How to Hike Bexley Parks from Columbus

For outdoor enthusiasts living in or visiting Columbus, Ohio, the opportunity to explore serene, well-maintained green spaces is closer than you think. Bexley, a charming suburb nestled just southeast of downtown Columbus, offers a surprising network of parks and trails that blend urban accessibility with natural tranquility. Hiking in Bexley Parks from Columbus is not just a weekend escape—it’s a practical, health-enhancing, and deeply rewarding way to reconnect with nature without leaving the metropolitan area. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual walker seeking fresh air and quiet paths, this guide provides everything you need to know to plan, prepare for, and enjoy a fulfilling hiking experience in Bexley’s public parks.

The appeal of hiking in Bexley lies in its seamless integration of nature and community. Unlike remote wilderness areas that require long drives and specialized gear, Bexley’s parks offer paved and natural surface trails, historic landmarks, wildlife observation points, and family-friendly amenities—all within a 15-minute drive from central Columbus. This tutorial will walk you through every step of the process, from choosing your route to packing the right essentials, so you can confidently step out of your car in Bexley and into a peaceful woodland trail.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Identify Your Starting Point in Columbus

Before you head to Bexley, determine your starting location within Columbus. Your departure point will influence your travel time, route, and even the park you choose. Popular access points include:

• Downtown Columbus (near the Ohio Statehouse)
• Short North (near High and Long Streets)
• North Market District
• Franklin Park (just north of Bexley)
• University District (near OSU campus)

Each of these areas offers different traffic patterns and parking options. For instance, if you’re starting from the Short North, you can take Broad Street southeast directly into Bexley, with minimal traffic during non-rush hours. If you’re coming from the University District, consider taking Livingston Avenue or Alum Creek Drive for a scenic, tree-lined approach.

Use a mapping app like Google Maps or Apple Maps to set your destination as one of Bexley’s primary trailheads. Set the mode to “Walking” or “Driving” depending on whether you plan to park and hike or walk directly from your residence.

Step 2: Choose Your Bexley Park Destination

Bexley is home to several well-maintained parks, each offering unique hiking experiences. The most popular for trail enthusiasts include:

• Alum Creek Park – A 1.5-mile loop trail along the creek with interpretive signage and birdwatching opportunities.
• Johnstown Road Park – Features a 1.2-mile natural surface trail through mixed hardwood forest with benches and shaded rest areas.
• St. Francis de Sales Park – Offers a 0.8-mile loop with paved paths suitable for all ages, connecting to the larger Alum Creek Greenway.
• Brookside Park – A quiet, wooded retreat with a 1-mile trail system and seasonal wildflower displays.
• Greenway Trail Connector – A multi-use path that links Bexley to the larger Alum Creek Greenway system, extending up to 12 miles toward Delaware.

Consider your goals when selecting a park:

• For a quick, accessible walk: St. Francis de Sales Park or Brookside Park.
• For wildlife and nature immersion: Johnstown Road Park or Alum Creek Park.
• For extended hiking and connecting to regional trails: Greenway Trail Connector.

Check the City of Bexley’s official website or their Parks & Recreation page for seasonal trail closures, maintenance schedules, or special events that may affect your hike.

Step 3: Plan Your Route and Distance

Once you’ve selected your destination, map out your exact route. Use tools like AllTrails, Gaia GPS, or even Google Earth to preview the trail surface, elevation changes, and points of interest. Most Bexley trails are flat or gently rolling, with elevation gains under 100 feet—ideal for beginners and those seeking low-impact exercise.

For example, if you choose the Alum Creek Park loop:

• Start at the main trailhead on East Main Street near the Bexley Public Library.
• Follow the blue trail markers clockwise around the creek.
• Pass the interpretive kiosk detailing local flora and fauna.
• Continue past the stone bridge and return to the starting point.

Plan for a total distance of 1.5 miles, which typically takes 30–45 minutes at a leisurely pace. If you’re feeling more energetic, combine this with the Greenway Trail Connector to extend your hike to 3–4 miles.

Always note the trailhead’s exact address and parking availability. Most Bexley parks offer free, on-street parking near trail entrances. Avoid parking in residential neighborhoods unless clearly marked as permitted.

