Journals of recent hikes, including accessibility, who went, kid- and dog-friendliness, weather, and nearby trails or other nearby cool spots. Posts layer photos with trip-specific moments, reflections, and thoughts. Other journals show past adventures and past nature spot reflected on based on a prompt or thought, some photos maybe added when available.
Emotional hiking journal: What hidden smell on this trail makes your chest tighten or expand?
The Scent of Honeysuckle: How a Summer Smell Carries My Childhood
There are certain scents that time refuses to let fade. For me, honeysuckle is one of them. One inhale, and I’m no longer standing where I am. Now, I’m transported back to warm West Virginia afternoons when the air was heavy with sweetness, and life was simple enough to fit inside a summer day.
and the Pools That Raised Me
Every time I catch that scent, I’m back at the Oglebay Park pool, chlorine in the air and sunlight bouncing off the water. I can almost hear the echo of kids laughing, the splash of cannonballs, and my mom calling from the side to remind me to reapply sunscreen.
Then I’m at Grand Vue Park in Moundsville. In yet another summer memory stitched together with the same smell. My hair slicked back with pool water, my skin sticky from popsicles, and my heart full of the kind of joy only childhood knows. Those pools weren’t just places to swim; they were where my mom and I found our rhythm. She’d sit in the shade, content just watching, while honeysuckle crept along the fence line and filled the air with something that even then felt sacred.
The Ballfield and the Blizzard
Sometimes that same scent meets me at a softball field in my mind. The crack of the bat, the dirt on my cleats, the sting in my arms from connecting just right. I can still feel the weightless moment after hitting a grand slam. There’s my mom’s cheer cutting through the noise, louder than the crowd itself.
After the game, we’d stop for a cookie dough Blizzard at Dairy Queen with the whole team. I’d be sweaty, dirt-streaked, and proud. She would smile like the world was ours for that one small window of time. That’s what honeysuckle smells like to me… victory, summer, and love.
The Scent of My Mother’s Hands
Fresh-cut grass does it too. My mom always took care of everything: mowing the yard, planting flowers, washing the car by hand. She smelled like grass, soil, soap, and sometimes honeysuckle all at once. It was the scent of someone who built comfort out of effort, who held entire summers together with her bare hands.
Even now, when that smell drifts through a window or lingers on a trail, I pause. I breathe it in like a prayer. Because somewhere in that sweetness, in that green freshness of grass and bloom, she still exists. Not gone… just layered into the air.
Why Smell Is the Strongest Memory
Science backs it, sure… the olfactory bulb is tied to emotion and memory. But for me, it’s simpler. Honeysuckle is a time machine. A gentle reminder that some parts of us never grow up, never move on, never stop reaching for the hand that kept us steady.
It’s more than nostalgia… it’s grounding. It’s a way of saying, I remember. I’m still here. And so is she.
What smell does this for you on a trail? In a bakery? Anywhere?
This past Tuesday, Luna and I set off for an afternoon hike at Honey Run Waterfall in Knox County, Ohio. We left Licking County around 3 p.m. The sun still high and the temperature sitting comfortably in the low 80s. Pretty perfect hiking weather if you ask me.
The short trail leading to the falls is shaded and inviting, opening up to the sound of rushing water and sunlight glittering off the rocks. Luna wasted no time running straight into the pool beneath the falls. Of course, I followed her in. The water was cool and clear, a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the day.
Discovering the Ledges
After drying off a bit, we continued on the trail that follows the Kokosing River. That is when I found out there were ledges. I had no idea they existed here. Luna and I have been here a few times before. I just have really bad special awareness. Anyway… The rock formations stretched along the riverbank, carved out by years of water and weather. We climbed up and around, exploring ledges and paths that weren’t to hard for Luna. I was soaking in views that felt almost misplaced.
There’s something about a place like Honey Run. Sure, it is small. Yet somehow it is still full of quiet beauty. Between the falls, the sunlight, and Luna’s joy bouncing from rock to rock. This was one of those hikes that reminds you why getting outside matters.
