Hoover Mudflats Boardwalk
Boardwalk Improvements
The reconstructed Hoover Boardwalk opened on March 18, 2026.
The 1,500-foot boardwalk has been redesigned and rebuilt after the previous structure was closed in 2021 due to safety concerns. The new boardwalk offers a unique opportunity to elevate your experiences with wildlife viewing, casting a line or simply spending time in nature. The boardwalk offers an immersive yet protective way to be in and with nature while protecting the surrounding habitat and wildlife within the Hoover Reservoir Nature Preserve.
Project Schedule
Fall 2023: Initial Project Kickoff
Fall 2024: Boardwalk Demolition
Spring 2025: Boardwalk and Boat Launch Design
Fall 2025: Boardwalk and Boat Launch Construction
March 18, 2026: Boardwalk Opens
Project Information
Key Dates
July 25, 2023: The first community open house generated input on the alignment and design details of the proposed boardwalk replacement. View a summary of the meeting.
Nov. 14, 2023: A second community open house will gather input to help determine the desired functionality, design and amenities of the boardwalk.
Project Resources
History of Hoover Reservoir and the Mudflats Boardwalk
1955: Hoover Dam completed, creating a 3,272 acre public water supply reservoir
1987: Columbus establishes first city nature preserve program in Ohio
1988: Over 925 acres of land surrounding Hoover Reservoir, including the Mudflats area, is dedicated as a nature preserve
2005: Columbus Recreation and Parks Department funds the construction of a 1,200’ long, 6’ wide (rail-to-rail) timber boardwalk off of the existing Mudflats nature preserve parking lot
2015: Assessment of boardwalk structure performed due to ice damage
2021: Structure closed long term, pending assessments for repairs/replacement