How to Hike Delaware State Park from Columbus

Delaware State Park, nestled in the heart of Ohio, is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude, scenic trails, and immersive nature experiences. Located just over an hour’s drive from Columbus, it offers a refreshing escape from urban life without requiring a long journey. Despite its proximity to one of Ohio’s largest cities, many residents remain unaware of the park’s extensive trail network, diverse wildlife, and tranquil reservoir views. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough on how to hike Delaware State Park from Columbus—covering everything from route planning and gear preparation to trail etiquette and seasonal considerations. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time visitor, this tutorial equips you with the knowledge to make the most of your day trip, ensuring safety, enjoyment, and a deeper connection with the natural landscape.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Plan Your Route and Timing

Before leaving Columbus, determine your departure time and route. Delaware State Park is approximately 65 miles northeast of downtown Columbus, with a typical drive time of 60 to 75 minutes depending on traffic and road conditions. The most direct route is via US-23 North to OH-37, then east on OH-37 into the park. Use GPS navigation apps like Google Maps or Apple Maps, but always have a backup printed map or offline GPS file, as cell service can be spotty near trailheads.

Plan to arrive by 8:00 a.m. to avoid weekend crowds and secure parking. The park opens at 7:00 a.m. year-round, and early morning light offers optimal conditions for photography, cooler temperatures, and increased wildlife activity. If you’re planning a longer hike, aim to complete your route by 4:00 p.m. to ensure you’re off the trails before dusk.

2. Choose Your Trail

Delaware State Park features over 20 miles of maintained hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to moderate climbs. Your choice should depend on your fitness level, time available, and desired scenery. Here are the top three trails recommended for visitors from Columbus:

• Reservoir Loop Trail (3.5 miles) – A flat, well-marked loop around the 2,000-acre Delaware Lake. Ideal for beginners and families. Offers panoramic water views, birdwatching opportunities, and shaded sections under mature oaks and hickories.
• North Ridge Trail (5.2 miles round trip) – A moderate trail with gentle elevation gain, offering elevated views of the lake and surrounding forest. Best for those seeking solitude and a bit of a challenge. The trailhead is located near the North Shore Picnic Area.
• Blue Jay Trail + Cedar Run Connector (7.1 miles loop) – The park’s most scenic and varied route. Combines forested paths, rocky outcrops, and stream crossings. Perfect for experienced hikers looking to spend half a day immersed in nature.

Download the official Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) trail map before you go. Physical maps are available at the park office, but digital versions can be accessed via the ODNR website or mobile app. Always confirm trail conditions—some paths may be closed after heavy rain or during deer hunting season (November).

3. Prepare Your Gear

Proper gear can make the difference between a pleasant hike and a stressful one. Here’s a minimal yet effective packing list:

• Footwear – Sturdy hiking shoes or trail runners with good grip. Avoid sneakers or sandals, especially after rain when trails become muddy or slippery.
• Backpack – A 10–20 liter daypack to carry water, snacks, layers, and emergency items.
• Water – At least 2 liters per person. There are no water refill stations on the trails, so bring all you need. Consider a collapsible bottle or hydration bladder for convenience.
• Snacks – High-energy foods like trail mix, energy bars, dried fruit, or peanut butter sandwiches. Avoid heavy meals that can cause sluggishness.
• Weather Layers – Ohio weather changes quickly. Pack a lightweight rain jacket, moisture-wicking base layer, and a packable fleece. Even in summer, temperatures drop near the water at dusk.
• Navigation Tools – A physical map, compass, and fully charged smartphone with offline maps (Google Maps or AllTrails downloaded in advance).
• First Aid Kit – Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, blister treatment, tweezers, and any personal medications.
• Insect Repellent and Sunscreen – Ticks are common in wooded areas. Use permethrin-treated clothing or DEET-based repellent. Sunscreen is essential even on cloudy days—UV rays reflect off the water.

4. Enter the Park and Locate Your Trailhead

Delaware State Park has multiple entry points, but the most convenient for hikers is the main entrance off OH-37. The park charges a $7 daily vehicle fee for Ohio residents and $10 for non-residents. Payment can be made at the automated kiosk near the entrance or via the ODNR mobile app (available for download on iOS and Android).

Once inside, follow signs to your chosen trailhead. For the Reservoir Loop, park at the Lakeview Picnic Area. For North Ridge, use the North Shore lot. For Blue Jay + Cedar Run, park at the South Shore Trailhead near the boat ramp. All lots have restrooms and trash bins. If you arrive during peak season (May–October), arrive early—parking fills quickly, especially on weekends.