Hike Notes
📍Location: Honey Run Waterfall Park, Knox County, Ohio
👣Trail Length: Around 1 mile total (moderate terrain)
Last Friday afternoon, Luna and I set out for Scioto Grove Metro Park in Grove City, just south of Columbus, Ohio. It marked my sixth tower climb since July, and the late-day light gave the whole loop a golden edge. The perfect mix of calm and movement that clears my head.
About Scioto Grove Metro Park
Scioto Grove Metro Park spans roughly 620 acres along the Scioto River, offering a mix of wooded trails, open meadows, and riverside overlooks. It’s one of the newer Metro Parks in the Columbus system, officially opened in May 2016 as the 19th Metro Park.
You’ll find:
More than 7 miles of hiking trails Canoe and kayak access points on the river Fishing ponds Archery ranges (traditional and 3D) A disc golf course Picnic shelters and overlook decks Backpacking campsites for overnight stays
📍 Address: 5172 Jackson Pike, Grove City, OH 43123
The centerpiece of Scioto Grove is the Keystone Fire Tower, originally from Jackson County, Ohio, and carefully relocated and restored for visitors.
Standing at 111 steps tall, this 82-foot tower offers panoramic views of the Scioto River valley and even a distant glimpse of the Columbus skyline. Which is roughly seven miles away on a clear day. The structure was re-galvanized and rebuilt for safety, giving hikers a rare chance to climb an authentic fire lookout still in working condition.
If you’re bold enough to climb it, the reward is pure . Including: wide air, open view, and the grounding quiet that only comes from being above the noise.
The Loop Hike with Luna
We started our hike in the late afternoon, taking one of the park’s easy-to-moderate loop trails that weave through forest and along the riverbank. The route brushed sections of the REI River Trail, Mingo Trail, and Overlook Trail. They all connected for a solid 5–5.5 mile loop.
The terrain was steady with just enough elevation change to feel earned. Luna explored every scent, tail up and curious. I slowed down and let the rhythm of the park take over.
At the tower, she waited at the base, head tilted as I climbed. From the top, the world widened. With the Scioto curling below and autumn barely brushing the trees. It felt like ritual, this sixth climb. A ceremony in motion, a quiet victory stacked on all the others since July.
By the time we looped back, the sun had dropped low, casting long shadows over the trail. The kind of ending that feels less like goodbye and more like pause.
Tips & trail notes
🕒 Tower Hours: Open during daylight; check the Metro Parks site for closures. 🐾 Dog-Friendly: Pets welcome, must remain on leash.
🥾 Trail Difficulty: Easy to moderate. Mingo Trail (~5 miles) offers light elevation gain (~100 ft).
🎒 Best Route: Connect REI River Trail, Mingo Trail, and Overlook Trail for a scenic loop.
💧 Bring: Water, sturdy shoes with grip, and a flashlight if hiking near dusk.
☔ After Rain: Expect mud on lower Overlook Trail and riverside paths.
It was around 70 °F when we set out today. I think that’s close to a perfect temperate for wandering among waterfalls, woodland, and scars left by the river currently and years ago. The crew: Luna, Kylie, and me. We parked by the covered bridge at Mohican State Park and embarked on a loop that wove us past 2 cascading falls, a dam and spillway, forested slopes, and the gentle murmur of the stream flowing through.
🌿 Trail & Park Overview
Mohican State Park spans about 1,110 acres, nestled in Ashland County, Ohio, along the south shore of Pleasant Hill Lake. The Clear Fork branch of the Mohican River carves a gorge through the park. Surrounding it is the Mohican-Memorial State Forest, which adds many miles of trails to explore.
The hike we did is a combination of what’s called the Pleasant Hill & Lyons Falls Loop or Covered Bridge → Little & Big Lyons Falls → Pleasant Hill Dam route. Though many sources list that loop as ~2 to 2.5 miles, I stretched ours into an “almost 4 mile loop” by taking side paths, lingering, and sometimes doubling back for shots.
