Scioto Trail - Image 1

Scioto Trail

4.6
·491k reviews·Columbus, United States

A vibrant urban greenway along the Scioto River, perfect for biking, running, and enjoying city views and public art.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Scioto Trail - Image 1

Scioto Trail

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant urban greenway along the Scioto River, perfect for biking, running, and enjoying city views and public art.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The Scioto Trail offers a fantastic blend of urban scenery, nature, and art, making it a must-visit in Columbus."

Vertical photo
TIP

🗺️ Check for Detours

Construction can cause detours, but they're usually well-marked. Stay updated on the official route! :construction:

🚴‍♀️ Bike the Full Length

Connect to the Olentangy Trail for an epic ride! Consider a gravel bike for varied terrain. :bicycle:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scioto Mile Downtown Views

Scioto Mile Downtown Views

Downtown Columbus

Enjoy stunning city skyline vistas and the flowing Scioto River as you cruise along the paved path.

Instagram
Artistic Deer Sculptures

Artistic Deer Sculptures

Along the Scioto Mile redevelopment

Discover whimsical 'hairy deer' sculptures, inspired by the river's name, adding a unique artistic touch.

Instagram
Central Ohio Greenways Connection

Central Ohio Greenways Connection

Connecting to Olentangy Trail

Seamlessly link to the Olentangy Trail for an extended biking or running adventure through the city.

Instagram
Scioto Grove Nature Trails

Scioto Grove Nature Trails

Scioto Grove Metro Park

Explore peaceful, pet-friendly paths like the REI River Trail for a nature escape near the water.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Scioto Trail

The Scioto Trail is a fantastic urban greenway, perfect for biking, running, or a leisurely stroll. Be aware of construction detours, especially around I-70/71, but they are generally well-marked. Reddit Consider checking a trail map before you go to plan your route, especially if connecting to other greenways. TikTok

Best Ways to Experience the Trail

This trail is ideal for a variety of activities, from casual walks to more adventurous gravel biking. Instagram Electric scooters are also a popular way to cover ground quickly. TikTok Keep an eye out for public art installations, like the unique deer sculptures, that add an artistic flair to your journey. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere, social rides
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Just a little sneak from the Circle J Trail Ride 🤣 #fyp #viralsound #jet2holidays #horse #trailride #scooter @Akilah Burgess
@4brothersjohnson
36K likes • 568.4K views

🗺️ Check for Detours

Construction can cause detours, but they're usually well-marked. Stay updated on the official route! Reddit :construction:

🚴‍♀️ Bike the Full Length

Connect to the Olentangy Trail for an epic ride! Consider a gravel bike for varied terrain. Instagram :bicycle:

Offroad Escooter Mountain Trail Riders #fyp #electricscooter #escooter #offroadescooter #scooterelectrico
@coot_scoots
20.3K likes • 1.3M views
Let's take a ride on the Scioto Trail 🚲 The Scioto Trail is part of the Central Ohio Greenways system and is jointly managed by Metro Parks and the City of Columbus! Learn more about Central Ohio Greenways by visiting metroparks.net. #cbusmetroparks
cbusmetroparks
480 likes • 14.6K views

🛴 E-Scooter Fun

Zip along the trail with an electric scooter for a fast and fun way to explore. TikTok :scooter:

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Whether running, skating, or walking, good footwear is key for enjoying the miles. Instagram :athletic_shoe:

A little more of last week’s trail skate along the Scioto. 🛼❤️ keep on floating through the holiday weekend. #rollerskating #rollerskater #trailskate #columbusohio #sciotomile
emma.skates.ohio
18 likes • 180 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🗺️ Check for Detours

Construction can cause detours, but they're usually well-marked. Stay updated on the official route! Reddit :construction:

🚴‍♀️ Bike the Full Length

Connect to the Olentangy Trail for an epic ride! Consider a gravel bike for varied terrain. Instagram :bicycle:

🛴 E-Scooter Fun

Zip along the trail with an electric scooter for a fast and fun way to explore. TikTok :scooter:

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Whether running, skating, or walking, good footwear is key for enjoying the miles. Instagram :athletic_shoe:

🎨 Spot the Art

Keep an eye out for unique public art, like the 'hairy deer' sculptures, along the Scioto Mile. Instagram :art:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Scioto Trail's scenic beauty, urban accessibility, and family-friendly atmosphere. The paved paths and connections to other greenways are highly praised for biking and running. Some minor inconveniences include occasional construction detours, but these are generally well-managed. InstagramReddit

What People Like

Beautiful river and skyline views
Paved, accessible paths
Art installations

What People Dislike

Occasional construction detours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Scioto Trail is accessible from multiple points, particularly along the Scioto Mile in downtown Columbus. You can also access it via connectors from other greenways like the Olentangy Trail. Instagram Parking is available at various lots along the Scioto Mile. Instagram

Yes, the Scioto Trail is generally open even with construction. A well-marked detour is in place around the I-70/71 site. Reddit This detour is considered the 'official' route through the park. Reddit

While direct public transport to specific trailheads might be limited, many COTA bus routes serve downtown Columbus, putting you within walking or biking distance of the Scioto Mile access points. Instagram

Yes, numerous parking areas are available along the Scioto Mile, especially in downtown Columbus. Some areas may have fees, so check signage. Instagram

