tour tour magazine...leatherwood is a charming, cozy cabin just a few feet above the rocky fork...

TOURHigHland COUnTy

Family FUn | naTURe & OUTdOORs | HisTORy & CUlTURe

The best is yet to see when you visit

HigHland CounTy!

2 | Tour HigHland CounTy


400 Trailer & Tent Campsites • 28 Cabin Rentals

Visit our website for information about our SPECIAL VACATION PACKAGE

SOUTHERN OHIO’S400 ACRE FUN PLACE

FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY!

50 Bell Hollow Road, Latham, OH 45646 (4 miles east of Sinking Spring & 5 miles west of Latham on Rt. 124)

937-588-3725 • www.longsretreat.com

COME AND PLAY FOR THE DAY, OR SPEND THE NIGHT! GET AWAY FROM IT ALL AT LONG’S RETREAT!

Swim Beach • Splash Pad • Waterslides Grand-Prix Style Go Kart Track

Oasis Indoor Arcade • Paddleboats & Canoes Miniature Golf • Carousel • Gyro Xtreme • Kiddie Train • Water Wars • Inflatables

Fishing • Volleyball • Basketball • Tennis • General Store • Propane Gas • Firewood Laundry • 2 Shower Houses • Family Reunions • Group Outings











Cabin and Camper Rentals













































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Visit our website for more information!

Tour HigHland CounTy | 3

Find out what is happening in Highland County from our Schedule of Events on Facebook or at www.visithighlandcounty.com

Experience Highland County

February: Winter Brews & StewsMay: Paddle on PaintåJune: Back in Time FestivalJuly: Greene Countie Towne

Festival Rumble in the Hills

July: Festival of the BellsAugust: Leesburg FestivalSeptember: Highland County Fair Smokin’ in the HillsOctober: Oktoberfest

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Welcome to the newest edition of TOUR magazine your preview of the best of Highland County. We have become the preferred destination for day trips, weekend getaways, and extended vacations in the foothills of Appalachia.

Located within 65 miles of Dayton, Cincinnati or Columbus your trip is easy to enjoy after a short drive on any of the five major state roadways that meet in the center of the county.

If you are looking for water activities like boating, fishing, or kayaking our creeks and two lakes offer the perfect location for fun.

Overnight accommodations range from primitive camping to luxurious bed and breakfast cottages or cabins in remote wooden areas.

With an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients our eating places offer a wide range of menu items at reasonable prices for every budget. Sample the fresh offerings at our local farmer’s markets, at one of the many Amish or Mennonite stores or at the local candy store in uptown Hillsboro.

Shopping options are diverse including everything from handmade crafts to specialty boutique clothing and cosmetics.

TOUR will take you on a story telling journey throughout Highland County where the miles of adventure end with an open invitation for you to visit!

Visitors Bureau of Highland County 338 W. Main Street, Hillsboro, OH 45133 (937) 393-1111 [email protected]

Your Gateway to Getaway !

Back in Time Festival

Rumble in the Hills

Smokin’ in the hills

Oktoberfest

Highland County Fair


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✓Mobile Banking & Mobile Deposit

✓Online Banking & Bill Pay ✓Telephone Banking ✓ATM/Debit Cards ✓ATMs ✓Drive-Up Services

Locations in Highland, Brown &

Adams Counties

www.SouthernHillsCommunityBank.com

Greenfield 937-981-3685

Leesburg 937-780-2431

Lynchburg 937-364-2861

Ripley 937-392-4375

Georgetown 937-378-6134

West Union 937-544-2842

Peebles 937-587-3594

Hillsboro 937-402-4008


Highland County is practically bursting with scenic beauty, memorable characters, historical tales that are stranger than fiction, and attractions worthy of a few days’ stay. This southern Ohio county is truly your Gateway to Getaway.

Active visitors will salivate at the prospect of exploring two state parks in the county that feature beautiful lakes. Rocky Fork State Park east of Hillsboro dates back to 1950 when it was created for flood control purposes. It has evolved into much more than that, as boaters call it a paradise for water sports and anglers love the plentiful variety of fish available, including largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, muskellunge, walleye, catfish and carp. The lake boasts almost 2,000 acres of water and nearly 31 miles of shoreline. Fishing tournaments are popular there, and major speed boat race sponsors find the lake ideal for racing events. Each September, barbecue experts from around the country visit Rocky Fork State Park to take part in Smokin’ in the Hills. The event is officially on the Kansas City Barbecue Society competition schedule.

The popular campgrounds at Rocky Fork Lake offer primitive, electric and full hookup options.

Rocky Fork Lake


Hillsboro is the county seat and Highland County’s largest community, featuring Ohio’s oldest county courthouse still in operation. The beautiful Greek Revival courthouse dates back to 1834 and is Ohio’s oldest courthouse in continuous operation. The city was plotted with wide streets and the main thoroughfares are adorned with large and beautiful homes.

All of Hillsboro’s streets seemingly lead “uptown” to the business district, and with historic restorations and new construction in recent years the community is undergoing something of a renaissance. A new hotel project is in the works, and a host of thriving businesses serve the needs of residents and visitors alike.

