Poeaxtry's Prism

Spell. Stone. & Sparks that Ignite Change

Category: hiking journal

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.

  • Fairfield County’s Hidden Gems: Historic and Natural

    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.

    Old mill in Lancaster Ohio and a waterfall
    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.

    Broken headstones at the cemetery in Lancaster Ohio
    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.

    Red dog blue collar sits in front of the lack on a deck in Ohio
    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

    Red dog with a blue collar sits in front of a stone bridge archway on a trail
    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.

    The octagon house in Centerburgh Ohio
    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!

  • Weekend Healing: Nature Walks After My Shoulder Treatment

    Weekend Healing: Nature Walks After My Shoulder Treatment

    Finding Gentle Recovery in Licking County’s Reserves

    After getting a shoulder injection that kept me from work, I needed to find a balance. The rest for recovery but not be locked down to the house to prevent myself going insane. The perfect solution? Low-impact nature walks with Luna at two of Licking County’s hidden gems. With temperatures in the low 70s, the weather couldn’t have been more perfect for gentle exploration.

    Friday’s Journey: Taft Reserve:

    Bumble bee in a purple flower
    Bzzz

    On Friday (8/29), Luna and I ventured to Taft Reserve in Licking County. This beautiful natural area is part of the Licking Park District and offers peaceful trails through biodiverse habitats. The reserve features a mix of woodlands and open areas, providing a perfect setting for a gentle recovery walk.

    Taft Reserve’s trails wind through the areas natural landscapes, offering peaceful surroundings without a super demanding terrain. This made it ideal for someone nursing a tender shoulder. Luna enjoyed exploring the various scents and sounds. On the other hand I appreciated the relatively flat sections that didn’t put strain on my healing shoulder.m

    What Makes Taft Reserve Special?

    Taft Reserve is one of Licking County’s natural treasures, offering visitors a chance to connect with nature without traveling far from Newark. The reserve provides habitat for local wildlife and native plants, creating opportunities for quiet observation even when moving at a slower pace due to recovery.

    The trails at Taft are well-maintained but retain a natural feel, allowing visitors to experience genuine woodland and meadow environments. Even with my limited mobility, we were able to enjoy a satisfying walk through diverse natural settings.

    Saturday’s Adventure: Denison Biological Reserve

    On Saturday (8/30), feeling slightly stronger, Luna and I explored the Denison University Biological Reserve in Granville. This 350-acre natural area has been maintained by Denison University since 1966. It serves as an outdoor laboratory for ecological research and education.

    The reserve contains several distinct ecosystems including deciduous woodlands, old fields, streams, and at least 2 ponds. The trail system is well-maintained but more rustic than formal parks, with paths that wind through research areas where students study ecology, biology, and environmental science. Though primarily maintained for research and education, the reserve welcomes respectful visitors.

    The Unique Features of Denison’s Reserve:

    What makes the Denison Biological Reserve special is its dedication to conservation and research. The reserve includes several distinct habitats, from early successional fields to mature woodlands. Trails vary in difficulty, but many sections were manageable even with my shoulder limitation.

    The reserve is home to diverse wildlife including white-tailed deer, various bird species, and numerous small mammals. Luna was particularly attentive to the many scents and sounds throughout our walk. The reserve’s commitment to maintaining natural processes means visitors can observe genuine ecological succession and natural communities. The field house totally has dog bowls for public use year round as well!

    How These Walks Supported My Recovery

    These two days in nature proved to be exactly what my body and spirit needed. The gentle movement kept my shoulder from stiffening completely while the natural surroundings provided a mental escape from discomfort. Luna’s companionship and joy in exploration reminded me that healing doesn’t have to mean complete inactivity.

    By Sunday, I noticed improved range of motion and decreased pain. And whether that was from the medical treatment finally taking effect or the therapeutic benefits of forest bathing? I can’t say for certain. What I do know is that these two reserves offered exactly the right medicine to complement my medical care.

    Have you found healing in nature after an injury or medical procedure?

    Which local trails do you recommend for gentle recovery walks?

    Share your experiences in the comments!

