Best Hikes in Prairie Oaks Metro Park, OH

Default image for Darby Creek Greenway Trail, a 3.5-mile trail in Hilliard, OH (US)

3.5 mi
5.6 km

Easy One-Way

Darby Creek Greenway Trail

0.0

Hilliard, Ohio

Created By:

Kmyers_mp

Default image for Coneflower Trail, a 2.6-mile trail in West Jefferson, OH (US), a path surrounded by lush greenery.

2.6 mi
4.2 km

Moderate Out-and-Back

Coneflower Trail

0.0

West Jefferson, Ohio

Created By:

Kmyers_mp

Default image for Sycamore Plains Trail, a 1.1-mile trail in Hilliard, OH (US)

1.1 mi
1.8 km

Moderate Loop

Sycamore Plains Trail

0.0

Hilliard, Ohio

Created By:

Kmyers_mp

Default image for Bridle Trail, a 6.7-mile trail in West Jefferson, OH (US), a path surrounded by lush greenery.

6.7 mi
10.8 km

Easy Loop

Bridle Trail

0.0

West Jefferson, Ohio

Created By:

Kmyers_mp

Default image for Beaver Lake Trail, a 0.7-mile trail in Plain City, OH (US)

0.7 mi
1.1 km

Easy Loop

Beaver Lake Trail

0.0

Plain City, Ohio

Created By:

Kmyers_mp

Default image for Lake View Trail & Mound Trail, a 1.1-mile trail in Hilliard, OH (US), a path surrounded by lush greenery.

1.1 mi
1.8 km

Easy One-Way

Lake View Trail & Mound Trail

0.0

Hilliard, Ohio

Created By:

Kmyers_mp

Default image for Alder Trail, a 0.6-mile trail in Hilliard, OH (US), a path surrounded by lush greenery.

0.6 mi
1 km

Easy One-Way

Alder Trail

0.0

Hilliard, Ohio

Created By:

Kmyers_mp

Default image for River Rock Trail, a 0.6-mile trail in Hilliard, OH (US), a path surrounded by lush greenery.

0.6 mi
1 km

Easy One-Way

River Rock Trail

0.0

Hilliard, Ohio

Created By:

Kmyers_mp

Default image for Osage Opening Trail, a 0.4-mile trail in West Jefferson, OH (US), a path surrounded by lush greenery.

0.4 mi
0.6 km

Moderate Loop

Osage Opening Trail

0.0

West Jefferson, Ohio

Created By:

Kmyers_mp

Default image for Tallgrass Trail, a 0.8-mile trail in West Jefferson, OH (US), a path surrounded by lush greenery.

0.8 mi
1.3 km

Moderate Loop

Tallgrass Trail

0.0

West Jefferson, Ohio

Created By:

Kmyers_mp

Key Takeaways

Prairie Oaks Metro Park offers diverse landscapes including prairies, woodlands, and water features like lakes and the Big Darby Creek, providing opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

The park features accessible trails, picnic areas, a nature center, and various recreational activities suitable for families and individuals seeking outdoor experiences.

Visitors should check the park's website for seasonal activities, events, and any specific regulations regarding fishing licenses or trail closures before planning their trip.

About Prairie Oaks Metro Park

Explore the natural beauty of Prairie Oaks Metro Park, a sprawling outdoor destination in West Jefferson and Hilliard, Ohio, offering a diverse range of hiking experiences. From leisurely strolls along Big Darby Creek to more challenging treks through varied terrain, Prairie Oaks provides trails for all skill levels. Discover scenic grasslands, towering sycamore trees, and the peaceful shores of Beaver Lake. With dog-friendly trails and ample opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation, Prairie Oaks is the perfect place to reconnect with nature.

Plan your visit to Prairie Oaks Metro Park and choose from a variety of well-maintained trails, including the easygoing Tallgrass Trail and the more adventurous Coneflower Trail. The park features several loop trails, like the Sycamore Plains Trail and the Bridle Trail, allowing you to customize your hike based on distance and desired scenery. Remember to check trail access points, particularly for trails like Osage Opening and Alder Trail, which are accessed via other trail systems. Whether you're looking for a short nature walk or a longer exploration, Prairie Oaks Metro Park has something for every hiker.