Once in a while, if you have to put some distance between the modern high-rise and the age of wired interference for a truly out-of-this-world, back-in-time adventure, try Portsmouth. Nestled between Cincinnati and Marietta, next to the border of Kentucky, is this quaint little town with a population of almost 20,909. One thing is sure, there will not be one thousand and one surveillance camera on your back.
If you like outdoor adventures from hiking, fishing, biking, off-roading, rock climbing to camping, you will be spoilt for choice with the many surrounding parks and forests. The Wayne National Forest park, southeast of Ohio, covers almost a quarter million acres of Appalachian foothills. There are over 300 miles of trails in this National Forest alone. For more information, check http://www.waynenationalforest.com/
“The 1,095-acre Shawnee State Park is nestled in the 63,000-acre Shawnee State Forest. Once the hunting grounds of the Shawnee Indians, the region is one of the most picturesque in the state, featuring erosion-carved valleys and wooded hills • The rugged beauty of the area has earned it the nickname “The Little Smokies” See http://www.dnr.state.oh.us/parks/outdoorfun/tabid/74/Default.aspx
If you would rather be near a blue, crystalline clear lake, trek the Forked Run Park, “Forested hills, a picturesque lake and the lazy Ohio River characterize 791-acre Forked Run State Park • Located in the heart of Appalachia, colorful history, riverboats, scenic vistas and abundant wildlife give the park its rural charm.” http://www.dnr.state.oh.us/parks/parks/forkedrn/tabid/735/Default.aspx
Oh yes, before you trek up the forest mountains, titillate your taste buds at Bob Evans Farms with the new seasonal “Bob-B-Q® Memphis Spice-Rubbed Chicken Farm”. In Portsmouth, the Bob Evans Farms are in nearby Rio Grande, and remain a historic landmark to the once mom and pop restaurant turned national chain. http://www.bobevans.com/Default.aspx
Portsmouth is the midway point between the four major cities of Charleston, Cincinnati, Lexington and Columbus, approximately ninety miles away from each of these cities.
What next? Wall murals, Music Hall and Museums – next blog, please.
