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Prairie Oaks Hiking Trail
4.8 ★★★★★ 24 Google reviews · Running trail in West Jefferson, Ohio · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Prairie Oaks Hiking Trail's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
What runners say about Prairie Oaks Hiking Trail
“This trail is quite scenic, as it meanders through trees, prairie, around the lakes, and over the big darby creek.”
This trail is quite scenic, as it meanders through trees, prairie, around the lakes, and over the big darby creek. The path is wide and smooth, perfect for a stroll in the park.
Easy and well maintained trails that will take you around the lakes, through wetlands, prairie, and access to Big Darby Creek. Very scenic views along the trail.
The Columbus Metro Parks are very special places. We walked around the 3 lakes. The paths are well maintained and well marked. There are many more trails at this park.
Trail conditions & character
“This trail is quite scenic, as it meanders through trees, prairie, around the lakes, and over the big darby creek.”
Plan your run at Prairie Oaks Hiking Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitemetroparks.net
- Phone(614) 208-4321
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
Running trails near West Jefferson
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Prairie Oaks Metro Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 1,927 reviews
Sprawling prairies for natural play, hiking & birding, plus creek & lakes for boating & fishing.
Darby Bend Lake
4.7 ★★★★★ 184 reviews
Natural acreage featuring lakes for canoeing, kayaking and fishing, plus trails for walking and hiking.
Prairie Oaks Metro Park - Beaver Lake
4.8 ★★★★★ 112 reviews
Tranquil area and network of lakes and rivers with scenic trails and wildlife.
Hellbranch Trail
5 ★★★★★ 1 reviews
