Updated Dec. 22, 2025.
Photo by Frank Jordan
Don't let colder weather keep you cooped up indoors this winter. Bundle up and soak up the winter sun with the 2025-2026 Metro Parks Winter Hike Series.
With the Metro Parks Winter Hikes, participants can visit up to 19 different parks and can collect stamps on their Winter Hike Card along the way. Those who hike seven or more parks can commemorate their visits with a Metro Parks Winter Hike Patch.
Each weekend, a new park is highlighted by the Metro Parks. Visit during the hours listed and enjoy refreshing beverages and snacks after your hikes. Here are this winter's hiking destinations:
December
Twinkling Lights
- Enjoy twinkling lights at Battelle Darby Creek, Blacklick Woods, Highbanks, Homestead and Inniswood during December. Guests can take advantage of the lit paths at any time, with lights turning on after sunset and turning off at 8 p.m.
January
- Saturday, January 3, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Prairie Oaks
- Sunday, January 4, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Walnut Woods
- Saturday, January 10, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Sharon Woods
- Sunday, January 11, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Slate Run
- Saturday, January 17, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Scioto Audubon
- Sunday, January 18, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Rocky Fork
- Saturday, January 24, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Clear Creek
- Sunday, January 25, 10 a.m.- 1p.m. at Scioto Grove
- Saturday, January 31, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Blendon Woods
February
- Sunday, February 1, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Pickerington Ponds
- Saturday, February 7, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Glacier Ridge
- Sunday, February 8, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Quarry Trails
- Saturday, February 14, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Three Creeks
To round out the series, hikers can partake in the Winter Hikes Celebration on Sunday, February 22, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at Blacklick Woods Golf Course. Hike along Audubon Sanctuary Golf Course's paths, collect your prize (your Winter Hikes patch, Metro Parks hiking stick, or Metro Parks medallion), and enjoy fireside hot chocolate.
Feeling intimidated by the chilly temperatures? Here are some tips to stay warm on winter hikes:
- Layer Smartly: Wear moisture-wicking base layers, insulating middle layers and a waterproof/windproof outer layer.
- Keep Extremities Covered: Protect your head, hands and feet with insulated hats, gloves and thermal socks.
- Stay Dry: Avoid sweat and moisture by regulating your pace and wearing breathable clothing.
- Fuel Up and Hydrate: Eat calorie-rich snacks and drink warm fluids like tea or hot chocolate to keep your energy up and your body warm.
- Use Heat-Trapping Accessories: Scarves, neck gaiters and thermal balaclavas help seal out the cold and trap body heat, keeping you cozy even in windy conditions.
For more information, visit www.metroparks.net/winter-hikes/
Megan Brokamp is an editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.
