Latest Travel News Southeastern Ohio

Discover Southeastern Ohio: A Haven for Nature Lovers, History Buffs, and Motorcycle Enthusiasts

Southeastern Ohio, often referred to as the "Gateway to Appalachia," is a region of rugged beauty, rich history, and winding roads that beckon adventurers of all kinds. From the breathtaking rock formations of Hocking Hills to the serene lakes and forests, this area offers a diverse range of activities and sights. For motorcyclists, it’s a dream come true, with some of the best twisty roads and scenic byways in the Midwest.

Nature’s Masterpiece: Hocking Hills State Park

No visit to Southeastern Ohio is complete without exploring Hocking Hills State Park. This world-renowned natural wonder is a mecca for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Its iconic features include:

Old Man’s Cave: A series of stunning rock formations, caves, and waterfalls, easily accessible via well-maintained trails.
Ash Cave: A massive, recessed cave that offers a dramatic sense of scale and a peaceful atmosphere.
Cedar Falls: A picturesque waterfall surrounded by hemlock trees and unique rock features.
Cantwell Cliffs: A more challenging hike leading to towering cliffs and a deep gorge, offering spectacular views.
Rock House: The only true cave in the park, with a natural tunnel and fascinating geological formations.
Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve: A deep, narrow gorge with towering cliffs, offering both rim and gorge trails for varying difficulty levels.

Activities at Hocking Hills: Beyond hiking, Hocking Hills offers a plethora of activities. You can go ziplining through the canopy, canoeing or kayaking on the Hocking River, or even try rock climbing and rappelling in designated areas of Hocking State Forest. For a unique perspective, consider a horseback riding tour or explore the area on an OHV (Off-Highway Vehicle) in nearby Wayne National Forest.

Wild Encounters and Scenic Beauty: The Wilds and State Parks

The Wilds (Cumberland): This sprawling conservation center is a unique blend of a safari park and a wildlife preserve. Visitors can embark on open-air safaris to see rare and endangered species like giraffes, rhinos, and zebras roaming in large, natural habitats. They also offer ziplining, horseback riding, and even overnight stays.
Burr Oak State Park (Glouster/Athens): Known for its rustic country charm and serene lake, Burr Oak State Park offers a wide array of outdoor activities. The 664-acre Burr Oak Lake is perfect for boating (10 HP limit), fishing, and swimming. The park also features extensive hiking and backpacking trails, including a portion of the Buckeye Trail, as well as an 18-hole disc golf course and an archery range. The lodge at Burr Oak offers a heated indoor pool and other amenities, making it a great base for exploring.
Wayne National Forest (Athens/Nelsonville): Ohio’s only National Forest spans over a quarter of a million acres across southeastern Ohio. It’s a prime destination for hiking, camping, hunting, and fishing. For off-road enthusiasts, the Monday Creek OHV System offers approximately 75 miles of designated trails for OHVs and off-highway motorcycles, requiring a permit.

History and Culture: From Frontier Towns to Native American Drama

Marietta: Ohio’s first permanent settlement, Marietta, is steeped in history. Located at the confluence of the Ohio and Muskingum Rivers, it boasts beautiful Victorian architecture, the Ohio River Museum, and the Campus Martius Museum, chronicling the state’s pioneer history. You can also enjoy a ride on the Lorena Sternwheeler for a scenic river cruise.
Tecumseh! Outdoor Drama (Chillicothe): Witness the epic life story of the legendary Shawnee leader, Tecumseh, as he fights to defend his homelands in the Ohio country. Performed on huge outdoor stages at the Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheatre, this spectacular production features a herd of galloping horses, live military cannon, and dazzling battle sequences. The 2025 season runs from June 12th to August 31st.
Athens & Ohio University: Home to Ohio University, Athens offers a vibrant college town atmosphere with a charming downtown area, diverse dining options, and a lively arts and music scene. Explore the beautiful campus, known for its historic College Green and stunning architecture.
Little Cities of Black Diamonds: This historical region, encompassing towns like Shawnee and New Straitsville, tells the story of Ohio’s coal mining past. Explore ghost towns, historical buildings, and learn about the "Coal Boom" and its impact on the region. The Black Diamond Tavern in Shawnee offers a glimpse into this unique history.

Motorcycle Rides: Embrace the Curves of Southeastern Ohio

Southeastern Ohio is a motorcyclist’s paradise, renowned for its winding, scenic roads that offer exhilarating rides and breathtaking views.

The "Triple Nickel" (Ohio Route 555): Often hailed as one of Ohio’s best motorcycle roads, the "Triple Nickel" is a challenging and incredibly scenic route. Starting near Zanesville and stretching south, it’s famous for its tight curves, elevation changes, and minimal traffic. Be sure to fuel up before you embark, as services are sparse on this route.
Ohio’s Windy 9 (Athens Area): Centered around Athens, the Windy 9 offers nine distinct, thrilling routes, each ranging from 50 to 100 miles. These routes traverse rolling hills, dense forests, and quaint towns, providing roughly a thousand miles of amazing scenery. Pick up a map from the Athens County Convention and Visitors Bureau for detailed route information, local attractions, dining, and lodging.
Hocking Hills Scenic Byway (SR 374): This 26.4-mile drive connects all six Hocking Hills State Park sites, offering a beautiful ride lined with waterfalls and wildflowers. It features smooth, well-paved roads with twisty turns and "roller-coaster" hills, perfect for a quick cruise or a leisurely journey with stops at the park’s various landmarks.
Ohio Route 93 (Southeast Ohio): Running almost parallel to Route 13, Route 93 South stretches from just south of Zanesville to Ironton. This route takes you through Ohio’s "black diamond region," where coal mining once powered thriving towns, offering a glimpse into the area’s industrial heritage amidst rolling hills.
Ohio Route 13 (North/South): While longer, the section of Route 13 from Mansfield to Athens is a favorite among motorcyclists. It offers diverse scenery, from farmlands to forested areas, and passes through small towns where you can find local diners and unique points of interest.
Ohio’s Dragon Trail: This 20-mile stretch of smooth turns, elevation changes, and winding roads provides a fantastic riding experience. It passes through picturesque landscapes, old farmhouses, and offers opportunities to visit Burr Oak State Park and Wayne National Forest. McConnelsville is a popular stop along this route for fuel, lunch, and shopping.

Planning Your Trip

When planning your visit to Southeastern Ohio, consider the time of year. Fall foliage is particularly stunning, making it a prime season for scenic drives and hikes. Summer offers a full range of outdoor activities and festivals, while winter provides a quieter, snow-dusted beauty, especially in Hocking Hills. Remember to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons, as cabins and lodges in popular areas tend to fill up quickly.

Southeastern Ohio promises an enriching and exhilarating experience, whether you’re chasing waterfalls, exploring history, or carving up the open road on two wheels.

Plan a stay at one of Ohio’s Most Historic Motel located in Norwich, Ohio, Baker’s Motel, family owned and operated since 1937
View our website: https://www.bakersmotel.com