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Tag Archives: picnic

Making Friends with the Early Ohio Settlers at Sauder Village, Part 3

7 November 202314 May 2025

What a spectacular morning visiting the historical buildings of Sauder Village.  On the Village Green, I explored the 1920’s Grime Homestead, admired the adorable farm animals, rode the free express train and explored the Natives and Newcomers exhibit.  The remaining sites to explore are the Pioneer Settlement, the Little Pioneers Homestead, the Historic Community and the places in between.

I hope you have had the opportunity to read Parts 1 and 2 of my Sauder Village blog to put this amazing complex in perspective and to understand Sauder Village’s extraordinary beginnings.

Celebrating forty years as Ohio’s Largest Living History Destination, Sauder Village is an amazing replica of a small town dating back from 1803 to the 1920s.  From the Natives and Newcomers Exhibit to the Pioneer Settlement there are close to forty buildings that will transport you to another place and time.  I hope you enjoy the second part of my fun adventure at this attraction that ranks high on my list of places to see in Ohio.

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When the Lauder family settled in northwestern Ohio, the area was considered a Black Swamp.  Due to the conditions of the land, logs were laid side by side to accommodate carts and wagons, despite the bumpy ride.

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It was also dangerous for the horses as their legs could be trapped between the logs.  Regardless of the difficulties in crossing through the swamp, it seemed to have made transportation a little easier.

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Inside of the early settlement of the Lauber family, they lived in temporary lean to structures until their homes are completed.

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The log school is a recreation of a one-room schoolhouse that would have existed in the 1840s.  Because the lighting inside was limited, the desks would face the walls where greased paper took the place of windows.  The fireplace would keep the teacher and children warm, but overall, the schoolhouse was quite primitive.

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During my visit to the Witmer-Roth home, it was already closed for the day.  When open, there is a costumed guide that prepares a meal on either the stone hearth indoors or the outdoor bake oven.  This is the original home of Anna Sauder Witmer-Roth, where she gave birth to ten of her 15 children.  It is here where visitors can learn more about the woman’s role during the days of the early settlers.

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Inside of the Etcher Cabin, a guide is making homemade noodles.  She explains to me that this home was once owned by Jacob and Barbara Etcher who arrived in this area sometime in the 1850s.

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The community jail on the premises was built in the late 1860s to house criminals in Edgerton, Ohio.  Interestingly, there are only two cells as this was a temporary facility until the criminal stood trial.

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The Peter Stuckey Farm includes the home, garden, summer kitchen, barn and wagon shop.  Built in the 1870s, it was home to both him and his wife Catherine (Yoder).  As a result of the drainage of the swamp, their farm became prosperous.  Peter was also a successful wagon maker as well.

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Building number 34 is the depot where the train stops to pick up passengers and drop them off to explore the Pioneer Settlement.

The next building is the Holdeman Church which was originally a Menonite Church from the local town of Pettisville and was once known as the Church of God in Christ Mennonite.  It is here where the horse and  buggy ride originates and requires a small additional fee.

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The Little Pioneers Homestead is specifically geared towards young children and their families.  There is a small cabin, Mary-Anne’s cabin and Miller barn where they can milk the cow.

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One of my favorite parts of the day was finding a baby bunny in the Discovery Garden!

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The Blacksmith Shop was temporarily closed.

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The Harvesting Building is another special event space and location for group lunches and picnic space.

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The Tiffin River Woodworks is a workshop where wooden products, including toys, are made and Cider Mill is only used in the month of September during Sauder Village’s Apple Week.

It has taken me the full day to explore Sauder Village and I have had such an awesome day exploring this gem of northwest Ohio!

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I have reentered the welcome center where I find the Greenburg Gallery exhibit that provides more detail about Erie Sauder, Sauder Village and the making of this spectacular attraction.

