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 2024-2025 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 7 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 the different destinations for hikes this winter:
December
Twinkling Lights
- Enjoy twinkling lights at Battle 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 4, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Prairie Oaks
- Sunday. January 5, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Walnut Woods
- Saturday, January 11, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Sharon Woods
- Sunday, January 12, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Slate Run
- Saturday, January 18, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Scioto Audubon
- Sunday, January 19, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Rocky Fork
- Saturday, January 25, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Clear Creek
- Sunday, January 26, 10 a.m.- 1p.m. at Scioto Grove
February
- Sunday, February 1, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Pickerington Ponds
- Saturday February 2, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Glacier Ridge
- Sunday, February 8, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Quarry Trails
- Saturday February 15, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Three Creeks
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.
Megan Brokamp is an editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.