The covered bridge by which we parked is a picturesque structure over The Mohican River, built in 1968 using native hardwoods. It’s a frequent trailhead point for the falls loop and a favored photo spot. There’s a link at the end of the post for an album containing the photos i took!
Big Lyons Falls (the “larger” fall) and Little Lyons Falls are named after historic characters Paul Lyons and Thomas Lyons (yes, Thomas allegedly wore a necklace of 99 human tongues in lore). Big Lyons is often described as having a more dramatic drop into a canyon-like cliff amphitheater; Little Lyons offers views from above, a box-canyon feel.
After the falls, a side spur leads to Pleasant Hill Dam and the “morning glory” spillway (a flood control feature) that adds a modern, engineered contrast to the raw rock and forest. The dam and spillway are part of the hydrologic control for the Pleasant Hill reservoir system.
The return path follows riverbanks, crossing small footbridges and boardwalks, letting you drift back to the covered bridge.
📷 Our Experience & Photo Highlights
We parked at the covered bridge, as before when Luna and I visited during the fire tower hike. Thus, the place feels familiar, comfortable. With the selfie stick + tripod, we paused at multiple vantage points: on bridge itself, on a walkway by the dam, under a boulder, and close to the falls. At Big Lyons, the amphitheater pour with, wet rocks, and water access we recorded videos walking under. We climbed stairs near the falls, careful on slippery surfaces (wet rock + moss = tricky). Little Lyons offered a vantage from the top edge of the drop; we explored carefully, watching our footing. I am clumsy.
We detoured toward the dam & spillway, capturing architectures meeting water, especially at the “morning glory” opening. Our loop felt longer than standard because we paused, lingered, and sometimes retraced paths, or lingered longer. My dog trotted ahead excitedly, nose to stone and river spray, bounding between roots and rocks. The 70 °F warmth made the forest feel lush and alive, especially when we broke into sunlit clearings.
📝 Tips & Observations
Footwear & grip matter. Moss, wet rock, stairs near falls = slippery. Timing light. Early or late in day gives softer side-light on falls and river. Bring gear and protection. Water spray + humidity can fog lenses. Know trail mileage is flexible. The “loop” is often marketed shorter, but you can extend or wander. Dogs are allowed (on leash). I kept mine leashed, especially near drop edges. Use the covered bridge as start/anchor. It’s accessible and scenic. It is a great staging point. Pause for sound & mood, not just visuals. The river murmuring, leaf rustles, quiet corners enrich the story.
I left Luna sleeping at home, heavy with regret, but the call of green canopies was stronger. The air was thick and warm, hinting that whatever we chased would carry moisture, shade, and quiet moments worth the distance. I climbed into Skylar’s car, phone in hand, and we set out.
Blacklick Woods Canopy Walk:
Our first stop was the new Canopy Walk at Blacklick Woods Metro Park. This treetop walkway lifts you 40 feet above the forest floor, threading through maples, oaks, and hickories. Hammock nets, rope bridges, and treehouse zones turn the forest into a playground for anyone craving adventure.
From the top viewing platform, you can look out across the forest canopy. The day was hot, but the shade and soft green light cooled everything down. Pets aren’t allowed on the canopy walk, which is why Luna had to miss this adventure.
Hayden Falls — Dry but Still Haunting:
Next came Hayden Falls Nature Preserve. This pocket park usually offers a 30-foot waterfall tucked between suburban roads. This visit, though, the falls were dry.
The overlook deck still gave us a view of rock walls and shaded cliffs, and the walk down the wooden boardwalk reminded me that nature doesn’t always perform on schedule. Even without flowing water, the cliffs and moss carried their own quiet weight.
Millikin Falls at Quarry Trails:
From there, we headed to Quarry Trails Metro Park to see Millikin Falls. The falls tumble about 25 feet into a quarry pool, and the limestone steps nearby make it easy to get close.
This is one of the few falls around Columbus where you can wade in knee-deep, and on a hot 90-degree day it felt like a gift. The park itself, carved from an old quarry, blends rugged cliffs with new trails, showing how land can be reclaimed, repurposed, or even reimagined.
