I love roadtrips ... the adventure, the random stops along the way, the memories afterward. And it seems many people share my opinion, judging by the number of visitors to Ohios Amish Country each year!
But sometimes I need a break from the confines of the car ... time to stretch my legs, breathe the fresh country air and enjoy some natural tourist attractions.
If youre like me, you wont be disappointed if you visit this area of Ohio, because it offers some real treats when it comes to nature. Whether youre a serious hiker or just in the mood for a refreshing stroll, dont miss a chance to explore the great outdoors while youre here.
Into the Wilderness
One of the most well-known retreats for area nature-lovers is The Wilderness Center, located just off US 250 near Wilmot. Founded in 1965, the centers holdings encompass nearly 600 acres of forest, meadow, marsh and restored prairie. As a child, I loved to feed the fish in the lake, sometimes catching a glimpse of a giant snapping turtle! The ten miles of trails are serenely beautiful in any season (the center is open year-round), and the state-of-the-art Interpretive Building offers a bookstore, educational exhibits like the fossil wall and friendly volunteers to answer questions.
Last fall, the center instituted its first Fall Wilderness Hiking Extravaganza, said executive director Gordon Maupin. For a small fee, visitors who hiked all six trails received a rustic hiking staff, handcrafted by center volunteers.
We predicted about 50 people would do this, Maupin said. More than 600 hikers participated -- a testament to the centers popularity -- and the program is planned for Fall 2003 as well. (This summer, register to hike all six trails and receive a Beat the Heat water bottle.)
Forest full of memory
In Wayne County, the Johnson Woods State Nature Preserve is probably the largest, least disturbed, old-growth forest currently known to remain in Ohio, according to the states Department of Natural Resources Web site.
Located a few miles north of Orrville, the woods contains many trees that sprouted before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth. The largest -- red and white oaks and hickories -- have diameters of four to five feet, and some are more than 120 feet tall. A one-and-a-half-mile boardwalk allows hikers to appreciate the vast beauty of the forest, and the wooden surface is perfect for those in wheelchairs.
Splendid displays
Another natural treat can be found at the Secrest Arboretum, located on the campus of the Ohio Agricultural Research Development Center in Wooster. Classified as a major research area, the arboretums 85 rolling acres offer up breathtaking displays of flora no matter what time of year it is.
More than 135 varieties of rhododendron explode with color in spring, along with 170-plus types of crabapples. In summer, visit the 2.7-acre Garden of Roses of Legend and Romance -- if the name doesnt conjure up amorous feelings, the scent surely will! Autumns brazen hues are accented by ornamental plantings and holly fruit, and in winter stately conifers and 150 varieties of holly put on a festive display.
So, if youre looking for a peaceful retreat anytime soon, be sure to visit one or all of these natural attractions. Of course, if you cant get away, even a stroll down a country road in Amish country allows one to drink in the loveliness of the countryside and the soothing strength of nature.Thanks for coming with me.
Getting There
The Wilderness Center on US 250 between Mt. Eaton and Wilmot; trails open dawn to dusk every day; Interpretive Bldg. open 9-5 Tue.-Sat. and 1-5 Sun.; (877)359-5235, www.wildernesscenter.org.
Johnson Woods State Nature Preserve take Ohio 57 four miles north of Orrville, then one mile east on Fox Lake Rd.; open half-hour before sunrise to half-hour after sunset; pets and bicycles prohibited.
Secrest Arboretum at OARDC campus, on US 250/Madison Ave., Wooster; parking, trails and plantings located along both sides of Green Drive; plantings also located on the east side of SR 83. (330) 263-3761.
June 2003 edition