How to Hike University District Greenways from Columbus

The University District Greenways in Columbus, Ohio, represent a hidden network of scenic, car-free pathways that connect neighborhoods, parks, educational institutions, and natural corridors. While often overlooked by visitors and even some residents, these greenways offer a unique blend of urban accessibility and natural tranquility—perfect for walkers, joggers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts seeking a peaceful escape without leaving the city. Hiking the University District Greenways from Columbus isn’t just about physical movement; it’s an immersive experience into the city’s ecological planning, historical development, and community-driven design. Whether you're a local looking to rediscover your surroundings or a traveler seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences, understanding how to navigate and appreciate these trails is essential. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to help you explore these greenways safely, sustainably, and meaningfully.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand the Geography and Network

The University District Greenways are not a single trail but a connected system of multi-use paths, linear parks, and repurposed rail corridors centered around Ohio State University’s main campus and extending into surrounding neighborhoods like Clintonville, Bexley, and the Near East Side. The core of the network includes the Olentangy River Trail, the Scioto Greenway, and the proposed but partially completed University District Connector. These routes are maintained by the City of Columbus, the Olentangy River Greenway Foundation, and community volunteers.

Start by visualizing the layout. The Olentangy River Trail runs north-south along the Olentangy River, passing through the university campus and connecting to the larger Central Ohio Trail (COT) at its southern terminus. The Scioto Greenway runs parallel to the Scioto River, intersecting with the Olentangy Trail near the Broad Street Bridge. The University District Connector, still under development in parts, aims to link the campus directly to the Clintonville Trail System via the old railroad bed of the Columbus and Southern Ohio Railroad.

Before you step out, study a map. Use the City of Columbus Greenway Map or the OpenStreetMap layer dedicated to trails. Identify your starting point—whether it’s the campus near 17th Avenue, the intersection of High and Lane Avenues, or the trailhead near the Wexner Medical Center—and your destination. Common endpoints include the Ohio State University Agricultural Technical Institute (ATI) in Wooster (via extended connections), the Franklin Park Conservatory, or the historic Irish Village neighborhood.

Step 2: Choose Your Route Based on Skill Level and Interest

Greenway hiking varies in difficulty and length. Select a route that matches your fitness level and desired experience.

Beginner Route (2–3 miles): Start at the Olentangy River Trailhead near the intersection of High Street and Lane Avenue. Walk north along the paved trail past the university’s athletic fields and the Botanical Gardens. Continue to the intersection with the Greenway near the Wexner Medical Center. This segment is flat, well-lit, and lined with interpretive signs about native flora. Ideal for families or those seeking a short, educational stroll.

Intermediate Route (5–7 miles): Begin at the same point and continue north on the Olentangy Trail past the Ohio State Golf Course. Cross the bridge at Lane Avenue and follow the trail as it veers east toward the Clintonville neighborhood. Here, you’ll transition onto the Clintonville Greenway, which features shaded tree canopies, public art installations, and benches with historical plaques. End at the intersection with the Scioto Greenway near the Franklin Park Conservatory. This route offers varied terrain and cultural landmarks.

Advanced Route (10+ miles): For experienced hikers, start at the southern terminus of the Olentangy Trail near the Broad Street Bridge. Head north through campus, then take the University District Connector (when fully paved) toward the former rail corridor. Continue past the Ohio State University Extension Office, cross the railroad underpass, and link up with the Scioto Greenway. From there, head west toward the Franklinton area, then loop back via the Scioto River Trail and the Downtown Greenway. This route requires good navigation skills, water, and a full day.

Step 3: Prepare Your Gear

While the greenways are urban trails, preparation is key. Even short hikes benefit from thoughtful packing.

• Footwear: Wear sturdy, broken-in walking shoes with good grip. Paved surfaces are common, but gravel, roots, and wet leaves can create slippery patches, especially near riverbanks.
• Hydration: Carry at least 16–20 oz of water. While there are public water fountains at major trailheads (like near the Wexner Center and the Franklin Park Conservatory), they are not consistently spaced.
• Weather-appropriate clothing: Ohio’s weather changes rapidly. Layer with moisture-wicking fabrics. A lightweight rain jacket is recommended year-round. In summer, wear a hat and sunscreen; in winter, use traction cleats for icy sections.
• Navigation tools: Download offline maps on your phone using AllTrails or Gaia GPS. Cell service can be spotty near wooded sections. A physical map from the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department is also helpful.
• Optional: Binoculars for birdwatching, a journal for noting flora, and a small first-aid kit for blisters or minor scrapes.