    Links

  • Adventures in Powell County, KY: Rock Bridge, Waterfalls, and Rockhounding

    Adventures in Powell County, KY: Rock Bridge, Waterfalls, and Rockhounding

    From Night Shift to Nature’s Wonders:

    Let me start by saying I clocked into work at 5:57 pm on Tuesday August 26th and I clocked out of that shift at 6 am Wednesday August the 27th.

    We hit the road at around 8 am. We traded work a full- day-and-night adventure in Powell County, Kentucky. Along for the ride were my coworker, her energetic daughter, and my adventurous dog. We all were beyond ready to explore, climb, and hunt for hidden treasures.

    How to Find Hidden Gems Along the Way:

    I recently (as in Tuesday night at work) discovered fotospot as well as the roadside America app. So the first stop was obviously the eccentric Mushroom House in Cincinnati. This home is a quirky, eye-catching landmark perfect for a quick photo and stretch before the second half of the drive down to Powell county Kentucky. We left the intriguing house and, headed straight to the Rock Bridge Loop, an approximately 3-mile trail that quickly revealed why Red River Gorge is a hiker’s paradise.

    Natural bridge red river gorge Ky
    Natural bridge

    What Makes Rock Bridge Loop Trail Special?

    The trail is a loop of majestic rock formations, hidden caves, and dramatic steps, some steep and challenging, others gentle but endlessly captivating. Every glance… up or down, presents another opportunity to discover a natural sculpture carved by time. I couldn’t resist climbing one formation to sit at the edge. I pre warned Sky so she could take my picture when I got up there of course.

    Man on top of a rock in red river gorge Ky
    If I fit I sit

    Where Can You Find the Best Water Features?

    Water was another highlight. We found ourselves playing above one waterfall along the loop. Though, below, you can relax on a small sandy beach for an impromptu smoke and splash session. The combination of flowing water, mossy rocks, and sunlight filtering through the trees created a perfect views..

    Where to Find Kentucky Agates and Gemstones?

    After the loop, we shifted gears from hiking to rock hounding at the Middle Fork of the Red River. So for anyone who like me, loves collecting gemstones, quartz, and Kentucky agates, this spot is a treasure trove. At the end of the day, my trunk was packed full of glimmering finds, each one a reminder of the beauty waiting off the beaten path.

    Why Powell County Should Be Your Next Adventure:

    This adventure combined the best of Powell County: a child and dog friendly hike, dramatic rock formations, hidden caves, a waterfall for fun, and world-class rock hounding opportunities. For anyone planning a trip to Red River Gorge, Kentucky, this full-day itinerary is a perfect mix of exploration, adventure, and discovery.

    A sunset in Powell county Ky
    A sunset in Powell county Ky

    Check out the last rockhounding trip Sky, the baby, and I took to Indiana just last week here!

    Poeaxtry’s Links

    Have you been rockhounding in Kentucky?

    What treasures did you find?

    Share your own adventure stories in the comments!

  • Fossils, Falls, and Full Bags – An Evening in Richmond, Indiana

    Fossils, Falls, and Full Bags – An Evening in Richmond, Indiana

    Overlooking thistlewaite falls from the stairs
    Thistlewaite falls

    Yesterday’s “hike” wasn’t really a hike. Not the kind with switchbacks and summits, anyway. This was slow, head-down wandering… moving from one patch of rock to another, eyes scanning for anything that didn’t quite match the rest.I first saw Thistlethwaite Falls on TikTok just yesterday morning, in fact. I’d just woken up, still half tangled in my blankets, when this video popped up showing this cute fall you could get right in. The next video showed the fossils. You know I was SOLD! It was one of those moments where the phone goes down and you just know you’re going. Within hours, we were in the car, snacks packed, bags ready, heading toward Richmond with no real plan except “play in a waterfall and find as many fossils as possible.”

    Front view of thistlewaite falls in Richmond Indiana
    Thistlewaite Falls

    It was me, my home slice Sky, and the baby, out on a late-summer day at Thistlethwaite Falls in Richmond, Indiana. The water spilled wide over its limestone ledge, humming in that steady, drum-like way waterfalls do. The spray caught in the warm air, carrying the smell of wet stone. And right there, underfoot, was where the real action was… fossils embedded in the rock like the past had been gift-wrapped for us to find.

