Six Towers Deep: An Afternoon at Scioto Grove
Last Friday afternoon, Luna and I set out for Scioto Grove Metro Park in Grove City, just south of Columbus, Ohio. It marked my sixth tower climb since July, and the late-day light gave the whole loop a golden edge. The perfect mix of calm and movement that clears my head.
About Scioto Grove Metro Park
Scioto Grove Metro Park spans roughly 620 acres along the Scioto River, offering a mix of wooded trails, open meadows, and riverside overlooks. It’s one of the newer Metro Parks in the Columbus system, officially opened in May 2016 as the 19th Metro Park.
You’ll find:
More than 7 miles of hiking trails Canoe and kayak access points on the river Fishing ponds Archery ranges (traditional and 3D) A disc golf course Picnic shelters and overlook decks Backpacking campsites for overnight stays
📍 Address: 5172 Jackson Pike, Grove City, OH 43123
🌐 Official site: metroparks.net/sciotogrove
The Keystone Fire Lookout Tower
The centerpiece of Scioto Grove is the Keystone Fire Tower, originally from Jackson County, Ohio, and carefully relocated and restored for visitors.
Standing at 111 steps tall, this 82-foot tower offers panoramic views of the Scioto River valley and even a distant glimpse of the Columbus skyline. Which is roughly seven miles away on a clear day. The structure was re-galvanized and rebuilt for safety, giving hikers a rare chance to climb an authentic fire lookout still in working condition.
If you’re bold enough to climb it, the reward is pure . Including: wide air, open view, and the grounding quiet that only comes from being above the noise.
The Loop Hike with Luna
We started our hike in the late afternoon, taking one of the park’s easy-to-moderate loop trails that weave through forest and along the riverbank. The route brushed sections of the REI River Trail, Mingo Trail, and Overlook Trail. They all connected for a solid 5–5.5 mile loop.
The terrain was steady with just enough elevation change to feel earned. Luna explored every scent, tail up and curious. I slowed down and let the rhythm of the park take over.
At the tower, she waited at the base, head tilted as I climbed. From the top, the world widened. With the Scioto curling below and autumn barely brushing the trees. It felt like ritual, this sixth climb. A ceremony in motion, a quiet victory stacked on all the others since July.
By the time we looped back, the sun had dropped low, casting long shadows over the trail. The kind of ending that feels less like goodbye and more like pause.
Tips & trail notes
🕒 Tower Hours: Open during daylight; check the Metro Parks site for closures. 🐾 Dog-Friendly: Pets welcome, must remain on leash.
🥾 Trail Difficulty: Easy to moderate. Mingo Trail (~5 miles) offers light elevation gain (~100 ft).
🎒 Best Route: Connect REI River Trail, Mingo Trail, and Overlook Trail for a scenic loop.
💧 Bring: Water, sturdy shoes with grip, and a flashlight if hiking near dusk.
☔ After Rain: Expect mud on lower Overlook Trail and riverside paths.
Why Scioto Grove Stands Out
What makes Scioto Grove special isn’t its challenge. But it’s the balance.
Close enough to Columbus for an afternoon escape, yet far enough to breathe.
Every trail bends into a new quiet. Every climb, every overlook, offers a reminder that adventure doesn’t have to mean distance.
Six towers down, and this one might just be my favorite yet.