Step 4: Enter the Greenway System Safely

Most greenway access points are clearly marked with signage, but some are subtle. Look for green metal signs with white lettering and the city’s trail logo—a leaf inside a circle. Common entry points include:

• High Street & Lane Avenue: The primary trailhead with parking, restrooms, and bike racks.
• 17th Avenue & High Street: Near the university’s main campus, this entrance connects directly to the Olentangy Trail.
• Wexner Medical Center Parking Lot 3: A discreet but well-used access point with ADA-compliant ramps.
• Clintonville Trailhead at N. High Street & Whittier Avenue: A community hub with picnic tables and public art.

Always enter from designated access points. Avoid cutting through private property or university grounds unless explicitly permitted. Many areas adjacent to the trails are campus-owned or privately maintained, and trespassing can result in fines or safety risks.

Step 5: Navigate Intersections and Transitions

The greenway network is not always continuous. You’ll encounter transitions between paved paths, gravel trails, and shared roadways. Pay attention to signage and pavement markings.

At intersections like the junction of the Olentangy and Scioto Greenways near the Broad Street Bridge, look for directional arrows and distance indicators. Some paths merge temporarily with bike lanes on city streets—these are marked with shared-use symbols. When crossing streets, always use designated crosswalks. Even if the trail appears to continue, do not assume vehicular traffic will yield. Wait for clear gaps or pedestrian signals.

One critical transition point is the underpass beneath the I-71 overpass near the Ohio State campus. This section is narrow and dimly lit. Use a flashlight if hiking after dusk. The path here is concrete and well-maintained, but it’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for the entrance between the two concrete retaining walls.

Step 6: Observe and Respect the Environment

The University District Greenways are living ecosystems. Native trees like sugar maples, river birches, and black walnuts line the trails. Understory plants such as wild ginger, Virginia creeper, and trillium thrive in shaded areas. Wildlife includes white-tailed deer, red foxes, great blue herons, and over 120 species of migratory birds.

Practice Leave No Trace principles:

• Carry out all trash, including food wrappers and biodegradable items like apple cores.
• Stay on designated paths to prevent erosion and protect root systems.
• Do not feed wildlife. Even well-intentioned feeding disrupts natural foraging behaviors.
• Keep dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Dog waste must be picked up and disposed of in provided bins.

Many sections of the trail are designated as quiet zones. Avoid loud music or amplified devices. Use headphones if listening to audio content.

Step 7: Complete Your Hike and Reflect

When you reach your endpoint, take a moment to reflect. Note the changes in landscape, the sounds of birds, the scent of wet earth after rain, or the quiet hum of distant city life. Many hikers find the greenways to be a form of moving meditation.

Log your hike using a trail app like AllTrails or the City of Columbus’s Greenway Tracker. Your data helps city planners understand usage patterns and prioritize maintenance. Consider sharing your experience on local community boards or social media using the hashtag

ColumbusGreenways to raise awareness.

Finally, if you’ve completed a longer route, reward yourself at a nearby café. The Ohio State Bookstore Café, the Clintonville Coffee House, or the historic Schlee’s Restaurant on High Street offer excellent post-hike refreshments and local Ohio fare.

Best Practices

Plan for All Seasons

Ohio experiences four distinct seasons, and each transforms the greenway experience.

Spring: Trails are lush and blooming, but muddy in early months. Wait until late April for optimal conditions. Watch for poison ivy, which emerges early. Wear long pants and use a topical barrier cream.

Summer: Heat and humidity are common. Hike early morning or late evening. Carry electrolyte tablets. Mosquitoes are active near wetlands—use DEET-based repellent.

Fall: The best season for hiking. Temperatures are mild, and foliage turns brilliant red and gold. Trails are dry and scenic. Leaves can obscure trail markings, so stay alert.

