Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park
Hundreds of miles of biking trails await at Ohio state parks.
Hike over unique rock formations and interesting portions of natural forest at the Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park. This three-mile trail weaves past Old Maid's Kitchen, the Devil's Icebox, and Indian Pass sandstone rock caverns. Trails are marked with distance and skill level signs to aid hikers unfamiliar with the area. Picnic areas are available throughout the park.
Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park
P.O. Box 338
Newbury, Ohio 44065
(440) 564-2279
http://www.dnr.state.oh.us/tabid
Mohican Memorial State Forest
Hiking trails range from easy to difficult at Ohio state parks.
The Mohican Memorial State Forest features the Clear Fork River Gorge and 37 miles of trails. The Pleasant Hill Trail is slight less than a mile long and is designed for novice hikers, or those unable to endure the steeper hikes. This trail winds around the shoreline and offers picnic and fishing opportunities. Hemlock Gorge trail is a difficult pathway and features an old-fashioned wooden bridge walkway. Lyons Fall trail weaves around the Clear Fork Gorge and two picturesque waterfalls. Three additional hiking trails and two mountain bike trails are also available at this state forest.
Mohican Memorial State Forest
3116 State Route 3
Loudonville, Ohio 44842
(419) 994-5125
http://www.mohicanresort.com
Tar Hollow State Park
Views of rivers and lakes are available along Ohio state park hiking trails.
Tar Hollow State Park offers 46 miles of hiking trails and nearly three miles of mountain biking paths. Thick woodlands and expansive ravines are featured along both types of trails. Sections of the Buckeye Trail system flow into the park trails. The Tar Hollow State Forest encompasses 16,120 acres, and is the third largest forest in the state. Camping and picnic areas are available. Hikers can hit the trails between the hours of 6 a.m. and 11 p.m.
Tar Hollow State Park Office
2731 Stoney Creek Road
Chillicothe, Ohio 45601
(740) 663-2538
http://www.stateparks.com/tar_hollow_sp.html
Geo-Caching Hikes
Geo-caching in Ohio offers not only the experience of fall foliage while hiking, but a high-tech game of hide and seek. The Lake Hope State Park offers geo-caches nestled along the trails as well as a "Nocturnal Cache!" experience for visitors. Lake Hope State Park staff often adds cache prizes to the hidden packages. A GPS portable unit is required for participation.
Lake Hope State Park
27331 State Route 278
McArthur, OH 45651-8220
(740) 596-4938
www.lakehopestatepark.com
Article Written By Tara Dodrill
Tara Dodrill began writing professionally in 1990. She is a travel writer and photographer working for print and online media, primarily covering Florida, ecotourism and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Her writing credits include RUMBUM, Yahoo News, Visit South magazine,and North Carolina Coastal Guide. She studied journalism and education at Ohio University and real estate at Hondros College.