Taken from in the water
Columbus Park of Roses:
We wandered into the Columbus Park of Roses next, within Whetstone Park. This garden spans 13 acres with more than 11,000 rose bushes. Even in mid-September, blooms lingered, their scent tangling with herbs and late summer air.
We strolled about a mile of pathways, breathing in color and calm. The rose garden felt like the punctuation mark on our day. With crafted beauty, balanced against the wildness of falls and quarry stone.
Greek Fries Finale:
We finished with a comfort stop: Greek fries at a small spot near Bryce Road. Crisp potatoes, tangy feta, and warm seasoning grounded the day after so much wandering. Plus I was near g starvation!
Reflections:
Even when waterfalls run dry, the land holds memory. Forest canopies remind you to shift perspective. Old quarries can transform into havens for trails and water. Roses offer the softest end to a long, hot day.
I missed Luna at every step, but sometimes the road calls you into spaces pets can’t go. Days like this remind me why I chase trails, gardens, and the little hidden corners of Columbus.
Ready to Explore Columbus for Yourself?
If you’re planning your own day of adventure around Columbus, don’t stop with the obvious. Wander off the path so to speak, discover the places between, and end your trip with a flavor you’ll remember. Share this post with friends and let them know where you’re heading next.
Hidden in the dense woods of Vinton County, Ohio, the Moonville Tunnel stands as one of the state’s most iconic haunted sites. Built in the 1850s as part of the Marietta and Cincinnati Railroad, the tunnel was once the only lifeline for the tiny, now-vanished mining town of Moonville.
Rail accidents, trestle mishaps, and tragic deaths fuel the legends here. Locals still tell stories of ghostly lantern lights, apparitions of railroad workers, and even the lingering spirit of a young girl killed on the tracks in front of the tunnel in 1986. Today, it draws ghost hunters, history buffs, and thrill-seekers alike.
But Moonville comes with rules: the Moonville Rail Trail and tunnel are open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Anyone visiting after hours needs a special-use permit from the Vinton County Park District. And for good reason, after dark, vandalism, crime, and suspicious activity are more common here than ghost sightings.
Egypt Valley: Legends in the Rolling Hills:
Egypt Valley Wildlife Area in Belmont County carries its own haunted weight. Unlike Moonville’s claustrophobic single tunnel, Egypt Valley sprawls across thousands of acres of wooded hills and forgotten roads.
Its most infamous story dates back to 1869: the brutal murder of Louiza Catherine Fox by Thomas Carr. That tragedy, and Carr’s execution, are etched into local lore, with claims of ghostly sightings near her grave and murder site. Add in legends of vanishing houses, hellhounds, and phantom hands, and you get one of Ohio’s most folklore-rich landscapes.
Unlike Moonville, Egypt Valley isn’t confined. You can roam, explore, and spread out, which changes the experience completely. The biggest real-world risks here are less about other people and more about the land itself: getting lost, losing daylight, or stumbling into abandoned buildings or steep terrain.
Exploring Alone vs. Exploring with a Group:
Alone After Dark-
Moonville: Not recommended. There’s one way in and out, limited cell service, and a reputation for people hanging around in vehicles after hours. Alone, you’re vulnerable, with no quick exit.
Egypt Valley: Still risky. The vast landscape means you could easily get turned around, and if something happens, no one will know where you are. While you’re less boxed in than at Moonville, you’re also less likely to bump into help.
With a Group After Dark-
Moonville: Safer than going alone, but still subject to rules. Your group still needs a permit to be there past 11 p.m. If you do it legally, stay together, bring reliable lights, and keep a sharp eye on the parking area.
Egypt Valley: Groups can explore more safely, spreading out without being trapped. Still, gear and preparation matter. You need flashlights, charged phones, and someone keeping track of where you parked and where you’re going.
