Tired of sitting around in your dorm? Need a breath (or two) of fresh air? Take a day to explore the historically beautiful nature of Athens County by heading outside to explore.
Surrounding Ohio University are state parks, historic landmarks and various other places to suit every outdoor need.
Close to campus sit the buildings that make up The Ridges, formerly known as the Athens Lunatic Asylum, which first opened in 1874 and eventually closed its doors to patients in the 1990s. Folklore says it’s one of the scariest places on earth.
The Ridges is also home to The Kennedy Museum of Art, which offers different exhibits throughout the year.
Stationed around The Ridges are the trails leading to Radar Hill. Built during World War II by the U.S. Army as a defense radar station, Radar Hill is the highest point in Athens, providing a view of the city.
Bong Hill is another popular spot on clear nights where students can stargaze, and it’s equipped with a view overlooking the Hocking River and the city of Athens.
“The trail is very steep and challenging,” said Kelli Barker, a sophomore studying plant biology. “When you’re going up it doesn’t look like a trail, but once you get to the top it has an amazing view of campus.”
For a weekend getaway, there are many places beyond the campus area within driving distance.
Strouds Run State Park provides opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, swimming or just lying out in the sun.
Farther north, Hocking Hills offers scenic hiking trails, cave exploration, horseback riding and mountain biking for students looking to enjoy the great outdoors.
Old Man’s Cave in Hocking Hills State Park is also a common place for hiking.
“Old Man’s Cave trail is one of the most scenic places in Southern Ohio, and the rest of the six-mile hike has many more waterfalls and views making it worth the trip,” said Carolyn Rehbein, a sophomore studying geology and meteorology.
For more places and information visit www.athensohio.com/whattodo.
jw384811@ohiou.edu
