What’s Happening at Alum Creek?
We’re excited to share some big news with our community! Central Ohio Mountain Biking Organization (COMBO) has officially broken ground on a brand new trail project at Alum Creek. This is more than just a trail build. It’s a long-term investment in the people, the land, and the future of outdoor recreation in Central Ohio.
HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW →
last updated: April 28th, 2026WHAT IS COMBO
•
THE WHY
•
THE PLAN
•
THE COMMUNITY
•
HOW TO HELP
•
WHAT IS COMBO • THE WHY • THE PLAN • THE COMMUNITY • HOW TO HELP •
WHAT IS COMBO?
COMBO is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, volunteer-led organization with a core mission: Building Trails & Building Community.
Building Trails is about more than moving dirt. It’s about vision, collaboration, and stewardship. We work closely with land managers and community partners to design trail systems that reflect the natural landscape while meeting the needs of the locals who frequent these trails in different capacities. Every project starts with thoughtful planning, considering terrain, ecology, and how people will experience the trail.
Building Community is just as important. The mountain biking world is incredibly diverse, and that’s what makes it special. From XC racers to enduro riders, from women’s ride groups to youth programs like Gators and NICA, from first-time riders to seasoned trail builders. Our trails are the common ground where everyone connects.
For more than 30 years, we’ve worked to expand access, grow the next generation of riders, and strengthen the outdoor community across Central Ohio and beyond.
WHY IS THERE CONSTRUCTION?
Right now, the existing multi-use corridor at Alum Creek is often too wet to use for nearly half the year. That means limited access, unsafe conditions, and constant maintenance challenges.
This full restoration is necessary to create a trail that is SUSTAINABLE in all seasons, SAFE for all users, DURABLE for long-term use, and ENJOYABLE for bikers, hikers, and runners alike
By addressing drainage and trail design at the core level, we’re building something that will serve the community not just today, but for years to come.
Please respect Trail closures for your safety.
There is heavy machinery at work!
WHAT’s THE PLAN?
We’re transforming a muddy, often unusable corridor into a modern, sustainable trail system that serves hikers, bikers, and trail runners alike.
This project includes:
Full Trail Restoration — Ditching, drainage improvements, grading, and installation of ~50 culverts
Family-Friendly Expansion — Growing to 11 miles of approachable, rideable trail
Improved Navigation & Connectivity — Better connections between P1 and P2, helping complete a 26-mile system
Adaptive-Friendly Access — Linking to a new 4-mile adaptive trail segment
When complete, the Alum Creek Trail System will become a true regional destination, offering a trail experience for everyone, regardless of ability or experience level.
1992 - we saw the completion of Phase 1
2002 - Phase 2 was added to the trail system
2025 - the Connector Trail was completed
$150,000 Donated from the community!
Trek Bikes kicked off our fundraising efforts with their donation of $12,000!
Lost in the Woods at Alum Creek jumped in, quickly contributing $20,000 toward the project.
COMBO was awarded the$50,000 Community Park & Trail Grant from Preservation Parks.
Thanks to an incredible $75,000 donation from Atlas Butler, our Alum Creek Flow Trail Project is now fully funded.
Read more on their stories and how their contribution is helping the communities they help support with their businesses →
HOW YOU CAN HELP!
Projects like this don’t happen without community support, and that means you!
Become a COMBO Member & Donate!
For more than 30 years, COMBO has built and maintained the trails that fuel Central Ohio’s outdoor community. What started as a small group of passionate volunteers has grown into a movement, but every mile we build depends on support from folks like you.
When you become a member, you’re not just supporting trails, you’re investing in the health, happiness, and outdoor experiences of our entire region.
Your support builds community, confidence, healthy lifestyles, opportunities for youth, and connection to nature. And most importantly, we build it together.
Volunteer!
Want to make a direct impact? Join us for Trail Days and help bring this project to life with your own two hands. Whether you’re new or experienced, there’s a place for you on the crew.