How to Hike Highbanks North from Columbus

Highbanks North, located just outside Columbus, Ohio, is one of the most rewarding and visually striking natural destinations in the region. Known for its dramatic limestone bluffs, panoramic views of the Scioto River, and rich geological history, Highbanks North offers hikers an immersive experience that blends rugged terrain with serene forest trails. Despite its proximity to a major metropolitan area, this trail system remains relatively under-the-radar, making it a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude, challenge, and scenic beauty.

For residents of Columbus and surrounding areas, Highbanks North provides an accessible escape into nature without the need for long-distance travel. Whether you're a seasoned hiker looking for a new trail or a beginner seeking a manageable yet rewarding adventure, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan, prepare for, and complete your hike from Columbus — safely, efficiently, and with maximum enjoyment.

This tutorial is designed as a comprehensive, step-by-step resource that covers logistics, trail etiquette, gear recommendations, real-world examples, and frequently asked questions. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to tackle Highbanks North with ease — and perhaps discover why so many locals return to this trail again and again.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand the Location and Trail Layout

Highbanks North is part of the larger Highbanks Metro Park, managed by the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks. The Highbanks North trail system is distinct from the main Highbanks Trail and is accessed via a separate entrance off of State Route 161. It features approximately 3.5 miles of interconnected trails that wind along the edge of a 150-foot-high limestone bluff, offering sweeping views of the Scioto River Valley below.

The primary loop trail is roughly 2.7 miles long and can be extended with side paths to reach overlooks, geological markers, and historic features. The trail is mostly natural surface — dirt, gravel, and occasional rock steps — with minimal paved sections. Elevation changes are moderate to steep in places, especially near the bluff’s edge, so proper footwear and fitness are essential.

Before you leave, study a trail map. The official Metro Parks map is available online at metroparks.net and is also posted at trailheads. Pay attention to trail markers: blue diamonds indicate the main loop, yellow markers lead to overlooks, and red markers connect to the Highbanks South section (which we’ll avoid on this route).

Step 2: Plan Your Departure from Columbus

Driving from downtown Columbus to the Highbanks North trailhead takes approximately 25–35 minutes, depending on traffic and your starting point. The most direct route is via I-71 North to Exit 116 (State Route 161), then follow SR-161 North for 2.3 miles until you reach the park entrance on the left.

For those using public transit or rideshare services, note that there is no direct public transportation to the trailhead. You’ll need to arrange a drop-off or pickup at the parking lot located at 10800 Highbanks Metro Park Drive, Columbus, OH 43235. This is the only official parking area for Highbanks North.

Pro tip: Avoid weekend mornings between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. if you prefer fewer crowds. Weekday afternoons and early weekends offer the best balance of accessibility and tranquility.

Step 3: Prepare Your Gear

While Highbanks North is not a backcountry trek, it demands thoughtful preparation. Here’s what to bring:

• Sturdy hiking shoes or boots with good ankle support and grip — the trail includes loose gravel, roots, and slick limestone in shaded areas.
• Water — carry at least 2 liters per person, especially in warmer months. There are no water stations on the trail.
• Snacks — energy bars, trail mix, or fruit to maintain stamina on the uphill sections.
• Weather-appropriate clothing — layers are key. Even in summer, the bluff edge can be significantly windier and cooler than the valley floor.
• Trail map and compass or GPS app — while the trail is well-marked, cell service is inconsistent in wooded areas. Download offline maps using AllTrails or Gaia GPS.
• First aid kit — include bandages, antiseptic wipes, and blister treatment.
• Sun protection — hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. The upper trail sections are exposed to direct sun.
• Trash bag — pack out everything you bring in. Leave No Trace principles are strictly enforced.

Do not rely on the park to provide amenities. There are no restrooms on the trail itself — the nearest facilities are at the parking lot entrance.

Step 4: Begin Your Hike at the Main Trailhead

Park your vehicle in the designated lot. The trailhead is clearly marked with a large wooden sign and a kiosk featuring a trail map. Before you step onto the path, take a moment to orient yourself. The main loop begins with a gentle descent through a mixed hardwood forest — oak, hickory, and maple dominate the canopy.

Follow the blue diamond markers. The first 0.5 miles are relatively flat and ideal for warming up. Watch for interpretive signs that explain the area’s glacial history and the formation of the limestone bluffs, which date back over 300 million years.

At the 0.7-mile mark, you’ll reach the first overlook — a wooden platform with a railing offering a breathtaking view of the Scioto River winding through the valley. This is a great spot to pause, take photos, and hydrate.

Step 5: Navigate the Bluff Edge and Key Sections

After the overlook, the trail begins to climb gently toward the ridge. The next 0.8 miles involve moderate elevation gain with occasional rock steps and roots. Stay on the marked path — the edge of the bluff is unstable in places, and off-trail hiking is both dangerous and prohibited.

At the 1.6-mile mark, you’ll encounter the “Devil’s Backbone” — a narrow, elevated ridge with steep drop-offs on both sides. This is the most dramatic section of the trail. Walk slowly, keep your center of gravity low, and avoid distractions like phone use. Many hikers pause here for photos, but always remain behind the safety ropes.