Step 4: Prepare Your Gear

Hiking in Bexley doesn’t require heavy-duty equipment, but smart preparation ensures comfort and safety:

• Footwear: Closed-toe walking shoes or trail runners with good grip are sufficient. Avoid sandals or dress shoes.
• Clothing: Dress in moisture-wicking layers. Even in summer, mornings and evenings can be cool. A light windbreaker is recommended.
• Hydration: Carry at least 16 oz of water. While some parks have water fountains, they may be seasonal or turned off in winter.
• Navigation: Download offline maps using AllTrails or Gaia GPS. Cell service can be spotty in wooded areas.
• Trail snacks: Pack energy bars, nuts, or fruit. Avoid sugary snacks that attract wildlife.
• First aid: A small kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers is prudent for minor scrapes or ticks.
• Insect repellent: Especially important in spring and summer months when mosquitoes and ticks are active.
• Trash bag: Practice Leave No Trace principles—carry out everything you bring in.

Do not rely on park facilities for supplies. There are no convenience stores or vending machines on the trails.

Step 5: Time Your Hike for Optimal Conditions

Timing your hike can dramatically affect your experience. Here’s a seasonal guide:

• Spring (March–May): Ideal for wildflowers, bird migration, and mild temperatures. Trails may be muddy after rain—check conditions before heading out.
• Summer (June–August): Warm and humid. Start early (before 9 a.m.) to avoid peak heat and crowds. Bring extra water and sun protection.
• Fall (September–November): Peak season. Cool temperatures, vibrant foliage, and crisp air make this the most popular time. Arrive early on weekends to secure parking.
• Winter (December–February): Quiet and serene. Trails may be icy or snow-covered. Use traction devices on shoes if needed. Dress in thermal layers.

Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. If you prefer solitude, aim for Tuesday or Wednesday mornings. Sunday afternoons, especially in fall, are busiest.

Step 6: Enter and Navigate the Park

Upon arrival, locate the main trailhead signage. Most Bexley parks have clear, color-coded markers indicating trail difficulty and direction. Follow the signs closely—many trails loop back on themselves, and it’s easy to miss a turn.

At Alum Creek Park, for example, the trail is marked with blue diamonds on trees and posts. Johnstown Road Park uses yellow circles. If you’re unsure, take a photo of the trail map posted at the entrance. Many visitors get disoriented by similar-looking paths, especially in dense woods.

Respect trail etiquette:

• Yield to hikers going uphill.
• Step aside for runners and cyclists on shared paths.
• Keep dogs on leash at all times.
• Do not feed wildlife.
• Stay on designated trails to protect native vegetation.

If you encounter a closed section due to erosion or maintenance, follow detour signs or turn back. Do not create your own path—this damages ecosystems and can lead to trail degradation.

Step 7: Document and Reflect

After your hike, take a moment to reflect on your experience. Did you spot a red fox? Hear a woodpecker? Notice a new wildflower? Journaling or photographing your hikes helps build a personal connection to nature and improves future planning.

Consider sharing your experience on local hiking forums or social media groups like “Columbus Hikers” or “Bexley Nature Lovers.” Your insights may help others discover hidden gems or avoid common pitfalls.

Also, update your personal hiking log—note the date, distance, weather, and any trail changes. Over time, this becomes a valuable resource for planning future outings.

Best Practices

Practice Leave No Trace Principles

Preserving the natural beauty of Bexley Parks is everyone’s responsibility. Follow these seven Leave No Trace principles:

1. Plan ahead and prepare. Know the rules, weather, and trail conditions before you go.
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces. Stick to marked trails and avoid trampling vegetation.
3. Dispose of waste properly. Pack out all trash, including food scraps and biodegradable items like apple cores.
4. Leave what you find. Do not pick flowers, move rocks, or take souvenirs from nature.
5. Minimize campfire impact. Fires are prohibited on all Bexley trails.
6. Respect wildlife. Observe animals from a distance. Never feed them.
7. Be considerate of other visitors. Keep noise levels low and yield the trail politely.

These practices ensure that Bexley’s parks remain pristine for future generations—and for your next visit.

Stay Aware of Weather and Trail Conditions

Ohio’s weather is unpredictable. A sunny morning can turn into a thunderstorm by noon. Always check the forecast before leaving home. Use the National Weather Service’s Columbus page for accurate, localized updates.

After heavy rain, trails like Johnstown Road Park can become muddy and slippery. If the ground looks saturated, delay your hike or choose a paved route like the Greenway Trail Connector. Flash flooding is rare but possible near Alum Creek—avoid crossing swollen streams.

In winter, ice can form on sidewalks and trail edges. Use traction cleats or ice grips if you’re hiking in freezing temperatures. The City of Bexley does not salt or plow hiking trails, so self-reliance is key.