Several Hillsboro residents have risen to prominence, including former Governor Allen Trimble,

cartoonist Milton Caniff, women’s temperance leader Eliza Thompson and sportswriter Hugh Fullerton.

Prominent activities in Hillsboro during the year include the Festival of the Bells in early July, the Christmas parade in December, and more intimate activities such as the Chocolate/Wine Walk sponsored by the Hillsboro Uptown Business Association.

The Highland County Historical Society is headquartered in Hillsboro and is very active in curating the area’s rich history. One such project is called “Voices from Lincoln,” about the old Lincoln School attended by African-American students during times of segregation. The society was also involved in updating and expanding Elsie Ayres’ history originally written for the city’s 1957 sesquicentennial. “The Hillsboro Story” is now in its third printing.

Hillsboro


Renew and Restore Your Connection to the Natural World Overnight accommodations are available at the Highlands Nature Sanctuary

in eight historic lodges. Book on-line at www.arcofappalachia.org.

Leatherwood Cabin Leatherwood is a charming, cozy cabin just a few feet above the Rocky Fork Creek. Located among a small cluster of private houses and cabins on rural Cave Road within walking distance of the hiking trail hub of the Appalachian Forest Museum. Two bedrooms, one bath, full kitchen. Up to four people.

Zen River Suite at the Hermitage The Zen River Suite is perched on the rim of the bluffs overlooking the breath-taking Rocky Fork Gorge. The bed, which sets close to the floor, affords a spectacular view through six floor-to-ceiling bedroom windows. Adjacent to the Eyrie Suite at Hermitage Lodge. Private entrance and deck. One bedroom, large living room, full bath, full kitchen. Adult guests only.

Eyrie Suite at the Hermitage Adjacent to the Zen River Suite above, the Eyrie has a stunning view from the deck and bedroom windows. Overlooking the Rocky Fork Gorge. Fully forested and remote setting. Slightly smaller than the Zen. Private entrance, one bedroom, livingroom-kitchenette, full bath and private deck. Adult guests only.

Ravenwood Retreat Center Ravenwood is fully-restored historic mill house from the mid to late 1800’s on an exceptionally scenic stretch of the Rocky Fork Gorge. Access to a hiking trail right outside your door. Two stories of glass windows, large livingroom/diningroom, large kitchen, one bath. Reserve either the first floor or the entire house – either gives you complete private use of the house and grounds.

Beechcliff Retreat Center Beechcliff is a fully remodeled turn-of-the-century group lodge with three full length porches, five bedrooms with two single beds each, large kitchen, large dining room, and a medium-sized living room. Bathroom is dormitory-style with two private baths and two showers. Designed for group gatherings. On the Rocky Fork Creek in a private forested setting.

Earthstar Lodge, Chanterelle Cottage, and Toadstool Suite Earthstar is a state-of-the-art monolithic Dome House with an interior that is artisan crafted out of native hardwoods and a gently curving exterior that melts into the landscape. This Dome House has been split into two private suites, which both sleep two. Next to the Dome House sits Chanterelle Cottage, a cozy loft apartment perfect for a couples retreat or a small family. This apartment has a master bedroom connected to a smaller room with a shared entryway. Adult guests only at Earthstar and Toadstool.

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• NET/TANF/Title XX Transportation Services: We provide non-emergency Medicaid transportation (NET) services for HCDJFS.We provide educational and employment training transportation through the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)Program of HCDJFS. We provide Title XX transportation services.• Specialized Transportation Program Grant - Over the past 17 years FRS Transportation has received 20 handicap accessible vehiclesand 4 standard minivans through the STP Grant with the Ohio Department of Transportation’s Office of Transit. These wheelchairaccessible vehicles have helped FRS Transportation to more fully help meet the needs of our disabled population of Highland County.• 2018 Ohio Coordination Mobility Management Project - Mobility Manager is working towards meeting the mobility needs ofHighland County through marketing & coordinating of current transportation services while looking for funding sources to increasetransportation services and mobility options for those who are not eligible for any of our other types of funding sources. Such as:• HARTS Fare Program: program offers affordable transportation for those who are elderly, disabled or considered low income livingwithin the Hillsboro City Limits or within a 5-mile radius of the center of Hillsboro. This service is provided by FRS Transportation bypurchasing a $20 or $25 HARTS Fare Card for 10 or 5 one way trips depending upon location, handicap, and age.• Highland County Locally Developed Transportation Plan: Our county transportation plan allows us to apply for FTA grant fund-ing for transportation services for the elderly, disabled, and for employment and employment training.

Working to keep Highland County MOVING! FRS Transportation, HCCAO, Chris Hopkins Transportation,

Carpenters House of Prayer/Shiloh Recovery Services are providers of various types of transportation in Highland County.

We will be happy to answer any of your transportation questions.

Serving the Transportation needs of Highland Countyby providing safe & reliable transportation services

For Information Contact Joseph Adray, HARTS/Highland County Mobility Manager at(937) 402-6156 Email [email protected] • HCCAO (937) 393-3458

Highland Area Rural Transportation System (HARTS)

provider vehicles are clearly marked for your

safety and easy identification.