From here, the trail turns eastward and descends slightly before looping back north. You’ll pass a side trail marked with yellow diamonds leading to the “Limestone Cave Overlook” — a small, naturally formed alcove that’s safe to view from a distance. Do not enter any caves or rock formations; they are fragile and protected.

Step 6: Complete the Loop and Return to the Parking Lot

At the 2.4-mile mark, the trail rejoins the main loop and begins its final ascent back to the parking lot. This section is steeper than the initial descent, so pace yourself. Use trekking poles if you have them — they significantly reduce strain on your knees.

As you near the end, you’ll pass a small bench under a large white oak tree — a perfect spot for a quiet moment before returning to your vehicle. The final 0.3 miles are mostly downhill and easy, but remain alert for loose stones and tree roots.

Upon returning to the parking lot, take a moment to reflect on your journey. Highbanks North may be short in distance, but its elevation changes, scenic variety, and geological significance make it feel much longer.

Step 7: Post-Hike Care

After your hike, perform a quick self-check:

• Inspect your feet for blisters or ticks — Ohio has a high tick population, especially in spring and early summer.
• Wipe down your boots and gear to remove mud and seeds — this helps prevent invasive plant spread.
• Hydrate and eat a light meal rich in protein and electrolytes to aid recovery.
• Log your hike in a journal or app. Noting trail conditions, weather, and wildlife sightings helps you improve future visits.

Best Practices

Timing Your Visit

The best seasons to hike Highbanks North are spring (April–May) and fall (September–October). Spring brings wildflowers like trillium and bloodroot, while fall offers vibrant foliage with maples and oaks turning brilliant red and gold. Summer hikes are possible but require early morning starts to avoid heat and humidity. Winter hikes are feasible for experienced hikers, but ice and snow can make the trail hazardous — microspikes and trekking poles are strongly advised.

Avoid hiking during thunderstorms. The bluff edge becomes extremely slippery, and lightning poses a serious risk on exposed ridgelines.

Leave No Trace Principles

Highbanks North is a protected natural area. Follow these seven Leave No Trace guidelines:

1. Plan ahead and prepare — know the rules, weather, and trail conditions.
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces — stay on marked trails to prevent erosion.
3. Dispose of waste properly — pack out all trash, including food scraps and biodegradable items.
4. Leave what you find — do not pick flowers, collect rocks, or carve into trees.
5. Minimize campfire impact — fires are not permitted on the trail.
6. Respect wildlife — observe from a distance. Do not feed animals.
7. Be considerate of other visitors — yield to uphill hikers, keep noise low, and step aside for others on narrow sections.

Trail Etiquette and Safety

Highbanks North sees a mix of solo hikers, families, and dog walkers. Always yield to those going uphill. If you’re with a dog, keep it on a leash at all times — even well-behaved pets can startle wildlife or other hikers.

Cell service is unreliable. Inform someone of your planned route and expected return time. Consider carrying a personal locator beacon (PLB) if hiking alone in remote sections.

Watch for poison ivy, especially near the trail’s lower sections. Learn to identify it by its “leaves of three” pattern. If you come into contact, wash the area immediately with soap and water.

Group Hiking Tips

If hiking with a group, maintain a compact formation. Avoid spreading out — it’s easy to lose sight of others on winding trails. Designate a front and rear person to ensure no one gets left behind. Children should be closely supervised near overlooks and steep drop-offs.

Tools and Resources

Official Resources

The Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks website is the most reliable source for trail updates, closures, and seasonal advisories:

• www.metroparks.net — official site with maps, alerts, and event calendars
• Highbanks Metro Park Page — detailed trail descriptions and parking info
• Follow @ColumbusMetroParks on Instagram and Facebook for real-time trail condition photos

Mobile Apps

Download these apps before your hike:

• AllTrails — user-reviewed trail maps, elevation profiles, and recent photos. Search “Highbanks North Loop” for the most accurate route.
• Gaia GPS — allows offline map downloads and GPS tracking. Ideal for areas with no cell signal.
• Weather Underground — provides hyperlocal forecasts for the Highbanks area.
• iNaturalist — identify plants and wildlife you encounter. Contribute to citizen science efforts.

Recommended Gear

Here are trusted gear options for Highbanks North:

• Footwear: Merrell Moab 3 Hiking Shoes or Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX
• Backpack: Osprey Talon 22 — lightweight with hydration sleeve
• Water: CamelBak Crux 2L Reservoir or Nalgene bottle with carabiner
• Trekking Poles: Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork — adjustable and shock-absorbing
• First Aid: Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .7
• Navigation: Garmin inReach Mini 2 — satellite communicator with SOS

Books and Guides

For deeper context, consider these publications:

• Ohio’s Best Hikes: 50 of the State’s Greatest Trails by Michael Lanza — includes a full chapter on Highbanks
• The Geology of Central Ohio by William C. Ritter — explains the limestone formations and glacial history
• Wildflowers of the Midwest by Mark W. Hagen — helps identify flora along the trail

Real Examples

Example 1: The Solo Hiker — Sarah, 34, Software Engineer

Sarah hikes Highbanks North every other Saturday morning. She starts at 7 a.m. to avoid crowds and uses the time to disconnect from work. Her routine: she brings a thermos of black coffee, a peanut butter sandwich, and her Garmin inReach. She logs her hikes in a journal, noting bird species she sees — she’s recorded 27 different types in the past year. “It’s not just exercise,” she says. “It’s meditation with a view.”