The Rule That Matters: Trust Your Gut:
Whether you’re walking through a tunnel, hiking through haunted hills, or just stopping at a gas station at 2 a.m., the rule is simple: if your gut tells you something’s off, listen.
Maybe it’s a man sitting too still in his off- car at the trailhead. Maybe it’s the sudden shift of silence in the woods. Maybe it’s just your own unease when you’re about to step into darkness.
Your instincts are not superstition, but they’re survival. Leave when something feels wrong. Turn around. Drive home. Ghost stories are part of the adventure, but the living world is what you really have to watch.
Moonville Tunnel and Egypt Valley both hold haunted histories worth exploring, but they’re not the same. Moonville is confined, rule-bound, and prone to sketchy late-night activity. Egypt Valley is vast, legendary, and risky in a different way.
If you want to experience either after dark, bring friends, bring gear, and know the rules. Most importantly, let your instincts guide you. Whether you meet a ghost or a very real person who shouldn’t be there, your gut will often know before your mind catches up.
Sunday is technically a work night for me. I’m a weekend warrior at the nursing home, but that doesn’t stop the pull of a perfect September afternoon. I woke up early around 2 p.m. and couldn’t get back to sleep. The weather was reading a nice 80 degrees, clear skies, the kind of day that begs for a quick escape, if you cannot fit in a full escape. Luna, my dog, was already side-eyeing me like she knew what was coming, wheels spinning in my head. I swear she knows me better than anyone.
We ran to the car, like it was a race. Of course we made a quick pit stop at the drive-thru for a zero Red Bull, before we hit the road. Dennison Biological Reserve is one of our go-to spots when we want a short burst of fresh air, greenery, and wildlife without committing to a full-day hike. It is right up the street though technically a different town. Granville, Ohio is home to this local gem. Be respectful, leave no trace, don’t interfere with the natural environment as the college uses it for their programs and is nice enough to allow public access. They even leave out doggie bowls for water! Bless!!
Arboretum Loop Trail
We went straight for the Arboretum Loop Trail, and today we did it twice. It’s a flat, easy loop, perfect for a brisk half mile that we covered in under 10 minutes per lap. The trail is simple but full of little discoveries. Luna bounced along the path, sniffing everything, clearly enjoying the change in scenery. I spotted a striking yellow-and-blue butterfly, among the flowers as if it had been painted there for the occasion.
At one point, we stumbled across an entire raccoon skeleton. Luna pulled and sniffed the air curiously, but I didn’t allow her close. I also didn’t risk collecting them for chimes and wands because roundworms aren’t worth that. Though, I couldn’t help but pause and appreciate how these small, almost hidden details make even short trips feel like an adventure. That’s the beauty of these local spots accessible and full of unexpected wildlife moments.
Why These Small Trips Matter
Even short trips like this make a difference. Being outside, moving, seeing wildlife, and noticing details like a butterfly’s wing or the pattern of leaves in sunlight. At least for me is a reset for my brain. It doesn’t matter that we only did a mile; walking, breathing fresh air, and being somewhere alive with natural details gives me the kind of mental recharge that sticks with me for hours. The sunlight is a big part of what makes this so important for someone like me with seasonal affective disorder. Though I would argue sunlight is important in boosting almost every individuals day… in the right situations.
Autumn Leaves on The Arboretum Trail
These little adventures remind me that you don’t always need a full day or a long trail to feel recharged. Even a short loop or two at a local reserve can be enough to clear the head, reset perspective, and get me ready to handle the rest of my day… or night at work. Now I’ll be feeling much lighter and more grounded.
Local Highlights
Wildlife spotting: Butterflies, raccoon skeletons, birds, and the occasional squirrel or chipmunk. Trail accessibility: Seasonal vibes: September afternoons bring warmth, crisp air, and long shadows… perfect for photography or just breathing it all in.
Dennison Biological Reserve is one of those gems that’s easy to forget until you need it. Quick, local, low-commitment, but high in payoff for mood, energy, and mental clarity. Even a single mile, a short loop, can remind you why you keep chasing little moments of nature.
