Discover the hidden gem of Glacier Ridge Metro Park that combines adventure, nature, and play all in one place! Our excitement was sparked by a recommendation from Julie at What Should We Do Today? Columbus, Ohio, who shared her love for the wooden obstacle/ninja course. But that’s not all – tucked away behind this thrilling attraction is an incredible natural play area that perfectly complements the traditional playground on the right. With these three amazing features conveniently located in one spot, we didn’t even have to budge our car! Get ready to explore and make unforgettable memories at Glacier Ridge Metro Park.
Glacier Ridge Metro Park is located in Plain City, Ohio. It is pretty easy to get to when you get to the exit.
Fun Fact: Glacier Ridge Metro Park was named after the end moraine or glacial debris left behind when the glaciers retreated some 12,000 to 17,000 years ago. This 1,037-acre park was once farmland and now features a boardwalk through the Honda Wetlands Area, a 25-foot observation tower to see waterfowl and other animals, and easy hiking trails for all abilities.
The wooden obstacle course at Glacier Ridge Metro Park is the perfect adventure for families. With three unique structures, each featuring a variety of challenges, you’ll find yourself climbing, sliding, crawling, and more. While the course is mostly toddler-friendly, adult supervision is recommended, especially for the structure on the right, which has drop-offs on the sides. The structure in the middle features safety walls, offering a more secure experience. Kids will love the structure on the far left, where they can climb up and slide down the ramp repeatedly, experiencing endless amounts of fun.
This one was their favorite, of course. Probably because it doesn’t have any side rails and they like all things dangerous! Ha. They loved climbing up and down and crawling through the tunnel. They also enjoyed climbing up the nets.
If you’re looking for a more natural experience, check out the Natural Play Area, located just behind the wooden climbing structures. This area is perfect for kids who love to build with single logs and sticks of all sizes. There are also structures already built for kids to play inside of, which sparks their imagination and creativity.
They had tons of single logs and sticks of all sizes lying all-around to build with. The girls loved that, but they also enjoyed playing inside of the structures that were already built. I love how being out in the woods sparks their imagination.
For a more traditional playground experience, head to the playground on the right of the obstacle course/natural play area. Although it’s not huge, it has some fun climbing aspects to it. Keep in mind that if the playground gets busy, it can be challenging to keep your space since everything is pretty connected and tight.
Aside from these three play areas, Glacier Ridge Metro Park has much more to explore. With easy hiking trails, disc golf, biking, cross country skiing, reservable shelters, and many picnic spots, there’s something for everyone. So, get ready to explore and make unforgettable memories at Glacier Ridge Metro Park!
Hours
April 1-September 30: 6:30am-10pm
October 1-March 31: 6:30am-8pm
Address
Glacier Ridge
9801 Hyland Croy, Plain City, OH 43064
Honda Wetland Education Center
7825 Hyland Croy, Plain City, OH 43064
You’ll see signs when you get into the park on where to go. Just in case, you’ll be turning left shortly after you enter the park. You’ll come up to the playground first. We parked right in front of it and walked over to the natural play area. There is also another big parking lot right in front of the natural play area/obstacle course. Either way, it’s all in one area!
Have fun exploring!
