The best road cycling routes in Pickaway County
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Road cycling in Pickaway County, Ohio, offers a blend of scenic landscapes, dedicated trails, and natural attractions. The region is characterized by peaceful countryside, expansive farmlands, and wooded areas, providing varied backdrops for cycling. Flat roads along the watershed of the Little Darby Creek and trails near the Scioto River contribute to the area's appeal for road cyclists.
Best road cycling routes in Pickaway County
- The most popular road cycling route is Hilliard to Harrisburg loop via Prairie Oaks Metro…
Last updated: September 30, 2026
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riders
82.1km
03:17
210m
210m
This moderate 51.0-mile road cycling loop from Hilliard to Harrisburg offers scenic views of Prairie Oaks Metro Park and Big Darby Creek.
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30.1km
01:11
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50m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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24.0km
01:06
90m
90m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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21.7km
00:53
50m
50m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
With the sparkling water in front of you and the city skyline in the background, this is a great place to stop and take in the view. It's especially great on calm, clear nights when the city lights reflect of the water.
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Turtle Pond is located near the Alum Creek Trail. With a short detour, you can visit the pond and take a quick stop to enjoy the scenery.
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This park derives its name from the confluence where Alum, Big Walnut, and Blacklick creeks come together. It comprises five areas with separate entrances, all interconnected, offering a variety of routes to explore.
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Darby Bend Lakes is a collection of three small lakes that are very close together. They get their name from their proximity to a sharp bend in Big Darby Creek. They are known for ample fishing and birding opportunities.
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Big Darby Creek, not to be confused with Little Darby Creek, is a scenic river. It is one of the most biologically diverse rivers in the Midwest. It is 84 miles long and empties into the Scioto River.
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The Olentangy River reaches 97 miles from Morrow County through Delaware County to Columbus, where it meets the Scioto at Confluence Park. Originally called "Keenhongsheconsepung," meaning "sharp tool river," settlers renamed it "Whetstone River" before a legislative mix-up in 1833 assigned it the name "Olentangy." The river serves as a drinking water source for Delaware County, while the Delaware State Park Reservoir is used for flood control. Restoration efforts, including dam removals, have reduced the river’s width and improved ecology.
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Here, you will cross a bridge that spans over Alum Creek, a 58-mile-long stream flowing through central Ohio. The creek begins in Morrow County, travels through Delaware County, and ends in Franklin County, where it merges with Big Walnut Creek, eventually draining into the Scioto River.
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Along the Scioto River Trail, visitors get views of the downtown Columbus skyline with the river in the foreground. Columbus is the nation's 14th largest city and this walking path provides some of the best views of its most well known buildings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of landscapes can I expect to see while road cycling in Pickaway County?
Pickaway County offers a diverse cycling experience, featuring peaceful countryside, expansive farmlands, wetlands, and wooded areas. You'll find routes along the watershed of the Little Darby Creek, showcasing agricultural heritage, and trails near the Scioto River with scenic views.
Are there any dedicated paved trails suitable for road bikes in Pickaway County?
Yes, the Roundtown Trail is a paved, 10-foot-wide path ideal for road cycling. It connects the Pickaway County YMCA to Ohio Christian University in Circleville, offering a smooth ride through wetlands and farmlands. Additionally, parts of the developing Pickaway Trail are paved, providing tranquil views of woodlands and farm country.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling options in Pickaway County?
The Roundtown Trail is particularly suitable for cyclists of all skill levels, including families, due to its paved surface and scenic, gentle terrain. Community bike rides are regularly hosted on this trail, making it a great option for a family outing.
Where can I find longer road cycling routes in the area?
For a longer ride, consider the Hilliard to Harrisburg loop via Prairie Oaks Metro Park. This moderate route spans over 50 miles and traverses varied landscapes including farmlands and wooded areas, offering a more extended cycling adventure.
Are there any loop routes available for road cyclists?
Yes, several loop routes are popular. The Hilliard to Harrisburg loop via Prairie Oaks Metro Park is a well-known option. Another local favorite is the Heron Pond – Three Creeks Metro Park loop from Groveport, which is an easy ride through wetlands and wooded boundaries.
What are some scenic views or natural features I might encounter on a road cycling route?
Road cycling routes in Pickaway County often feature views of the Scioto River, especially near Canal Park. You might also encounter the rich biodiversity of Big Darby Creek, designated a National Scenic River. Wetlands, farmlands, and wooded boundaries are common scenic elements throughout the region.
Are there any points of interest or attractions near the cycling routes?
Yes, several attractions are close to cycling areas. You can find Hargus Lake within A.W. Marion State Park, offering a scenic stop. Other notable spots include Slate Run Living Historical Farm and the historic Blackburn/Wesner Bridge. Canal Park, along the Scioto River, also features historic canal elements and a natural playground.
What is the best season for road biking in Pickaway County?
The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road biking in Pickaway County. Summer provides lush crops and warm weather, while spring and fall bring milder temperatures and beautiful foliage, making for very scenic rides.
Are there any routes that offer a mix of paved and unpaved sections?
The Pickaway Trail, while largely envisioned as paved, currently has sections that consist of gravel and grassy areas. While some parts are suitable for road bikes, cyclists should be aware that certain sections might be less ideal for all road bike types due to the mixed terrain.
Where can I access trails like the Pickaway Trail?
The Pickaway Trail can be accessed from parking lots near Canal Park and Calamus Swamp. These access points provide convenient starting locations for exploring the trail's cleared and paved sections.
What is the general difficulty level of road cycling routes in Pickaway County?
Pickaway County offers a good mix of routes suitable for various skill levels. You'll find easy paths like the Roadbike loop from Frosties, which is relatively flat, as well as moderate routes such as the Hilliard to Harrisburg loop, which covers a longer distance with some elevation changes.
Most popular attractions in Pickaway County
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