• NET/TANF/Title XX Transportation Services: We provide non-emergency Medicaid transportation (NET) services for HCDJFS.We provide educational and employment training transportation through the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)Program of HCDJFS. We provide Title XX transportation services.• Specialized Transportation Program Grant - Over the past 17 years FRS Transportation has received 20 handicap accessible vehiclesand 4 standard minivans through the STP Grant with the Ohio Department of Transportation’s Office of Transit. These wheelchairaccessible vehicles have helped FRS Transportation to more fully help meet the needs of our disabled population of Highland County.• 2018 Ohio Coordination Mobility Management Project - Mobility Manager is working towards meeting the mobility needs ofHighland County through marketing & coordinating of current transportation services while looking for funding sources to increasetransportation services and mobility options for those who are not eligible for any of our other types of funding sources. Such as:• HARTS Fare Program: program offers affordable transportation for those who are elderly, disabled or considered low income livingwithin the Hillsboro City Limits or within a 5-mile radius of the center of Hillsboro. This service is provided by FRS Transportation bypurchasing a $20 or $25 HARTS Fare Card for 10 or 5 one way trips depending upon location, handicap, and age.• Highland County Locally Developed Transportation Plan: Our county transportation plan allows us to apply for FTA grant fund-ing for transportation services for the elderly, disabled, and for employment and employment training.


Carpenters House of Prayer/Shiloh Recovery Services are providers of various types of transportation in Highland County.


Serving the Transportation needs of Highland Countyby providing safe & reliable transportation services

For Information Contact Joseph Adray, HARTS/Highland County Mobility Manager at(937) 402-6156 Email [email protected] • HCCAO (937) 393-3458

Highland Area Rural Transportation System (HARTS)

provider vehicles are clearly marked for your

safety and easy identification.

For Information Contact Joseph Adray, HARTS/Highland County Mobility Managerat (937) 402-6156 Email [email protected] Website www.harts4highland.org


Carpenters House of Prayer/Shiloh Recovery Services

are providers of various types of transportation in Highland County.

• NET/TANF/Title XX Transportation Services: We provide non-emergency Medicaid transportation (NET) services for HCDJFS. We provide educational and employment training transportation through the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Program of HCDJFS. We provide Title XX transportation services.• Specialized Transportation Program Grant - Over the past 17 years FRS Transportation has received 20 handicap accessible vehicles and 4 standard minivans through the STP Grant with the Ohio Department of Transportation’s Offi ce of Transit. These wheelchair accessible vehicles have helped FRS Transportation to more fully help meet the needs of our disabled population of Highland County.• 2018 Ohio Coordination Mobility Management Project - Mobility Manager is working towards meeting the mobility needs of Highland County through marketing & coordinating of current transportation services while looking for funding sources to increase transportation services and mobility options for those who are not eligible for any of our other types of funding sources. Such as:• HARTS Fare Program: program offers affordable transportation for those who are elderly, disabled or considered low income living within the Hillsboro City Limits or within a 10-mile radius of the center of Hillsboro. This service is provided by FRS Transportation by purchasing a $20 or $25 HARTS Fare Card for 10 or 5 one way trips depending upon location, handicap, and age.• Highland County Locally Developed Transportation Plan: Our county transportation plan allows us to apply for FTA grant funding for transportation services for the elderly, disabled, and for employment and employment training.

Serving the Transportationneeds of Highland County

by providing safe & reliable transportation services

Highland Area Rural Transportation System (HARTS) provider vehicles

are clearly marked for your safety and easy identifi cation.

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Funding for this advertisement is partially paid for by ODOT o� ce of transit

Highlands Nature Sanctuary is a beautiful 2,800-acre preserve for some of the most beautiful wildflower displays in the state of Ohio. The sanctuary is noted for the incomparable Rocky Fork Gorge, a 100 foot high canyon with stunning rock formations, ancient white cedars, grottoes, springs and stone arches. An easy way to enjoy the Rocky Fork Gorge is to hike the Valley of the Ancients trail about a half-mile in length with steps that descend 100

feet from the museum to the creek. Along the trail, hikers will have a chance to see Virginia Bluebells, Hepatica, Snow Trillium, Bloodroot, Wild Ginger, Wood Poppy, White Trillium and other species of stunning wildflowers.

With 16 miles of nature trails that are open to the public from April through October from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Highlands Nature Sanctuary is free to visitors who stop at the Appalachian

Forest Museum to pick up a free daily hiking pass to access the trails.

Caves on the property, once a popular tourist destination, have been restored to their natural state and provide refuge for four species of bats.

Overnight accommodations are available at Highlands Nature Sanctuary and can be reviewed and booked online at www.arcofappalachia.org.

Highlands Nature Sanctuary

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Forest Museum Trailhead — 3 trails Trailhead closed to the public and members November-March.

Directions: The Forest Museum is one mile south of Hwy 50 on Cave Road. The parking entrance is on your left, across from the Museum. These relatively short Museum trails are some of the most stunning trails in all the Sanctuary. See special hours below.

Etawah Woods Trail: 1.2 mile moderate trail begins at Museum Valley of the Ancients: 0.5 mile moderate trail begins at Museum Barrier Ridge Trail: 3.0 mile moderate to difficult loop. A long gradual climb up to the top of Barrier Ridge with a faster descent. We recommend carrying this map and your cell phone since sometimes the route is difficult to find in autumn when the leaves have just fallen. The trail begins in the lower elevation parking lot west of the Museum. Look for a set of stone stairs on the right hand side in the middle of the lower parking lot. Do not begin this trail after 1 pm to ensure return before the parking lot closes.

