Historic Sites & Places

The history of the region is still alive along the Appalachian Adventure Trail! Southeast Ohio was home to Native American cultures for thousands of years before European settlement, evidenced by mounds, petroglyphs, & other artifacts found across the region. Southeast Ohio was the gateway to the Northwest Territory & vital to the expansion of our country. Today, that pioneering spirit lives on in our residents & communities. History explorers will find the Appalachian Adventure Trail a one-of-a-kind window into our nation’s past.

Art & Culture

The Appalachian Adventure trail is home to a diverse array of artists who specialize in everything from Appalachian folk art to more modern works. The local artists are passionate about their home & love to share their enthusiasm & talents with visitors.

Parks, Forests, & Outdoor Activities

Shaped by the forces of weathering & erosion, the region is characterized by wooded ridge tops & winding river valleys. Known for its natural beauty & surprising diversity, the Appalachian Adventure Trail offers nearly endless outdoor recreation opportunities. Activities include day hikes, backpacking trips, fishing, camping, repelling, rock climbing, bird watching, and so much more. outdoor enthusiasts & nature lovers alike find unexpected adventures that will make them want to return time & time again.

Festivals & Events

Join the celebration! The region displays its true colors through a variety of festivals & events. Throughout the year visitors can enjoy local culture, arts, food, music & so much more at the many fairs, festivals, & events.

Shopping

With a wide selection of unique shops, markets, and orchards visitors will be sure to find that one-of-a-kind gift or keepsake. Artisan galleries, farmers markets, country boutiques, old time antique emporiums, & distinctive gift shops are just a few of the shopping adventure the trail has to offer.

Family Fun

Fun-filled adventures are around every corner! From water slides to historic train rides, the whole family will enjoy the many activities this region has to offer. You don’t have to be a kid to treasure these adventures. You might just be surprised to see the kid in you come to life!

Off the Beaten Path

If you have an adventurous spirit the region has even more to offer! Home to numerous oddities and rarely visited treasures the Adventure Trail has many “Off the Beaten Path” places just waiting to be explored. Some of theses may be a little tricky to find but they are well worth the effort!

Scenic Driving Tours

These recommended driving tours will help you make the most of your visit to this unique region. Whether you want to relive history, be moved by art and theater, or get in touch with nature - you will find it all right here!

Covered Bridges

Few things symbolize small-town America like a covered bridge. These wooden relics recall a time when life was simpler and closer to the land. Once a vital piece of transportation history, covered bridges are become as rare as the horse-drawn carriages that once traveled across them. Today, they lure the explorer to find the little streams and dirt roads that the twentieth century has almost passed by.

Quilt Barns

A quilt barn is a barn with a large quilt square painted or hung on the side so that the pattern can be view as people drive past. The designs for these colorful, geometric paintings are either taken from traditional quilt patterns or are one-of-a-kind designs created by local artists. Going out and finding these quilt barns is kind of like a treasure hunt. Plus, It’s a great way to explore the region’s country side.