    We started small, a crinoid here, a shell impression there but things escalated quickly. Before long, I was hauling multiple bags of fossils back up from the falls to the car. And then back down again. And then up again. The baby, apparently inspired by all this rock action, decided to test her throwing arm. At one point, I took a direct hit to the head and felt it rattle around my skull like a maraca. Sky caught a rock to the face not long after. Adventures are never without their battle scars.

    Rock haul from Thistlewaite in my floorboard
    Rock haul featuring a baby cup

    Next stop was Richmond’s Fossil Park, which felt like a fossil hunter’s open-air market . A broad gravel bed scattered with chunks of rock, each one a possible time capsule. This is where I found some of my favorites: a few pieces with shimmering quartz inclusions, and a whole brachiopod! The dude has both valves, hinge and all . It was like it had been waiting all this time just to be found. The creek bed here and the gravel is also just basically nothing but fossils and stuff. That’s actually where I found one quartz piece.

    Mural at the fossil park in Richmond Indiana
    Mural at fossil park

    The front floorboard of my car became a rock bed of its own, layered with crinoids, coral pieces, and other prehistoric odds and ends. Along with two bags in the back seat full… well overflowing if I am being honest. The sun was dropping toward the horizon by the time we finally looked up around 7:30 p.m. and the baby’s rock-throwing streak had given way to full on running baby.

    We never made it to our planned third stop. Time just slipped through our fingers, as it tends to do when the hunt takes over. I’m not mad about it. That place will still be there. And now, I have more than enough reason to go back . Let’s pretend as if the fossils alone weren’t reason enough.

    Rockhounding isn’t fast, and it isn’t clean. It’s slow, deliberate, and sometimes chaotic. It’s a mix of patience, luck, and a little chaos courtesy of the smallest member of the crew. But it’s always worth it. Because in the end, you walk away with more than just rocks. You walk away with pieces of the earth’s history and the stories you’ll tell about how you found them.

  • Exploring Cuyahoga Valley National Park and Nelson’s Ledges

    Exploring Cuyahoga Valley National Park and Nelson’s Ledges

    3 people sit outside devils ice box
    The whole gangs here outside Devils ice box

    Hiking Journal: Cuyahoga Valley National Park and Nelson’s Ledges State Park. Rocks, Trails, Laughs, and a Sunset Swim

    Today I hiked Cuyahoga Valley National Park… starting with the shorter trail to Brandywine Falls. The waterfall had a lot less water than typical I think but it was still a pleasure to see… The trail was lined with a boat load of fossils as a lot in Ohio are.

    Brandywine falls CVNP Ohio
    Brandywine falls

    Next, I explored the ledges area inside Cuyahoga Valley, where massive, moss-draped rock formations rose like ancient towers around us. I ran my hands over the rough stone… feeling the weight of time pressed into every crack and crevice

    .

    Ghost pipe white pipes in my hand
    Ghost pipe

    I yelled the classic line “Jack, paint me like your French girls” at my buddy Jack… exactly like in Titanic… sprawled out on a rock under a ledge. It was ridiculous and hilarious… so I did it again… on a tree limb at Nelson’s Ledges State Park. My friends Jack Trisha and I laughed so hard at those moments… pure, wild fun that cut through the whole day.

    We drove to Nelson’s Ledges State Park next and took the loop trail… exploring Devil’s Hole and Devil’s Icebox. The cave was cold and dark… a welcome break from the sun. Moss covered the giant rocks thickly here as well … and webs sliced across the surfaces like delicate art. One web even contained a mushroom it was too cute. Oh yea I spotted a frog in Devil’s Icebox… well it actually scared the shit out of me diving into the water in the dark. I

    The waterfall there was anticlimactic… we ended up on the top and we walked across it, which i had gotten amped about the sound must have echoed through the rocks. When we got to the bottom I was searching for a view or the bottom everywhere but all I found was a giant rock to perch on. Far above, I spotted a tiny trickle of water… so small it felt like nature was trolling me.

    After the hike, we ended up driving to Euclid beach to rockhound and finish the day swimming in Erie… the water cool and cleansing after the long day on the trails. We watched the sunset paint the sky in fiery colors… a perfect close to an intense day of exploration and laughter.