Though just to note there is also a close to 2 mile loop here and another closer to 3.5 mile loop. That both sit on a privately owned no access allowed lake/pond. Please respect others and their property and do not disturb the private lake areas.
Travel Buddy: My coworker and her kiddo Our morning at the Zoo What started as a 9am departure turned into one of those really good zoo days. And we managed to see practically everything!
Unforgettable Animal Encounters:
This lil feller
The Gentle Giants:
• managed some selfies with the manatees. What amazing gentle giants.
• Watched elephants in all their majesty
• Spotted a sleepy koala doing what koalas do best… munching!
• Craned our necks to see the towering giraffes.
Playful & Interactive Moments:
• Had a blast in the petting area with the goats and sheep… and they were so friendly!
• Got surprisingly close to the kangaroos (closer than I expected!)
• Watched the most adorable goofy penguins spinning and playing underwater.
• Saw both river otters and sea otters. What a group of playful creatures!
The Big & little cats:
• Amazing big cats showing off their power and grace.
• Even some smaller wild cats that were equally fascinating.
• Watched a bear enjoying pineapple. And who knew they had such refined tastes!
• An orangutan that seemed to be putting on a show just for us!
Under the Sea:
• Pet the silky smooth stingrays. Which was such a unique experience!
• Came face to face with a shark (safely behind glass!)
• Saw turtles gliding gracefully through the water!
Took a ride on the dinosaur boat. Which was such a fun way to see the zoo from a different perspective and cool off!
Fun & Adventure:
Rode the antique carousel. And I must say there’s something timeless about the painted horses and cheerful music that never gets old.
No zoo trip is complete without:
• Dippin’ Dots: those perfect little frozen spheres of happiness!
• Cotton Candy: fluffy, pink, blue, and purely nostalgic.
Reflections:
What an incredible afternoon! We managed to see practically everything the Columbus Zoo had to offer. From the smallest cats to the largest elephants, from underwater penguins to soaring giraffes, every turn brought a new wonder. The best part was sharing it all with great company – my coworker and her kiddo. Who made every moment even more fun. Sometimes the best adventures are the ones that start with a simple “let’s go to the zoo at 9am! ” That turn into a great memories.
Sometimes the best hiking days aren’t about conquering peaks, they’re about good company, unexpected discoveries, and those little moments that make you remember why you love being outdoors.
The Squad: Four Legs, Little Hands, and Big Adventures
Wednesday’s hiking crew was pretty special. My friend finally took the wheel for once (hallelujah!), bringing along her kiddo who’s quickly becoming our favorite trail buddy. My four-legged co-pilot was practically vibrating with excitement in the backseat! I know you know that dog energy when they sense an adventure is coming. There’s something magical about multi-generational hiking days where everyone brings their own sense of wonder to the trail.
Stop One: Amphitheater Falls Loop Trail, Yellow Springs (3.5 Miles of Pure Ohio Magic):
Amphitheater Falls & A rainbow
The Vibe: Yellow Springs never disappoints. This 3.5-mile loop had everything we were craving – that perfect mix of forest therapy and water features that makes Ohio hiking so underrated.
The Highlights: • Multiple waterfall encounters (because who doesn’t love the sound of rushing water?)
• Stream crossings that had my dog absolutely losing her mind with joy • Creek walking opportunities that the kiddo couldn’t resist
The creek crossing where Luna lost her mind!
• That satisfying loop format – no backtracking, just pure forward momentum toward the Little Miami River. The Amphitheater Falls area is one of those spots that makes you pause and actually listen. Water cascading over limestone ledges, kids laughing as they hop from rock to rock, the satisfying crunch of leaves underfoot. My friend and I found ourselves in that perfect hiking rhythm : no need for deep conversation just silence punctuated by “Look at that!” moments.
Trail Notes: The path winds through some gorgeous creek beds, and we definitely took advantage of the water features. Fair warning: shoes will get wet, and honestly, that’s half the fun.
