Highbanks is appropriately named for its massive 100-foot high shale bluffs that tower over the Olentangy State Scenic River.

Tributary streams cutting across the bluff have created a number of deep ravines extending into the eastern part of the park.

Ohio and Olentangy shales, often containing outstanding examples of large concretions, are exposed on the bluff face and sides of the ravines. This area has been designated a National Natural Landmark.

Visitors will see outstanding examples of oak-hickory, beech-maple and flood plain hardwood forests as they hike the park's 11 miles of trails Highbanks is also rich in Native American history. The park contains two Adena Indian burial mounds and a prehistoric earthwork. Eagles have nested at Highbanks since 2010. The nest can be seen from the observation deck at the end of the Overlook Trail.