Example 2: The Family Hike — The Chen Family

The Chens, a family of four from Westerville, bring their two children (ages 7 and 10) on Sunday afternoons. They take the shorter 1.5-mile out-and-back route to the first overlook and back. They pack snacks, a small nature scavenger hunt list (find a pinecone, a feather, a smooth stone), and always leave with a trash bag full of litter they picked up along the way. “We teach them respect for nature by example,” says father David. “By the time they’re teens, they’ll be the ones leading hikes.”

Example 3: The Photography Expedition — Jamal, 28, Landscape Photographer

Jamal visits Highbanks North at golden hour — one hour before sunset — to capture the light hitting the limestone bluffs. He uses a wide-angle lens and a tripod, often waiting for the mist that rolls in from the river to create atmospheric shots. He shares his photos on Instagram with the hashtag

HighbanksNorthColumbus, inspiring others to visit. “The light here is unlike anywhere else in central Ohio,” he says. “It’s all about timing and patience.”

Example 4: The Winter Hike — The Metro Park Volunteers

Every January, a group of 12 volunteers from the Metro Parks trail crew hikes Highbanks North to inspect trail damage from ice and snow. They clear fallen branches, repair erosion spots, and replace faded trail markers. “We do this because we love this place,” says lead volunteer Maria. “It’s not about being tough — it’s about stewardship.”

FAQs

Is Highbanks North suitable for beginners?

Yes, with caveats. The trail is not overly long, but it has steep sections and uneven terrain. Beginners should start with the first 1.5 miles to the main overlook and return the same way. Avoid attempting the full loop if you’re not comfortable with elevation changes or loose footing.

Are dogs allowed on the trail?

Yes, dogs are permitted but must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. Some sections are narrow, so be mindful of other hikers.

Is there an entrance fee?

No. Highbanks Metro Park is free to enter and open daily from sunrise to sunset. Parking is also free.

Are restrooms available on the trail?

No. The only restrooms are located at the parking lot entrance. Plan accordingly.

Can I bike on the Highbanks North trail?

No. The trail is designated for foot traffic only. Bicycles are not permitted on any of the natural surface trails within Highbanks Metro Park.

What wildlife might I encounter?

Common sightings include white-tailed deer, red foxes, wild turkeys, and numerous songbirds. You may also spot eastern gray squirrels, raccoons, and occasionally a black bear — though bear sightings are rare. Always observe from a distance and never feed wildlife.

Is the trail accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?

No. The trail is natural surface with steep inclines, roots, and rocks. There are no paved or ADA-accessible sections on the Highbanks North loop. The main park entrance has accessible parking and restrooms, but the trail itself is not wheelchair-friendly.

What should I do if I get lost?

Stay calm. Stop moving. Use your GPS app to confirm your location. If you have a PLB or satellite communicator, activate it. If not, retrace your steps to the last trail marker you remember. Do not attempt to cut through brush or climb down the bluff. Park rangers patrol the area regularly — if you hear voices or see a vehicle, call out.

Can I camp at Highbanks North?

No. Camping is not permitted within Highbanks Metro Park. Nearby options include Mohican State Park or the Scioto Trail State Forest, both about an hour’s drive away.

Is photography allowed?

Yes. Highbanks North is a popular spot for nature photography. Tripods are permitted. Please avoid climbing on rocks or railings for better shots — safety and preservation come first.

How long does the full hike take?

Most hikers complete the full 2.7-mile loop in 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on pace and stops. Allow extra time if you plan to take photos, rest, or explore side overlooks.

Conclusion

Hiking Highbanks North from Columbus is more than a physical activity — it’s a journey through time, geology, and natural beauty. In just a few hours, you can experience ancient rock formations, quiet forest trails, and panoramic views that rival those found in much larger national parks. What makes this trail truly special is its accessibility: a short drive from the city, no fees, and no crowds — if you know when to go.

This guide has equipped you with the knowledge to navigate the trail safely, prepare appropriately, and respect the environment that makes Highbanks North so remarkable. Whether you’re hiking alone for reflection, with family for connection, or with a camera to capture the light, this trail offers something profound.

As you plan your next visit, remember: the best hikes are not measured in miles, but in moments — the quiet rustle of leaves, the first glimpse of the river below, the feeling of standing on a cliff formed long before Columbus was a city. Highbanks North invites you to pause, to observe, and to remember your place within the natural world.

So lace up your boots, pack your water, and step onto the trail. The bluff is waiting.