The weather in Columbus is not always conducive to walking on foot. Dog walkers in the Knolls West neighborhood should be prepared for inclement winters with cold weather, snow, and icy conditions. Avoid taking your dog out when blizzards or extreme cold occurs and make sure you have lots of good winter gear to stay warm. Summers are warm and not usually too hot, but severe thunderstorms can occur and should also be avoided.
The area has separate pedestrian sidewalks and tree-lined grassy berms, providing ideal walking locations for you and your dog. Homes features a variety of styles and are well maintained with large, spacious yards, set well apart. There are even plenty of green lawns, trees, and gardens in the area. Luckily, the neighborhood is situated on fairly level ground and pedestrians and pets of all ability levels can get around easily without having to climb steep hills.
Northcrest Park is located in the neighborhood to the west and within an easy walking distance. This 18-acre park has recreational facilities like tennis and basketball courts, sports fields, picnic tables, and a playground. A paved walking trail loops around this open park and makes a great dog walking destination.
A longer walk to the east will take you to the Olentangy River and the parkland located along the river banks. There are multiple greenways along the river connected by the Olentangy Trail. This trail is over 17 miles long and follows the river through wooded areas, over bridges, and through beautiful parks. The trail provides plenty of opportunity for exercise and sightseeing for you and your energetic pooch. It is hard surfaced and used by cyclists and inline skaters in summer and cross-country skiers in winter, so be considerate of other users, keep your dog leashed and off ski tracks, and clean up after your pet.