Columbus is home to 20 metro parks featuring plenty of ways to get outdoors during your time in Columbus.
One of the newest additions is Quarry Trails Metro Park, spanning 182 acres, and located on the historic Marble Cliff Quarry—once the largest in the United States! The park honors its limestone heritage while offering a modern recreational space. One of the park's standout features is Millikin Falls, a stunning 25-foot waterfall cascading into Roberts Millikin Ditch. An observation deck provides panoramic views, and a flight of limestone steps lets visitors get up close to the natural wonder.
Millikin Falls at Quarry Trails Metro Park.
Trails at Quarry Trails Metro Park
Quarry Trails Metro Park offers a variety of trails for hiking, biking, and leisurely walks. All are pet-friendly (with a 6-foot or less leash requirement).
- Boardwalk Trail: This short, ADA-accessible trail features a smooth surface and offers scenic views of Turtle Cove, including opportunities to spot wildlife such as swans and great blue herons. If you continue, you can walk the Connector Trail, which includes sections of gravel and rocks and leads to impressive views with swinging benches.
- Flat Rocks Trail: A 0.25-mile paved path for a short, easy walk.
- Lake View Trail: A 0.3-mile paved trail with lake views.
- Millikin Falls Lower and Upper Trails: These trails offer different perspectives of the falls, perfect for picnicking and nature photography.
- Tall Wall Trail: A 0.75-mile trail with views of limestone cliffs.
Try one of these loop trails to extend your hike:
- Millikin Falls Loop: This 1.6-mile loop is popular for birding, fishing, and hiking.
- Millikin Falls via Connector, Tall Wall, and Lake View Loop: This 3.8-mile loop is ideal for hiking and running.
- Tall Wall and Connector Loop: This 1.2-mile loop takes you around part of the historic Quarry. You'll get great views along this route, passing several observation decks for photo ops.
With approximately six miles of trails and more in development, there’s plenty more to explore. Check the Metro Park’s website for additional details.
Mountain Biking at Quarry Trails Metro Park.
Outdoor Activities at Quarry Trails Metro Park
Quarry Trails Metro Park offers a variety of activities beyond hiking:
Fishing
The park’s lakes are stocked with bass, bluegill, and catfish. A floating dock at Turtle Cove is a popular spot, though fishing is limited to catch-and-release. No fishing license is required along the shore.
Mountain Biking
The park features a 0.75-mile single-track trail with challenging descents and jumps. With five routes and 7,000 linear feet of terrain, it's perfect for intermediate to advanced riders.
Kayaking
Enjoy paddling on the quarry lakes at Turtle Cove and Swan Lake. Visitors can bring their own non-motorized crafts or participate in public programs hosted by by Metro Parks Outdoor Adventure, which provides paddleboards and kayaks free of charge.
Rock Climbing
The park’s Via Ferrata (the first urban via ferrata in the country) boasts over 1,000 feet of climbing with metal rungs, ladders, and a 90-foot suspension bridge. It’s a unique and thrilling way to experience the park’s rugged terrain.
Sledding
In winter, the park’s sledding hill becomes a favorite. Located across from the mountain bike area, it’s perfect for a day of snowy fun.
Dog Recreation
The park’s off-leash dog area features separate sections for small and large dogs, providing ample space for play and socialization.
Parking
Quarry Trails Metro Park welcomes you with open arms, offering several convenient entrances to suit your adventure. The Main Entrance, at 2600 Dublin Road, Columbus, boasts ample parking and is your gateway to the dog park, mountain bike trails, and a relaxing hammock area. For those drawn to the water, the Lake Area Entrance at 2319 Quarry Trails Drive leads you directly to kayaking, fishing, and playground areas, perfect for a day of lakeside fun.
Get outdoors this season in Columbus at Quarry Trails Metro Parks. Share your memories with us using #yesColumbus and find more outdoor travel inspiration here.
