Columbus Parks Add Protected Cycling Routes for Families and Beginners This Summer

Columbus Recreation and Parks opened two new segments of separated bike lanes on the Scioto Greenway Trail on June 15, giving families and novice cyclists direct access from the Arena District to Goodale Park without crossing vehicle traffic.

The additions arrive as local trail counts show steady growth in group rides and beginner classes during the warmer months. Residents have reported higher interest in outdoor activity after the city expanded its bike-share fleet last year, with many households seeking low-stress options close to neighborhoods like Victorian Village and German Village.

One route runs along the Olentangy River from the Dodridge Street entrance north to the Antrim Park loop, a 3.2-mile stretch that stays level and includes rest stops every half mile. A second option starts at the bike station near Bicentennial Park and follows the Scioto River south toward Berliner Park, where wide shoulders and painted buffers keep riders away from cars. Both paths connect to the Metro Parks program that loans free helmets to families who register in advance at the main office on East Broad Street.

Trail use and equipment costs

City data released in May recorded 184,000 bike trips on the Scioto Greenway in 2025, a 19 percent rise from the previous year. CoGo bike-share passes for a full day now cost $8, while weekly passes run $25, with reduced rates available through the Columbus Public Health summer wellness card. The same report noted that 62 percent of riders on weekend mornings listed their skill level as beginner or family group.

Maintenance crews added lighting along the Dodridge segment last month, extending safe hours until 9 p.m. on weekdays. Volunteers from the Central Ohio Bicycle Advocacy group patrol the routes on Saturday mornings to answer questions and distribute maps printed with turn-by-turn directions for the two new sections.

Getting started this month

Parents can join the next free family orientation ride scheduled for July 12 at 10 a.m., departing from the Goodale Park shelter house and covering the shorter Scioto loop at an easy pace. Riders should bring their own bikes or reserve a CoGo e-bike through the app at least 24 hours ahead. Anyone new to the routes is encouraged to check the city website for current construction notices before heading out.