There’s a special kind of thrill in stepping into Highbanks Metro Park during fall, where Ohio’s hardwood forests burst into flames of red, orange, and gold. The park’s network of trails cuts through ridges and deep ravines carved by Olentangy River’s patient push, demanding respect as you follow its course. The rugged terrain—ranging from gentle slopes to rocky ascents—offers paths that challenge while rewarding with panoramic views of swaying oaks and maples flexing their autumn muscles.

Begin your hike at the main parking area in Powell, where well-marked signage guides you to the park’s best fall vantage points. The Birch Trail, a 1.5-mile loop, winds through dense groves where leaves crunch underfoot like a spirited autumn chorus, offering intimate moments with the forest’s quieter inhabitants, from shy squirrels darting away to occasional glimpses of migratory birds on the move.

For those craving a longer trek, the 5-mile Highbanks Trail stretches along the ridge top. The trail’s moderate elevation changes (about 200 feet in gain) sharpen your focus with steep climbs and swift descents, all while the vibrant canopy dares you onward. The air carries the smell of damp earth and fallen leaves, as crisp breezes animate branches, making the light dance. Along the way, wooden bridges span small tributaries, where waters challenge gravity in playful rivulets, urging hikers to pause and listen.

Wear sturdy footwear with good grip; wet leaves can turn stone-covered paths slippery. Bring enough water for at least two hours on the trails, especially if you plan to explore beyond the shorter loops. Weekday mornings offer the best quietude and golden light before crowds and shadows shift.

Highbanks Metro Park captures the brisk urgency of fall’s advance—nature fiercely alive but on the cusp of rest. Hiking here means engaging with a landscape that is both beautiful and demanding, where every step through vibrant color is also a step toward understanding the wilderness’s unyielding pace.

Plan well, move thoughtfully, and let Highbanks’ autumn trails show you fall’s raw and practical wonder.