Walking Among Giants: Your Guide to Champion Trees Near Lewis Center, Ohio

Have you ever stood beside a giant tree and listened to the soft rustle of its leaves, as if they were sharing stories from long ago? Or noticed the incredible, earthy smell coming from its old roots? These trees are more than just large plants—they are living landmarks. In forestry, we call them “champion trees.”

A champion tree is the largest known tree of its kind. These trees stand out in the forest. Finding one is exciting and helps us feel more connected to nature.

If you live near Lewis Center, Ohio, you’re in luck. Delaware County has beautiful places, like the Olentangy bluffs, where you can see morning mist and tall trees. While the Ohio champion tree database lists trees from all over the State, some of the most impressive ones are close to home.

For example, resident Jane Smith remembers how the Giant Sycamore inspired her neighborhood to start a tree-planting project, bringing families together and building a stronger community. These special trees connect us not just to nature, but also to each other.

This guide will help you find these trees. We’ll look at what makes them special, how to spot them, and how you can nominate a new champion.

Defining the Lewis Center Area

Lewis Center is a growing community in Delaware County, just north of Columbus. While it’s known for shopping and suburbs, it also has plenty of natural areas.

When we talk about finding champion trees near Lewis Center, Ohio, we are looking at a specific area. This includes:

Highbanks Metro Park: A massive park with forests and river bluffs.
Alum Creek State Park: Famous for its reservoir and surrounding woodlands.
Preservation Parks of Delaware County: Smaller, quieter parks that protect old forests.

This area is full of Ohio’s native trees. The soil is excellent for growing big ones. You’ll see tall oaks, giant sycamores, and sturdy maples.

If you’re interested in discovering more about champion trees in Ohio, prepare to embark on an adventure that connects you with the natural wonders of the state. The Ohio Champion Trees Database is not just an extensive catalog but rather a treasure map of awe-inspiring giants waiting to be discovered. Instead of flipping through pages, imagine every entry as a hidden gem on the map, each with its own story of grandeur and fortitude. This resource offers detailed information about the size, species, and location of these remarkable specimens. The Ohio Champion Trees Map is a helpful tool that turns your search into a treasure hunt. Choose a spot on the map and plan a trip to see some of the most significant trees. Whether you’re an arborist or enjoy nature, these resources can make your adventure even better.s.

Notable Champion Trees in the Lewis Center Area

Finding a specific champion tree can feel like a treasure hunt. The Ohio Champion Tree Program keeps a list, but trees can change over time. Storms come and go, and old trees sometimes fall. Still, there are some legendary trees in this area that you can visit.

The most famous big tree near Lewis Center is the Giant Sycamore. It is located in Highbanks Metro Park.

Common Name: American Sycamore
Scientific Name: Platanus occidentalis
Location: The River Bluff area of Highbanks Metro Park.
Description: This tree is enormous—estimated to be over 400 years old. Its trunk is massive and white, just like other sycamores in Ohio. The branches stretch up like big white bones reaching for the sky. It is not a leisurely walk in the park. The tree is located off-trail. To see it, you often have to participate in a specific “River Walk.” This usually involves wading into the Olentangy River, and the water can be knee-deep or higher. The park rangers sometimes lead hikes to see it. It is an adventure, earning you ‘soggy-sock bragging rights’ after the experience, but seeing this ancient giant is worth it.

If you want an easier option, visit the big oaks in Alum Creek State Park. You can reach them on easy, family-friendly trails, so everyone can enjoy these champion trees without leaving the path. The trails go through peaceful woods, letting you enjoy nature at your own pace.

The Oaks of Delaware County

Delaware County is an excellent place for oak trees. Not every big oak is a state champion, but many are considered “local champions.”

Species to look for: White Oak (Quercus alba) and Red Oak (Quercus rubra).
Description: Oak trees in Ohio are known for their strength. They have wide crowns that spread out far. A champion oak will have a trunk that is deeply ridged.
Where to look: Search for these big trees in the older parts of Alum Creek State Park. Also, check out older neighborhoods in Lewis Center—sometimes the most significant trees were left standing when homes were built nearby.

The Cottonwoods of Alum Creek

The Eastern Cottonwood is a fast-growing tree. They love water.

