Outdoor Thrills in North Central Ohio

Looking for a high speed, heart-pumping adrenaline rush? Our list of "outdoor thrills" is sure to help. Below you'll find adventures suited for all ages, all within an hour of Mansfield, OH.

Photo courtesy of Mohican Adventures.

1. Aerial Park at Mohican Adventures, Loudonville

Just south of Richland County, Mohican Adventure Park offers numerous outdoor activities, including its newer aerial park. Six courses range from beginner to advanced level so even younger children can participate. Participants can climb up the "spider web" and cargo net, cross the rope bridges and cheese wall, and soar on the lily pad swings. More advanced courses include zip lines and a free fall jump (don't worry, there's a harness!) The green and blue courses, which are 12 and 22 feet high, are most suitable for children under 11. Ultimate thrill seekers will love the black course, situated 42 feet in the air. This exciting activity is great for groups and families.

 Photo courtesy of Battle Zone Paintball Park.

2. Battle Zone Paintball Park III, Mansfield

Paintball is a great way to get some exercise and experience the ultimate adrenaline rush. Battle Zone Park has 5 battlefields including a woodsball fort course, a speedball field with a castle, a village urban-assault course, a full military field and a minefield. All equipment is provided; however, you are permitted to bring their own. Groups must register a week in advance and may customize their own military simulation and objective-based missions. Guests can come without a group or reservation during the park's "free play" hours each weekend (Friday 3 to 7 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.)

The park also has monthly tournaments, which you can register for on its website.

Photos courtesy of The Infield.

3. The Infield, Lexington

The Mid-Ohio Sports Cars Course draws a lot of visitors to Richland County every year, but you don't have to be a professional to zoom around a racetrack. The Infield's go-cart courses are well-suited for thrill seekers of all ages. Adults and children ages 10 and up can zoom around the ¼ mile track--one of the longest go-cart tracks in Ohio. Children ages four and older can ride with an adult driver or head over to the kiddy course for a five-minute drive. See the Infield's website for height safety requirements.

4. Mountain Biking Trails at Mohican State Forest, Loudonville

These exciting trails are not for beginners. The short, six mile loop begins at the staging area across from the main campground on State Route 3. This "moderately difficult" path winds through the hillside and past the campgrounds. For a more challenging ride, try the 25-mile, one directional trail. Filled with gradual climbs and steep descents, this rollercoaster-like trail takes you past breathtaking Mohican scenery, so you can enjoy the pristine woodland and stunning lake views as you zip by.

Photo courtesy of Tree Frog Canopy Tours.

5. Tree Frog Canopy Tours, Glenmont

Located about 15 minutes south of Loudonville along the Mohican River, Tree Frog's zipline tour is worth the drive. Soar through the forest on a 2 1/2 hour tour with seven ziplines, two sky bridges and two rappels. With more than 4,000 feet of zipline cable, a peak point of 120 feet and a highest recorded speed of 51 MPH, Tree Frog is the longest, highest and fastest canopy tour in the state. Professional guides lead the way, so no prior experience is needed.