Nothing rejuvenates the soul like a walk in the woods, flying down a hill on your bike, moseying slowly through a field on horseback, hugging a curve in the road on your motorcycle or searching for Bigfoot. For recreation seekers, southeast Ohio’s trails are endless paths to explore.
Hiking
From historic landmarks and hidden caves to peaceful bike trails and lakeside paths, Guernsey County’s trail network offers endless opportunities to reconnect with nature. Lace up your hiking boots, hop on your bike and discover why the best adventures begin on the trail.
Adventure awaits around every bend at Salt Fork State Park, Ohio’s largest state park, and a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With 15 official hiking trails, there’s a route for every explorer—from easy half-mile nature walks and cave hikes to a challenging 6.86-mile stretch of the legendary Buckeye Trail, part of Ohio’s 1,440-mile statewide trail system.
Families will discover even more reasons to hit the trail on the park’s interactive Storybook Trail – where pages of a children’s book are displayed along the path, combining the joys of reading with the wonders of nature. It’s the perfect way to inspire young adventurers while creating lasting family memories.
History buffs and curious explorers alike won’t want to miss Hosak’s Cave, a towering sandstone overhang steeped in local lore and believed to have served as a Civil War-era hideout. It’s one of the park’s most popular natural landmarks and an easy hike for visitors of all ages.
Looking for a paved path perfect for walking or biking?
The Great Guernsey Trail offers a relaxing journey through some of the county’s most picturesque scenery. This low-grade, paved trail winds through peaceful woodlands and crosses three scenic bridges. Whether you’re out for a family stroll, a leisurely bike ride, or a 12-mile fitness challenge.
Biking
For those craving even more outdoor adventure, Seneca Lake Park offers miles of wooded hiking and mountain-biking trails that surround Ohio’s third-largest inland lake. Shaded by towering trees and alive with birdsong and seasonal wildflowers, the trails provide a tranquil escape for cyclists.
Horseback Riding
Guernsey County, Ohio, offers a variety of horseback riding options for all skill levels. Several popular stables offer lessons, guided trail rides, or the option to bring your own horse and ride at your own pace.
Guided Horseback Trails
- Horseback Riding Safari tours at The Wilds immerse guests on a journey along the beautiful southeast Ohio hillsides overlooking rare and endangered animal species roaming in large, natural settings. Tours begin at The Wilds entrance and travel through breathtaking landscapes with spectacular views of safari areas and habitats.
- Let expert guides lead you along trails throughout Rocky Fork Ranch Resort’s picturesque rolling hills as you observe nature while riding one of their gentle, friendly horses. Riding lessons, barn tours, horse camp and other enjoyable activities are available year-round. Open all year with seasonal hours.
- Salt Fork Stables offers ten miles of enjoyable riding trails and is located 3 miles east of Salt Fork State Park.
- Self-Guided Horseback Trails
- For the experienced horseback rider, Salt Fork State Park has a camping area for horses and their owners with easy access to 72 miles of bridle trails. Bring your own horse and enjoy a unique getaway.
Motorcycling
Whether you’re planning a leisurely afternoon cruise or a weekend road trip, the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau has mapped out five self-guided motorcycle tours that showcase the area’s rolling hills, charming communities, and historic covered bridges. Every route is designed to help riders experience the best of Ohio’s backroads at their own pace.
Five self-guided motorcycle tours:
- The National Road Tour
- Roscoe Village/Amish Country Tour
- Seneca Lake Tour
- Salt Fork State Park Tour
- The Wilds Tour
- Covered Bridge Tour
Find your next motorcycle ride, download the routes here.
Wild About Wine
Follow the Wild About Wine trail through the rolling Appalachian foothills of Ohio and discover 15 unique wineries and craft breweries across Guernsey, Coshocton, and Muskingum counties. Along the way, savor locally crafted wines and beers while enjoying scenic countryside, charming communities, and unforgettable hospitality. In Guernsey County, the trail features three must-visit stops—Georgetown Vineyards & Tavern, Guernsey Brewhouse and YOLO Winery. Make it a weekend adventure with overnight getaway packages, transportation options, and discounted admission to The Wilds.
Map out your next tasting trip with the free Wild About Wine brochure.
Bigfoot
Venture into Bigfoot country! The elusive furry creature has been rumored to live in Ohio since the mid-1700s, specifically in Ohio’s largest State Park – Salt Fork! Since the mid-1980s, visitors have reported more than 36 alleged sightings in and around the park. Today, Salt Fork embraces the mystery with a Bigfoot-themed Eco-Discovery Center.
As you explore the park’s wooded trails, keep an eye on the tree line—you never know what you might spot.
Search for Bigfoot Yourself:
- Monthly Bigfoot Night Hikes! Hike the trail after dark in search of the legendary Bigfoot. The entire family will love it!
- Ohio Bigfoot Conference: Plan a visit around this annual conference at Salt Fork State Park the first weekend in May.
Learn more about Bigfoot’s history at Salt Fork State Park.
Request the Official Travel Guide Cambridge/Guernsey County, Ohio, and start planning your visit today!