The Eastern Cottonwood (Populus deltoides) grows best near water, soaking up moisture from streams and rivers to grow quickly. It’s a tough, fast-spreading member of the poplar family. You can spot it by its broad, triangle-shaped leaves. Cottonwoods grow in many places and are easy to recognize when their leaves rustle in the wind.
Description: Eastern Cottonwoods are often the tallest trees along Ohio’s streams, where they get plenty of water. They have thick, deeply grooved bark that gets more cracked as they age. In summer, they release lots of fluffy white seeds that float through the air and sometimes cover the ground like snow.
Where to look: Walk along the banks of Alum Creek to see these trees up close. For easy access, park at the Alum Creek Marina lot and start on the Rocks to Roots Trail. This family-friendly loop lets you see tall trees with strong trunks leaning over the water, creating a peaceful canopy above the creek.
Ohio Champion Tree Program: A program dedicated to identifying and celebrating the largest trees of each species in the state. These trees are measured and recorded based on their height, trunk circumference, and crown spread, earning the title of “champion” for their impressive size and significance.

Champion Trees in Ohio:

American Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis): Known for its massive trunk and distinctive peeling bark, the American Sycamore is one of the largest native trees in Ohio, often found near rivers and streams.
Eastern Cottonwood (Populus deltoides): This fast-growing tree thrives in wet soil and is notable for its towering height and shimmering leaves.
Northern Red Oak (Quercus rubra): Revered for its stately appearance and brilliant fall colors, the Northern Red Oak is a symbol of strength and beauty in Ohio’s forests.
Tulip Tree (Liriodendron tulipifera): Sometimes called the tulip poplar, this tall and elegant tree is known for its distinctive tulip-shaped flowers and leaves.

These champion trees show the great variety and beauty of Ohio’s forests. They are an essential part of the state’s natural heritage.

Ecological Significance of Big Trees

Why do big trees matter? It’s not just because they look impressive. Large trees play a significant role in helping our environment.

Homes for Wildlife

One big tree can be home to many animals. Its branches, trunk, and canopy give birds places to nest, squirrels spots to climb, and insects places to live. These trees support many different kinds of life.

Birds: Owls and hawks build nests in the high branches.
Insects: Rare beetles live deep within the bark.
Mammals: Squirrels, raccoons, and bats find shelter in hollows.

Ohio Champion Trees in Delaware County, Lewis Center

Delaware County, especially the Lewis Center area, has several impressive Ohio Champion Trees. These trees are recognized for their size, age, and environmental importance. As the biggest of their kind in Ohio, they are essential natural landmarks that help support local wildlife.

Besides being tall and wide, Champion Trees provide essential homes for many animals. Having them in Lewis Center shows the area’s rich natural history and reminds us why it’s essential to protect these trees for the future.

Cleaning the Air

Big trees are great at cleaning the air. They take in carbon dioxide, which is a greenhouse gas. Mature trees absorb much more carbon than young ones. For example, a large oak can take in as much carbon dioxide as a car produces during a 50-mile drive. Trees also catch dust and pollution on their leaves.

Cooling the Land

The shade from a champion tree is intense, cooling the ground beneath. In places like Lewis Center, big trees help keep the neighborhood cooler.

Historical and CTrees are like living history books. The Giant Sycamore at Highbanks started growing before the United States became a country.

Witnesses to History

Think about what the trees have seen.

Native American History: The Adena and Hopewell cultures lived in this area. They built mounds near where these trees grow today.
Settlers: Early pioneers in Ohio used native trees, such as chestnut and walnut, to build cabins.
Change: These trees have stood tall as Lewis Center changed from forest to farmland and then to a busy town.

Community Pride

People love their local trees. When a big tree falls, the community often mourns it. Finding and protecting these trees brings people together. It reminds us that we are part of something older than ourselves. Which local giant shaped your childhood? Reflecting on the trees that witnessed our early days in the neighborhood can foster communal pride and deepen our connection to nature. We invite you to share your memories and stories of beloved trees and how they have impacted your life. To encourage community engagement, we invite you to submit your favorite tree stories or photos to a local group or online forum. This initiative will help build a sense of community and foster ongoing engagement, allowing others to appreciate the trees that hold special significance in our lives.

How to Nominate a Champion Tree

Do you think you found a champion? Maybe there is a massive maple tree in Ohio in your neighborhood. Think you’ve found a champion tree? Maybe there’s a giant maple in your neighbor’s yard. You can nominate it! The Ohio Champion Tree Program is managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). It is a simple math formula:

Trunk Circumference (inches): Measure around the trunk at 4.5 feet off the ground.
Height (feet): Measure how tall the tree is.
Average Crown Spread (feet): Measure how wide the branches spread. Take 25% of this number.

Total Points = Circumference + Height + ¼ Crown Spread

Steps to Nominate

Identify the Tree: You need to know what kind of tree it is. Is it a black cherry or a hackberry tree?
Measure: Do your best to get accurate. Submit: Visit the ODNR website and go to the Division of Forestry section. There, you’ll find forms to nominate a tree. nominations.

