Tucked away just outside Dublin at 9801 Hyland Croy Road in Plain City, Glacier Ridge Metro Park is more than just a hiking haven. With 13.4 miles of scenic trails and over 1,000 acres of open space, it’s a favorite for outdoor lovers. But there’s so much more to explore beyond the paths. From hidden adventures to unexpected activities, here are six surprising things you might not know you can do here.
Play A Round of Disc Golf
Pack your discs and get ready to play! The park features a free 18-hole disc golf course open year-round. Spanning 6,000 feet, it offers a mix of challenges with six holes in the woods and twelve in open fields. With both short and long tees, and several holes stretching over 400 feet, it’s perfect for players of all skill levels looking to test their throw.
Saddle Up for a Scenic Ride
The peaceful 5-mile Savannah Trail is ideal for horseback riding. This easy, loop-style bridle path winds through open fields and wooded areas in the northern section of the park, with gentle, rolling terrain that’s perfect for a relaxing ride.
Trailhead parking is just off the main entrance, to the left near the red barn-style maintenance building. The gravel lot has space for 10 to 15 trailers, making it a convenient spot to unload and gear up. Riders will pass through former farmland that’s being restored into native grasslands, offering a beautiful natural backdrop and occasional wildlife sightings.
Take on the Challenge Course
Ready to test your strength and agility? The 3-acre Challenge Course is packed with adrenaline-pumping fun. This outdoor obstacle area features 13 unique stations like the Tire Run, Frog Jump, Tunnel Crawl, and rope climbs, all surrounding a half-mile paved trail.
The course is designed for ages 12 and up. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and participants take on the obstacles at their own risk. It's a great workout and a fun adventure for families with teens or anyone looking for a physical challenge.
Glide Through Winter on Cross Country Skis
When snow covers the park, the Savannah Trail becomes a winter wonderland. Its gentle terrain and mild slopes make it perfect for cross country skiing, whether you're a beginner or experienced skier.
Though it's too snowy for horseback riding during winter, it’s the ideal time to enjoy a peaceful glide through quiet woods and open fields while soaking in the park's serene beauty.
Climb High for Stunning Views
Looking for a beautiful place to catch a sunset in Dublin? The 25-foot Observation Tower offers panoramic views of the wetlands and is a favorite for nature lovers and photographers alike.
You can reach it by parking at the Honda Wetlands Area or by walking the scenic 2.8-mile Ironweed Trail from the main park. At the top, you'll spot waterfowl and other wildlife while enjoying a quiet moment above the trees.
Let Kids’ Imaginations Run Wild
The Natural Play Area is a one-of-a-kind space designed and built by students from The Ohio State University’s Knowlton School of Architecture. It blends nature and adventure into a creative play zone that inspires imagination and movement.
Kids can climb cedar towers, navigate ramps and ropes, scale ladders, and zip down a line, all surrounded by the great outdoors. With tree trunks to balance on and stick forts to build, young adventurers can explore, play, and create for hours.
And that’s just the beginning. To learn everything you need to know about this park, click here.
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