Plan a Teddy bear picnic at picturesque park

Antrim Lake in northwest Columbus was once a quarry pit before it was filled with water and deemed the main attraction of Antrim Park in 1970.

Now its rocky bottom and 30-foot depth contribute to the lake’s vibrant blue hue, making it a magnificent centerpiece of the 1.2-mile walking trail that loops its circumference. Native flowers and towering cottonwoods reflect upon the lake’s serene surface, drawing daydreamers like me to spend time circumventing the lake.

Joggers, dog walkers and stroller-pushing parents also find the picturesque path perfect for exercise and tranquility.

I recently introduced my two young children to the path via a wagon ride. I loaded them, along with their teddy bears and a picnic basket, for a loop around the lake. The nearby Olentangy Trail provides a steady stream of exercise enthusiasts to the lake. The paved path extends nearly 14 miles from Worthington to downtown Columbus. The lake provides a scenic stop, but not for cyclists, who are forbidden from the lake loop. The absence of bikes makes a leisurely stroll more enjoyable and less dangerous for children.

I like to pull Rosie and Max half way around the loop to a covered bench, where we park our wagon. We then unfurl our picnic blanket in the grass beside the lake and munch on peanut-butter sandwiches, apple slices and carrot sticks.

I relax while my children hug their teddy bears and throw small rocks into the lake, trying not to disturb the fishermen who align the lake’s bank. Fish, such as rainbow trout, bluegill, largemouth bass, channel catfish and carp, swim the waters. People, however, are not allowed to swim or boat in the lake.

After a moment of respite, my children and I continue our journey around the rest of the lake toward the parking lot, recharged and rejuvenated by our time at the lake.

Antrim Park, located at 5800 Olentangy River Rd., is managed by the Columbus Department of Recreation and Parks. Features include athletic fields, basketball courts, playground, shelter-house, tennis courts and a handicap accessible fishing pier. Fishing is open to all ages.

For more information, visit columbus.gov/AntrimPark.