Barrett’s Rim Trailhead — 2 trails Directions: Follow Cave Road south until you pass Browning Road on the right. Turn into the very next

parking lot on the right. It is a gravel parking lot with a wooden fence at its entrance.

Barrett’s Rim Trail: 2.5 mile moderate loop. A mostly level trail with one short descent and ascent. The trail follows the Rocky Fork Creek along the base of a vertical rock wall. The area is often referred to as the “Jewel of the Rocky Fork Gorge.” Roundtop Loop: 1.75 mile moderate loop. Roundtop winds through a rich sugar maple forest and through a chestnut oak shale barrens. The trail makes a gradual climb to the ridgetop and back down.

Cedar Run Trailhead — 1 Trail Directions: Turn left onto Hwy 50 from Cave Road and follow Route 50 for 3 miles. After you pass

Browning Road on your left, look for a gravel parking lot on the left in front of an old silo. The trail begins at the parking lot.

Cedar Run Trail: 2.5 mile moderate loop. Trail begins by following an old farm lane into an open meadow and then enters the woods as it continues to the Cedar Run Gorge. Trail provides beautiful views of rock walls and fern-covered boulders along spring-fed Cedar Run. A spur leads to a small waterfall nearly hidden by a fallen rock.

Miller State Nature Preserve — 3 trailsOwned and Operated by Ohio Division of Natural Areas & Preserves

Directions: Follow Cave Road south until it dead ends, then turn right on Barrett’s Mill Road. Cross over the Rocky Fork Creek. Miller’s parking lot, which is signed, will be on the right, midway up the first hill. Drive or walk down the long lane to the trailhead. Miller boasts classic Rocky Fork scenery with rock-scapes, sparkling streams, and spring flowers. Three trails are available for hiking: the Falls Trail, a 1 mile moderate loop, the Tuliptree Trail, a 0.75 mile easy to moderate loop, and the Arch Trail, a 0.5 mile moderate loop.

Kamelands Trailhead — 1 trail Directions: Follow Cave Road north to Hwy 50 and turn left (west). The parking lot is exactly 0.5 miles

down the road on your right. Park near the old barn and walk towards Hwy 50. To the right of the driveway a trail sign leads you underneath Hwy 50 through an old cattle tunnel and onto the Kamelands Trail.

Kamelands Trail: 2 mile moderate loop. Mostly level trail. This trail leads through rolling meadows to the wooded corridor bordering the high bluffs of Rocky Fork Creek, directly across the gorge from the Forest Museum. This trail boasts immense ancient oaks, interesting rock formations, and an optional spur trail down to the canyon floor.

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Crow Point Trailhead — 1 trail Directions: Follow Cave Road north. Just before you reach Hwy 50, turn right at the mowed entrance. The parking lot is signed.

Ashy Sunflower Trail: 1 mile easy loop, mostly level. This trail runs through a planted prairie that is stunningly beautiful in early- to mid-August when the rare but showy ashy sunflower bloom. Dog Friendly - but must be on a 6-foot leash.

Ridgeview Farm Trailhead — 1 trail Farm Restoration Model and American Chestnut Demonstration Orchard Directions: Follow Cave Road north to Hwy 50. Turn left. One mile west of Rainsboro on Hwy 50, turn south onto

State Rt. 753 at the blinking yellow light. After 1.8 miles, turn left at the sign for Beaver Cemetery on a gravel lane. Keep left at the fork and follow the lane back to the cemetery, where you can park. Trail entrance is signed.

Ridgeview Farm’s Restoration Trail. 1.5 mile easy to moderate loop trail features educational signs interpreting the biodiversity-boosting practices that are taking place on this old farmland. The trail winds through gently rolling open fields and into a swamp forest that shelters skunk cabbage and marsh marigolds. Along the trail is an Educational Chestnut Orchard featuring three species of chestnuts and blight resistant F-3 hybrids. Listen for orchard orioles and the rare Henslow’s sparrow, Ridgeview’s signature birds. This preserve exists to demonstrate that restoring biodiversity is possible on an abandoned farm.

Sanctuary West Trailhead — 1 trail Directions: Follow Cave Road north to Hwy 50. Turn left. One mile west of Rainsboro, turn south onto State Rt. 753 at the blinking yellow light. Follow OH 753 for 2.8 miles. The mowed lot will be on your left, on a lower

elevation than the road. Use caution when leaving the parking lot - this is a blind exit.

Listening Trail: 0.5 mile moderate to difficult trail following the bluffs of the Rocky Fork with a spur down to the creek. Gorgeous views of the Rocky Fork Creek and handsome rock formations.

Maude’s Cedar Narrows Trailhead — 2 trails Directions: Follow Cave Road north to Hwy 50. Turn left. One mile west of Rainsboro, turn south onto State Rt. 753 at the blinking yellow light. 1.2 miles down 753 turn right onto McCoppin Mill. Follow McCoppin Mill for

another 1.3 miles. After crossing over the Rocky Fork Bridge, take the next left on Skeen Road. Follow Skeen around the bend. When the road straightens, (at the 0.3 mile mark), turn onto the first lane on your left. Look for tall hickory trees shading the trailhead parking lot.