In addition to the village, there is a campground, the Barn Restaurant, Doughbox Bakery and Sauder Store and Outlet within walking distance.  With so much to experience, one could really spend a long weekend here.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Sauder Village?  What was your favorite sight or activity while you were here?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below!  Many Thanks and Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Sauder Village Living History and Farm
221611  OH-2
Archbold, OH  43502
Telephone:  419 446 2541

  • Admission Fee:  Adults:  $24;  Students, Ages 4 – 16: $18;  Children, Ages 3 and under: Free; Seniors 60 and over:  $22.   person is permitted.   2-day Admission:  Adults, $38; Students, Ages 4 – 16:  $26;  Valid for 2 consecutive days, non-transferable.  AAA Discount: $2
  • Hours:  Spring (May 3 – 27):  Open Wednesday to Saturday from 10AM to 3:30PM;  Saturday 10AM to 4PM; Summer (May 31 – September 2): Open Wednesday to Saturday from 10AM to 5PM and Closed Sunday, Monday and Tuesday.  Fall Hours (September 6 – October 8); Open Wednesday to Friday from 10AM to 3:30PM  and Closed Sunday, Monday and Tuesday.
  • Length of the Tour:  From 2 hours to 2 days.
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Wear comfortable shoes as you walk through time visiting historical buildings.  Download the map ahead of time and plan your day.   There are several classes and demonstrations that you won’t want to miss.  While there are several small shops to visit, make plans to eat at the Barn Restaurant for down-home cooking.

Where to Stay:

Sauder Heritage Inn
22611 State Route 2
PO Box 235
Archbold, OH 43502
Telephone:  800 590 9755

If you are traveling by RV, make reservations at the Sauder Village Campground.

Where to Eat:

The Barn Restaurant
22611 State Route 2
PO Box 235
Archbold, OH 43502
Telephone:  800 590 9755

Select the buffet or order from the menu loaded with down-home recipes.

What to Eat:

  • Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes
  • Soups and Salads
  • Fried Chicken
  • Roast Beef Dinners

What to Read:

  • Heritage of the Black Swamp, by Cynthia Covert Harger

Photo Guide to Sauder Village

  • Visit Sauder Village in the spring for newborn baby animals
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The First Metro Park in Columbus, Blacklick Woods Metro Park

27 November 202122 September 2024

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Buttonbush Swamp

It was a sunny mid-March morning and I decided to hike Blacklick Woods Metro Park in Reynoldsburg, Ohio.  With six trails, I wanted to hike back to the Nature Center that would eventually lead me to the Walter A. Tucker Nature Preserve.

I began by parking near the Ashton pond where I picked up the Beech trail, a half a mile loop.  I found a trail head for the 4.1 mile multipurpose trail a few minutes into the hike, leading me to a connector trail at the nature preserve.  Once I met up with the half mile Buttonbush Trail, I was heading in the right direction towards the nature center.

The forests here are primarily made up of beech-maple trees and are perfect for bird-watching.  There are a couple of swamps where boardwalks were created to bring an up-close, personal look at the plant and animal life in this type of environment.  In addition to birds, deer and fox, other wildlife make their home in this fascinating preserve.

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Blacklick Woods was the first of Columbus’ MetroParks, opening in 1948.  First set among 113 acres, the park has grown to include picnic areas, a lodge and an 18-hole regulations course, making it, today, a 643-acre park.  This is a perfect place to bring your family for an afternoon of animal watching.

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At the nature center, I spent a few moments inside, watching the animals and birds enjoying an afternoon lunch of seeds provided by the park personnel.  It felt warm and cozy inside as the temperature outdoors was still cool during the early spring months.  The sun shone into the lodge casting shadows on the floor.  Squirrels and chipmunks entertained us as they chased away the birds attempting to reach the feeders.  I was taken back to my childhood when my family would visit the parks, the trails and the campgrounds throughout Ohio.  I remembered the spring smells and the sounds of birds filling the air as I began my walk back to the pond and vowed to continue our family tradition.  Such fond memories….

Do you have a favorite metro, state or national park that you love to visit?  I would love to hear about it in the comments below!  Many Thanks for reading about my afternoon spent at Blacklick Woods Metro Park and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Blacklick Woods Metro Park
6975 Livingston Avenue
Reynoldsburg, OH 43068
Telephone:  614 208 4247

  • Hours:  The  park is open from 6AM to 10PM April through September and from 6AM to 8PM, October through March.
  • Amenities:   Trails, shelter and lodge rentals, biking, golfing, picnicking, nature centers and sledding
  • Scenic View:  Views of wildlife from the nature centers
  • Length of Visit:   Determined by the activities
  • Tips for Your Visit:  During the winter months, the park offers sledding as well as cross-country skiing.  Visit the Columbus Metro Parks website for information about the many parks in the area.