Absolutely! The Scioto Trail is part of the Central Ohio Greenways system and offers a connector to the Olentangy Trail, allowing for extensive biking and running routes. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Scioto Trail and its associated parks are free to access. It's a public greenway system for everyone to enjoy. Instagram

The Scioto Trail is generally open from dawn to dusk, similar to most metro parks. Specific park hours may vary slightly, but the trail itself is accessible during daylight hours. Instagram

There are no fees to use the Scioto Trail for walking, running, biking, or skating. Enjoy this public amenity for free! Instagram

While there aren't official rental stations directly on the trail itself, you can often find bike and scooter rental services in the downtown Columbus area near the Scioto Mile access points. Instagram

Yes, the Scioto Trail is very family-friendly. The paved paths are great for strollers, and the scenery is enjoyable for all ages. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy a wide range of activities including walking, running, biking, rollerblading, and even electric scootering. TikTokInstagram It's also a great spot for birdwatching and enjoying nature. Instagram

The main Scioto Trail is a paved multi-use path, ideal for road bikes, rollerblades, and strollers. Instagram However, there are also gravel sections and connectors that are great for gravel biking. Instagram

Restroom facilities are available at various points along the Scioto Mile, particularly near popular access areas and parks. Instagram

Yes, the Scioto Trail is pet-friendly! Dogs are welcome, but they must be kept on a leash. Instagram

Expect beautiful views of the Scioto River, the Columbus skyline, lush greenery, and public art installations. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The downtown Columbus skyline provides a dramatic backdrop, especially during sunrise or sunset. Instagram Look for the unique deer sculptures for artistic shots. Instagram The riverbanks also offer scenic nature photography opportunities. Instagram

Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light for capturing the skyline and river. Instagram Early mornings can be peaceful and offer softer light. Instagram

Don't miss the public art, particularly the 'hairy deer' sculptures. Instagram The bridges crossing the Scioto River also make for great photographic subjects. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in metro parks and urban areas for safety and privacy reasons. It's best to check with Columbus Metro Parks regulations before flying a drone. Instagram

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens is perfect for the skyline, and a telephoto can be useful for wildlife. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Scioto Trail is a fantastic destination for families. The paved, relatively flat paths are perfect for strollers and young cyclists. Instagram Kids will love spotting the unique 'hairy deer' sculptures along the Scioto Mile, making for a fun scavenger hunt. Instagram There are plenty of open spaces and parks along the trail, like Scioto Grove Metro Park, where children can run and play. Instagram Pack snacks and water, and plan for frequent stops to enjoy the river views and playgrounds. Instagram

🚴‍♀️ Active Adventurers

For those who love to move, the Scioto Trail offers a dynamic experience. Runners and skaters can enjoy the smooth, paved surfaces of the Scioto Mile, while cyclists can tackle longer distances by connecting to the Olentangy Trail. Instagram+1 If you're looking for a bit more challenge, the trail also features sections suitable for gravel biking, providing a more rugged adventure. Instagram Electric scooters are also a popular choice for quickly covering the miles. TikTok Remember to check for any temporary detours due to construction to ensure a seamless journey. Reddit

📸 Art & Photography Enthusiasts

The Scioto Trail is a visual delight for photographers and art lovers. The downtown Columbus skyline provides a stunning backdrop, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Instagram Don't miss the chance to capture the quirky 'hairy deer' sculptures scattered along the Scioto Mile – they add a unique artistic element to your photos. Instagram The riverbanks and natural areas also offer beautiful scenery for landscape and nature photography. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Scioto Mile Bike Trail

The Scioto Mile Bike Trail is a premier urban pathway in Columbus, Ohio, offering a vibrant experience for cyclists of all levels. This paved trail stretches through the heart of the city, providing stunning views of the Scioto River and the downtown skyline. Instagram It's part of the larger Central Ohio Greenways system, allowing for extensive exploration. Instagram Many visitors enjoy using it for leisurely rides, commuting, or even more vigorous training sessions. Instagram

For those seeking a bit more adventure, sections of the Scioto Trail are suitable for gravel biking, offering a different kind of challenge and scenery. Instagram The trail is also popular for electric scooters, allowing riders to cover more ground with ease. TikTok Remember that while the main path is paved, connecting routes might vary in surface. Always be aware of other users, including runners, skaters, and pedestrians, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Instagram

Navigating the Scioto Trail is generally straightforward, but it's wise to be aware of potential construction detours, especially around major infrastructure projects like the I-70/71 interchange. Reddit These detours are typically well-marked, guiding you safely around any disruptions. Reddit Connecting to the Olentangy Trail opens up a vast network, making the Scioto Trail a key hub for regional cycling. Instagram

Art and Nature Along the Scioto

The Scioto Trail is more than just a path; it's an immersive experience that blends urban exploration with natural beauty and public art. As you traverse the Scioto Mile, you'll encounter unique artistic installations, most notably the whimsical 'hairy deer' sculptures. Instagram These pieces, inspired by the Lenape word 'Scioto' meaning 'hairy deer,' add a distinctive charm to the redevelopment project and offer fun photo opportunities. Instagram

Beyond the art, the trail offers ample opportunities to connect with nature. The Scioto River itself is a central feature, providing scenic views and a calming presence. Instagram In areas like Scioto Grove Metro Park, you can find more secluded nature trails, such as the REI River Trail, which are perfect for a peaceful stroll or a walk with your pet. Instagram These natural spaces offer a refreshing escape from the city bustle, with opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the local flora and fauna. Instagram

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