Walnut Woods Metro Park
Walnut Woods Metro Park offers serene pine forests, diverse trails for running and skating, and excellent dog parks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quiet and peaceful walks
Walnut Woods Metro Park
Best Time
Quiet and peaceful walks
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walnut Woods Metro Park offers serene pine forests, diverse trails for running and skating, and excellent dog parks.
"Stunning park, loved it and will definitely be returning!"
Tick Awareness ⚠️
Stay on paved trails during warmer months to minimize tick exposure.
Dog Park Heaven 🐶
The dog park, especially the large dog area, is a hit with pups! Plenty of space and shade.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tall Pines Area
Sweetgum Trail
Experience a tranquil forest with towering pines, perfect for peaceful walks and stunning snowy scenes.
+1
Dog Parks
Multiple locations
Spacious and well-equipped dog parks, including a recent expansion for large dogs, offering shade and amenities.
Paved Loop Trails
Various sections
Enjoy smooth, paved trails ideal for running, skating, and easy strolls, with some sections offering scenic views.
Kestrel Trail
Wetlands area
Explore wetlands, ponds, and an observation deck on this trail, which connects to the Monarch Trail.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Tall Pines
+1Trail Variety & Tick Awareness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Tick Awareness ⚠️
Stay on paved trails during warmer months to minimize tick exposure.
Dog Park Heaven 🐶
The dog park, especially the large dog area, is a hit with pups! Plenty of space and shade.
Trail Variety Options 🚶♀️
Choose paved paths for running/skating or explore dirt/gravel for a more natural hike.
Snowy Serenity 🌨️
Visit after a snowstorm for a truly magical experience in the Tall Pines Area.
Tips
from all over the internet
Tick Awareness ⚠️
Stay on paved trails during warmer months to minimize tick exposure.
Dog Park Heaven 🐶
The dog park, especially the large dog area, is a hit with pups! Plenty of space and shade.
Trail Variety Options 🚶♀️
Choose paved paths for running/skating or explore dirt/gravel for a more natural hike.
Snowy Serenity 🌨️
Visit after a snowstorm for a truly magical experience in the Tall Pines Area.
Combine with Three Creeks 🌳
Walnut Woods is close to Three Creeks Metro Park for a full day of outdoor exploration.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Walnut Woods Metro Park for its beautiful natural scenery, particularly the serene Tall Pines Area and well-maintained paved trails suitable for various activities. The dog parks are a significant highlight for pet owners. Some minor concerns include potential tick exposure on unpaved trails and the availability of restrooms.
"I have not been to the dog park in at least a year! Bravo to the big dog expansion area with all the rows of trees!!! Nice and shady and a boy dog's heaven on earth! My Bentley lifted his leg 28 times long after he had run out of "water"?! 😂 My pics today are only of this "new" awesome section! The restrooms are nice and I loved the paved loop trail here in this section across Lithopolis Rd from the office. There is a small dog fenced in part for dogs under 20 pounds. Lots of parking and several poop bag dispensers, too!"
Barb Funk
"Very surprised by this park! Nice paved trails that are suitable for running. I like it a lot and will add this park to my daily runs. Very close to three creeks metro park so if you enjoy the outdoors you can do both in one day. They are 5 minutes apart by car."
Angela L
"Super easy paved trail. A little under water in one spot but not so much you couldn’t get by. Tick alert so we stayed in the paved trail. We went in the early morning so it was not busy and nice and quiet. There is a parking lot that has plenty of parking. No restroom facilities but does have a porta john on site. It was big and not too gross (as they can be) and had hand sanitizer which was nice. I recommend this park. We were able to make it a 3 mile walk. By using the loop through to make a figure eight. We came from Dublin so it was also a nice drive."
Cheryl Evans
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Walnut Woods Metro Park is located in Groveport, Ohio. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available in various sections of the park. Many visitors find the drive from areas like Dublin to be quite pleasant.
Yes, Walnut Woods Metro Park is conveniently located just a 5-minute drive from Three Creeks Metro Park, making it easy to visit both in one day for an extended outdoor adventure.
Key areas include the Tall Pines Area (accessible via Richard Road), the dog park areas, and various trailheads for the paved and unpaved trails.