Where to Stay:

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Columbus Airport East
6305 East Broad Street
Columbus, OH  43213
Telephone:  614 322 8000

Where to Eat:

Barrel & Boar
8 N. State Street
Westerville, OH  43081
Telephone:  614 300 5014

I started my meal by ordering the Carolina Hush Puppies served with honey butter.  The pulled pork came with garlic toast and a choice of two sides, so I ordered the Mac & Cheese and the Creamy Cole Slaw which were phenomenal.  I look forward to returning for brunch to experience the Bloody Mary Bar and another future visit for the Brisket Cubano.

Here are more of my favorite Columbus Classics:

  • Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream:  Known for her unique flavor combinations, Jeni Britton Bauer has made ice cream famous in C-Bus!
  • North Market:  A one-stop shop for universal cuisine, Columbus’ North Market is worth a stop in the Short North District of the city.
  • The Thurman Cafe:  The Thurmanator is the burger of all burgers at this longtime local cafe in German Village.  There may be a wait all burgers are made to order.
  • Schmidt’s Sausage Haus and Restaurant:  While the sausage at Schmidt’s is the official food of Columbus, it’s the amazing Cream Puffs that have the locals lining up at the door.

What to Read: 

  • Columbus: The Story of a City, by Ed Lentz
  • Columbus, Ohio: A Photographic Portrait, by Randall L Schieber and Robin Smith
  • Ohio in Photographs: A Portrait of the Buckeye State, by Ian Adams
  • Secret Columbus, by Anietra Hamper

Photo Guide for Columbus: 

  • Coffman Park: small ponds, bridges, white barn, pavilion, landscaping, public art
  • Columbus Museum of Art:  the grounds, inside artwork and special exhibits
  • Everal Barn and Homestead:  landscaping, white barn, beautiful lake
  • Frank Fetch Park:  gardens, brick paths, beautiful trees and landscaping
  • Franklin Park Conservatory:  beautiful gardens, artwork, flowers and special exhibits
  • Gantz Park:  barn, beautiful trees,
  • German Village:  brick streets, landscaping, parks, charming architecture, Old World charm, historical buildings
  • Grove City:  brick roads, small town, shopping area
  • Hayden Falls – wooden walking path, waterfall
  • Historical Village of Hilliard:  a small village to include a schoolhouse, train car, chapel, log cabin, covered bridge, gazebo and granary
  • Homestead Park in Hilliard: walking path, covered bridge, barns, trains, tractor, pond and pet park
  • Inniswood Metro Gardens:  gardens, lily pond, herb garden, play area for children, secret garden
  • Ohio State House: rotunda and landscaping (photo permit required)
  • Ohio State University:  campus, landscaping, Mirror Lake, Ohio Stadium (you can pay a small fee to take photos inside)
  • Park of Roses in Clintonville:  various types of rose gardens
  • Riverfront Park:  city view, Scioto River, landscapes, fountains, walking paths
  • Schiller Park:  gardens, walking paths, stone columns, wooden bridge, small lake
  • Scioto Mile:  city views, Scioto River, landscapes, fountains, walking paths
  • Scioto Park in Dublin:  statue of Chief Leatherlips, river views, landscaping, and paths
  • Short North:  restaurants, italian village, shops, city views, murals
  • Topiary Park:  depiction of George Seurat’s 1884 painting, landscape, fountains, small pond, gazebo
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Exploring the Original Settlement of Cincinnati at Yeatman’s Cove

9 July 20218 February 2025

With overcast skies and perfect temperatures, I set out to visit Cincinnati’s Riverbank along the Ohio River.  Starting at West Freedom Way, I toured the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, strolled through Smale Park and walked east towards Sawyer’s Point and Yeatman’s Cove.

Yeatman’s Cove was a part of the original settlement of Losantiville, renamed Cincinnati in 1790 as well as the site of Fort Washington.  With spectacular views of the Ohio River, this recreation area is located between Smale Riverfront Park and Berry International Friendship Park.

The park stretches about a mile along the banks of the Ohio to include several displays and placards detailing the history of Cincinnati.  On Mehring Way is the National Steamboat Monument, a replica of the American Queen Riverboat’s paddlewheel standing three stories high.  Several stainless steel smokestacks display the names of the riverboats that transported passengers and goods up and down the river in the 19th and 20th centuries.

The Procter & Gamble Pavilion at Sawyer Point hosts an annual Summer Concert series.  A family-friendly venue, the events are free and offer food, drinks and alcohol for purchase.