Prothonotary Trail: 0.5 mile moderate loop with a descent into the canyon floor and back up along the rim. Gorgeous views of the Rocky Fork Creek, rich spring wildflowers, and interesting rock formations. Maude’s Cedar Narrows Trail: : 1.5 mile moderate loop with a 50-foot rise and fall in elevation. Maude’s comes off the right loop of Prothonotary Trail and returns to the trailhead parking lot. The trail follows the foot of the bluffs overlooking the Rocky Fork Creek, then up Franklin Branch tributary. Marvelous spring wildflower displays and rock formations. Great grassland birding on the return route.

TRAIL HOURS Open daily sunrise to sunset (see exceptions below);

Weather permitting. Note: Parking lots and trails are not managed for snow nor ice removal.

Standard Museum & Museum Trail Hours(Trailhead #1 on Map)

Temporarily closed for COVID-19 - go online for updates9:30 am - 4:30 pm

April 1 - October 31, 9:30am - 4:30 pm

See a maintenance issue on a trail?

Text Ethan at 513-508-8549 (cell)

Emergency Numbers to call or text: 9am - 5pm at 937-365-1935

After hours: Tim at 937-509-2796 Ethan at 937-588-1268 (land line)


Hiking the Highlands

Nature SanctuaryThe Arc of Appalach ia

Preserve System

www.arcofappalachia.org

The Arc of Appalachia is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting the beauty, balance & biodiversity of Ohio’s wildlands. Of the Arc’s 20 preserves, the Sanctuary is the oldest and the largest, as 3050 acres. It’s central feature is the Rocky Fork Gorge, renowned for its steep canyon walls, wildflower showcases, springs, grottos, and rare botanical treasures.

Hours: Trails are open to the public all year round from sunrise to sunset, EXCEPT for the Appalachian Forest Museum and its three trails, which are open seasonally each year from April 1 - October 31, 9:30am - 4:30 pm, and closed in the winter for safety reasons. Sanctuary parking lots and trails are not cleared of ice nor snow in the winter.

Nature Preserve regulations apply, including staying on trail at all times, and not collecting nor disturbing any plant, animal or minerals. Please see website for complete trail regulations.

Safety Warning: Most of the Sanctuary trails are narrow, often not level, and traversing dangerous cliff country. Other standard outdoor perils exist, such as ticks, poison ivy and treacherous footing in the winter. Visitors must hike at their own risk. Children must be kept close to their guardians and carefully in hand. Youths 18 or younger may not hike without a guardian . The Arc website provides directions to the trailheads, and describes each trail and its level of difficulty.

About Dog Friends: Because the Sanctuary is a world-class destination for wildflowers that grow immediately bordering the trails, dogs are not permitted on Sanctuary trails except for Crow Point and Ridgeview Farm, where dogs may accompany guests when kept on a six foot leash. Other dog friendly destinations include Fort Hill, also managed by the Arc.

Check out the Arc’s other nature preserves and hiking destinations online. The Arc has saved over 7000 acres of land in its quarter century of stewardship. Arc land protects over 1100 species of plants, 80 of which are state-listed as rare & endangered, and provides outstanding habitat for tens of thousands native plant and animal species. 99 bird species have been documented at the Sanctuary, including many that are rare and/or in decline.

Directions. 7660 Cave Road, Bainbridge, OH 45612. The Museum is located one mile south of US-50 on Cave Road, 4 miles west of Bainbridge, 16 miles east of Hillsboro, in Highland & Ross Counties. Arc services to the public are 100% dependent upon tax-deductible donations. If you love us, please support us!


Hiking the Highlands

Nature SanctuaryThe Arc of Appalach ia

Preserve System


The Arc of Appalachia is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting the beauty, balance & biodiversity of Ohio’s wildlands. Of the Arc’s 20 preserves, the Sanctuary is the oldest and the largest, as 3050 acres. It’s central feature is the Rocky Fork Gorge, renowned for its steep canyon walls, wildflower showcases, springs, grottos, and rare botanical treasures.

Hours: Trails are open to the public all year round from sunrise to sunset, EXCEPT for the Appalachian Forest Museum and its three trails, which are open seasonally each year from April 1 - October 31, 9:30am - 4:30 pm, and closed in the winter for safety reasons. Sanctuary parking lots and trails are not cleared of ice nor snow in the winter.

Nature Preserve regulations apply, including staying on trail at all times, and not collecting nor disturbing any plant, animal or minerals. Please see website for complete trail regulations.

Safety Warning: Most of the Sanctuary trails are narrow, often not level, and traversing dangerous cliff country. Other standard outdoor perils exist, such as ticks, poison ivy and treacherous footing in the winter. Visitors must hike at their own risk. Children must be kept close to their guardians and carefully in hand. Youths 18 or younger may not hike without a guardian . The Arc website provides directions to the trailheads, and describes each trail and its level of difficulty.