Bridge over Little Miami river
Stop Two: Caesar Creek State Park – Fossil Hunting & Waterfall Chasing:
Little Caesar Creek State Park Fossil area!
The Setup: About 45 minutes down the road from Yellow Springs lies Caesar Creek State Park, and let me tell you: this place is fossil hunter’s paradise. We added another 2 miles to our day, chasing down a waterfall that shall remain nameless (because honestly, i do not remember the name and it was bone dry anyway).
The Real Magic: Here’s where the day got interesting. While the waterfall was more of a “seasonal suggestion,” the fossil hunting was absolutely incredible. The creek bed was like nature’s treasure chest: everywhere you looked, there were remnants of Ohio’s ancient sea just waiting to be discovered.
The Soundtrack: Could definitely hear some activity in the creek bed from other fossil enthusiasts making the most of the low water levels. There’s something so primal about hunting for 450-million-year-old treasures with your hands in the dirt. The kiddo was absolutely in her element, having no issue filling up my pockets with “specimens.”
Why This Day Worked:
Variety is the Spice: Two completely different experiences in one day trip. Waterfalls and forest therapy in Yellow Springs, then switching gears to become amateur paleontologists at Caesar Creek.
The Company Factor: Sometimes the trail is secondary to who you’re sharing it with. Watching a kid discover a fossil, seeing my dog’s pure joy at every stream crossing, having a friend who finally volunteered to drive: these are the details that turn a good hike into a great memory.
Ohio’s Hidden Gems: Both spots remind you that you don’t need to travel far for incredible outdoor experiences. Yellow Springs and Caesar Creek are perfect examples of Ohio’s understated natural beauty.
Planning Your Own Yellow Springs to Caesar Creek Adventure:
Distance: Expect about 5.5 total miles of hiking if you do both locations and only if you just do the trails we did.
Drive Time: 45 minutes between locations
Best For: Friend groups, dog owners, water lovers, and amateur geologists
Season Notes: Spring and fall offer the best waterfall action; late summer/early fall is prime fossil hunting season when water levels are lower.
Pack: Water shoes or boots you don’t mind getting muddy, fossil collection bags, snacks for energy between locations, and a sense of adventure.
The Bottom Line:
Some hiking days are about personal records and summit selfies. Others are about slowing down, collecting ancient treasures, and remembering that the best adventures often happen close to home with some of your favorite people (and pups).
Yellow Springs to Caesar Creek delivered exactly what we didn’t know we needed :
variety, discovery, and those simple moments that make you grateful to live in a state with this much natural beauty hiding in plain sight.
What’s your favorite Ohio hiking combo? Drop a comment below. I am always looking for our next local adventure!
Finding Peace After Recovery: A Full Day of Exploration
With my shoulder finally feeling better after last week’s injection, Luna and I decided to make the most of the beautiful early September weather. Thursday (9/4) brought perfect conditions: mid-70s, partly cloudy, and a gentle breeze. This is ideal weather for exploring several of Fairfield County’s natural and historical treasures. What started as a simple outing turned into a full day of discovery across five distinct locations, each offering its own unique experience.
Morning Wonder: Stebelton Park at Rock Mill
Our day began at Stebelton Park at Rock Mill, home to one of Ohio’s most picturesque historic grist mills. This 1824 wooden mill stands dramatically above the Hocking River gorge, where the river drops 14 feet through a narrow passage of blackhand sandstone. The restored mill with its massive water wheel creates a perfect backdrop against the early autumn landscape.
I love it
Luna was particularly fascinated by the rushing water sounds as we walked the short trail along the gorge. The park’s compact size (just 13 acres) makes it perfect for a gentle morning exploration. We spent time watching the water cascade through the gorge while learning about the mill’s history from the informative signs. The combination of industrial history and natural beauty makes this spot uniquely appealing.
Natural Beauty: Arney Run
Our journey continued to Arney Run, a peaceful natural area in Fairfield County. This quiet spot features a winding creek through wooded terrain, offering a serene environment away from busier parks. Luna and I enjoyed a brief stop here, taking in the tranquil atmosphere and natural surroundings.
