Posts in category 'Area News And Information'

Riding a horse is great exercise—it strengthens the core, improves balance and coordination and may even get your heart pumping. Here in north central Ohio, riding a horse also means the chance to soak in the serene natural beauty of family farms and ancient forests. Whether you've never sat in a saddle or are looking for a place to ride and train your own horse, there are plenty of options nearby.

Photo courtesy of Malabar Farms

1. Pleasant Valley Lake Park & Malabar Farm, Perrysville/Lucas

Both Pleasant Valley and Malaba...

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From kayaks and canoes to less traditional options like tubes and stand up paddle boards, Richland County offers numerous destinations for summertime fun on scenic lakes and rivers. 

Photos Courtesy of Mohican Adventures

1. Mohican Adventures, Loudonville

Looking for a fun water activity but lacking proper gear? Mohican Adventures has a variety of watercraft available onsite, including canoes, kayaks, rafts and tubes.

Canoe or kayak down the...

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School may be out for the summer, but who says the learning should stop? Whether you've got curious kids or simply love exploring the great outdoors, Richland County and the surrounding area offers a wealth of parks and nature ed programs worth exploring!

1. Gorman Nature Center, Mansfield

Hiking through the nature trails is just one way to observe local wildlife and natural habitats. The park also has a visitor center that's open Monday thru Saturday from 9 to 4. Inside the center, there are educational displays as well as staff naturalists and volunteers who can introduce you and your family to the center's resident wildlife. All of the animals at the center are native to the state of Ohio, including different species...

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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. 

Exercise—we all know we need it. Why not enjoy it? From gorgeous flower gardens to woodland paths to 5K runs, there are plenty of places nearby to take in the beauty of the outdoors during your next workout.

1. Gorman Nature Center, Mansfield

Mansfield's 150-acre nature park includes over five miles of free public trails that are open from dawn to dusk, all year round. Hike, run or walk at your own pace through deciduous forests and grassland prairies while taking in the surrounding ponds, streams and wildlife. The trails are not paved; however, there are no major inclines a...

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