About Dog Friends: Because the Sanctuary is a world-class destination for wildflowers that grow immediately bordering the trails, dogs are not permitted on Sanctuary trails except for Crow Point and Ridgeview Farm, where dogs may accompany guests when kept on a six foot leash. Other dog friendly destinations include Fort Hill, also managed by the Arc.

Check out the Arc’s other nature preserves and hiking destinations online. The Arc has saved over 7000 acres of land in its quarter century of stewardship. Arc land protects over 1100 species of plants, 80 of which are state-listed as rare & endangered, and provides outstanding habitat for tens of thousands native plant and animal species. 99 bird species have been documented at the Sanctuary, including many that are rare and/or in decline.

Directions. 7660 Cave Road, Bainbridge, OH 45612. The Museum is located one mile south of US-50 on Cave Road, 4 miles west of Bainbridge, 16 miles east of Hillsboro, in Highland & Ross Counties. Arc services to the public are 100% dependent upon tax-deductible donations. If you love us, please support us!



40 E Main Street Leesburg, OH 45135

(937) 780-2253 batterupbakeryleesburg

Take me out to Batter Up Bakery to enjoy the aroma! It’s the scent of our commitment to quality baking with the best ingredients from scratch. We offer a selection of freshly baked cupcakes, cakes, cookies, brownies

and handmade donuts, as well as seasonal and bake-to-order specialties (including allergy friendly items that are egg, dairy, sugar and/or gluten free)!

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937-393-9100

Full Line of Purina, Kalmbach, Umbarger, Hubbard,Rowe, High Noon, Sunglo, and ADM Feeds.

Sullivan and Weaver Show Supplies

402 N. West Street | Hillsboro, OH 45133

Convenient Drive-ThruBird Feed, Pet Foods and Accessories, Animal Wellness, Horse and Livestock Feed, Show Supplies, Specialty Gift Items, Wildlife Feed,

Fertilizer, Seeds, Flowers, Plants, Hanging Baskets, Mums and More!

Master Feed Mill manufactures a full line of feed locally sold at Ventura’s Feed.

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Paint Creek State ParkPaint Creek State Park encompasses 5,652 acres with 25 miles of bridle trails and 12 miles of mountain bike trails. There are hiking trails through mature woodlands and open meadows. Fishermen love the 1,148-acre lake that is home to bass, crappie and other species.

Nearby is the community of Greenfield, situated along the creek that divides Highland and Ross counties. Many visit Greenfield to enjoy the scenery, experience the festivals, and learn about the community’s fascinating

history. Founded in 1799, Greenfield once had an active quarry that produced limestone for some beautiful churches and homes that remain irresistibly photogenic.

Paint Creek, and the hiking and biking trail that runs alongside the creek, offer beautiful scenery and a chance to burn off some calories. Kayakers enjoy the waters of the Paint during warm weather months, and the bike path that begins at Felson Park is a popular venue for bikers, hikers, walkers and joggers.

After a few hours of exploration or exercise, hungry visitors may seek refreshment at the popular Pot Belly Pig restaurant, the Catch 22 Sports Pub (now offering local microbrews) or a plethora of other establishments in Greenfield. Another downtown stalwart, Marple’s Tattered and Torn Primitives, tempts collectors with interesting antiques and artwork.

Several seasonal festivals liven up Greenfield, including the Greene Countrie Towne Festival on the third weekend of July featuring free entertainment, lots of food,


Miller's Bakery & Furniture

960 Wheat Ridge Road • West Union, Ohio 45693937-544-8524

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Enjoy a scenic drive and visit our Furniture Store, Bakery, and

Bulk Food Store for something special!

Amish owned - Amish operated - Authentic Amish made

State Farm, Bloomington, IL1801132

I’m looking forward to serving your needs for insurance andfinancial services. Here to help life go right.®

CALL ME TODAY.

Please stop by and say, “Hi!”

Hello,neighbor!

Amatha Farrens, Agent226 N High Street

Hillsboro, OH 45133Bus: 937-393-8080

www.amathafarrens.com

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7019

4652

antique cars and tractors, parades and many other activities. Other seasonal events include the Souper Bowl in February featuring music, chili, soups, beverages and hand-thrown pottery bowls; a German themed Oktoberfest in late September, History Day and a Halloween parade in October, and a Christmas parade in December.

Just a few miles northwest of Greenfield is one of southern Ohio’s most beautiful 18-hole golf courses, Buckeye Hills. The sprawling and affordable course has been challenging golfers

for half a century and is being continuously improved.

In addition to its history that predates the founding of Ohio as a state, Greenfield is a kind of hub surrounded by Amish and Mennonite families who have come to the area more recently from Pennsylvania, Virginia, Maine and other areas. Horse-drawn carriages and households with laundry hanging from clotheslines provide clues as to the friendly and peaceful lifestyle of the community whom have chosen a less technological,

more personal approach to life. Their plows are pulled by work horses, not tractors, and they are creative in their business endeavors, offering items such as awnings, baked goods, small engine repair, garden supplies and other items from their homes scattered throughout Highland and surrounding counties. Some websites and local publications referred to the “Amish and Mennonite Trail” and list some of the merchandise available from these self-described “plain people.”