If your tree gets a high enough score, a forester may visit to check it. Your discovery could be added to the Ohio Champion Trees Database.

Common Trees to Spot in Ohio

When searching for champion trees, it helps to know what you’re seeing. Here’s a quick guide to identifying trees in Ohio.

You cannot talk about Ohio trees without the Ohio Buckeye.

Identification: Look for leaves with five leaflets, arranged like the fingers on a hand. The bark is light gray and smooth on younger trees, becoming rougher with age.

Seeds: The Ohio buckeye tree’s seeds look like a deer’s eye. They are dark brown with a light tan spot.
Note: These are trees with red berries in Ohio? No, Buckeyes have nuts. But they are iconic.
Black Walnut: These leave a mess of green husks on the ground. The wood is dark and valuable.

Identification: The leaves are compound with 15-23 leaflets. Its bark is deeply furrowed and dark brown.

Pawpaw: This is a hidden gem. It produces the largest native fruit in North America. It tastes like a banana mixed with a mango. You won’t find a banana tree in Ohio outdoors, but the Pawpaw is close!

Identification: Look for large, tropical-looking leaves and smooth bark. The fruit is green and turns yellow when ripe.

Apple: There are many apple trees in Ohio. Some are in orchards, and some are wild “crabapples” in the woods.

Identification: Look for small, often gnarled trees with rough bark. Leaves are oval-shaped and straightforward.

Dogwood: These are famous trees with white flowers in Ohio. They bloom in early spring.

Identification: Its bark is scaly, and its leaves are opposite and straightforward. The flowers have four large petals.

Redbud: As the name suggests, the redbud tree ohio bursts with pinkish-purple flowers before the leaves even come out.

Identification: Look for heart-shaped leaves and its distinctive early spring blooms.

Tulip Tree: The Ohio tulip tree is a giant. It grows very straight and tall. It has yellow and orange flowers that look like tulips, high in the branches.

Identification: The leaves are distinctively shaped like a tulip, and the bark is ridged and furrowed.

The “Fake” Ohio Trees

Some trees you might search for don’t belong here.

Palm trees in Ohio: These are tropical. You will only see them in pots or greenhouses.
Mimosa tree, Ohio: These have pink, puffy flowers. They are beautiful but can be invasive.

Champion Trees in Ohio

Ohio is home to some remarkable champion trees, recognized by the Ohio Champion Tree Program for their size and significance. These trees represent the largest of their species in the state, showcasing their unique splendor and ecological importance. Below is a list of notable champion trees in Ohio:

American Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis): This giant stands tall and wide, often found near rivers and wetlands.
Eastern Cottonwood (Populus deltoides): Known for its impressive height and expansive crown, this species thrives in floodplains and along streams.
White Oak (Quercus alba): A stately hardwood with sprawling branches and an essential role in Ohio’s wildlife habitats.
Black Walnut (Juglans nigra): Highly valued for its rich wood and abundant nuts, often located in rural areas and forests.
Eastern Hemlock (Tsuga canadensis): A conifer with soft needles, thriving in cool, shaded areas of Ohio’s woodlands.

These champion trees not only represent botanical excellence but also serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving Ohio’s rich natural heritage.

Visiting and Experiencing the Trees

When you visit champion trees in Lewis Center, Highbanks Metro Park, or other places, please be respectful. These ancient trees are more than just part of the scenery—they are essential to the life around them. Being aware of this can help us walk carefully and treat the area with care.

Leave No Trace

Do not carve your name into the bark. This hurts the tree and lets in bugs and disease.
Stay on the trails unless a park ranger leads you elsewhere. Walking on tree roots can damage them, and compacted soil can suffocate them.

Best Time to Visit

Winter: It is easier to see the shape of the trunk and branches when the leaves are gone. This is a great time to spot sycamore trees, Ohio giants, because of their white bark.
Fall: Maple trees in Ohio turn bright red and orange, making it the best time for a beautiful hike.
Spring: Watch for flowering trees like Dogwood and Redbud in Ohio.

Safety Tips

Ticks: Check for ticks after hiking.
Poison Ivy: “Leaves of three, let it be.” This vine loves to climb big trees.
Water Safety: If you go to see the Giant Sycamore, watch the river level. Do not cross if the water is high or moving fast.

Conservation Efforts and Threats

Our champion trees face many dangers.

Invasive Species

Bugs from other parts of the world can kill our trees.

Emerald Ash Borer: This bug has killed millions of ash trees in Ohio. It is rare to find a large, healthy ash tree today.
Invasive Plants: Honeysuckle bushes crowd out young trees.