In the early 19th century, Cincinnati was referred to as “Porkopolis” based on its production of pork products traded along the banks of the Ohio. In 2000, when I first moved to Cincinnati, the city was hosting the “Big Pig Gig” where local businesses could sponsor one of 400 fiberglass pigs to decorate for its public art installation.  Over twenty years later, several of these art displays can be found around Cincinnati.  Lucius (Lucky) Quinctus Pigasus stands in Yeatman’s Cove.

Check out the Instagram, BigPigGig for the location of what remains of the pigs.

Several markers lined along the park display key historical events in Cincinnati’s history as well as local prehistoric findings.

A statue of Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus, for which the city was named, stands at Yeatman’s Cove.

Another view of Cincinnatus from the Arches and Overlook at the base of the Purple People Bridge. Daniel Carter Beard Bridge (also known as the Big Mac Bridge) in the background connects downtown to I-275.

Looking towards the west side is a spectacular view of the Serpentine Wall.  Completed in 1976, the structure acts as a barrier to help contain the floodwaters of the Ohio River.   A great place to picnic, this space is also perfect for taking in the local fireworks and other riverfront events.

My final stop before lunch is Yeatman’s Cove Park, the original settlement of Cincinnati which took place in the winter of 1788.  A beautiful sculpture by David von Schlegell marks the location of Cincinnati’s beginnings.

By now, I have made arrangements to meet some friends at Moerlein Lager House for lunch and looked forward to sampling their beers as well as vintage ales from Cincinnati.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Cincinnati’s riverfront?  Did you have a favorite stop on your tour?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.

Many thanks for reading about my exploration of the Ohio River al Cincinnati and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Sawyer Point Park & Yeatman’s Cove
705 East Pete Rose Way
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone:  513 352 6180

Where to Stay:

AC Hotel Cincinnati at The Banks
135 Joe Nuxhall Way
Cincinnati, OH  45202
Telephone:  513 744 9900

Where to Eat:

Moerlein Lager House
115 Joe Nuxthall Way
Cincinnati, OH  45202
Telephone:  513 521 2337

What to Eat: 

  • Skyline Chili:  My go-to meal at Skyline is the 4-way chili with onion served with oyster crackers and hot sauce.  I always pick up two York peppermint patties after cashing out.  Cincinnati chili is a beef based sauce served over spaghetti noodles and cheese.  Additional toppings include onions and beans.
  • LaRosa’s Pizza:  A local chain pizzeria, this Sicilian style pie is made with a sweet crust and sauce.  My favorite menu item is the Caprese pesto Flatbread Pizza.
  • Graeter’s Ice Cream:  It’s the French Pot process that makes Graeter’s Ice Cream so decadent and rich.  Towards the end of the process, they pour chocolate into the mix creating large chunks of yummy goodness.
  • Montgomery Inn BBQ:  Visiting the original Montgomery Inn BBQ at the boathouse is a culinary and scenic experience.  Their ribs are served with a sweet and tangy sauce that has since made them the “Ribs King” and a favorite among locals.  Load up on their amazing BBQ flavored Saratoga chips,
  • Glier’s Goetta:  While it looks like a slab of corn beef hash, this breakfast staple is made of sausage and oats, cooked until crispy.  Most breakfast restaurants carry it as a side, especially the local cafes and diners.
  • BonBonerie:  One of the most decadent pastry shops in Cincinnati, their rich confections are absolutely amazing.

Where to Drink:

AC Hotel Rooftop Bar
135 Joe Nuxhall Way
Cincinnati, OH  45202
Telephone:  513 744 9900

What to Read:

  • Eligible:  A Modern Retelling of Pride & Prejudice, by Curtis Sittenfeld
  • Running, by J.T. Cooper
  • Dead Witch Walking, by Kim Harrison
  • Beloved, by Toni Morrison
  • Double Dutch, by Sharon M. Draper
  • Romiette and Julio, by Sharon M. Draper

Photo Guide to Cincinnati:

  • City Hall – inside and Out
  • Smale Riverfront Park
  • Union Terminal
  • Roebling Suspension Bridge
  • Washington Park
  • Krohn Conservatory
  • American Sign Museum
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Glacier Ridge Metro Park, Plain City, Ohio

15 December 201616 September 2024

DSC_0786A couple of months ago, I decided to take afternoon walks after my busy days at work.   A great way to wind down, I started searching local parks close by to get a little fresh air and some exercise.  I happened to find Glacier Ridge Metro Park one afternoon after hiking through Battelle Darby Creek and decided to check it out.  Located in rural Plain City, Ohio outside of Columbus, I found the Honda Wetland Education Area and shared the walking path with a young man and his German Shepherd.

