Friday, June 6, 2014

Get your legs pumping at Findley State Park!

With the warm weather in full force, our anxious legs can’t wait to hop on a bike and ride off into the sunshine! So what better place to get those legs pumping than at Findley State Park on Route 58 in Wellington? I recently took my first ever venture out to Findley, and learned that the breathtaking 838 acres holds something for everyone.

I have always heard the rumors of the beautiful camping sites, beach, and stunning views of Findley, but did you know that it is also home to a renowned mountain bike trail? Off one of the many hiking trails, the sun pokes through the trees and illuminates a lush green forest with a small trail, marked by a friendly sign reading “Thorn Mountain Bike Trail”. But don’t let the tweeting birds and surrounding wildflowers fool you, the Thorn is one wild ride.

A twisting 9 miles of single loop track through heavy woods, the Thorn offers terrain that is both challenging and exciting.  Climb steep hills, round 180* turns, and face obstacles like log rides and even teeter-totters! Sounds fun, right? You’ll also be looping around their lake, and taking in all the beauty that the state park has to offer.

Feeling like taking a more relaxing route first? Not a problem. With 7 other bike trails, and amenities like Frisbee golf, canoeing, and fishing, Findley’s got you covered. You can even pick a day to engage one of the naturalist programs that they offer, including fishing, crafts and even archery!

Every day is a great day to visit Findley State Park, but the one I picked was extra special. The Director of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources was visiting on the same day, and announced his future efforts with Findley to work on some of the campsites and amenities there. Get a whiff of fresh air, and keep an eye out for the improvements at Findley State Park!

~Madalynne

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