Experience Columbus - Recreation

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Hiking, Canoeing & Skating

Even with all the hustle of the big city, there are still plenty of places to get away and just enjoy the outdoors. In fact, in July 2007 Shape magazine recognized Columbus as one of five cities having big outdoor appeal, citing the city's "young, energetic vibe." Among the highlights is the Olentangy River Greenway, a 13-mile path that links Downtown Columbus to Worthington. Along the way is Antrim Park, a hot spot for runners, bikers and fishermen (Antrim Lake is stocked periodically with trout).

In fact, Columbus was ranked as the 34th best city in America to ride a bike by Bicycling magazine. The study took into account things like segregated bike lanes, municipal bike racks, bike boulevards, local government involvement, bike culture and bike shops. Columbus has 87 miles of bike trails, with plans to add 31 miles of off-street trails and 58 miles of on-street bike lanes and bike routes in time for the city's Bicentennial celebration in 2012.

The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) also has a Columbus Metro Bike Users Map that depicts bicycling routes throughout Franklin County and parts of surrounding counties.

Bike rentals are available from Handy Bikes near the Ohio State campus and Handy Bikes in Grandview.

A few miles north of Worthington on U.S. Rte. 23, Highbanks Metro Park will test hiking enthusiasts with 11 miles of trails, which feature 100-foot shale bluffs as part of the scenery. For those who prefer competitive sports, Fred Beekman Park offers free access to its volleyball and basketball courts and equipment.

Other recreational highlights in the Greater Columbus area include four Chiller ice rinks, more than 100 public and private golf courses, and harness and thoroughbred horse racing. The area is also home to the Komen Race for the Cure in May, the Columbus Marathon in October, and the Arnold Sports Festival, the largest fitness weekend in the world, in March.