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.
June 2010
June 11, 7-9 p.m. Fishing Night for Kids
Fish from the edge of the pond. Limited poles and bait available. Age 15 and under (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.
June 12, 7 - 8:30 p.m. Grandparents and Grandkids: Hook, Line and Critter
Enjoy a coldblooded critter display while you're waiting for the fish to bite. Poles and bait available or bring your own. Ages 15 and ender and 60 and over. Meet at the Springhouse Program area.
Call 614-891-0700 M-F 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for more information.
June 26, 2:00 p.m. A Lunch and Hike
Explore the outdoors with your favorite doll and stuffed animal. Bring a picnic lunch or snack. Lemonade and a Doll-icious treat provided. Age 10 and under. Meet at the Springhouse Program Area.
Call 614-891-0700 M-F 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for more information.
July 2010
Jul. 3, 9 p.m. Fireflies
Catch and release these luminous insects on a 2-mile hike. Meet at the Springhouse Program Area.
Call 614-891-0700 M-F 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for more information.
Jul. 10, 9:00 p.m. Creeking
Wade in the stream and search for creek critters. Meet at the Springhouse Program Area.
Call 614-891-0700 M-F 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for more information.
Jul. 18, 2:00 p.m. Butter Flutter By
Catch butterflies and learn to identify them. Bring a net and plastic container if you have one. Meet at the Springhouse Program Area.
Call 614-891-0700 M-F 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for more information.
August 2010
Aug. 21, 8:30 p.m. Bright Moon Walk
Check out the wildlife that appears after dark on a 2-mile hike. Meet at the Springhouse Program Area.
Call 614-891-0700 M-F 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for more information.
Aug. 28, 8:00 p.m. Bodacious Bats
Watch for bats in the sky around the pond and learn more about the world's only flying mammals. Meet at the Springhouse Program Area.
Call 614-891-0700 M-F 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for more information.
