, and discover new favorite trails.”

Series highlights include:

  • Twinkling Lights in December – Start the season with the Winter Hike Kick-Off at Blacklick Woods Metro Park on December 1, 2025, from 5 – 7 pm, where you can grab your Winter Hike card, enjoy some hot cocoa, and walk under the lights. Other parks that have holiday lights include Battelle Darby Creek, Highbanks, Homestead, and Inniswood Gardens Metro Parks, with special lantern walks at Chestnut Ridge Metro Park on December 5 & 6.
  • January Trails & Treats – Throughout January 2026, choose any trail at Clear Creek, Prairie Oaks, Rocky Fork, Scioto Audubon, Scioto Grove, Sharon Woods, Slate Run, Walnut Woods, and Blendon Woods Metro Parks. Selected days will feature refreshments and group hikes.
  • February Love for the Outdoors – February brings more hikes at Glacier Ridge, Pickerington Ponds, Quarry Trails, and Three Creeks Metro Parks, with warm drinks and treats at scheduled times.
  • Earn your patch – Hike any seven of the participating parks to earn your Winter Hikes patch. Redeem your prize on February 22, 2026, from 11 am – 3 pm at Blacklick Woods Metro Golf Course.
  • This year, visitors can pick up a winter hike card at most participating parks, or can go digital by joining the Metro Parks Winter Hikes Challenge on the OuterSpatial app. Hikes are flexible, allowing participants to choose their own trail, time, and pace. Winter Hikes provide a perfect opportunity to enjoy the crisp air, quiet trails, and seasonal scenery while staying active outdoors.

For full details, including dates, maps, and information on tracking your hikes, visit https://www.metroparks.net/winter-hikes/