Fall Hikes at Columbus Metro Parks

Columbus Metro Parks is running a series of guided fall hikes across the city's park system, with walks scheduled every Sunday and Friday throughout the season. The whole thing is built around the foliage turning, which the parks describe as the time when the landscape is at its best.

There are a few different kinds of hikes to choose from, so you can pick based on who you're bringing. Full-moon hikes take you out after dark, pumpkin hikes lean into the season, and family hikes are geared toward all ages. Because they're spread across the different Metro Parks, you can find a trail close to where you are rather than trekking across town.

If you're used to hiking on your own, these are a bit different. They're guided, so you'll be walking with a group and a leader rather than just hitting a loop by yourself. That makes them a good way to get out if you're new to the area or just want to see a different part of the system without having to map it out first.

Every hike in the series is free. They run weekly on Sundays and Fridays, all day, across the Columbus Metro Parks system.