The best running trails around Commercial Point

There are 7 dedicated running routes around Commercial Point featured in this guide. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easy jogs to more challenging runs.

Yes, there are a couple of easy running paths. For a straightforward and pleasant experience, consider the Running loop from Scioto River, which covers about 4.6 km with minimal elevation change. Another easy option is the Backpacking Site #5 loop from Utzinger Bog Preserve, a 4.8 km route.

The terrain around Commercial Point is generally flat, especially within the Scioto River floodplain. You can expect a mix of surfaces, including paths through wet meadows, wetlands, and areas with warm-season prairie grasses. Some trails, like those in Mackey Ford State Wildlife Area, are described as well-maintained for hiking, making them suitable for trail running.

For those looking for a longer run, the Buckeye Parkway Bikepath loop from Utzinger Bog Preserve is a moderate 10.5 km route. Another good option for a substantial run is the Running loop from Jackson Township, which spans approximately 8.5 km.

Yes, many of the routes in this guide are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to start and end your run at the same point. Examples include the Rheims Pond loop from Jackson Township, which is about 7.3 km, and the Buckeye Parkway Bikepath loop from Utzinger Bog Preserve.

While specific viewpoints aren't detailed for every route, the region offers natural beauty. The Scioto River plays a central role, providing scenic views, especially near Mackey Ford State Wildlife Area. The area also features diverse habitats like wet meadows and prairie grasses, offering a pleasant natural backdrop for your run. The developing Pickaway Trail, accessible from nearby Circleville, offers tranquil experiences through woodlands and farm country.

Just 3.5 miles east of Commercial Point, you'll find the Mackey Ford State Wildlife Area, a 200-acre site adjacent to the Scioto River. It features flat terrain with wet meadows, wetlands, and prairie grasses, ideal for trail running and wildlife observation. The Scioto River itself offers recreational opportunities. Further afield, the developing Pickaway Trail, a 'Rails to Trails' project, provides paved sections through woodlands and farm country, starting from Canal Park in Circleville.

While specific parking details for every route are not provided, many regional parks and trail access points typically offer parking. For instance, the developing Pickaway Trail is easily accessible from a parking lot on Canal Road, south of Canal Park in Circleville, which could be a starting point for exploring that trail system.

The easier and shorter loop routes, such as the Running loop from Scioto River or the Backpacking Site #5 loop from Utzinger Bog Preserve, are generally suitable for families looking for a gentle jog or walk together. The flat terrain in many areas also makes them accessible for various fitness levels.

The region experiences all four seasons. Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for jogging, with vibrant foliage in autumn and blooming nature in spring. Summer can be warm and humid, so early morning or late evening runs are advisable. Winter jogging is possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potential snow or ice on trails.

The area has historical significance related to the Ohio and Erie Canal system. The old feeder canal bordering Mackey Ford State Wildlife Area was once part of this system. In nearby Circleville, Canal Park features historic canal remnants and a Towpath Trail that follows a historic canal route, offering a glimpse into the region's past while you run.