> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: https://hiking-ohio.com/llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # Homestead Metro Park: Trails, Map & Hiking Guide - URL: https://hiking-ohio.com/homestead-metro-park/ - Published: 2025-09-09T23:35:29.000Z - Updated: 2026-07-02T18:02:45.000Z - Description: Homestead Metro Park in Columbus, OH: 2.5-mi easy loop, 80 ft gain, 1.2 hrs. Dog & kid-friendly trails with fishing pond. Full hiking guide & directions. - Author: Lori Jordan - Tags: homestead, agriculture, fishing, Easy, Loop Trail, Year Round, dog-friendly, kid-friendly Trail FactsHomestead Metro Park 2.5 miDistance EasyDifficulty 80 ftElevation 1.2 hrsDuration LoopType Year RoundDog-friendlyKid-friendly Homestead Metro Park, at 4675 Cosgray Road in Hilliard, Ohio, spans 44 acres and combines historical charm with modern features. It officially joined the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system on September 1, 2015. --- ### History Homestead Metro Park's land was first acquired by Washington Township in 1990, with support from Brown and Norwich Townships. The goal was to create a park celebrating Midwestern rural agricultural life while providing families with recreational space. Historically, the area was part of land granted to Revolutionary War Continental Army veterans, and agriculture has remained a consistent use since its settlement. ![Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756854281477-Screenshot 2025-09-02 190224.png) The park features a railroad-inspired design due to its proximity to the Heritage Rail Trail, which runs along an abandoned railroad line. Highlights include Norwich Junction, a replica train station and rail platform, along with a caboose donated by Consolidated Rail Corporation (Conrail) in 1998\. A replica of Bradley Station, named after local historian Ray Bradley, was also built near the Heritage Trail. ![Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756855242446-Screenshot 2025-09-02 192008.png) ![Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756853742941-Screenshot 2025-09-02 185510.png) --- ### Attractions Homestead Metro Park offers a variety of attractions for visitors - **Fishing Pond**: A 2.5-acre lake stocked for fishing.​ ![Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756854181883-Screenshot 2025-09-02 190146.png) - **Playgrounds**: Multiple play areas, including one of the largest playgrounds among the Metro Parks, featuring tunnels, bridges, and a metal fire truck for children to explore. ![Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756854204956-Screenshot 2025-09-02 185951.png) - **Accessible Playground**: Upgraded in 2022 to include wheelchair-accessible elements like a boat-like glider and musical components, ensuring inclusive play for children of all abilities. ![Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756854226302-Screenshot 2025-09-02 190009.png) - **Elevate Fitness Course**: Introduced in 2022, this obstacle course offers challenges such as the Victory Wall and Summit Bridge, catering to visitors aged 5 and above.​ ![Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756854255961-Screenshot 2025-09-02 190049.png) ![Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756854255739-Screenshot 2025-09-02 190116.png) - **Covered Bridge**: A picturesque structure ideal for leisurely walks and photography.​ ![Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756853612340-Screenshot 2025-09-02 185304.png) - **Shelters and Picnic Areas**: Including reservable shelters like the Lakeside Pavilion, which features fireplaces, electrical outlets, and a balcony overlooking the pond. ![Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756854595638-Screenshot 2025-09-02 190911.png) ![Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756854595699-Screenshot 2025-09-02 190919.png) - **Nature Center**: The Nature Center, which offers engaging and educational activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a parent looking for fun and interactive ways to teach your kids about nature, or just someone who appreciates the natural world, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. With a wide range of age-appropriate activities, including puzzles, puppets, coloring sheets, reptile and amphibian exhibits, and DIY hands-on projects, the Nature Center is a must-see destination for anyone visiting this beautiful park. ![Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756853451911-Screenshot 2025-09-02 185014.png) --- For more information about Homestead Metro Park, including current events and programs, you can visit the [official Metro Parks page](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/homestead/?ref=hiking-ohio.com). ![Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756853263136-Screenshot 2025-08-27 123310.png) #### Multiuse Trail **0.8 miles** **Easy – Hike, Bike, Inline skate, Pets – Paved – ADA** Encircles the main activities area and connects to the 6.1-mile Heritage Trail --- ### **Conclusion** Homestead Metro Park is a hidden gem of the Metroparks. It is worth a visit! ![Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio](https://cdn.hiking-ohio.com/blog-hiking/2025/09/1756854963340-Screenshot 2025-04-04 173754.png) **Trail at a Glance — Homestead Metro Park** | **Distance** | 0.8-mile paved loop (links to the 6.1-mile Heritage Trail) | | ------------------ | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | **Elevation gain** | 80 ft | | **Difficulty** | Easy — paved and ADA accessible | | **Best season** | Year-round | | **Dogs** | Leashed dogs welcome | | **Highlights** | Covered bridge, stocked fishing pond, Norwich Junction rail replicas, large playground | | **Address** | 4675 Cosgray Road, Hilliard, OH 43026 | ## Explore Nearby Trails More Ohio trail guides worth a visit: - [Scioto Grove Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/scioto-grove-met/) - [Rocky Fork Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/rocky-fork-metro-park/) - [Three Creeks Metro Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/three-creeks-park/) - [Pine Quarry Park](https://hiking-ohio.com/pine-quarry/) - [Best Hikes Near Columbus](https://hiking-ohio.com/best-hikes-near-columbus-ohio-15-trails-worth-your-weekend/) - [All Columbus & Franklin County Metro Parks](https://hiking-ohio.com/columbus-franklin-county-metro-parks/)