The area surrounding the city of Athens, home to Ohio University, is a beautiful region of the state with many opportunities for outdoor recreation. Southern Ohio’s Appalachian foothills are surrounded by a lush landscape including popular destinations in the Hocking Hills and the Wayne National Forest. A recent addition to the outdoor recreation scene is the Baileys Trail System, a series of trails cut into Wayne National Forest, that welcomes hikers, bikers, and trail runners. Additionally, and for those interested in a little local history and lore, you can visit the Moonville Tunnel and Rail Trail which rumor has it is haunted.
HockHocking Adena Bikeway
Cutting right through campus, the HockHocking Adena Bikeway is known simply as the “bike path” to locals. This 21-mile paved bike trail cuts through a portin of campus in Athens. Situated along the Hocking River, the path is flat and easy to navigate for cyclists of all ages and abilities. The first section was originally built by Ohio University when the river relocation project occurred in the 1970s (you can read more about that here and here). It wasn’t until the mid-1990s that the bike path saw expansion that made it a great destination for outdoor recreation that you see today. Stretching from one side of Athens to Nelsonville, the bike path is used daily by students and locals alike. Click here for a map of the path.
Wayne National Forest
A series of public lands in Appalachian Ohio. Various activities are available including fishing, hiking, bike riding, and off-road vehicle trail riding. Trails located within 20 minutes of campus. Wayne National Forest encompasses multiple trail systems open year-round for foot traffic and seasonally for off-road vehicles, equestrians, and mountain bikes. Visit Wayne National Forest’s website for more information on specific activities.
Hocking Hills State Park
Located about 40 miles from Athens in Hocking County, Hocking Hills State Park is open year-round from dusk to dawn. With over 25 miles of hiking trails, you will find a path suitable for all ages and abilities. Here you can see waterfalls and beautiful rock formations and caves. Hikers should remain on marked trails only and children should be supervised as there are steep drop-offs and other dangerous areas. This area is popular with visitors and you will find many cabins and other vacation rentals in the area. Visit thehockinghills.org for more information about individual trails and directions.
Baileys Trails
Currently operating 31 miles of trails inside Wayne National Forest, the plan is to have 88 miles of trails open for beginner to expert mountain bikers, trail runners, and hikers. Users can access the trails in nearby Chauncey and Doanville with plans to have access points in Nelsonville and Buchtel in the future. Visit bailerystrailsystem.org for information and directions.
Moonville Tunnel and Rail Trail
This 16-mile trail follows the Marietta-Cincinnati Railroad grade that was established in 1853. Moonville Tunnel, rumored to be haunted, is a well-known masonry that attracts visitors. Visit moonvilletunnel.net for more information.
If you are coming to Athens to visit Ohio University or to the area for only for fun, there is plenty of opportunity for outdoor recreation pursuits.