Respect Park Hours and Regulations

All Bexley parks are open from sunrise to sunset. After-hours access is prohibited for safety and ecological reasons. Park gates are locked at dusk, and trespassing after hours can result in fines.

Additional regulations include:

• No bicycles on natural surface trails (only on designated multi-use paths).
• No drones without a city permit.
• No smoking on trails or in park buildings.
• Only service animals are permitted inside park facilities.

These rules are not arbitrary—they protect both the environment and the experience of all visitors.

Engage with the Local Community

Bexley Parks are maintained through community involvement. Consider volunteering for a trail cleanup day or joining the Friends of Bexley Parks group. These organizations host seasonal events, educational walks, and native plantings that deepen your connection to the land.

Participating in community efforts also gives you insider knowledge: which trails are being improved, where new benches or signs are being installed, or when rare bird migrations are expected.

Hydrate and Pace Yourself

Even short hikes can be deceptively tiring, especially in humid conditions. Drink water before you start, during your hike, and after you finish. A general rule: consume 4–8 oz of water every 20 minutes during physical activity.

Listen to your body. If you feel dizzy, nauseous, or excessively fatigued, stop and rest. Bexley’s parks have benches spaced throughout trails—use them. There’s no shame in taking breaks.

Tools and Resources

Mobile Apps for Hiking in Bexley

Several digital tools can enhance your hiking experience:

• AllTrails – Offers detailed trail maps, user reviews, photos, and elevation profiles for every Bexley trail. Download offline maps before you leave home.
• Gaia GPS – Ideal for advanced users. Allows custom route planning and satellite imagery overlays.
• iNaturalist – Identify plants, birds, and insects during your hike. Contribute to citizen science by uploading photos.
• Google Maps – Use “Satellite” view to preview trail access points and parking areas. Turn on “Terrain” mode to see elevation changes.
• Weather Radar (RadarScope) – Real-time storm tracking to avoid getting caught in rain.

Official Resources

Always refer to authoritative sources for the most accurate information:

• City of Bexley Parks & Recreation Website – www.bexleyohio.gov/parks – Updated trail maps, event calendars, and contact information for park managers.
• Alum Creek Greenway Project – www.alumcreekgreenway.org – Details on regional trail connections and funding initiatives.
• Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) – ohiodnr.gov – Wildlife advisories, invasive species alerts, and conservation tips.
• Franklin County Park District – franklincountyparks.org – Offers maps and guides for trails extending beyond Bexley.

Printed Materials

While digital tools are helpful, printed resources remain valuable:

• Free trail maps are available at the Bexley Public Library and City Hall.
• The “Bexley Greenways Guide” booklet (available in PDF or print) details all trails, distances, and historical points of interest.
• Local bookstores like The Book Loft of German Village carry regional hiking guides that include Bexley Parks.

Community Groups and Social Media

Join local networks to stay informed:

• Facebook Group: “Columbus Area Hikers” – Over 12,000 members share trail updates, photos, and meetups.
• Instagram: @bexleynature – Features daily photos of seasonal changes in Bexley parks.
• Meetup.com: “Bexley Trail Walkers” – Organizes weekly group hikes.
• Reddit: r/Columbus – Search “Bexley hiking” for recent tips and questions.

These platforms often reveal real-time information not found on official sites—like a fallen tree blocking a trail or a sudden deer sighting.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Weekend Nature Escape

Sarah, a software developer from the Near East Side of Columbus, wanted to reduce her screen time and improve her mental health. She began hiking in Bexley every other Saturday.

Her routine:

• Leaves home at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday.
• Drives 12 minutes to Alum Creek Park via East Main Street.
• Walks the 1.5-mile loop, stopping to photograph wildflowers and record bird calls using iNaturalist.
• Breaks for a granola bar and water at the shaded bench near the stone bridge.
• Walks back to her car, then stops at the Bexley Farmers Market (open Saturdays 8 a.m.–1 p.m.) for fresh produce.

After three months, Sarah reported improved sleep, reduced anxiety, and a newfound appreciation for seasonal change. She now brings her 8-year-old daughter, who has learned to identify 12 native plants.

Example 2: The Senior Citizen Trail Advocate

Robert, 72, moved to Bexley after retiring from teaching. He had never hiked before but wanted to stay active. He started with St. Francis de Sales Park, which has flat, paved paths and benches every 200 feet.

