5 Fave Buckeye Bike Trails

There are sooooo many amazing bike trails in Columbus and throughout Ohio. I’m lucky to say I’ve ridden many of them with my awesome daughter Hannah. AKA “Birdie.” While I lovingly taught her how to ride a bike, she’s repaid that kindness by now smoking past me and leaving me in her dust. While it’s hard to narrow it down to just a few (mostly) local rides, here are our five fave Buckeye bike trails.

1. Olentangy Trail

The OT is the OG of awesome C-bus bike trails. It can get a little crowded at times, but there’s a reason it always ranks at the top of most lists. Pedaling past downtown Columbus, Ohio Stadium, the Park of Roses, and all the way to Worthington, it’s 17.5 miles of wonder.

2. Brewed on the Bikeway, Athens/Nelsonville

Although not technically central Ohio, this craft brew-fueled bike ride is a blast. Pedal out of Athens, stop for a beer. Pedal up to The Plains, stop for a beer. Make it to Nelsonville, you get the idea. Just be sure to hydrate with plenty of H20, too. Brewed on the Bikeway is a 42-mile round trip and not to be taken lightly.

3. Alum Creek Trail

Running from Westerville to Three Creeks Park, this 15-mile, multi-use trail is very popular, and for good reason. It runs along scenic Alum Creek with cool views of Easton, Bexley and more.

4. Camp Chase Trail

Part of the massive Ohio to Erie trail system, Camp Chase runs from Columbus to London, Ohio and beyond. It’s pretty dang straight, as its 16 miles run along active train tracks. Yet somehow it feels like you’re going uphill BOTH WAYS.

5. Little Miami Scenic Trail

Running 78 miles long, the Little Miami Scenic Trail is the fourth longest paved trail in the United States. Our favorite part runs through the Midwest magical mecca of Yellow Springs. This small funky town is a hippie haven and, unpredictably, the home of comedian Dave Chapelle. ‘Nuff said. If you know, you know.

Bonus Trail: While not a Buckeye bike trail at all, these Buckeyes love renting bikes and riding around Key West.