Information on public transportation options is limited, and most visitors arrive by private vehicle. It's recommended to check local transit schedules if this is your preferred mode of travel.
The drive is generally considered nice, with some visitors mentioning it as a pleasant journey from surrounding areas like Dublin.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Walnut Woods Metro Park, like most Franklin County Metro Parks, is free to enter. There are no admission fees required to enjoy the park's amenities and trails.
The park is generally open from dawn to dusk. Specific hours can vary slightly by season, so it's always a good idea to check the official Metro Parks website for the most up-to-date information.
No, advance booking or tickets are not required for general park entry. You can visit anytime during operating hours.
The Metro Parks often host various events and programs. Check the Franklin County Metro Parks website or their social media for any scheduled activities at Walnut Woods.
The dog parks at Walnut Woods Metro Park are free to use as part of the park's general admission.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
Walnut Woods offers a variety of trails, including paved loops perfect for running and skating, as well as gravel and dirt paths for a more natural hiking experience.
Yes, the paved trails are excellent for running and cycling, with some sections being wide enough for comfortable use.
Ticks can be present, especially on unpaved trails during warmer months. It's recommended to stay on paved paths or take precautions if venturing onto dirt trails.
Restroom facilities are available in some areas, and porta-potties may be on-site in others. It's advisable to check the park map or be prepared with your own supplies.
The Tall Pines Area is known for its serene atmosphere, towering pine trees, and beautiful canopy, offering a peaceful escape, especially when covered in snow.
📸 📸 Photography
The Tall Pines Area offers stunning photographic opportunities, particularly with its dense tree canopy and magical winter scenes. The Kestrel Trail's observation deck also provides scenic views.
Absolutely! The diverse trails, wetlands, and varied tree species make it a great location for capturing nature photography throughout the seasons.
Early mornings often provide softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the park's tranquility. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also yield beautiful light.
Yes, the dog parks are popular spots for pet photography, with plenty of space for dogs to play and owners to capture candid moments.
Drone usage is typically regulated in Metro Parks. It's essential to check the official Franklin County Metro Parks guidelines regarding drone operation before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The dog parks are a huge hit for families with canine members, providing a safe and fun space for them to play. Consider exploring the Kestrel Trail for its observation deck and ponds, which can be engaging for curious young minds.
While there are porta-potties, it's wise to pack snacks and drinks, as dedicated picnic areas are available. Remember to check for ticks if you venture onto unpaved paths. 🏃♀️ Runners & Fitness Enthusiasts
🐶 Dog Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Walnut Woods
Many visitors appreciate these paved routes for their convenience and suitability for daily runs. For a more immersive nature experience, explore the unpaved trails like the Kestrel Trail and parts of the Sweetgum Trail. These paths wind through wetlands, forests, and offer a closer connection to the park's natural beauty.
However, it's important to be aware of potential tick presence on these unpaved sections, especially during warmer months, and take appropriate precautions. Trail Highlights
* Tall Pines Area: Known for its serene atmosphere and towering trees, offering a unique hiking experience.
* Kestrel Trail: Features ponds, an observation deck, and connects to the Monarch Trail, providing scenic wetland views.
* Sweetgum Trail: Winds through a mix of sweetgum, pine, and oak trees, with sections that are mostly paved.
The Dog-Friendly Side of Walnut Woods
A recent expansion has significantly enhanced the large dog area, adding rows of trees that provide ample shade and a natural playground for energetic pups. Visitors rave about the space and amenities, with one reviewer noting their dog's enthusiastic exploration and marking of numerous trees.
Beyond the designated dog parks, dogs are also permitted on many of the park's trails, provided they are kept on a leash. This allows for extended adventures where your furry companions can enjoy the natural surroundings alongside you.
Capturing the Beauty of Walnut Woods
+2Nature photographers will find plenty to capture, from the tranquil forests to the wetlands along the Kestrel Trail. The observation deck on the Kestrel Trail provides a vantage point for scenic shots of the surrounding natural beauty.
Early mornings are often recommended for photography due to softer light and fewer visitors, allowing for more peaceful composition. For those interested in capturing candid moments, the park's dog parks are popular spots for pet photography, offering ample space for playful pups.
While drone photography can enhance aerial perspectives, it's crucial to consult the official Franklin County Metro Parks guidelines for regulations on drone usage within the park.
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