Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Get the App

Routes

Running trails & routes

Scioto Trail – Olentangy River loop from Columbus

Routes

Running trails & routes

Scioto Trail – Olentangy River loop from Columbus

Moderate

4.7

(5488)

11,618

runners

Scioto Trail – Olentangy River loop from Columbus

01:02

9.72km

50m

Running

Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: April 5, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

1.31 km

Scioto Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Scioto Trail runs through the heart of downtown Columbus along the Scioto River. The trail is almost 7 miles long and is completely paved.

Tip by

3.84 km

Scioto Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway

Great spot to take pictures 📸
You can cycle on both sides of the river 🚲 There is pretty cool bridge

Tip by

4.45 km

View of Downtown Columbus and Scioto River

Highlight • Viewpoint

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 …

Tip by

4.47 km

View of Columbus Skyline

Highlight • Viewpoint

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 …

Tip by

5.22 km

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 …

Tip by

7.64 km

Rich Street Bridge and Deer Sculptures

Highlight • Bridge

The Rich Street Bridge crosses over the Olentangy River, connecting downtown to Franklinton. It is a 536-foot bridge designed by award-winning bridge engineers at Burgess & Niple for the city's …

Tip by

9.72 km

End point

Bus stop

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

7.29 km

1.68 km

555 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

5.19 km

1.68 km

1.67 km

1.15 km

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Friday 19 June

27°C

14°C

-- %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: -- km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

Comments

Want to know more?

Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

Navigate

Send to Phone

Save

Edit route

Download GPX

Move start point

Embed on a website

Report an Issue

Report restricted access

Description

If you're looking for popular jogging trails in Columbus that blend city views with natural river scenery, the Scioto Trail – Olentangy River loop from Columbus is an excellent choice. This moderate 6.0-mile (9.7 km) route, with a gentle 161 feet (49 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hour and 2 minutes, making it perfect for a refreshing urban run or a longer, accessible workout.

What to expect on Scioto Trail – Olentangy River loop from Columbus

This route offers a dynamic journey through Columbus, starting with predominantly paved and well-maintained paths that are ideal for jogging. You'll trace the banks of both the Scioto and Olentangy Rivers, enjoying tranquil stretches alongside vibrant urban backdrops. Keep an eye out for excellent viewpoints of the downtown Columbus skyline, especially as you pass through the Scioto Mile, a lively riverfront area featuring public art and fountains. The trail also takes you past notable landmarks like the Rich Street Bridge with its distinctive deer sculptures and through green spaces such as Scioto Audubon Metro Park. While mostly flat, be aware of some potentially rough or unpaved sections, particularly near the Scioto Trail interchange on the Olentangy Trail. The gentle elevation gain means it's accessible for most runners, offering a rewarding experience without excessive strain.

Planning your visit

Planning your visit to the Scioto Trail – Olentangy River loop is straightforward. The trail is conveniently located with generally easy parking options available in the surrounding parks. You won't need any special permits, and there are no seasonal closures to worry about, making it a reliable option year-round. Consider starting your run earlier in the day to enjoy cooler temperatures and potentially fewer people on the more popular sections of the trail.