Development

As cities expand, forests are often cleared. It’s important to protect places like Highbanks and Alum Creek so these giant trees have room to grow.

Climate Change

Changing weather puts stress on trees. Some species that prefer cold, like birch trees in Ohio, may struggle in the future.

Related FAQs

What are the most common tree species found in Ohio?
Ohio is home to a variety of trees, including oaks, maples, hickories, and ash trees. However, many ash trees are threatened by pests like the emerald ash borer.
Why are ash trees disappearing in Ohio?
The emerald ash borer, an invasive insect, has caused significant damage to ash trees throughout Ohio, making it rare to find large, healthy specimens today.
What invasive plants are affecting Ohio’s forests?
Honeysuckle bushes are a major invasive species in Ohio, crowding out young trees and competing with native plant species for resources.
How does urban development impact Ohio’s forests?
Urban development often leads to deforestation, reducing natural habitats and limiting space for native trees to grow.
What can I do to help protect Ohio’s forests?
You can plant native trees, support conservation efforts, volunteer for forest restoration projects, and educate others about the importance of preserving natural habitats.
How does climate change threaten Ohio’s trees?
Climate change can lead to temperature shifts and unpredictable weather patterns, which can stress trees, particularly species like birches that thrive in colder climates.
What is the importance of protecting areas like Highbanks and Alum Creek?
These protected areas serve as vital habitats for wildlife and preserve forested regions where native trees can thrive, ensuring ecological balance.
Are there any endangered tree species in Ohio?
While not officially endangered, species like the ash tree are under severe threat due to pests and environmental changes.
What wildlife depends on Ohio’s forests?
Ohio’s forests support deer, foxes, birds like woodpeckers, and countless insects and smaller mammals that rely on trees for food and shelter.
How can invasive species be controlled in Ohio?
Efforts to control invasive species include mechanical removal, herbicide treatments, and public awareness campaigns to prevent further spread.
What role do forests play in combating climate change?
Forests act as carbon sinks by absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere, helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change.
What are some popular recreational activities in Ohio’s forests?
Hiking, birdwatching, fishing, and camping are some of the many activities that draw people to Ohio’s natural forested areas.
How does deforestation affect biodiversity?
Deforestation can lead to habitat loss, endangering many plant and animal species and ultimately affecting the region’s ecological balance.
What native trees are best for planting in Ohio?
Native species such as red oaks, sugar maples, and sycamores are well-suited to Ohio’s climate and provide resources for local wildlife.
How has urbanization affected Ohio’s tree canopy over the years?
Urbanization has caused a decline in Ohio’s tree canopy, leading to issues like increased urban heat islands and reduced air quality.
Are there reforestation efforts in Ohio?
Yes, numerous organizations work on reforestation and tree planting projects to restore natural habitats and improve the urban-rural balance.
What are the long-term effects of invasive pests like the emerald ash borer?
Emerald ash borers can decimate ash tree populations, leading to biodiversity loss and weakening ecosystems that rely on ash trees.
What makes birch trees vulnerable to climate change?
Birch trees thrive in cooler climates, so rising temperatures and changing weather patterns can severely impact their growth and survival.
How can schools help in conservation efforts?
Schools can participate in programs like tree planting, organize nature education workshops, and collaborate with local conservation groups.
What steps can individuals take to reduce their ecological footprint on forests?
Individuals can reduce deforestation by using sustainable products, recycling, planting trees, and avoiding the spread of invasive species.

Conclusion

Champion trees are more than just wood and leaves—they are living monuments. They link us to the past and help clean our air for the future. The area around Lewis Center, Ohio, is lucky to have these natural wonders.

Whether you’re wading through a river to see a giant Sycamore or just admiring an old Oak in your local park, take a moment to appreciate these trees. They have watched over Ohio for centuries, and it’s up to us to help them stand for many more. Let’s all promise to protect them so future generations can enjoy their beauty. Pick one giant tree this year to visit, take a photo, and help protect it. You can also join local conservation efforts, like park clean-ups or tree-planting events. By getting involved, you help these trees thrive and encourage others to do the same. Check with community centers or local environmental groups for upcoming events.

Useful Resources

Ohio Division of Forestry – Champion Trees: Learn more about the program and view the interactive map.
https://ohiodnr.gov/discover-and-learn/safety-conservation/about-ODNR/forestry/champion-trees
Highbanks Metro Park: Plan your visit to see the river bluffs and forests.
https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/highbanks/

Disclaimer

The information provided in this document is for general informational purposes only. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, we make no guarantees about the completeness or reliability of the content. Links to external websites are provided for convenience and do not imply endorsement or responsibility for their content. Always verify details independently and consult official sources when planning visits or activities.