    A man laying on rocks at the ledges
    Paint me like one of your French girls

    All day long I kept filling my pockets with rocks… smooth ones, jagged ones, colorful ones… little trophies from the wild. I even twerked on a ledge because sometimes you just have to own your weirdness in the woods.

    Honestly the whole day felt like natural therapy for body and soul.

    Twerk twerk twerk a man twerks on the rocks
    Twerking

    The day started with wild joy. You know the kind that fills your lungs and makes your chest ache with laughter. I was yelling and joking with Jack, doing dumb poses like my usual goofy self sprawling out on rocks and trees. Those moments were pure freedom… a break from everything weighing on me. The trails, the waterfalls, the smoke drifting through my lungs… all felt like a balm. For a while, I was untouchable… fully alive in the moment.

    But living with BPD means the pendulum swings fast and hard. Just as I felt that raw joy, a wave of grief would crash in without warning as usual. On the drive home, the joy shattered. I cried for nearly half the trip. I wanted so badly to tell my mom about the day… about every rock I picked up, every waterfall I saw, every ridiculous pose I pulled. She’s been gone almost four years. She loved the outdoors as fiercely as I do. I could almost feel her walking beside me on those trails, but I couldn’t tell her any of it. That silence hit harder than any fall.

    The grief wasn’t just sadness… it was a stabbing loneliness wrapped in frustration and helplessness. It tangled with memories of her voice, her laughter, her love for nature. I replayed moments in my head, wishing I could share the day’s wildness with her, the funny moments, the stunning views, the tiny frog in the Devil’s Icebox. Instead, I had to carry it all alone.

    That’s the cruel edge of BPD… the intensity of feeling everything all at once. The joy and pain live side by side, sometimes so close you can’t tell where one ends and the other begins. I laugh out loud and then dissolve into tears minutes later. It’s exhausting and relentless but also part of what makes me who I am. I just know she would have ate the ledges up. And that makes me feel as if I’m losing her all over again each time. Instead of just whatever grief is I feel the entire weight repeating itself again and again each time I go through these “waves.”

    Even with the crushing grief, there’s a stubborn hope. Hiking those trails, swimming in Erie’s water, watching the sunset… it all grounded me. It reminded me that life keeps moving… that moments of wild joy and deep sorrow can coexist. That I can survive the rollercoaster, even when it feels like I’m drowning.

    I carry my mom with me on every hike… in every rock, every ledge, every waterfall. She’s the silent witness to my wildness and my pain. Not being able to tell her feels like a wound that never will heal. But maybe that’s why I keep going back to the trails… to feel close to her again, to live out loud, to be unapologetically myself.

    This day was everything. It was loud laughter, sharp grief, and a fierce refusal to stop moving forward. That’s the truth of living with BPD and loss. It’s messy and raw and brutally beautiful.

    View all photos/videos

  • Hocking Hills permit-only areas

    Hocking Hills permit-only areas

    Permits, Towers, and Thorns – Hiking Boch Hollow, Little Rocky Hollow, Ash Cave Fire Tower, and Saltpetre Cave in Hocking Hills

    Man wearing sunglasses and a hat, with blue hair, and a ginger bear takes a selfie on Ash Cave fire tower.

    Hocking Hills is more than its famous trails. The big three most people favor are Ash Cave, Old Man’s Cave, and Rock House. Hidden across the region are secluded preserves and secret waterfalls. There are also caves that are a little more remote and harder to reach. Yesterday, my bestie, the baby, and I set out to explore three of these off-the-beaten-path gems. We visited Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve, which is home of Corkscrew Falls. We also explored Little Rocky Hollow State Nature Preserve and Saltpetre Cave State Nature Preserve. And a fire tower to add to my list of climbed and conquered.

    Luna, my usual hiking companion, stayed home since our three of the stops were strictly no pets allowed. I promised her I’d bring home plenty of pictures (and maybe some trail snacks).

    Stop 1: Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve – Corkscrew Falls (Permit Only)

    Corkscrew Falls is one of Hocking Hills’ most striking hidden waterfalls. Located inside Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve, it’s only accessible with a free ODNR permit.

