Quarry Trails Metro Park
Discover a unique urban oasis with dramatic quarry landscapes, a stunning waterfall, and adventure activities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Quarry Trails Metro Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a unique urban oasis with dramatic quarry landscapes, a stunning waterfall, and adventure activities.
"It feels like you're on a different planet with giant rock formations and tons of exploring to be had!"
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be uneven and slippery, especially near the falls. Good hiking shoes are a must!
☀️ Seek Shade Strategically
Many quarry areas lack shade, so plan accordingly, especially on hot days.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Milliken Falls
Near 2158 Old Dublin Rd.
Discover a stunning waterfall cascading into a former limestone quarry. A true urban oasis!
Adventure Playground
2600 Dublin Rd.
Kids will love the tall slides, tunnels, and zip line swings at this newly built play area.
Via Ferrata
North end of the park
Experience the thrill of climbing along cliff faces for a unique park perspective.
Quarry Lakes
Various locations
Enjoy fishing, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the peaceful waters of the former quarry.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Views
Explore Beyond the Falls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be uneven and slippery, especially near the falls. Good hiking shoes are a must!
☀️ Seek Shade Strategically
Many quarry areas lack shade, so plan accordingly, especially on hot days.
☕ Grab a Coffee
Visit Bada Bean + Booze near the Flat Rock trail for a coffee or snack.
🚗 Parking Access Points
Two main entrances: 2158 Old Dublin Rd (near falls) & 2600 Dublin Rd (playground/bike area).
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be uneven and slippery, especially near the falls. Good hiking shoes are a must!
☀️ Seek Shade Strategically
Many quarry areas lack shade, so plan accordingly, especially on hot days.
☕ Grab a Coffee
Visit Bada Bean + Booze near the Flat Rock trail for a coffee or snack.
🚗 Parking Access Points
Two main entrances: 2158 Old Dublin Rd (near falls) & 2600 Dublin Rd (playground/bike area).
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for furry friends.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Quarry Trails Metro Park for its unique quarry landscape, beautiful Milliken Falls, and excellent new playground. The well-maintained trails and dog-friendly atmosphere are also highlights. Some note the lack of shade in open quarry areas and suggest improvements for paddleboarding.
"Nice little metro park, now surrounded by newly built / under construction “luxury” apartment and townhomes. The park has a nice variety of views, plenty of seating and parking, and a really good play ground for kids. The floating trail on the water is nice. There’s a great platform to make getting your kayak in and out so easy. Lots of places to be in the sun. Visited at the end of May, and there’s already a lot of plant life and algae in the water, so it might not be ideal for kayaking in late summer."
Dottie Mayne
"Love this place, my wife, 2 year old son have been coming here a lot lately. It's a nice welcoming park that's dog friendly with a little something for everyone. When you first arrive at the entrance it's already very scenic with plenty of park benches to sit down and relax and have a little picnic if you want or a cool area with a walkway pier to go further out on the water, also with places to sit along the way. There is a playground area for kids. My son being 2 is maybe a bit young as it's a park for kids a bit older but he likes watching them go on the zip line swings and does his best on the climbing ropes with some assistance. On the other side on the way to the trails there's an entryway for a canoe or paddle board if that's your thing and next to that is a large covered area to get out of the sun and eat at one of the picnic tables. The trail is what we come for most of the time. It's nice and well kept, paved and wide for people and bikes to share and not get in each other's way. The hills are not overly steep so most people shouldn't have any issues on the trails. It's very pretty with plenty of great views along the walk. Then you can go up to the falls area. It's a great view with a place to sit and relax and if you want go up the stone stairs to go to a view from the top of the falls and more places to sit. You can go down into the falls as well but it's not as easy and paved so it might not be for everyone but worth checking out if you're able! We had a blast playing in the water with our son. All in all a great park to check out to get some exercise, watch the birds and swans, bike, get out on the water or just relax"
Ryan Pontious
"Very nice park for walking. My son enjoys the zip line on the playground. Not great for paddle boarding. The area is small and kinda boring."
Jenny Ewing
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park has two main access points: 2158 Old Dublin Rd., which leads to Milliken Falls, and 2600 Dublin Rd., near the playground and mountain bike trails. Parking is available at both locations.