5. Begin Your Hike

Before stepping onto the trail, take a moment to orient yourself. Check your map, note the trail markers (color-coded blazes), and confirm your direction. Delaware State Park uses a standard color system: blue for main trails, white for connectors, and yellow for short spurs.

Start slow. Even if you’re fit, allow your body to adjust to the terrain. The first mile of any trail often includes uneven roots, loose gravel, or slight inclines. Maintain a steady pace—this conserves energy and helps prevent injury.

Stay on marked trails. Venturing off-trail damages fragile ecosystems and increases the risk of getting lost. Ohio’s forests are protected, and leaving trails can result in fines.

6. Navigate Trail Junctions and Landmarks

Key junctions to watch for:

• Reservoir Loop – At the 1.5-mile mark, you’ll cross a wooden footbridge over a small inlet. This is your halfway point. Continue clockwise for the best views of the lake.
• North Ridge Trail – After 1.8 miles, you’ll reach a bench with a view of the dam. This is a good rest spot. The trail then curves left toward the ridge crest.
• Blue Jay + Cedar Run – At the 3-mile mark, you’ll intersect with Cedar Run Trail. Turn right here to complete the loop. Look for the distinctive red sandstone outcrop on your left—it’s a popular photo spot.

Use natural landmarks to confirm your location: large boulders, distinctive trees (like the old white oak near the Cedar Run crossing), or the sound of the dam spillway. Don’t rely solely on GPS—batteries die, and signals fade under dense canopy.

7. Practice Leave No Trace Principles

Delaware State Park thrives because visitors respect its environment. Follow these core principles:

• Carry out all trash—including food wrappers, fruit peels, and biodegradable items. They don’t decompose quickly in forest soil and attract wildlife.
• Stay on designated trails to prevent erosion and protect native plants.
• Do not feed animals. Squirrels, deer, and raccoons are wild. Feeding them alters natural behavior and can be dangerous.
• Use designated restroom facilities. If you must relieve yourself off-trail, dig a cathole 6–8 inches deep and at least 200 feet from water sources.
• Keep noise to a minimum. This preserves the peace for other hikers and allows wildlife to remain undisturbed.

8. Complete Your Hike and Exit Safely

When you finish your hike, take a moment to rehydrate and stretch. Check your feet for ticks—especially behind the knees and in the groin area. Ticks are most active in spring and early summer. Use a tick key or fine-tipped tweezers to remove any attached ticks promptly.

Before leaving the trailhead, refill your water bottle if you have a reusable container, and dispose of any trash in designated bins. If you used the ODNR app to pay, confirm your payment receipt is saved. If you paid at the kiosk, keep your receipt in case you’re asked for proof of entry.

Exit the park using the same route you entered. Avoid shortcuts through fields or private property—these are often fenced or monitored.

Best Practices

1. Hike with a Buddy or Inform Someone

Even on well-traveled trails, solo hiking carries risk. If you must hike alone, leave a detailed itinerary with a friend or family member—including your planned trail, expected return time, and vehicle description. Consider using a personal locator beacon (PLB) or smartphone app like Find My (Apple) or Life360 for real-time location sharing.

2. Check the Weather Forecast

Ohio’s weather is notoriously unpredictable. A sunny morning can turn into a thunderstorm by afternoon. Always check the National Weather Service forecast for Delaware County before departure. Avoid hiking during lightning storms, high winds, or freezing rain. Trails become hazardous when wet, and flash flooding can occur near the lake’s tributaries.

3. Respect Wildlife and Habitat

Delaware State Park is home to white-tailed deer, red foxes, wild turkeys, and over 150 bird species. You may encounter black bears—rare, but not unheard of. If you see a bear, remain calm, back away slowly, and do not run. Never approach or photograph wildlife too closely. Use binoculars or a zoom lens for better views without intrusion.

4. Avoid Peak Crowds

Weekends from Memorial Day to Labor Day attract the largest crowds. If possible, hike on weekdays or during shoulder seasons (April–May and September–October). Early spring offers blooming wildflowers, while fall delivers vibrant foliage. Winter hiking is possible on cleared trails and offers a serene, snow-dusted landscape—just be prepared for icy patches and shorter daylight hours.

