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Run the Ironweed Trail in Glacier Ridge Metro Park

Plain City, Ohio

4.0/5
based on 1 reviews

Details

Distance

2.8 miles

Route Type

Point-to-Point

Description

Added by Dan Barr

Glacier Ridge represents one of the last end moraines of the ice sheet that covered Central Ohio 18,000 years ago, and despite having been used as farmland until recently, the subtle geologic feature remains.

From the main entrance on the north side of the park, the Ironweed Trail connects the northern, more wooded section of the park with the wetlands to the south. This 2.8 mile one-way trail is paved, making cycling, running, and hiking an easy activity. The topography of the park also makes it easy, as very little elevation change occurs, aside from a slight hill that represents the remnants of the end moraine for which the park is named.

Perhaps the natural feature that attracts most is the Honda Wetlands Area at the southern end of the park. Home to a vast array of plant life, the wetlands offer a refuge to a variety of waterfowl and migrating birds in both the spring and autumn, and the wildflower blooms are spectacular through the growing season. The area also features a 25 ft tall observation tower that gives a stunning view of the wetlands and the flora and fauna that reside there.

On top of its natural beauty, the park also is home to a disc golf course and a renewable energy display via the wind turbine located near the park entrance.

Whether you're looking for a new place for a bike ride, and new running spot, or just a pleasant hike, Glacier Ridge is an excellent stop for an outdoor getaway in Central Ohio.

For more information about the parks programs and events, please go the the following website:http://www.metroparks.net/park...

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Features

Fitness
Cycling
Photography
Running
Skiing
Hiking
Bathrooms
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
Groups
Picnic Area
Scenic
Wildflowers
Wildlife
ADA Accessible

Run the Ironweed Trail in Glacier Ridge Metro Park Reviews

The trail is paved and marked, makes for a good running spot if you enjoy running on pavement but don't enjoy getting hit by cars. My wife and I stopped by the park intending to walk on the trail for a bit but we soon got distracted by the Challenge course in the main parking lot. It wasn't a tough choice to skip additional jogging time in favor of navigating obstacles as if we were on American Ninja Warrior!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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