By Claire Taylor
Things to Do in Loudonville, Ohio
Loudonville is a village with a population of under 3,000. Famous as a tourist spot because of its proximity to Mohican State Park and its many water-based activities, such as canoeing, in the Clearfork River. Loudonville welcomes visitors in both winter and summer, although its many outdoor attractions are especially busy during the warmer months.
Mohican State Park
The Mohican State Park is a popular outdoor recreation area for residents from all over Ohio. The park is especially famous for its hiking trails, which border numerous bodies of water, such as the Clearfork River, the Pleasant Hill Dam and the Lyons Falls. Visitors can camp, bike and fish here as well. There are several distinguished buildings on the grounds as well, such as the Memorial Forest Shrine, built to commemorate Ohio residents killed in several wars. The park also has a fire tower that everybody is allowed to climb for incredible views from its 80-foot top. Finally, the covered bridge across Clearfork is a great reminder of times gone by and a great way to reach picnic areas and hidden trails.
Mohican State Park
131 West Main Street
Phone: (419 994-2519)
Behalt and the Amish and Mennonite Heritage Center
The main attraction here is the giant mural created to depict Menonnite history and cultural legacy. The Cyclorama, which extends for over 265 feet in circular motion, can be better understood with the help of a guided tour, offered at the center free of charge. There's also a small art gallery on site and the center is housed in a typical Amish barn. A Conestoga wagon and other traditional items are also in display.
Behalt and the Amish and Mennonite Heritage Center
5798 County Road 77
Berlin, OH 44610
Phone: (330 893-3192)
Wolf Creek and Pine Run Grist Mill
The Pine Run Grist Mill was built in 1831 and moved to its present location in 1970, where it underwent a serious restoration so that it would be up and running again and open to visitors. Surrounding the mill, and on the grounds, are also six cabins, furnished to showcase the living conditions of pioneers and families of the time. Renovations are still under way and the Friends of the Mill Group plans on add additional cabins and historical buildings to the grounds year after year. The mill is open on weekends for guided tours, and visitors can also take part in numerous events throughout the year, including Pioneer Days in May (where reenactors show life in an 1800 encampment), the Family Oriented Haunted Event in October and a wine show every summer.
Wolf Creek and Pine Run Grist Mill
St. Rt. 3 (1 Mi. S of Mohican State Park)
Phone: (419 668-2497)
About the Author:
Claire Taylor is a health, wellness and travel writer with credits in publications such as "Woman's Day," "Marie Claire," "Adirondack Life" and "Self." Taylor is also a seasoned independent traveler, as well as a certified personal trainer and nutrition consultant.
Photo Credits:
Deborah Finnell
