hiking

In the 1960s and 1970s, after years of increased urban growth in Columbus and surrounding areas, the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system was established to preserve natural spaces and protect ecological areas from urban sprawl.

The Heritage Rail Trail follows the path of the former Columbus, Piqua, and Indiana Railroad, which began construction in the mid-19th century. The first train passed through Pleasant Valley (now Plain City) on July 4, 1853.

In 1984, Inniswood Metro Gardens officially opened to the public as the eighth park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The former Innis residence, now known as Innis House, serves as the park's administrative center and houses a horticultural library

For over a century, this quarry supplied limestone used in constructing iconic structures like the Ohio Statehouse and Ohio Stadium. The area also holds cultural significance, having been a workplace for many Italian immigrants who settled nearby.​

Pickerington Ponds' unique landscape was formed around 18,000 years ago during the Wisconsin Glaciation, creating a wetland depression and a partially wooded natural dam. Before becoming part of the Metro Parks system, the area

It officially opened to the public on May 6, 2016, as the 19th park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The park was developed through a combination of land donations, state funding, and partnerships, including a significant contribution from outdoor retailer REI Co-op. ​

The park offers a serene natural setting with a rich history, making it a great spot for outdoor activities and reflection.

The gorge is about four miles long and spans 950 acres. It also boasts the only bike trail in Ohio's state nature preserve system; more than 4 miles of paved bike trail crosses the preserve.

The park officially opened on August 28, 2009, after extensive remediation efforts, including the removal of old buildings and underground storage tanks, and soil cleanup.