Winter: Snow and ice make some trails impassable without traction devices. The Olentangy Trail is salted and plowed regularly, but side paths are not. Dress in thermal layers and avoid hiking alone. Check the City of Columbus Parks Department website for trail closures due to ice storms.

Timing and Crowd Management

The greenways are most crowded on weekend afternoons between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m., especially during football season when Ohio State games draw large crowds. To avoid congestion, hike on weekday mornings or during twilight hours. Sundays at dawn are particularly serene.

During university breaks (summer, winter, spring), the trails are quieter. This is ideal for photography, birding, or solo reflection.

Engage with the Community

The University District Greenways thrive because of community stewardship. Volunteer with the Olentangy River Greenway Foundation or join a monthly trail cleanup. Many local schools and civic groups organize events. Participating deepens your connection to the space and ensures its preservation.

Support local businesses along the routes. Buy coffee, snacks, or maps from neighborhood shops. Your patronage helps sustain the infrastructure that makes these trails accessible.

Document Your Journey Ethically

Photography is encouraged, but be mindful. Do not climb trees or disturb wildlife for a photo. Avoid using drones—flying over the trails violates city ordinances and disrupts the natural experience for others.

If you photograph people, ask permission. Many hikers are locals who appreciate being included in the narrative of the greenways.

Stay Informed About Construction and Closures

Infrastructure projects occasionally close or reroute sections of the greenways. For example, in 2023, the University District Connector was temporarily diverted due to utility work near the campus’s new engineering building.

Subscribe to the City of Columbus Parks & Recreation email alerts or follow @ColumbusGreenways on social media. These channels provide real-time updates on closures, detours, and new trail openings.

Tools and Resources

Recommended Digital Tools

• AllTrails: Offers user-submitted reviews, photos, elevation profiles, and offline map downloads. The “Olentangy River Trail” and “Clintonville Greenway” have high ratings and detailed logs.
• Gaia GPS: Ideal for advanced users. Includes topographic layers and the ability to overlay city greenway maps with satellite imagery.
• Google Maps (Trail Mode): Enable the “Bicycling” layer to see greenway routes. Not as detailed as dedicated apps but useful for quick orientation.
• Columbus Greenway Map (City of Columbus Website): The official PDF and interactive map. Download it before your hike. Available at columbus.gov/parks/greenways.
• iNaturalist: Use this app to identify plants and animals you encounter. Your observations contribute to scientific databases and conservation efforts.

Print and On-Site Resources

• Trailhead Kiosks: Located at major access points, these provide free maps, safety tips, and emergency contact numbers.
• Columbus Recreation and Parks Department Visitor Center: Located at 280 E. Broad Street, this center offers free brochures, guided tour schedules, and historical context on the greenways’ development.
• Ohio State University Campus Map: Available at the Student Life Center, this includes greenway connections to campus buildings and parking.
• Books: “The Greening of Columbus: A History of Urban Trails” by Dr. Linda Reynolds (Ohio State University Press, 2021) offers deep historical context and photographs.

Local Organizations to Connect With

• Olentangy River Greenway Foundation: A nonprofit that advocates for trail expansion and hosts volunteer days. Visit olentangygreenway.org.
• Columbus Area Bicycle Advocates (CABA): Though focused on cycling, they maintain detailed trail condition reports and safety guides.
• Friends of the Scioto Greenway: Focuses on the western corridor and hosts seasonal events like “Greenway Nights” with lantern-lit walks.
• Ohio State University Outdoor Recreation Center: Offers free guided greenway hikes for students and the public on weekends.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Student Researcher

Emma, a biology major at Ohio State, used the Olentangy River Trail for her undergraduate thesis on riparian buffer zones. She hiked the trail weekly for six months, documenting plant diversity, water quality changes, and human impact. She noted a 22% increase in native wildflower species between 2020 and 2023, attributing it to reduced littering and increased community planting events. Her research was published in the Journal of Urban Ecology and led to the installation of 15 new interpretive signs along the trail.

