The park contains two distinct earthwork mounds built by the Adena people between 800 B.C. and 100 A.D.
The shale bluffs were formed by glacial activity that cut through the underlying Devonian-age Ohio Shale bedrock.
Bald eagles have successfully nested in the park for several years, making it one of the few urban-adjacent sites for these raptors in Central Ohio.
The park encompasses over 1,200 acres of protected natural space.
The name 'Olentangy' comes from the Delaware word for 'river of the red face paint', referring to the local hematite deposits.
A specialized vernal pool exists on-site, providing a critical breeding ground for amphibians like spotted salamanders and wood frogs.
Highbanks Metro Park is defined by its massive 100-foot-high shale bluffs overlooking the Olentangy River. The park preserves significant Native American heritage, featuring two earthwork mounds constructed by the Adena culture. More than 10 miles of trails wind through diverse habitats including beech-maple forests and floodplains. The name 'Highbanks' derives from the steep, sheer walls carved by glacial action along the river corridor. It serves as a regional hub for birdwatching, particularly for bald eagles that nest within the park boundaries. The terrain transitions from high-elevation woodland to low-lying riparian zones. The park is managed by the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system.
The Overlook deck provides a panoramic vantage point of the river winding through the shale bluffs.
Use the Overlook Trail for immediate access to the cliff-edge views without a steep climb.
Bring binoculars specifically to scan the treetops near the river for nesting bald eagles.
Wear insect repellent during summer months, especially when hiking near the river valley floor.
Do not attempt to scramble down the steep shale bluffs, as the rock is unstable and prone to erosion.
Stay on marked trails to protect the fragile shale bluffs and sensitive archaeological sites. Keep dogs leashed at all times.