    The short 0.2-mile trail delivers instantly. A spiraling cascade drops into a jade-green pool. It is framed by mossy sandstone and shaded by a dense forest canopy. The quiet here is unmatched, thanks to the limited access. Though I definitely spotted 4 human footprints in the stream. It is good to point out that we should stay out of the water and on trail as directed. So we don’t ruin it for the rest of the population.

    Permit only Corkscrew Falls in Hocking Hills, Ohio
    Boch hollow corkscrew falls

    Stop 2: Little Rocky Hollow State Nature Preserve (Permit Only)

    A one-mile entrance trail leads to this remote preserve. The last stretch drops steeply into the hollow. Cool air and dense greenery make the hike feel like stepping back in time.

    This is one of those Hocking Hills hikes where you won’t hear much beyond your own footsteps. The terrain is rugged but rewarding.

    Stop 3: Ash Cave Fire Tower – Tower #5

    Fire Tower Ash Cave Hocking Hills, Ohio

    My fifth tower climb brought in sweeping views of the Hocking Hills region. From the top, green ridges roll endlessly into the distance, broken only by patches of sunlight. The climb was steady, the breeze constant, and the view was worth every step. 3 fire towers done in Ohio, 1 in North Carolina, and a smoke stack climbed in Mount Vernon.

    Green trees and blue caves sweep out in the view from the fire tower in Hocking Hills, Ohio
    Ash cave fire tower view

    Stop 4 – Saltpetre Cave State Nature Preserve (Permit Only, Attempted)

    We ended the day attempting to reach the Saltpetre Caves, but the trail was choked with thorny vegetation. Every route seemed blocked, and after enough scratches and laughter, we turned back.

    Even without seeing the caves, this stop added to the day’s adventure. It also added to the list of places I’ll return to better prepared.

    This hike was a mix of hidden waterfalls, quiet preserves, and challenging climbs. The day started at the secluded Corkscrew Falls. It continued with the sweeping views of Ash Cave Fire Tower. This journey proved Hocking Hills’ beauty extends far beyond its most famous trails.

    All Media from trip Another Hocking Trip?

  • Ariel‑Foundation Park Climbing the Spiral Stairs

    Ariel‑Foundation Park Climbing the Spiral Stairs

    Up up and ways up to go on Ariel parks tower
    Up up and away

    On the way home from Mohican, I took a tiny detour that we have seen twice before : Ariel-Foundation Park in Mount Vernon, Ohio. It’s almost directly on my route and was the perfect actual last stop. This time, I finally got to climb the spiral tower, something I’ve wanted to do for a while but hadn’t managed yet because of the heat. Luna also wasn’t exactly thrilled about it trying it.

    Ariel-Foundation Park is one of Ohio’s most fascinating public spaces. Built on the grounds of the former Pittsburgh Plate Glass plant. This park preserves the industrial past with a modern art twist. Glass, steel, and open green space merge here in a way I haven’t seen anywhere else yet, personally. Sculptures made from reclaimed materials dot the landscape, and the skeletal frames of old buildings remain upright. Almost a ghostly tribute to the workers who built the area’s legacy.

    Blue haired, ginger bearded man in sweats and a ninja turtle sweater stands on top the Ariel park tower
    Self photo on top

    The spiral staircase itself is part of what used to be the factory’s smokestack. Now repurposed into a vertical viewing tower, it offers panoramic views of Mount Vernon and the surrounding countryside. There are 224 steps up and the stairs stop before the very top for safety reasons. It’s high enough that you can see for miles, and the spiral design is open to the air, so you’re just circling your way up the sky.

    I’ve explored Ariel before with Luna, and we’ve walked the lakeside trails, crossed the little bridges, and paused at the swings scattered around the park. There’s even a small hedge maze tucked back near the art installations. The last time, it was too risky to climb the tower with Luna all scared, and Luna couldn’t safely wait while I climbed the tower in the heat. But today, the temperature was cool and mild safe for her to stay in the car with the windows down while I ran up to finally see that view from the top.

