Cox Arboretum MetroPark is famous for its beautifully landscaped gardens, water features, Monet Bridge, the tree tower, weddings, and events at the beautiful Zorniger Education Center.
Less known are the beautiful, wooded hiking trails:
Starting at the parking lot, you can get on the paved path to the right of the visitor’s center and walk into the Woodland Wildflower Area where you can join the red trail, a short 0.6 mile loop, and part of the MetroParks Trails Challenge.
If you are up for a longer loop, take the 1.1 mile blue loop trail as it splits to the right and head into the woods and past a lovely overlook.
For a longer hike on the 1.8 mile yellow loop, pass the blue loop turnoff and keep going along the blue and red combined trail until you can turn right on the yellow loop. This trail takes you deeper into the woods and allows for a surprising amount of hill work. Try the yellow loop twice to get in a nice 5k trail run. To mix it up, run one loop clockwise and one counterclockwise.
When you come out of the woods take time to experience the amazing gardens, Children’s Maze, gazebos and water features. Finally, climb the tree tower for a spectacular view of the woods you just went through and the surrounding area.