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Returning from the hike, I noticed the park’s office was closed, but it was swarming with a flock of swallows circling overhead.  A nearby nest was on the rooftop where a mother bird guarded her nest.

Glacier Ridge is one of the newer parks in the Columbus Metro Parks center, opening with 1,000 acres in 2002.   The park system took an interest in restoring Glacier Ridge to its natural habitat after it had been agricultural land for years.

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Wildflowers flourish along the nearby stretch of land as fragile blooms push forward through the wild, grassy underbrush.  As a result of the park’s conservation efforts, there are now several species of plants and animals, with a large population of birds.

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The clouds started breaking up, so it was the perfect time to climb the observation tower.  I reached the top for a beautiful view of the wetlands and surrounding area.  From here I could see herons and geese and sound of bullfrogs in the distance.  I waited long enough to enjoy the quiet sunset in hopes of seeing more wildlife.

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I decided to return to Glacier Ridge during the winter, excited of what I may find in the snow.  I once again strolled the Wetland Education Area and hiked the Ironweed Trail to explore the north end of the park.

Leaving the wetlands, I passed over a creek where the trail opened up into a large field.  There was a clear view with little obstruction from trees and the water seemed to continue to ice over as the temperature continued to drop.  Dedicated runners and hikers walking their dogs slipped past me while I took photos.  Footprints quickly disappeared with the new fallen snow and the silence continued until another visitor appeared on the trail.

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Crossing the bridge, I noticed a weathered barn that reminded me of a scene in an Amish painting.  Glacier Ridge seems so different in the winter months, so naked and exposed compared to the spring when life begins to flourish with bugs, birds and wild beasts.   The crunch of snow under my feet and the swishing of my ski pants are the only sounds I heard as I continued deeper into the park.

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There were no signs of life, only snow covered shells of plants that once thrived in the spring and summer months.   The thistles grew fat as the snow broadened their core, creating little snow monsters protecting the prairie.  I enjoyed the feeling of the sting of cold on my face and the light touch of snow as it fell from the sky.

The hike would total 5.6 miles round trip, but it was worth the experience to see in the winter.  Besides feeling a sense of accomplishment for completing the Ironwood Trail, I was also reminded that parks are not only for the summer, but can be a great way to exercise all year around.

Have you hiked Glacier Ridge Metro Park?  When is your favorite time to visit?  I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading my blog post about Glacier Ridge Metro Park!  Happy Trails!

Make sure you visit Glacier Ridge during their interpretive programs, which cater to all families and individuals of all ages. There are four trails that range from .8 to five miles, cross-country skiing trails and trails for horseback riding.  In addition to picnic areas, there is also a wind and solar learning center and disc golf course.

What to See and What to Do:

Glacier Ridge MetroPark
9801 Hyland Croy Avenue
Plain City, OH 43064
Telephone:  614 891 0700

  • Hours:  The park is open daily from 6:30AM until dark
  • Length of Visit:  1 to 2 hours, or additional time depending on the activity
  • Scenic View:  There is an observation tower for beautiful views of the surrounding area
  • Amenities:  Trails,  cross country skiing, hiking, horseback riding, disc golf course, wind and solar learning center, dog park, Honda wetland education area, observation tower, picnic shelter, restrooms, playground and
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Ensure that you have visited the website to confirm the latest information about the park.   Pick up the Metro Parks magazine, ParkScope, which is published on a quarterly basis.

Where to Stay:

Hilton Garden Inn Columbus/Dublin
500 Metro Place North
Dublin, OH  43017
Telephone:  614 766 9900

Where to Eat:

Matt the Miller’s Tavern
6725 Avery-Muirfield Drive
Dublin, OH  43016
Telephone:   614 799 9100

I started out with the Bavarian Bites, warm and soft pretzels served with roasted garlic sauce (my favorite) and sweet & tangy mustard sauce.  For my main course, I chose the Miller Salad with the addition of sesame crusted Ahi Tuna.  The restaurant has an extensive drink menu to include several types of bourbon.

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

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Cedar Falls at Hocking Hills

18 August 201616 September 2024

One of my favorite childhood memories of visiting Hocking Hills State Park was hiking to Cedar Falls.   Starting our adventure at the trailhead of Ash Cave, we would pack a picnic lunch setting out towards Old Man’s Cave as our final destination.  Today, I was hiking with my friend Sarah and it brought back such great childhood memories.