He now walks the 0.8-mile loop three times a week. He uses a walking cane for balance and carries a small backpack with water and his hearing aid charger.

Robert joined the “Senior Strollers” group organized by the Bexley Senior Center. They meet every Tuesday at 9 a.m. for a guided, slow-paced walk. He’s made lifelong friends and even helped design a new ADA-compliant trail extension.

Example 3: The Photography Enthusiast

James, a freelance photographer from Columbus, specializes in nature and urban landscapes. He discovered Brookside Park during a Google Maps search for “hidden green spaces near Columbus.”

He now visits at golden hour—30 minutes before sunset—when the light filters through the canopy. He uses a tripod and wide-angle lens to capture mist rising off Alum Creek in early autumn.

James posted his photos on Instagram, tagging

BexleyParks. His work was featured in a local art exhibit and inspired a city initiative to install more interpretive signage along the trails.

Example 4: The Student Researcher

Emma, a biology major at Ohio State, needed a location for a semester-long study on urban biodiversity. She chose Johnstown Road Park because of its mix of native trees and minimal human disturbance.

Over six months, she recorded:

• 47 bird species
• 19 insect species
• 8 types of moss and lichen
• 3 mammal tracks (white-tailed deer, raccoon, gray squirrel)

Her findings were presented at the Ohio Undergraduate Research Symposium and contributed to the city’s urban forest management plan.

FAQs

Can I bring my dog to Bexley Parks?

Yes, dogs are permitted in all Bexley Parks, but they must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet at all times. You are responsible for cleaning up after your pet. Some trails, like the Greenway Trail Connector, are popular with dog owners—bring waste bags and water for your dog.

Are there restrooms available in Bexley Parks?

Restrooms are available at St. Francis de Sales Park and Brookside Park during daylight hours. Alum Creek Park and Johnstown Road Park do not have public restrooms. Plan accordingly.

Is hiking in Bexley safe at night?

No. All Bexley Parks close at sunset. There is no lighting on trails, and nighttime access is prohibited for safety and wildlife protection. Always plan your hike to finish before dusk.

Are the trails wheelchair accessible?

Yes. St. Francis de Sales Park and the Greenway Trail Connector have paved, ADA-compliant surfaces. Other trails are natural surface and may have roots, rocks, or mud. Check the City of Bexley’s accessibility guide for detailed information.

Do I need a permit to hike in Bexley Parks?

No. All Bexley Parks are publicly accessible and free to use. No permits are required for individual hikers or small groups. Commercial guided tours require a special use permit from the city.

What should I do if I see a sick or injured animal?

Do not approach or attempt to help. Note the location and contact the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Division at 614-265-6300. They have trained responders who can assist safely.

Can I run or cycle on the trails?

Running is permitted on all trails. Bicycles are only allowed on the Greenway Trail Connector and paved sidewalks. Natural surface trails (like Johnstown Road Park) are for foot traffic only to protect the ecosystem.

Is there cell service on the trails?

Most areas have limited service. Verizon and T-Mobile generally have the strongest signals. Download offline maps and save emergency contacts before you go. Consider carrying a personal locator beacon if hiking alone in remote sections.

What’s the best time of year to see fall colors in Bexley?

Mid-October through early November is peak foliage season. Sugar maple, red oak, and hickory trees turn brilliant red and gold. Alum Creek Park and Brookside Park offer the most vibrant displays. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.

Can I have a picnic in Bexley Parks?

Yes. Designated picnic tables are available at St. Francis de Sales Park, Brookside Park, and the Alum Creek Park trailhead. Grills and open fires are prohibited. Use reusable containers and pack out all trash.

Conclusion

Hiking Bexley Parks from Columbus is more than a physical activity—it’s a mindful practice that connects you to the land, the seasons, and your community. In a world increasingly dominated by screens and schedules, these green corridors offer a rare opportunity to slow down, breathe deeply, and witness the quiet rhythms of nature just minutes from the city’s bustle.

From the whisper of leaves along Alum Creek to the rustle of a fox in the underbrush at Johnstown Road Park, each trail tells a story. And with thoughtful preparation, respect for the environment, and the right tools, you can become a steward of these spaces—not just a visitor.

Start small. Pick one park. Walk one trail. Return again. Over time, you’ll discover not only the beauty of Bexley’s landscapes but also the peace they cultivate within you. Whether you’re a Columbus resident seeking a daily reset or a visitor looking to experience Ohio beyond its landmarks, Bexley’s parks await—with open trails, quiet paths, and endless reasons to return.