Benefits of walking & hiking

Spending time on the trail isn’t just a way to enjoy the scenery—it’s a boost for your mind, body, and spirit. 

Walking and hiking offer a wide range of health benefits for people of all ages, from improving heart health and building strength to reducing stress and enhancing mood. 

It’s a low-impact activity that supports joint health and mobility, making it ideal for everyone from young children to older adults. A Harvard Health Study lists 5 Surprising Benefits of Walking. From burning calories to reducing cancer risks and boosting immune function, everyone can benefit from a visit to one of our local trails.  

Beyond the physical perks, getting outside encourages mindfulness, connection with nature, and a break from our fast-paced digital lives. Whether you’re tackling a rugged path or strolling a shaded loop, a little time on the trail can go a long way.

Lewis Center, Ohio, is surrounded by a variety of scenic hiking trails that cater to all skill levels. Here are some top trails you might consider exploring for yourself.

1. Highbanks Metro Park

Located in Lewis Center, Highbanks Metro Park is renowned for its towering shale bluffs overlooking the Olentangy River. The park offers several trails: 

• Dripping Rock Trail: A 2.5-mile loop featuring mature forests and seasonal wildflowers.
  
• Overlook Trail: Approximately 0.6 miles, leading to an observation deck with panoramic views of the river.
  
• Coyote Run Trail: A 3.5-mile trail considered an easy route through meadows and woodlands at Highbanks Metro Park.  Dogs are allowed on leash. One of the two Adena Mounds in the park is clearly visible from the trail.
  

The park also contains ancient Adena burial mounds and a nature center. 

2. Shale Hollow Park

Just a short drive from Lewis Center, Shale Hollow Park offers: (Shale Hollow Park – Preservation Parks of Delaware County)

• Great Horned Owl Trail: A 1.1-mile loop with moderate elevation changes, winding through oak forests and meadows.
  
• Overlook Trail: Approximately 0.5 miles, featuring views of the shale bluffs and Big Run Creek. (Shale Hollow Park – Preservation Parks of Delaware County)
  

The park is known for its unique geology and diverse plant life.

3. Alum Creek State Park

Situated northeast of Lewis Center, Alum Creek State Park boasts several multi-use trails, offering over 7 miles of trails suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

• Beach Trail: A scenic path leading to Ohio’s largest inland beach. (Alum Creek State Park)
  
• Storybook Trail: An excellent way to combine family, hiking & reading. Alum Creek Beach is the home to one of our local Storybook Trails. Explore the Alum Creek Storybook Trail—a fantastic adventure for kids that combines nature and reading into one exciting experience! This half-mile trail brings a story to life as you wander through the great outdoors.

📚 Current Book: Shh! Bears Sleeping by David Martin


• Rocks and Roots South Loop Trail: A 6.5-mile moderate trail that explores a portion of Alum Creek SP, popular for birding, hiking & fishing. Dogs on leash are okay with some areas allowing for off leash adventures.  

The park also offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife observation. 

4. Rocks and Roots Trail

Located within Alum Creek State Park, the Rocks and Roots Trail provides: (Alum Creek State Park)

• Full Loop: A 6.5-mile moderate trail that explores a portion of Alum Creek SP, popular for birding, hiking & fishing. Dogs on leash are okay in some areas, allowing for off-leash adventures.  
• North Loop: A 3.5-mile trail featuring rolling terrain and dense forests.
  
• South Loop: Approximately 2.5 miles, offering a mix of open fields and wooded areas.
  

These trails are popular among trail runners and offer a more rugged hiking experience.

5. Olentangy Trail

Extending from Powell to downtown Columbus, the Olentangy Trail is a paved, multi-use path that: (5 great walking trails in Columbus)

• Runs alongside the Olentangy River, offering scenic views of the water.
  
• Connects multiple parks and neighborhoods, making it ideal for long-distance hikes or bike rides.
  

It’s an excellent option for those looking to combine urban and natural landscapes.

When planning your hikes, consider the following tips:

• Timing: Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best lighting for photography.
  
• Equipment: Bring a camera or smartphone with good resolution, and consider a tripod for steady shots.
  
• Safety: Wear appropriate footwear, stay hydrated, and inform someone of your hiking plans.
  

Great Websites to find trail information: The Outbound & All Trails

👣 Hiking with Littles: Tips from a Parent

Exploring local trails with my kids is one of my favorite weekly rituals. We keep it simple—short loops, lots of snacks, and plenty of time to stop and explore. If you’re hitting the trails with little ones, here are a few tips that make the experience smoother (and more fun!):

• Choose short, scenic loops, such as those at Highbanks or Shale Hollow.
  
• Let them lead—toddlers love choosing the path (even if it’s just to a big rock).
  
• Pack light but bright: water, wipes, a change of clothes, and a favorite snack.
  
• Make it about discovery—point out bugs, birds, and crunchy leaves.
  
• End on a high note: creeks, bridges, or a nature center make great final stops.
  

It’s not about how far you go—it’s about the memories you make together.

📸 Trail Photo Shot List (with Littles in Mind)

Scenic + Setting Shots

• 📍Trail entrance or welcome sign
  
• 🌲 Wide trail shot with trees or creek in the background
  
• 🏞️ Lookout point or bridge view
  
• 🍃 Close-up of leaves, tree bark, or wildflowers
  

Candid Moments

• 👣 Tiny feet walking the trail (bonus if there are leaves, mud, or gravel)
  
• 🧺 Snack break or picnic moment on a log or bench
  
• 👀 Kids looking up at trees or pointing at something
  
• 🐾 Discovery moment—looking at a bug, tossing rocks in a creek, picking up a cool stick
  

Connection + Personality

• 💕 Holding hands with you or with siblings
  
• 😄 A giggle, a pout, or a determined hiking face
  
• 🎒 Backpack or water bottle moment (even if they’re carrying it for 30 seconds)
  
• 🐿️ Spotting a squirrel or watching birds
  

Finishing Strong

• 🪵 Sitting on a log or rock at the end
  
• 📸 Group selfie or grandparent + kids smiling at the end
  
• 👋 Waving goodbye to the trail
  

These shots will help tell the whole story of your hike—plus they’re a mix of editorial and real-life fun.