Scenic Bike Trails in Ohio for the Fall

Fall brings crisp air, crunchy leaves and bursts of color that make spending time outdoors enjoyable, especially after a hot summer. When you’re heading out with family, friends or a partner, or looking for some time on your own, one of the best ways to take it all in is on a bike. Central Ohio has an abundance of scenic trails, with options for every bike preference and fitness level.

Beautiful Ohio bike trails

Ohio offers so much beauty this time of year. Why not get a little exercise while you soak up the scenery? There is no shortage of trails, and we’ve listed a few scenic bike trails to add to your list this fall.

1. Alum Creek Trail | Westerville/Columbus/Groveport

Paved. 25.2 miles.

Suited for bikers of all levels, this trail follows Alum Creek, guiding you through neighborhoods, parks and over many bridges, with plaques honoring the history of active transportation.

2. Camp Chase Trail | Madison/Franklin counties

Paved. 15.3 miles.

Much of this route is a rail-to-trail (a former railroad line converted into a shared-use path) located next to an active railroad line, separated by fences, ditches or graded trail, and winding through Ohio farm country.

3. Chestnut Ridge | Carroll

Not paved; for mountain bikes only. 11.4 miles.

A 12- to 18-inch-wide trail through the woods with steep climbs and descents, banked turns, a narrow creek bridge and some sandstone cobble, with a beginner/intermediate inner loop and an advanced outer loop.

4. Heritage Rail-Trail | Hilliard/Plain City

Paved. 7 miles.

A rail-to-trail lined with many bluebird boxes that runs through farmland, residential neighborhoods, historic Old Hillard and several parks, and parallel to a 4-mile horse trail.

5. John Bryan State Park | Yellow Springs

Not paved; for mountain bikes only. 15 miles.

Fun for all ages, this popular mountain bike trail is one-way so bikers can ride fast, which draws visitors from neighboring states.

6. Olentangy Trail | Columbus/Delaware

Paved. 21.7 miles.

Following the Olentangy River, this trail passes through The Ohio State University campus and links neighborhoods to well-known cultural and historical sites.

7. Scioto Trail | Columbus/Canton

Paved. 12.3 miles.

This urban greenway (a multi-use, shared-use path) is a rail-to-trail that parallels the Scioto River, offering great views of downtown Columbus and connecting a couple of parks.

8. Paint Creek Recreation Trail | Washington Court House/Frankfort/Chillicothe

Paved. 34.8 miles.

About an hour south of Columbus, this bike trail winds through rural southern Ohio, passing through the Hopewell Mound Group, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

9. Marion Tallgrass Trail | Marion

Paved. 12.44 miles.

A bird-watcher’s haven, a portion of this trail follows the shore of a 53-acre lake, with possibilities to see bald eagles and trumpeter swans.

10. Mountain Bike Trails in Mohican State Park | Loudonville

Unpaved and paved. Varies.

More than 15 different mountain biking trail options ranging from beginner (5.3 miles) to advanced (32.2 miles), offering fast riding, technical sections, climbs, jumps, rock gardens and more.

11. Baileys Trail System | Athens County

Unpaved. 88 miles.

Part of a planned larger system located in the southeast Ohio Appalachian foothills, 88 miles of trails offer opportunities for all skill levels through forests, hills and abandoned mines.

You have plenty of great options for exploring fall foliage by bike. Ohio is full of beautiful destinations, from Hocking Hills to the many trails winding through neighborhoods, cities and state parks. Biking is a great way to stay active as the seasons change. Gear up and enjoy the ride.

FAQ/People also ask

How do I get started in cycling?

You don’t need a fancy new bike to get started in cycling. Just wear a helmet and bright clothing and know the rules of the road. Here are four ways to start cycling and stick with it.

Where can I find more information on competitive cycling in Ohio?

OhioHealth’s Bike Clinic brings together sports medicine, cycling and triathlon specialists to provide a comprehensive evaluation that includes a functional strength and flexibility assessment, personalized exercise recommendations, video analysis of cycling mechanics, a bicycle fitting and more.

How can I plan my own biking route in Central Ohio?

Ride with GPS is a bike navigation app that lets riders map custom routes. Ohio also has abundant state parks and natural areas, where you can find additional riding opportunities.