    She and I had already explored the cute lakeside area earlier, and she was content to chill while I made the fast climb. She definitely remembers being less than impressed the last time we passed the base of the stairs. She made it clear she wanted no part of the spiral when she looked at the tower and chose to lay down. Not even trying to come too.

    Ariel-Foundation Park is more than just a stop to stretch your legs, it’s a place where Ohio’s industrial history gets transformed into something imaginative and beautiful. It feels both abandoned and alive, which is what makes it stick with me. And if you’re ever headed through Mount Vernon with time to spare, it’s worth climbing those stairs. If you’re chasing a view or even just want to pause somewhere full of memory and transformation.

    Ariel foundation park tower

    Photos from today’s trip

    another high climb

    Poeaxtry’s links

  • Mohican Covered Bridge: Quiet Ending Woodsy Day

    The Covered Bridge at Mohican State Park was the third and final stop of our short morning out. Which happened to be right after I got off work overnight on Sunday, August 3rd. (Which was Saturday nights shift by night math) I wasn’t sure how long we’d actually be out, but it felt like we still had one last stop in us before heading home. The Covered Bridge made the perfect choice.

    Mohican State Forrest covered bridge
    Covered Bridge Mohican

    This one’s a classic, with the wide wooden beams, but different in lacking the old red color. It sports the color black and though faded it feels right. The Clear Fork River flows right underneath. You don’t have to hike to reach it at all… so another for the easily accessible theme. You can just drive right up, park nearby, and walk across or around it. There is a steady calm feeling here. Even with the few people I encountered around. You hear the river. You feel like the trees lean in a little closer.

    Luna and I didn’t take the full trail next to the bridge, just a small part of it. I wanted to get a few side shots of the bridge itself, and Luna was clearly still in an exploring mood. The trail ran alongside the water for a bit, framed with late-summer greenery, and I spotted all kinds of mushrooms just off the path. More than a few bright, orange like those from Blue Rock. A lot popping out from the sides of downed trees like they’d just emerged the battle on top.

    Trees, river , and side view of covered bridge. Photo taken from trail
    Photo of bridge, Forrest, and river taken from trail

     Unexpectedly enough it also felt nostalgic in a way. I was reminded of the covered bridge in Belmont County. The one next to my old high school. We took senior photos and class group shots there, but mostly it was where we snuck off to smoke reefers and escape whatever was going on that day. Seeing a bridge like that again, tucked into the woods out here, hit different. It felt familiar in the best way. Even though this one’s in use and their different colors I welcome the pleasure of a fond memory.

    River view through the trees from the trail
    River view

    This was just one of those slow, winding little forest detours that makes the whole morning feel more complete. We’d already completed the Fire Tower and the Gorge Overlook. This was just the extra bonus. It even reminded me a little of home. I felt relaxed and in my element without the need to rush. Just to feel the forest, with my baby dog who wasn’t quite ready to go home yet. And that’s okay because honestly I never am either.

    All photos from the day

    ko-fi

  • Mohican Gorge Overlook: Easy Access to One of Ohio’s Best Forest Views

    Mohican Gorge Overlook: Easy Access to One of Ohio’s Best Forest Views

    View of Mohican state Forrest from the Overlok
    Overlook view

    Sunday, August 3rd. After working all night, I decided to head out for a little fresh air and nature reset with Luna. Our second stop of three that morning at Mohican State Park was the Gorge Overlook. What I love about this place is how easy it is to get to. You pull into the parking lot right at the edge of the gorge, park your car, and just walk a few steps to the overlook itself. Luna was happy to roam around in the shade and sniff the quiet woods while I took in the view.

    The forest stretched wide and deep below us, thick with green trees that filled the valley and climbed the gorge walls across from us. You are just able to see a spot or two of the tell tale discoloration that will soon spread to most these trees. Though, the early August sunlight filtered softly through the canopy, casting patches of light and shadow along the trail and the stone wall at the overlook. That quickly erased any thoughts of the impending autumn. We attempted to walk the 1.4-mile loop trail behind the overlook, and we did but I doubt it was graceful. This trail is steep and complete with stairs and a fun swinging bridge.

    What made the trip even better was how close the Mohican Fire Tower was, just a five-minute drive from the overlook parking lot. We had visited the tower first, enjoying the panoramic aerial view. Then we came over to the gorge for a different kind of quiet POV from the trees perspective. Doing both back-to-back took less than an hour and a half, including time to soak in the sights and let Luna wander.

