For Adults: Off-trail Hike to Big Sycamores (Nature Preserve )

Join a naturalist for a rugged 3-mile off-trail hike to the nature preserve to see some of the 300-year old Giant Sycamore trees. Expect slippery and wet conditions. Hiking stick highly recommended. Hike is up and down very steep ravines. We will be walking on narrow paths across ravine edges to reach our destination. This hike is difficult for anyone having knee or back issues. Backpack with water, bug spray and snack is highly encouraged. Deer ticks are possible in off-trail conditions in the fall, please spray clothes with bug spray prior to coming to the program (permethrin recommended). Prior rain will impact the trail conditions leading us to create impromptu new pathways for the hike. Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the start of program due to parking. In the event of rain or high water, the program will need to be canceled for safety reasons. Please call the ranger cell phone 614-906-3149 day of program for updates or check out Highbanks Metro Park Facebook page. Age 18+

Meeting Location Oak Coves: The Oak Coves picnic area is your first LEFT after entering the park. Once you turn left into the Oak Coves picnic area, we will be in the THIRD parking lot. This parking lot has a bathroom AND playground. Meet the naturalist in front of the bulletin board. If the parking lot is full, the Oak Coves picnic area has 4 other parking lots within 5-8 minutes walking time of the meeting location.