It was easy to follow the trail as the pathway was marked by blue blazes, a section of Ohio’s Buckeye Trail. At the start of our trek, we hiked inside of the gorge and later reached the rim for some spectacular views.

There was a small chill in the air as we were surrounded by the local Black Hand Sandstone and bare hemlock trees.  The water had frozen over and waterfalls seemed suspended in ice.

We finally reached the fifty foot drop of Cedar Falls in the valley of Queer Creek.   While not the tallest or most breathtaking, these falls are the largest in volume than other falls throughout the park.  This was the reward for hiking Cedar Falls, so we took in the view and decided it was time for lunch before continuing the second half of our hike.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Cedar Falls?  What other aspects of your hike did you enjoy?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments below.  Many thanks for reading my short post about Cedar Falls and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Cedar Falls at Hocking Hills
21724 Ohio State Route 374
Logan, OH  43188

  • Admission Fee:  There is no fee for hiking the trail.
  • Hours:  Open daily
  • Length of the Tour:  2 – 3 hours
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Wear comfortable shoes for hiking.  The rim trail can be very dangerous, so check out the trail before bringing children with you.  Stay on the trail.  Visit the nature preserve’s website for a map.

Where to Stay:

Hocking Hills Inn and Coffee Emporium
13984 OH-664 Scenic
Logan, OH  43138
Telephone:   740 270 2697

Where to Eat:

Millstone Southern Smoked BBQ
12790 Grey Street
Logan, OH  43138
Telephone:  740 385 5341

What to Read: 

  • Hocking Hills, by Doreen McMillian
  • Hocking Hills Day Hikes, by Mary Reed
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Our Last Day in Hale

3 November 201531 August 2024

Shelly, Izzy, Erika and Gunnar would be leaving for home today and we were sad to see them go.  It was an overcast day with large billowy clouds so we packed up a picnic lunch and started out for Lumberman’s Monument.  Overlooking the Au Sable River, we arrived at the 14-foot statue and visited the visitor’s center before setting out for a hike.

Grace and Bennett were snuggled safe on the backs of their Mom and Dad, taking in the scenic views and eating snacks.

The sandy trail followed the edge of the Au Sable with stunning views of the surrounding water and trees.

We hiked through lush fern-filled forests where we spotted squirrels and chipmunks. 

Grace had fun picking up small pinecones from the nearby fir trees.

It was time for lunch, so we found a place to have a picnic.

Grace was happy to sit on her Daddy’s shoulders so she could have a perfect view.

Grandpa posed for pictures.

It was our last moments to explore Hale, Michigan and its nearby surroundings.  We thought it would be fun for one last evening on the lake and to have a small campfire for making s’mores.

After a quick swim, we took the pontoon around the perimeter of the lake to enjoy the scenery for our last night on vacation.

The sun was beginning to set and with a perfectly built campfire, we sat around and talked about the highlights of our vacation.

We laughed about how hot it had been in Hale and began planning our next adventure.

I’m not sure if Grace had more fun making s’mores or eating them.

We toasted the remaining marshmallows before putting out the fire and preparing for bed.  The last night was a great way to wrap up such a relaxing day before our long drive back to Ohio.

Have you visited Hale, Michigan or Long Lake?  What was your experience?  I would love to hear about your visit if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my family Michigan vacation and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do: 

  • Relax on the lake…swimming, boating fishing

Where to Stay: 

  • We went through VRBO to find this lovely lake house in Hale, Michigan.

Where to Eat:

Long Lake Bar & Grill
5002 E. Main Street
Long Lake, MI  48743
Telephone:  989 257 2017

Dock your boat at Long Lake Bar & Grill and enjoy some hamburgers and fries.  Check out Uncle Kracker’s “Smile” video which was filmed in this area.

What to Eat: 

  • Better Made potato chips
  • Biggby Coffee
  • Chipati – pocket bread stuffed with salad
  • Detroit-style pizza where the toppings are under the sauce and loaded with cheese
  • Hummer – drink made with kahlua, rum and ice cream
  • Pasty – pastry shell with savory fillings
  • Vernor’s Ginger Ale
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About Me!

I have had a passion to travel for as long as I can remember and landed my dream job at the age of 19 on a cruise ship. The Suite Life of Travel is about those experiences as well as my future endeavor to explore this amazing world!

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