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Highland County Rural Transit

937-393-0585 313 Chillicothe Ave Hillsboro, Ohio 45133 Office houurs 8:00am—5:00pm

HIGHLAND COUNTY RURAL TRANSIT

RIDER POLICY

No Smoking or Tobacco Products No Food or Drinks No Alcohol, Drugs or Weapons No Disruptive Behavior (Could result in

loss of transportation privileges) Seat belt must be worn at ALL times by

ALL passengers Booster seat must be used by those 4

to 8 years of age who are under 4’9” provided by parent/guardian

Children under the age of four (4) or weigh under forty (40) pounds must be secured in a Federally approved child safety seat provided by the Parent/Guardian

An adult must accompany children under the age of eighteen (18) except where contractually obligated

Do not expect “Excessive Driver Assistance”

Drivers are NOT permitted to enter a passenger’s residence

Be courteous and respectful of other passengers and their personal property

Drivers do NOT make “non-scheduled” stops

Pease remove all personal items when exiting vans.

Any delays or cancellations due to ad-verse weather and road conditions will be given on the local radio stations WSRW—106.7 (Hillsboro) and WVNU—97.5 (Greenfield).

ADVERSE WEATHER POLICY

FARES

FARE INFORMATION Scheduled Bus Route One ($1.00) dollar each time you board a new bus. Note: Changing over to the connector bus is considered boarding a new bus . On-Demand Routes Inside Hillsboro City Limits $1.00 Within Ten (10) miles of City Limits $2.00 Over Ten (10) miles of City Limits $3.00

All inclusive Transit Medical, Personal,

Shopping

During this time FRS is offering same day on demand services on your transportation needs. Call

937-393-0585313 Chillicothe Ave.

Hillsboro

Located just a few miles South of the Bainbridge Amish Country, JR’s General Store, Country Crust Bakery and Windy Ridge Belgium’s is Fort Hill Earthworks and Nature Preserve. This is a beautiful sanctuary and is well worth your time to visit while you are in the area! It is also home to the mile and a half long earthwork, which was believed to be a ceremonial gathering place for the people of the ancient Hopewell culture.

The preserve is located at 13641 Fort Hill Rd, Hillsboro and can be accessed directly from Route 41 via Fort Hill Road. If you are visiting the preserve in the spring, be sure to keep an eye out for all

the beautiful flowers. Opposite the preserve entrance you can see a remarkable site of thousands of wild Blue Bell has a growing along the roadside.

There are several trails hikers can explore. You can’t miss the trailhead which is marked with a kiosk that shows the maps of the different trails. Plan to spend about two hours if you want to hike to the top to see the earthworks via the Fort Hill Trail. The trails are very well marked and signs display trail maps as you go, making access very user friendly.

There is a beautiful stone and timber pavilion located a short

walk from the parking area. Restroom facilities are located by the pavilion. Gigantic trees that are hundreds of years old are the backdrop to the pavilion. This would be the perfect place to have a picnic, graduation party, family reunion or wedding. The pavilion area can be reserved for special private events and is equipped with electric.

Most people agree that the first visit to Fort Hill Earthworks and Nature Preserve won’t be the last! More detailed information can be found at: https://www.ohiohistory.org/visit/museum-and-site-locator/fort-hill-earthworks

Fort Hill


Highlands Nature Sanctuary Trail

1. Begin your road trip on U. S. Rt. 50 going east out of Hillsboro. Travel toward the town of Rainsboro, about 7 miles east of Hillsboro. As you enter Rainsboro, take a right on Barrett Mill Rd. where you’ll quickly see Rainsboro Elementary School on the right.

2. About 5 miles down the road is your first access point for a hike above Rocky Fork Gorge. As the road descends down a steep hill, look carefully to the left for a little two-car parking area and a gravel path into the woods. A sign marks the entrance to the Eugene and Harriet Miller Nature Sanctuary.

3. The 85-acre Miller Sanctuary is part of the Highlands Nature Sanctuary (HNS), so you will need a permit to hike the trail (see sidebar). Park either at the small lot, or venture down the path to the second parking area in the woods. Walking high above the Rocky Fork Gorge at first, the trails then descend into the gorge.

4. Back on Barrett Mill Rd. continue southeast over the bridge spanning Rocky Fork Creek and go left onto Cave Road. Drive about 1 mile up the road to find the Barrett’s Run Trailhead on the left. Owned also by the HNS, the same access hours and permit requirements apply.

5. Even if you have not left your car or motorcycle at this point, you can still get a taste of the gorge as Cave Road begins to wind through the forest and rocks. When the road turns to gravel, don’t miss the small cave alongside the road on the right.

6. Further along Cave Rd. look for the cottages and cabins available through the HNS. Then their Forrest Museum appears on the left. Open April through October until 4:30 PM, this headquarters for the HNS is where you can view exhibits, learn more about cottage rentals, and obtain trail permits.

7. Back on Cave Rd. for a few miles, U.S. Route 50 comes into view. Turn right onto U. S. 50 to next view some Amish and Mennonite businesses. These businesses are all closed on Sundays, so plan ahead.

8. Proceed east on U.S. 50 until you come up on Route 41 on the right. You have gone too far if you enter the town of Bainbridge. Follow U.S. 41 south to a set of large grain bins at the top of the hill. Continue on this route to visit Country Crust Bakery on the left. With propane for lighting and heating, owners follow their religious beliefs by producing electricity with a generator, only as needed for the business.