Public transport options may be limited. It's generally recommended to drive to the park. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
For Milliken Falls and scenic views, use the 2158 Old Dublin Rd. entrance. For the playground and mountain biking, head to 2600 Dublin Rd.
Yes, ample parking is available at both the Old Dublin Rd. and Dublin Rd. entrances.
Yes, the park is conveniently located less than 15 minutes from downtown Columbus, making it an easy nature escape.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Quarry Trails Metro Park is a public park and generally free to enter. Enjoy the natural beauty without any admission cost.
Park hours typically align with other Columbus Metro Parks, usually from dawn to dusk. It's always a good idea to check the official Columbus Metro Parks website for the most current hours.
Yes, the via ferrata is a guided activity and requires advance booking. Check the Columbus Metro Parks website for details on how to sign up and pricing.
The park may host special events or guided nature walks. Keep an eye on the Columbus Metro Parks event calendar for updates.
Generally, Metro Parks are closed after dark for safety reasons. It's best to plan your visit during daylight hours.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Key attractions include Milliken Falls, a unique adventure playground, quarry lakes for fishing and kayaking, mountain biking trails, and the thrilling via ferrata. 
The trails are generally well-maintained and not overly steep, making them accessible for most visitors. However, some areas near the falls can be less paved and more challenging.
Yes, the park offers opportunities for rock climbing, including the via ferrata experience for a guided adventure.
You can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding on the quarry lakes. There are platforms to easily launch watercraft.
Absolutely! A new, highly-rated adventure playground with slides, tunnels, and zip line swings is available for kids.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are no full-service restaurants within the park, Bada Bean + Booze is a nearby coffee shop accessible from the Flat Rock trail, offering coffee and snacks.
Yes, there are plenty of seating areas and picnic tables available throughout the park, including covered areas, perfect for a picnic.
Food trucks or vendors are not a regular feature. It's best to bring your own food and drinks or visit nearby establishments.
The park's proximity to Columbus means a wide variety of dining options are available just a short drive away.
Alcohol policies can vary. It's advisable to check the Columbus Metro Parks regulations regarding alcohol consumption in parks.
📸 📸 Photography
Milliken Falls, the unique rock formations, and the quarry lakes offer stunning photographic opportunities. The via ferrata also provides dramatic aerial shots.
Early mornings and late afternoons, during the 'golden hours,' provide the most beautiful light for capturing the park's scenery.
Drone usage is typically restricted in Metro Parks to ensure safety and preserve the natural environment. Check the official park rules for specifics.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended. Consider a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto lens for wildlife if you spot any.
Yes, from designated viewing areas, you can capture exciting shots of people on the via ferrata, but always maintain a safe distance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The park's well-maintained, gently sloped trails are also great for little legs, and the scenic views provide a pleasant backdrop for a family stroll. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited, though picnic areas are plentiful. 🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Be prepared for some uneven terrain and limited shade in certain areas, so sturdy footwear and sun protection are recommended. 🧗♀️ Adventure Seekers
+1 This activity provides unparalleled views and a unique challenge. Additionally, the park features mountain biking trails for cyclists looking for an off-road adventure. Booking in advance is recommended for the via ferrata, and appropriate gear is essential for all adventure activities.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Quarry Landscape
Many visitors are struck by how the park feels like a different world, with its rugged cliffs and serene water features. The presence of a waterfall within city limits is a particular draw, offering a refreshing natural spectacle.
The park's development has also incorporated modern amenities, such as a vibrant playground and opportunities for adventure sports, blending the raw natural beauty with recreational activities.Adventure Activities at Quarry Trails
+1 It's an excellent option for those looking for an adrenaline rush and a new perspective on the park's geology.Beyond the via ferrata, the park is also a hub for mountain biking, with dedicated trails catering to various skill levels.
The terrain offers a mix of challenges and scenic rides. For water enthusiasts, the quarry lakes are perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding, with easy launch points available. Family Fun and Play
+1 While some reviewers note it could use more shade, the sheer fun factor is undeniable, with kids having an absolute blast. The park's accessible trails also make it suitable for families with younger children, offering gentle inclines and scenic views.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit