Posts with tag 'Parks'

Lazy rivers, coursing streams, meandering creeks – Ohio has a lot to offer when it comes to great paddling water. If you're in search of a place for your next kayak adventure in the Buckeye State, then you're in luck! These nine Ohio rivers flow through landscapes ranging from remote countryside to urban centers, but they all have one thing in common: they're great places to explore by kayak.

Little Miami River

320 Victor Stier Dr., Milford, OH 45150

One of Ohio's best paddling streams flows right through Cincinnati and its outlying suburbs. The Little Miami River is a picturesque, meandering stream that traverses an ever-changing landscape ranging from open countryside and secluded forests to small towns and urban communities. It also has some of the cleanest water in the state, and in 1973 was designated Ohio's first National Scenic River. There are dozens of great access points along the way, but the Little Miami River Access site in Milford, OH is a great place to start. Scenic River Canoe Excursions also offers guided trips in the area.

Cuyahoga River

300 Stow St., Kent, OH 44240

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The Cuyahoga River winds through the heart of Northeast Ohio. It begins as barely a trickle but grows steadily until it becomes a broad, mighty watercourse when it enters Lake Erie in Cleveland. One of the best places to explore the Cuyahoga by kayak is the Kent, OH area, where the river tumbles between rock walls and is shaded by a canopy of trees that hide it from the suburbs beyond. John Brown Tannery Park is a great launch site in Kent and also serves as a hub for Crooked River Adventures, which offers guided river trips. This section of the Cuyahoga River can be challenging during full spring flow, but by summer, the waters are typically slow and easily navigable.

Scioto River

5172 Jackson Pike, Grove City, OH 43123

The Scioto River is the longest river that lies entirely within the state of Ohio. It traverses 231 miles through the heart of the state, passing through Columbus on its way to meet the Ohio River at the state line. There are a lot of great kayaking opportunities along the Scioto's course. Paddlers in the Columbus area are fond of Scioto Grove Metro Park, a beautiful 620-acre urban oasis in the city that offers two launch sites – one at either end of the park – for easy put-in and take-out. The Scioto River is also known for great catfish and smallmouth bass fishing, so you might want to pack a rod and reel. 

Big Darby Creek

1775 Darby Creek Dr., Galloway, OH 43119

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The charming Big Darby Creek is like a magnet to canoe and kayak enthusiasts in the Columbus area. The creek flows 84 miles through Union and Madison Counties, eventually feeding the Scioto River. Along the way are numerous places to launch a kayak, Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park being a local favorite. Darby Creek is surprisingly wild considering its proximity to the city. It's not uncommon to see beaver cuttings along the shoreline and turtles sunning themselves on rocks and trees near the bank. The park's official put-in site is just off Alkire Road, near the confluence of Big Darby Creek and Little Darby Creek.

Mohican River

3116 OH-3, Loudonville, OH 44842

The Mohican River flows through a landscape of secluded forests that looks as though it has been virtually unchanged since the first pioneers settled Ohio. Located about halfway between Columbus and Cleveland, Mohican State Park is a great place to explore the river. The park marks the spot where the Clear Fork Mohican River and the Black Fork Mohican River meet to form the river's main stem, and there are abundant kayaking opportunities in the area. It's a truly charming corner of the state. In addition to the state park, nearby Mohican Adventures Canoe Livery and River Zen Campground & Launch offer launch sites and camping.

Grand River

1122 Harpersfield Rd., Geneva, OH 44041

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The Grand River meanders through 102 miles of Northeast Ohio's Trumbull, Ashtabula, and Lake counties, passing through mostly picturesque rural communities on its way toward Lake Erie. It's a broad and tranquil river in summer and fall, perfect for paddling. Harpersfield Covered Bridge Metro Park is a popular place to put in, and launching here provides an opportunity to paddle under one of Ohio's oldest and longest covered bridges. From here, it's about 8 miles downriver to Hidden Valley Metro Park, and this section includes a scenic river gorge. Guided trips are available through Grand River Canoe Livery.

Mill Creek

316 W. North Bend Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45216

Offering a great stretch of urban paddling, Mill Creek flows through the heart of Cincinnati and is accessible at several spots along the way. It's a beautiful stream that offers a unique perspective of the city that few ever see. A local organization of paddling enthusiasts known as the Mill Creek Yacht Club helps maintain the stream and organizes group kayaking events. Put-in at the Playground at Caldwell Nature Center for a float trip through the city down to the next take-out at Millcreek Road, or continue down to Evans Recreation Area, the last stop before the Mill Creek Barrier Dam.

Mahoning River

75 N. Leavitt Rd. NW, Leavittsburg, OH 44430

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Drifting lazily through Northeast Ohio (and a bit of Western Pennsylvania), the Mahoning River snakes through tranquil forests, open farmland, quiet communities, and industrial landscapes alike. It's become an increasingly popular paddling stream in recent years, and the aptly named Canoe City Metro Park in Leavittsburg is an ideal place to get on the water. The park includes an easily accessible public launch and is a starting point for guided trips through Mahoning River Adventures. Wetlands along the river are popular for bird watching as well. 

Great Miami River

2000 US-40, Vandalia, OH 45377

Crisscrossing Southwestern Ohio for 160 miles before emptying into the Ohio River west of Cincinnati, the Great Miami River offers some of the best kayak water in the Cincy area. The river offers an established paddling route, known as the Great Miami River Water Trail, including numerous parks, access areas, and various put-ins and take-out spots along this beautiful, slow-rolling river. Taylorsville Metro Park and Island Metro Park – both in the Dayton area – offer excellent kayak launch sites that are part of the water trail, as well as riverside campsites that are open to paddlers.

Ride the River

Ohio has a lot of great paddling spots, including some we may have missed. Let us know your favorites in the comments section below!

Nothing gets done halfway in Ohio. Whatever your interests may be, you can indulge them to your heart's content. Immerse yourself in outdoor activities, cultural pursuits, and more at these popular destinations around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.

Immerse Yourself in Nature:

Hocking Hills State Park

19852 OH-664, Logan, OH 43138

Mother Nature shows off all her glory at Hocking Hills State Park, with six distinct areas showcasing a full range of features. The most popular area is Old Man's Cave, named for a hermit who once lived on the grounds and is buried beneath the main recess cave. Activities in the park include hiking, fishing, and rock climbing. If you want an extended stay, there are campgrounds and cottages along with a main lodge. Park hours are 7 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily and admission is free.

Immerse Yourself in Art: 

Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit

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Millions of viewers around the world have enjoyed the thrilling Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit, and this amazing sensory experience is headed to Cleveland. Gain a new perspective on classics such as Starry Night when you see them projected across 500,000 cubic feet. The background soundtrack adds another element as you wander past the moving images, noting each detail. Adding to the glamorous atmosphere is the secret location at a historic Cleveland venue, which will be announced shortly before opening day. Immersive Van Gogh runs from Thursday, September 9 through Sunday, February 6. Tickets are for specific showtimes from 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. and price is $50.

Immerse Yourself in Freedom:

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

50 E. Freedom Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202

The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center's location on the banks of the Ohio River has special significance. The mighty Ohio marks the physical and symbolic dividing line between Southern slave states and Northern free states. Taking inspiration from stories of the Underground Railroad, the Center is dedicated to keeping the spirit of freedom alive with permanent and special exhibits. Displays such as the Slave Pen, an actual structure recovered less than 60 miles from the Center, bring the realities of that era to life and underscore the heroic sacrifices made in the name of freedom. The Center is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission is $15 for adults and $10.50 for ages 3-12, with tickets good for specific times.

Immerse Yourself in Air and Space History:

National Museum of the United States Air Force

1100 Spaatz St., Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, OH 45433

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People's fascination with flight dates back to the ancient Greek myth of Icarus. Get amazing insight into America's distinguished aviation history at the National Museum of the United States Air Force. A dozen galleries feature actual aircraft and other memorabilia from specific eras in aviation, including World War II, Cold War, and the space race. Memorial Park honors the sacrifices made by men and women of the Air Force, such as those missing in action during the Southeast Asia War. Museum hours are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily and admission is free for all visitors. 

Immerse Yourself in Theme Park Fun:

Cedar Point

1 Cedar Point Dr., Sandusky, OH 44870

With 18 world-class roller coasters, Cedar Point is already well-known to thrill-seekers as "America's Roller Coast." But you don't have to be an adrenaline junkie to have a fun-filled time at this amusement park that's been entertaining visitors for 150 years. There are dozens of rides to fit any tolerance level, as well as an 18-acre water park with activities for all ages. Add live entertainment, shopping, and food and beverage, and there's never a dull moment. Visit the website for schedule and hours. Tickets start at $49.99, with add-ins and season passes available.

Immerse Yourself in Rock 'n' Roll:

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

1100 Rock and Roll Blvd. (E. 9th St.), Cleveland, OH 44114

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The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame denotes Cleveland's prominent place in pop culture history. Designed by famed architect I.M. Pei, the distinctive glass pyramid  celebrates music with an incredible assortment of artifacts, exhibits, videos, and interactive displays. In addition to the permanent collections, the Museum hosts a number of limited-time exhibits. Make your own music in the Garage, a fully supplied studio where you and your friends can hold an impromptu jam session. Visit the website for current hours and prices. Advance ticket purchase is required. 

Immerse Yourself in Island Life:

Kelleys Island

Kelleys Island, OH 43438

As you check out the seemingly endless attractions on Kelleys Island, you'll find it hard to believe this lively spot measures just over four square miles in size. Visit the museum to get some background on the island's history, such as Inscription Rock, which is carved with Native American symbols that date back to 1200 A.D. Art lovers will head to the gallery and adjoining sculpture garden, while sporting types can swim, golf, or scuba dive. Scheele Preserve, Lilac Walk, and North Pond are popular spots to take in the island's natural beauty. Don't miss Glacial Grooves, the number one destination on the island, created by the same glacier that formed the Great Lakes and Lake Erie Islands. 

Put-in-Bay

South Bass Island, OH 43456

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Dubbed the "Key West of the North," Put-in-Bay is a convenient getaway for a day or a weekend. In the past, the island has served as home to Native American tribes as well as the naval squadron of Commander Oliver Hazard Perry during the War of 1812. Today, people take the quick 18-minute ferry ride to explore Stonehenge Estate, paddleboard and parasail on the bay, visit the Lake Erie Islands Nature and Wildlife Center, and tour Crystal Cave at Heineman Winery. 

Immerse Yourself in Amish Country:

Ohio Amish Country

6 W. Jackson St., Millersburg, OH 44654

Ohio Amish Country offers a unique opportunity to experience the daily life of another culture. Tour an Amish home or view a working farm from a horse-drawn wagon. Kids love Madhrikan's Theater of Magic, a 90-minute show of spectacular illusions that includes audience participation. A number of local families open their homes to share authentic meals with visitors for a once-in-a-lifetime treat. Bargain hunters can shop till they drop for incredible buys at thrift shops, flea markets, and antique malls. You'll probably find that one day just isn't enough, so plan to spend the night at one of the charming inns or B&Bs in Holmes County.

What a Day for a Daydream

If you could immerse yourself in one activity for an entire week, what would you choose?

Disc golf is a fun sport that groups of all ages can play together while enjoying the outdoors and getting some exercise. It costs very little to get started, and most courses are free or cost just a few dollars to play, and a three-pack of discs that's good for beginners costs about $20. Although you could technically play with a Frisbee, discs made specifically for the sport are smaller and heavier, so you can throw them for much longer distances. If you become more serious about disc golf, you can buy more discs of different types and at a higher price level if you'd like.