9. Within site on the other side of the road is J. R.’s General Store. Inside you’ll find supplies for baking and sewing, crafts, toys, candles and upholstered rockers and gliders. Half the building is a grocery store, where bulk foods are available in smaller containers. Meats, cheeses and baked goods can be found in the deli area.

10. Continuing down Rt. 41 less than a mile is Crafts Unlimited and Dutch Kitchen. As the name describes, this is a limited-menu restaurant where you can also shop for Amish-style decorations, furniture, prints and rural artwork.

11. There are dozens of additional home-based businesses in the area, shown on the adjacent map. Most serve the needs of their fellow Amish and Mennonites, but they certainly welcome all customers.

12. A final destination less than a half-mile down Rt. 41 is the Bainbridge Auction. During Spring through Fall, Amish growers offer items from their greenhouses and gardens to commercial buyers. The public is welcome to bid on fresh vegetables, fruits, bedding plants, and other flowers. To determine auction days and times, call (937) 365-1263.

13. From this point, you have the option of returning to Hillsboro or continuing your travels to businesses and attractions in the region. Feel free to contact the Visitors Bureau of Highland County with questions or comments.

Scenic Drive, Gorge & Amish Businesses

Whether you call it a scenic drive or an educational road trip for the kids and grandkids, we offer this route to explore southeast Highland County. This route gets you as close to the Rocky Fork Gorge as a car or motorcycle can get. For those who want to locate Amish eating places and Mennonite businesses, this route takes you past many in the area where the counties of Highland, Ross, Pike and Adams come together.

Trail aCCeSS

requireMenTS:To protect trails and

habitat, access by the public must be limited.

You can use the trails mentioned here between

the months of April through October, 9:30 am to sunset.

Obtain a free permit from the Highlands Nature

Sanctuary (part of the Arc of Appalachia organization).

Those who purchase a Wilderness Hiking Decal may

hike all trails year-round from sunrise to sunset

Get a trails map on-line by searching

“Highlands Nature Sanctuary

trails map”.


Outdoor adventure that can only be found in Highland County

Walk the trail and discover the picturesque waterfall at Fallsville Wildlife area (as pictured on the front cover). Find the trail head just south of the ONDR Wildlife Headquarters at 10211 Careytown Road, New Vienna.

Spectacular wildflower displays along dolomite cliffs and slump blocks can be found along 3 miles of trails at Miller Sanctuary State nature Preserve. Off of US Route 50, find the trail head 2.1 miles south on Barrett Mill Road.

Hear the distinctive call of the bobwhite quail at Oldaker Wildlife area located off of US Route 50, by traveling one mile northeast on County Road 6-C.

WILD & FREE in Highland County


zz

Visitors to Highland County can proceed in any direction and find interesting things to see and do. “The Friendly Village” of Leesburg is home to the popular Batter Up Bakery, Saucy Sisters Pizza and the Main Street Soapery. The excellent food and all-natural products keep people coming back again and again.

Fort Salem Indian Mound near Lynchburg (4206 Certier Rd) was a local secret for years until restoration of the area began in 2007. Today the site offers a peaceful and beautiful respite from the noise and commotion of the 21st century world.

Just across the Adams County line is one of the most remarkable prehistoric Indian earthworks in the world. Serpent Mound is a large effigy mound in the shape of a snake that can best be appreciated from an observation tower high above the grounds. In addition to the mystery of what the serpent represents, the entire site lies in the crater of an even more ancient meteorite impact crater. Visitors may come to ponder these eternal

mysteries or simply to have a picnic and walk about the grounds. If you bring young children, be sure to check out the museum and gift shop offerings that include fossils and semiprecious stones.

Small communities like Lynchburg and Sinking Spring dot Highland County and have interesting stories and attractions of their own. Lynchburg, in western Highland County, boasts a covered bridge and a history that includes a once-thriving distillery called Frieburg & Workum that produced more than one million gallons of whiskey in 1860. Some claim that a lawsuit involving the distillery and a Prohibition era bootlegger from the Cincinnati area may have been the inspiration for one of the characters in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel “The Great Gatsby.”

Wherever one ventures in Highland County, natural beauty and friendly people await. Each community has a history and a story to share. Perhaps it’s time you planned a visit to Highland County, your Gateway to Getaway.

Your Gateway to Getaway !

Find us on Facebook @VisitorsBureauofHighlandCounty visit our website at www.visithighlandcounty.com

Visitors Bureau of Highland County, 338 W. Main Street, Hillsboro, OH 45133 (937) 393-1111 [email protected]


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Visit Fort Hill

Site Partner Logo Standardsv 1.1 • 05.20.14

Fort Hill Archaeological Preserve protects a 2000 year old large earthen-walled

ceremonial enclosure on its flat ridgetop and shelters one of the finest and oldest

forests in Ohio. Eleven miles of trails immerse hikers in the beauty of Ohio’s Appalachian

hill-country. Free to the public. Open daily. See website for details.

managed by the ARC OF APPALACHIA PRESERVE SYSTEM


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tour tour magazine...leatherwood is a charming, cozy cabin just a few feet above the rocky fork...

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