Example 2: The Retiree and the Daily Walk

James, a retired engineer from Bexley, walks the 3-mile loop from his home to the Clintonville Greenway every morning at 6:30 a.m. He keeps a journal of the birds he sees—over 40 species in two years. He’s become a familiar face to other hikers and volunteers. He recently helped organize a “Birdwatching Wednesdays” group that now meets weekly. “The trail is my church,” he says. “It keeps me grounded.”

Example 3: The Tourist’s Unexpected Discovery

Marco, visiting from Italy, was drawn to Columbus for its food scene. On a whim, he followed a sign near his hotel that read “Greenway to the River.” He ended up hiking 7 miles through quiet woods and past historic bridges, unaware he was walking along the same path used by Native American traders centuries ago. He posted photos on Instagram with the caption: “Columbus has a secret heart—and I found it.” His post went viral locally and led to a feature in Columbus Monthly.

Example 4: The Community Organizer

Sharon, a neighborhood activist, noticed that the stretch of trail between 17th Avenue and the university’s engineering complex was poorly lit. She gathered 120 signatures, presented a proposal to the city council, and secured $85,000 in grant funding to install solar-powered LED lights. The project was completed in 2022. “People didn’t think they could make a difference,” she says. “But trails belong to everyone.”

FAQs

Are the University District Greenways free to use?

Yes. All greenway trails in the University District are publicly funded and open to pedestrians, cyclists, and wheelchairs at no cost. No permits are required.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, but dogs must be leashed at all times. Waste must be picked up and disposed of in designated bins. Some sections near sensitive habitats may have seasonal restrictions—check signage.

Are the trails accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?

Most paved sections of the Olentangy River Trail and the Scioto Greenway are ADA-compliant. Gravel and dirt segments may be challenging. Check the City of Columbus’s accessibility map for details on specific trail segments.

Is it safe to hike alone?

Yes, the greenways are generally safe during daylight hours. They are well-traveled and monitored by campus security and city patrols. Avoid hiking alone after dark unless you’re familiar with the route and have proper lighting. Always let someone know your planned route and return time.

Are there restrooms along the trails?

Restrooms are available at major trailheads: High & Lane, Wexner Medical Center, Franklin Park Conservatory, and the Clintonville Trailhead. There are no portable toilets on remote sections. Plan accordingly.

Can I bike on the greenways?

Yes. The trails are multi-use. Cyclists must yield to pedestrians and use a bell or voice to signal passing. Speed limits are enforced at 10 mph in congested areas.

What should I do if I see a damaged trail or littering?

Report it to the City of Columbus Parks Department via their online portal or by calling 614-645-3111. You can also use the “Columbus 311” app to upload photos and location data.

Do the greenways connect to public transit?

Yes. Multiple COTA bus routes (1, 2, 10, 17, and 22) stop near major trailheads. The COTA Transit Center at 280 E. Broad Street is a 10-minute walk from the Scioto Greenway.

Are there guided tours available?

Yes. Ohio State’s Outdoor Recreation Center offers free guided greenway hikes on Saturdays. The Olentangy River Greenway Foundation hosts monthly “Trail Talk” walks with naturalists. Check their websites for schedules.

Can I camp on the greenways?

No. Camping, fires, and overnight stays are prohibited on all city-managed greenways. Designated campgrounds are available at nearby state parks like Hocking Hills or Mohican.

Conclusion

Hiking the University District Greenways from Columbus is more than a physical activity—it’s an act of reconnection. In a world increasingly dominated by screens and speed, these trails offer a rare space for quiet observation, historical reflection, and ecological awareness. They are not just paths through the city; they are living archives of urban evolution, community resilience, and environmental stewardship.

By following this guide, you’re not just learning how to navigate trails—you’re becoming part of a larger movement to preserve and celebrate the green spaces that make Columbus unique. Whether you’re a student, a visitor, a retiree, or a lifelong resident, these greenways belong to you. Take the time to walk them slowly. Notice the way the light filters through the trees in autumn. Listen to the rustle of leaves underfoot. Recognize the names on the plaques honoring those who fought to keep these corridors open.

The University District Greenways are not a destination. They are a journey—one that invites you to return, again and again, with fresh eyes and an open heart. Lace up your shoes, grab your water, and step onto the trail. The city is waiting to be discovered, one step at a time.