    Standing at the overlook as the morning sun lit the trees, the scene was calm and alive. The green stretched as far as I could see, the air cool in the shade, and the forest quiet except for distant bird calls. It’s the kind of place where you can pause and feel the size of nature all around you. Where you visibly can see the impending autumn, but still allow the lure of never ending summer steal you away.

    If you want a quick, no-fuss nature stop at Mohican that’s easy to access, dog-friendly, has restrooms and picnic spots, then the Gorge Overlook is for you. The loop trail is perfection and chaos. It’s a peaceful place to breathe in the woods or just sit and watch the forest go on forever. Paired with the steepest 1.4 miles of my life and a cute bridge.

    All photos

    Links

  • Third Tower This Month: Mohican’s Fire Lookout 80 ft up

    Third Tower This Month: Mohican’s Fire Lookout 80 ft up

    I definitely never made a plan to become someone who climbs fire towers, but here we are. And here this was my third one in the last 30 days, and my third ever in life. First was in North Carolina. Second, Blue Rock State Park. Now: Mohican Fire Tower. Each one has something different, but this one stood out before I even took a step. You don’t need to hike to get there. You can literally drive right up and park underneath it, like it’s waiting on you. That’s a rarity, and it makes it hard to say no, even if your legs are tired or your day’s already been full. You pull in, you look up, and there it is. 80 feet of steel, built in 1934, stretching up above the treetops like it always meant to outlast us.

    Let’s get historic sign and QR code hanging on Mohican’s tower
    Historic!

    This fire tower stands inside Mohican-Memorial State Forest, which covers more than 4,500 acres of wooded hills, winding trails, and old forest roads. The forest surrounds Mohican State Park, which is separate but directly connected. Which leads me to believe that, once you’re in the area, you’re in both. State park on one side, with its gorge overlooks and waterfalls. State forest on the other, with its wilder stretches and fire lookout tower still standing from Ohio’s early fire detection days. It’s state-managed land with a long history of both recreation and conservation, and this tower is part of that legacy.

    The climb is tight and steep, like all of them are. Metal stairs, no guardrails and nothing but air between you and the trees. The higher you get, the quieter it feels. The wind shows up. The trees fall away. It always hits me somewhere around halfway that there’s no reason to do this unless you love it. Unless something about seeing the land from above makes you feel like you understand it better. I’ve been thinking about that since the first one. Or it is likely I’m just a little bit crazy.

    The cab at the top was locked shut, which is fair, too many people would mess with it if it wasn’t. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get high enough. The last open platform, just below the cab, gives a full view of the forest. You can see the ridge lines layered into the distance, trees rolling out in every direction, and depending on the sky, you might catch light hitting the hills in ways that look like it had to be staged. I took my time up there, just looking. And then I noticed the two padlocks clipped to the wire. I don’t know who left them, but I love finding locks like that in the wild. People leave them without instructions. Without explanation. That’s the best kind of marking.

    This was my third tower in a month, not in a calendar sense, but in the 30-day stretch of time where my body remembered each climb. I don’t know if number four will be at Ash Cave or Scioto or somewhere else entirely. What I do know is that I’ll keep going. There’s something here for me. I just haven’t figured out the whole shape of it yet. I do know this: Mohican’s tower, locked cab, two padlocks, full view, was worth every step.

    As if the tower climb isn’t enough for your day, this whole area is packed. There’s a big gorge overlook just up the road, right at the stop sign, that you can drive straight. No hike required there either but also there it an optional one. Or it’s just a short walk from your car to one of the biggest views in the park. There are waterfalls nearby too… Little Lyons Falls, Big Lyons Falls. Both on easy trails that don’t take long but reward you well. The covered bridge isn’t far, either, and if you’re paying attention, you’ll find stone walls and old roadbeds winding off into the trees.

    Two locks on a orange fence
    I love locks in the wild
    The big red orange tower at Mohican state Forrest
    The tower at Mohican

    As always check out my links to see more photos and videos from each spot!

    Check the Google album for the raw media