Whether you're an experienced disc golfer or you've never played before, you'll have plenty of fun courses to play on around Ohio. Each has its own unique layout and characteristics, and you'll soon develop a list of your favorites.

Check out the following disc golf courses around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.

Northeast Ohio

Deis Hill Disc Golf Course

1592 N. Crater Ave., Dover, OH 44622

Beautiful scenery and many hills make for an enjoyable yet challenging play at this 18-hole course in Dover. The course is well-maintained, and every hole offers three distinct tees. More seasoned players will appreciate the added difficulty of wooded areas. Be sure to bring plenty of water as this course requires a good amount of walking to complete.

Wingfoot Lake Disc Golf Course

1097-1219 Goodyear Park Blvd., Mogadore, OH 44260

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In addition to several picnic shelters, paved trails, and ball courts, Wingfoot Lake is home to an 18-hole disc golf course. When you're done playing this challenging par 3 course, be sure to take a stroll to the nature center, have a picnic lunch, and let the kids have fun on the playground. Wingfoot also features the Storybook Trail, which includes views of the pond, trees, and Wingfoot Lake as you take in a storybook along the way.

Osborne Park Disc Golf Course

If you're a disc golf novice, you might want to start with the 9-hole course at Osborne Park in Willoughby. While trees or steep hills make some holes more challenging, beginners will appreciate a nice mix of different lengths and difficulty. All players will appreciate the beautiful water views of Lake Erie. The course begins at the rear parking lot.

Columbus

Griggs Reservoir Park

2933 Riverside Dr., Columbus, OH 43221

The disc golf course at Griggs Reservoir Park is made up of 18 holes with large concrete tee pads. Most of the course is long and narrow with lots of mature trees, although some are open. You'll play through some creative features like boulders and bunkers as you make your way through the course, which runs parallel to the Scioto River. On holes 8, 17, and 18, the river factors into play, making the course more interesting. And if you need to buy some discs, you can find them nearby at the Disc Golf Mart.

Brent Hambrick Memorial Disc Golf Course at Hoover Dam

4151 Central College Rd., Westerville, OH 43081

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This 18-hole course is a good mix of flat areas as well as hilly ones and has some nice scenic views. It can often be windy, so you may want to bring along a jacket when the weather's cooler. On the back 9, the course has thick trees and a lot of blind holes. It has multiple tees and pin positions, and tees are concrete. The course is also the home of an annual tournament in honor of Brent Hambrick, a local disc golfer who passed away from leukemia.

Walnut Hill Disc Golf Course

1950 Walnut Hill Blvd, Columbus, OH 43232

The old Walnut Hill traditional golf course has found new life as a disc golf course. It's designed to be a putt and approach practice course that the whole family can enjoy. Property owned by individuals is located next to the course, so take care to avoid sailing an errant disc onto private property.

Cincinnati

Burnet Woods Disc Golf Course

3251 Brookline Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45220

The Burnet Woods course is located across from the University of Cincinnati's campus. It's a short course with 9 holes and has dirt tees with wooden planks to indicate tees. It's generally rated as a good course that has some added difficulty due to mature trees, elevation, and challenging pin placements.

Mt. Airy Forest Disc Golf Course

4800 Lodge Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45233

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This course is considered to be pro-caliber, having hosted several world tournaments in the past. The layout is 20 holes, having grown from just 9 holes when the course was opened. You'll find distinct fairways, thick rough, and many elevation changes as you make your way through the course.

Johnson Hills Park Disc Golf Course

7950 Bridle Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45244

Beginners and advanced players alike will enjoy the Johnson Hills Park course, as it serves as a good challenge for beginners and a fun practice course for those with more experience You'll be able to catch some nice shade on hot, sunny days as you play your way through long, open holes and wooded technical holes on Johnson Hill Park's rolling hills.

Let It Fly

Do you have a favorite disc golf course in or around Ohio? Let us know!