5. Know Your Limits

Don’t overestimate your fitness. Even moderate trails can be deceptive. The North Ridge Trail, for example, appears gentle on maps but has sustained inclines that tire unprepared hikers. If you feel dizzy, short of breath, or excessively fatigued, stop, rest, and reassess. Turn back if needed—there’s no shame in adjusting your plans.

6. Carry a Whistle and Emergency Blanket

A simple pea-less whistle is more effective than shouting for help—it carries farther and requires less energy. An emergency thermal blanket (available for under $5 at outdoor stores) can prevent hypothermia if you’re stranded after dark or injured.

7. Leave Valuables in Your Vehicle

While Delaware State Park has low crime rates, parked cars are occasionally targeted. Leave wallets, phones, and electronics locked in your trunk. Use a locking glove box or secure bag. If you need your phone for navigation, keep it in a secure pocket and avoid displaying it openly.

Tools and Resources

1. Official Ohio DNR Website

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources website is the most reliable source for current trail conditions, closures, park hours, and fees. It also features downloadable PDF trail maps, seasonal alerts, and wildlife advisories. Bookmark this resource before your trip.

2. AllTrails App

AllTrails offers user-submitted reviews, elevation profiles, and real-time trail photos for every major path in Delaware State Park. The free version provides sufficient detail for day hikers. Premium users can download offline maps, which is essential for areas with poor cell reception. Search “Delaware State Park Trails” to access curated routes with difficulty ratings and time estimates.

3. Gaia GPS

For advanced users, Gaia GPS provides topographic overlays, satellite imagery, and route planning tools. It’s ideal if you want to create custom loops or explore less-traveled connectors. The app syncs with Garmin and Apple Watch devices for seamless navigation.

4. iNaturalist

Use iNaturalist to identify plants, birds, and insects you encounter. Snap a photo, upload it, and the community helps label species. It’s educational, engaging, and contributes to citizen science projects tracking biodiversity in Ohio.

5. Trail Conditions Hotline

While you cannot call a customer service line, you can check the park’s automated voicemail system by calling (740) 368-2271. This recording is updated weekly with trail closures, restroom availability, and recent wildlife sightings. Leave a message if you have questions—park staff return calls during business hours.

6. Local Outdoor Retailers

Visit local Columbus-based outdoor stores like REI Columbus or Adventure Outfitters for gear rentals, trail advice, and community event calendars. Staff often know about lesser-known trails or recent changes not yet posted online.

7. Delaware County Visitor Center

Located at 120 North Union Street in Delaware, OH, this center offers free printed maps, local history brochures, and recommendations from park rangers who work in the area. Stop by before your trip for insider tips—like the best time of day to see herons near the dam or where wild strawberries grow in late June.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Weekend Family Hike

Emily and Mark, both software engineers from Columbus, wanted a screen-free Sunday with their 8-year-old daughter, Lily. They chose the Reservoir Loop Trail after reading online reviews about its accessibility. They left at 7:30 a.m., arrived by 8:45 a.m., and packed a picnic lunch with sandwiches, fruit, and trail mix. Lily carried her own small backpack with binoculars and a field guide to birds. They spotted a red-winged blackbird, a great blue heron, and a family of beavers near the northern inlet. The entire hike took 2.5 hours, including stops. They returned to Columbus by 2:00 p.m., tired but energized. Emily later posted photos on Instagram with the hashtag

DelawareStateParkFamilyDay—inspiring three of her friends to plan their own trips.

Example 2: The Solo Adventurer

Jason, a 32-year-old photographer from Upper Arlington, hikes Delaware State Park every other Saturday. He prefers the Blue Jay + Cedar Run loop for its dramatic lighting and varied terrain. He leaves Columbus at 5:30 a.m., arrives by 6:45 a.m., and hikes until 1:00 p.m. He carries a DSLR, extra batteries, and a lightweight tripod. He waits for the golden hour near the sandstone outcrop to capture mist rising off the lake. Jason logs each hike in a journal, noting weather, light conditions, and wildlife sightings. He’s documented over 150 bird species in the park and contributed data to the Ohio Ornithological Society. His photos have been featured in two regional nature magazines.

Example 3: The Off-Season Challenge

In January, a group of five friends from Worthington decided to hike the North Ridge Trail in snow. They wore insulated boots, crampons, and wool layers. The trail was icy in places, and snow covered the trail markers. They used GPS and a printed map to navigate. They brought hand warmers, thermoses of tea, and high-calorie snacks. The hike took 4.5 hours instead of the usual 2.5, but the silence and crisp air made it unforgettable. They returned to Columbus with frost on their beards and a shared sense of accomplishment. “It felt like we had the whole park to ourselves,” one wrote in their group chat.

