Columbus Metro Parks in Fairfield County, Ohio
Chestnut Ridge Metro Park
Intro || Trails || Directions || Events
Chestnut Ridge is part of a Blackhand sandstone ridge once covered by chesnut trees. This sandstone formed 345 million years ago when the Appalachian mountains were formed. As the mountains rose, rivers, and streams washed away sand and silt. This debris was deposited along the shorelines and eventually was compressed into the Blackhand Sandstone.
The ridge as the name implies was once covered with chestnut trees. Chestnuts were a popular food source and people came to the ridge to gather them. However, a fungus from an imported tree brought disease and death to most of these magnificent trees.
Activities include trails to hike, picnicking areas, a lake for fishing. Programs are scheduled regularly.
Chestnut Ridge Hiking Trails
Intro || Trails || Directions || Events
Homesite Trail 0.4 miles; moderate to difficult
Gravel surface; hiking, jogging, walking and cross-country skiing; mature forests and homesite remnants with fruit trees and berry bushes; spectacular vista of the rugged southeastern Ohio terrain. Beautiful fall colors. Access via Ridge Trail.
Meadows Trail 1 mile; moderate to difficult
Gravel surface; hiking, jogging, walking and cross-country skiing; clear spring creek; lush open fields overflowing with colorful wildflowers, songbirds and butterflies.
Ridge Trail 1 mile; moderate to difficult
Gravel surface with 600 feet of boardwalk; hiking, jogging, walking and cross-country skiing; steep hillside along the ridge; flowing spring; observation deck; remnants of mighty chestnut trees and historic Blackhand sandstone quarry sites.
Directions to Chestnut Ridge Metro Park
Intro || Trails || Directions || Events
Address: 8445 Winchester Road N.W., Carroll, OH 43112
Location: Western Fairfield County
Directions: From 1-270, take U.S. 33 east toward Lancaster. Go about 10 miles and turn right on Winchester Road (Carroll, OH traffic light). Entrance is about 3 miles on the left.
Map
Hours of Operation
March to May 6:30 a.m. to dusk.
March 2011
Mar. 5, 5:30 p.m. Woodcock Wonders
Watch and listen for the woodcock's courtship flight. Meet at the Ranger Station.
Call 614-891-0700 M-F 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for more information.
Mar. 19, 11 a.m. Rain Barrel Making Demo
Learn how to create rain barrels to help conserve precious rainwater for your gardens. Meet at the Ranger Station.
Call 614-891-0700 M-F 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for more information.
April 2011/p>
Apr. 10, Archery at the Ridge
Learn how to shoot a compound bow. Ages 6 and older. Adult supervision required. Meet at the Springhouse Program Area.
Call 614-891-0700 M-F 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for more information.
Apr. 16, 1 p.m. Kids in the Woods: Amphibian search
Look for mating salamanders and frogs on a 1.5 mile off trail hike. Ages 6 and older. Adult supervision required. Meet at the Springhouse Program Area.
Call 614-891-0700 M-F 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for more information.
May 2011
May 6, 6:30 - 8 p.m. Friday Night Fishing
Enjoy fishing from the edge of the pond. Limited poles and bait available. Ages 15 and under ( adult supervision required). Meet at the Meet at the Springhouse Program Area.
Call 614-891-0700 M-F 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for more information.
May 7, 11 a.m. Wildflowers on the Ridge
Take a 1.5-mile walk to discover wildflowers in bloom. Meet at the Springhouse Program area.
Call 614-891-0700 M-F 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for more information.
