Hiking, and Biking, and Parks - Oh, My!
07/27/2022
It’s the perfect season to unplug and get out into nature. If you’re looking for things to do this summer that will take you and your family outdoors to enjoy the warm weather, you’re in luck! Our local parks in Pickaway, Madison, and Fairfield Counties have plenty of outdoor activities for people of all ages. Here are some fun events, programs, and ideas to get you outside and involved in our parks this summer.
1. Hike
Hiking is good for body and mind, and we have so many local spots to explore. There are beautiful trails in all of the local park districts with different levels of difficulty to accommodate everyone, regardless of your experience and fitness level! Want to get out with others in the community? There are group hikes on the first Wednesday of every month at 9:30am, in both Pickaway and Fairfield Counties. Check out the Pickaway County Park District and Fairfield County Parks websites to find exact dates, times, and locations for group hikes.
2. Bike
If you’re tired of cycling in place or in the same places, grab your bike and go to one of the many local bike-friendly trails! A change of scenery and the surrounding wildlife will add a refreshing difference to your exercise routine. Looking for new ways to ride with friends and family? Friends of Madison County Parks and Trails is hosting several fun community rides this season, including Full Moon Rides and the Ox Roast Bicycle Tour! There are so many ways to connect in our community and ride alongside others. Check out the Friends of Madison County Parks and Trails website for dates and details.
3. Explore wildlife
Flora and fauna are abundant in our parks. There are many different “critters” and plants to discover and learn more about, and Pickaway County Park District hosts monthly nature walks for wildlife lovers of all ages. Some of these walks take place during the day, and others late in the evening to allow you to better observe the nocturnal inhabitants of the park. You can find exact dates, times, and subjects on the Pickaway County Parks website.
4. Give back
To keep enjoying all that our local parks have to offer, we must do our part to keep them clean and safe. That’s why Friends of Madison County holds a Trail Trash Pick-up on the first Monday and Friday of every month. Volunteers clear the trails to keep bikers and hikers safe, and the trails beautifully welcoming. All of the local park districts offer many opportunities for folks to help, from volunteering our time to donating funds or participating in one of many sponsorship opportunities. So pitch in and keep our shared spaces pristine and peaceful! Visit the websites below to find a way to do your part.
https://www.pickawaycountyparks.org/
https://www.fairfieldcountyparks.org/