Example 4: The First-Time Hiker

Maya, a college student from Columbus who’d never hiked before, joined a campus outdoor club trip to Delaware State Park. She was nervous about getting lost and tired. The club leader assigned her a buddy and gave her a checklist: water, snacks, map, whistle. They hiked the Reservoir Loop together. Maya was amazed by the quiet—no traffic, no phones, just birds and wind. She didn’t finish the full loop (stopped at the halfway bench), but she didn’t feel like a failure. “I didn’t need to do it all,” she said. “I just needed to be there.” She’s since joined the club’s monthly hikes and now leads beginners herself.

FAQs

Is Delaware State Park open year-round?

Yes, Delaware State Park is open 365 days a year. The park office and restrooms operate from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily. Trails remain accessible even in winter, though some may be snow-covered or temporarily closed after storms. Always check the ODNR website for alerts before visiting.

Can I bring my dog on the trails?

Dogs are permitted on all hiking trails but must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. Owners are responsible for cleaning up waste. Dogs are not allowed in swimming areas or on the beach. Bring water for your pet and avoid hiking during extreme heat.

Are there restrooms on the trails?

No permanent restrooms exist along the hiking trails. Flush toilets are available at the main picnic areas, visitor center, and boat launch. Plan accordingly and use facilities before starting your hike.

Can I camp overnight at Delaware State Park?

Delaware State Park offers campgrounds with electric and non-electric sites, but overnight camping is not permitted on hiking trails. If you wish to camp, reserve a site through the ODNR website. Day hikers must exit the park by closing time.

Is fishing allowed in the lake?

Yes. A valid Ohio fishing license is required. The lake is stocked with bass, bluegill, catfish, and perch. Fishing is permitted from shore or non-motorized boats. Motorized boats require a permit and are restricted to designated zones.

Are there guided hikes available?

The park offers free ranger-led walks on weekends during spring and fall. These focus on wildlife, geology, and history. Check the ODNR events calendar or call the park voicemail for schedules. No reservation is needed—just arrive at the visitor center at the listed time.

What’s the best time of year to hike?

Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) offer the most comfortable temperatures and stunning scenery. Wildflowers bloom in spring; fall foliage peaks in late October. Summer is busy but ideal for early morning hikes. Winter provides solitude and unique photography opportunities if you’re properly equipped.

Can I hike in the rain?

You can, but with caution. Trails become slippery and muddy, especially near the lake’s edge. Wear waterproof boots and bring extra socks. Avoid hiking during thunderstorms—lightning poses a serious risk near open water. If rain starts while you’re on the trail, seek shelter under dense canopy (not isolated trees) and wait until it passes.

Are there any fees for parking or entry?

Yes. Ohio residents pay $7 per vehicle; non-residents pay $10. Annual passes are available for $25 and cover all Ohio state parks. Payment is made at kiosks or via the ODNR mobile app. No cash is accepted at the kiosks—credit/debit only.

What should I do if I get lost?

Stop immediately. Do not keep walking. Use your map and compass to reorient. If you’re unsure, stay put and use your whistle—three blasts is the universal distress signal. Call 911 if you have signal. If not, wait for help. Most hikers are found within hours because they remain stationary.

Conclusion

Hiking Delaware State Park from Columbus is more than a day trip—it’s an opportunity to reconnect with nature, challenge yourself, and discover quiet corners of Ohio that most people never see. With thoughtful planning, proper gear, and respect for the land, you can transform a simple drive into a meaningful outdoor experience. The trails may be short compared to those in the Rockies or Appalachians, but their accessibility, beauty, and serenity make them among the most rewarding in the state.

Each step you take on the Reservoir Loop, North Ridge, or Blue Jay Trail is a step away from screens, noise, and stress—and toward clarity, calm, and wonder. Whether you’re hiking with family, friends, or alone, the park rewards patience and presence. Don’t rush the journey. Pause to watch a dragonfly hover over the water. Listen to the wind through the pines. Notice how the light changes as the sun moves across the sky.

Delaware State Park doesn’t require epic endurance or specialized training. It asks only that you show up—with curiosity, care, and a willingness to be still. So lace up your boots, pack your water, and set out from Columbus. The trail is waiting.