During Spring Quarter, it is easy to get cooped up indoors. School is hard and transportation away from campus isn’t always easy to come by. Wanting to spend the weekends on Court Street is somewhat understandable.
But have you ever considered that there are more wholesome things you could be doing with your free time?
Believe it or not, Athens County offers a wide spectrum of outdoor activities. Many people plan vacations with Athens and surrounding counties as their destinations, instead of fleeing Athens as soon as break starts like the vast majority of students.
For something to do closer to your dorm, look no further than the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway — or for the less fancy description, that cement path that runs down by the river.
This bike path is a great way to get outdoors, whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll or doing some hardcore biking. But to the surprise of some, this “cement path” is actually one of the premiere bike paths in the state of Ohio.
The bike path starts at the end of East State Street (by Holzer Clinic) and runs all the way to Nelsonville, a stretch that is roughly 19 miles long.
So if you ever want some exercise that doubles as an exploration of the area you live in, hit the bike path. No matter how far you go, once you get out of Athens, your eyes will be opened in more ways than one.
For something a little different, consider taking a hike. Athens city alone is surrounded by tons of hiking locations such as The Ridges and Sells Park, both of which are within walking distance of campus. Both offer hiking and vistas of Athens that should not be missed.
If you’re willing to drive a little, the county offers a large number of places to hike, swim, bike, ride horses and generally enjoy the outdoors.
Strouds Run and Lake Hope both offer swimming with beaches less than 30 minutes from Athens. Yes, you read that correctly: a beach, just a gallon or two of gas away. These sites also offer extensive hiking with trails that range from half a mile to several miles.
If none of that has sparked your interest, then might I suggest checking out one of the area’s impressive caves, Ash Cave and Old Man’s Cave being the two that first come to mind. If you have any appreciation for impressive natural monuments, these are worth Googling and visiting.
The Hocking Hills around Logan also offer an amazing outdoor experience where you can have great fun while spending little money.
We are often anxious to get out of Athens. I am as guilty of that as the next person.
However, it is worth remembering that this area is a place often visited by those looking for an outdoor experience.
Athens still has lots of great things to do. Take the initiative, get out of your dorm room, and in the words of my best friend, “Make somethin’ happen.”
Will Drabold is a junior at Athens High School enrolled in Ohio University classes and a columnist for The Post. If you know of some other secret places, email Will at dd195710@ohiou.edu.
