THINGS TO DO

Located outside of the city of Athens and within easy driving distance of Ohio University, Strouds Run State Park surrounds Dow Lake and draws a mix of trail and lake users. Miles of hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding provide scenic views from rugged trails. The lake offers boating, paddling, swimming and a shaded campground. Read more...

Vinton Furnace State Forest is home to the state’s largest known population of bobcats and is also home to timber rattlesnakes, cerulean warblers and several rare plant species. Read more...

Ohio’s Windy 9 is a series of motorcycle destination comprised of 9 routes that begin and end in Athens, Ohio. The abundance of curves and elevation change makes this a popular destination for motorcyclists. Read more...

Boord State Nature Preserve contains one of the best examples of a hemlock ravine in Washington County and the surrounding area. The preserve’s state-listed species include rock skullcap, narrow-leaved toothwort and golden-knees. Falls Run cuts through a massive layer of Permian-age sandstone to form the heart of this preserve which is an eastern hemlock-shrouded stream gorge 60-80 feet deep. Read more...

This rugged, heavily forested wildlife area is home to an abundance of native species including the gray squirrel, wild turkey, white-tailed deer, cotton tail rabbits, and approximately 80 species of birds. Recreational opportunities include hiking, birding, fishing and hunting. Read more...

Canoe and kayak rentals at this family-owned business which also provides primitive camping for overnight stays. Read more...

This is an outdoor adventure experience guided by Mimi Morrison to inspire people to be in tune with our Earth through hiking, kayaking and cycling expeditions. Read more...

Marie J. Desonier State Nature Preserve is located in eastern Athens County, Ohio, United States. It is heavily forested, on Jordan Run near its headwaters, in Deep Hollow. The preserve features a loop trail, the Oak Ridge Trail, with two footbridges. This trail can be hiked in a two-mile loop, or as a 2.5-mile loop. Read more...

Adventure Pro Outdoors, LLC is a family owned & operated business located in Nelsonville, Ohio. They are the experts in outdoor fun and have the gear you’ll need to spend the day on the Hocking River or on the trails of Wayne National Forest. Read more...

Fox Lake Wildlife Area is a 421-acre Ohio state wildlife area in southeastern Waterloo Township in Athens County, Ohio. It is centered around the 48-acre Fox Lake. Read more...

Kayak, canoe, pontoon, and small boats can be rented at the Boathouse which is located off Strouds Run Road in Strouds Run State Park, by the beach/boat ramp. Read more...