The shaded paths provided a cool respite during our day of exploration. Though our visit was short, it was a pleasant addition to our tour of Fairfield County’s diverse landscapes.
The area surrounding this is Christmas Rock & Jacob’s ladder. I have done the area once prior but No dogs allowed so we shall save it for another day.
Two Glaciers Park:
Next, we ventured to Two Glaciers Park, one of Fairfield County’s newer naturally areas. This fascinating geological site sits at the junction where two ancient glaciers met, creating a unique landscape of rolling hills and of course covered bridge number 3!
Honoring the Past: Stonewall Cemetery
Our journey took a contemplative turn at Stonewall Cemetery, a small historic burial ground dating back to the early 1800s. This peaceful site contains graves of some of Fairfield County’s earliest settlers and several Revolutionary War veterans.
Though not a traditional nature stop, the cemetery’s ancient trees and quiet setting provided a moment for reflection. Many of the weathered headstones tell stories of the area’s first families, with dates reaching back to when Ohio was still frontier territory. Luna respectfully stayed on leash as we quietly observed this piece of local history.
A peek through the gate.
Afternoon Adventure: Slate Run Metro Park
The highlight of our day came at Slate Run Metro Park in Canal Winchester. This 1,705-acre park features restored prairies, wetlands, forests, and a working historical farm. We chose the trail that loops around the lake and passes the park’s beautiful covered bridge.
The 1.5-mile trail offered easy walking with spectacular views of the lake, where blue herons stood sentinel in the shallows. The covered bridge, though not original to the site, has been beautifully constructed in traditional style and makes for a perfect photo opportunity. Luna was particularly excited by the waterfowl activity on the lake and the varied scents along the trail.
Pretty baby!
What makes Slate Run special is its diversity in one visit, you can experience: wetland ecosystems, prairie restoration, and historical farm life. Though we focused on the lake trail this time, the park offers over 7 miles of trails through various habitats.
Ancient Mystery: Cross Mound Park
Luna Baby
Our Fairfield County exploration concluded at Cross Mound Park, home to a mysterious ancient earthwork in the shape of a cross. This small but significant archaeological site preserves a Native American mound believed to be constructed between 800 and 1200 CE.
The earthwork stands as a testament to the sophisticated cultures that inhabited Ohio long before European settlement. The short trail around the mound provides time to reflect about its possible significance and the peoples who may have created it.
Luna and I walked the perimeter trail, taking in both the archaeological wonder and the surrounding natural area. There’s something profoundly moving about standing in a place that has held spiritual significance for over a thousand years.
Bonus Stop: Circleville’s Octagon House
As the day was still young, we decided to venture slightly south to Circleville in Pickaway County to visit the remarkable Octagon House. This unique eight-sided home built in 1856 represents a fascinating architectural movement popular in mid-19th century America, inspired by phrenologist Orson Squire Fowler who believed octagonal homes provided better lighting and ventilation.
The house has been beautifully preserved, with its distinctive shape and period details intact. Though you can schedule a self-lead interior tour, Luna & I just enjoyed a walk around the grounds instead. The Octagon House stands as a reminder of America’s experimental architectural past and makes for a perfect historical complement to our day of natural exploration.
It’s historic!
Reflections on a Day Well Spent
By day’s end, Luna and I had experienced a perfect cross-section of what central Ohio offers. The natural wonders shaped by ancient glaciers, historical structures that tell stories of early settlement, and sacred spaces that connect us to those who lived here thousands of years before. Each site, though relatively small, contributed to a rich tapestry of experiences that left us both happily exhausted.
These people accessible locations prove that adventure doesn’t require epic journeys – sometimes the most meaningful explorations happen close to home, in the overlooked corners of familiar counties. As my shoulder continues to heal, I’m grateful for these gentle yet rewarding outdoor experiences that nourish both body and spirit.
What hidden gems have you discovered in your own county?
Have you visited any of these Fairfield County treasures?
Share your local exploration stories in the comments!
