July 1 - Vinton County Courier

Vinton 

Your Official 2012 

County 

Guide To 

Your Place For All Seasons 

www.vintoncountytravel.com · 1-800-596-4459

2 

Tired of surfi ng the 

web for the perfect 

lodging place? 

Check us out for all 

your lodging needs 

Cabins, Cottages, 

Lodges, Inns, and even 

a Castle. 

Every facility has been 

inspected and has 

earned the Blue Ribbon 

Seal of Approval! 

Frontier Log 

Cabins 

888-332-6747 

Ravenwood 

Castle 

740-596-2606 

ravenwoodcastle.com 

Sunrise Log 

Cabins 

888-601-3085 

American Heartland 

Cabins 

800-833-0262 

americanheartlandcabins.com 

Cottage at 

Scenic Way 

888-892-8640 

scenicway.com 

Barton Meadows 

888-340-3444 

bartonmeadows.com 

Blue Ribbon 

Accommodations 

are inspected for 

Safety, 

Cleanliness, and 

Truth in Advertising. 

Mention this ad when 

placing your 

reservation and 

receive a free gift! 

Autumn Ridge Cabins 

888-340-3444 

autumnridgecabins.net 

Cabins by 

the Caves 

877-322-2283 

Barringer Ridge 

Cottages 

866-385-9770 

barringerridge.com 

www.vintoncountytravel.com · 1-800-596-4459 

Visit us on our website 

for great ! 

Old Man’s 

Haven 

800-274-5616 

Hocking Hills 

Cabins 

800-385-4161 

hockinghillscabins.com 

Wyandot Woods 

Properties 

877-365-8009

Welcome to Vinton County 

Dear Friend, 

All of the wonderful secrets of Vinton County are getting 

out. From couples seeking a romantic getaway to friends 

looking for a fun day trip to families seeking an action 

packed week of adventure, Vinton County can fulfill many 

tastes. In fact, more and more people are visiting Vinton 

County these days and when they visit once, they return 

again and again. 

We pride ourselves for providing an authentic smalltown 

vacation filled with outdoor experiences, scenic vistas and 

mom and pop businesses eager to serve you. 

Where else in the world can you handfeed a hummingbird, 

sleep in a Castle or hike along scenic forested trails without 

fighting overwhelming crowds of tourists? Plenty of 

places offer you a chance to spend your money but how 

many destinations give you a truly relaxing environment in 

which to make memories? 

That’s what we hear from our return guests. They come 

back again and again because there is no stress. There are 

no worries. There are no long lines to wait in. There are no 

hidden fees. It’s just you, your loved ones and a relaxing 

break from reality. 

We are located just off the beaten path in Ohio’s Hocking 

Hills region. In fact, many of our cabins and cottages are 

just a stone’s throw from the Hocking Hills State Parks. 

We’re close enough to Ohio’s cities to make a convenient 

weekend getaway... but far enough away to feel like you’ve 

really gone somewhere. 

Inside this guide, you will find information on our recreational 

opportunities, including one of the best single track 

mountain bike trails in Ohio. You’ll also find a list of upcoming 

events, descriptions of local landmarks including our 

Quilt Barns and even a driving tour of covered bridges. 

We hope you will enjoy your stay with us. 

The Vinton County Convention and Visitors’ Bureau. 


Table of Contents 

Welcome.......................................3 

A Stitch In Time.........................5 

Landmark Architecture.......9,38 

Come Out And Play................11 

Cross That Bridge 

When You Come To It.............12 

Happy Hunting.........................15 

Ghostly Adventures.................16 

Worth A 

Thousand Words......................19 

Vinton County Map.................20 

The Outdoors: 

A Directory...............................22 

Birds Of A Feather...................25 

Calendar Of Events..................26 

Our Members: Shopping, 

Lodging, And Service 

Directory....................................32 

3

4 

740-596-2408 


A 

Stitch 

In Time 

Vinton County’s Quit Barns 

There is no better way to explore the Vinton County 

countryside than by traveling the county’s Quilt Barn Trail. This 

trail, known as “A Stitch in Time: The Quilt Barns of Vinton 

County,” features twenty-seven barns throughout Vinton County. 

Quilters and barn enthusiasts alike will fall in love with the Quilt 

Barns of Vinton County. Imagine driving through the peaceful 

countryside to find the images of quilts hanging on barns. You 

won’t believe your eyes the first time you spot one of these beautiful 

works of art. 

What is a Quilt Barn? A Quilt Barn is simply a barn that is 

decorated with a large, painted quilt block. The tradition began 

in Adams County, Ohio when Donna Sue Groves honored her 

quilter mother by painting a quilt on the side of her barn. The 

concept caught on locally and a legacy was born. Now there are 

more than 1,000 Quilt Barns in Ohio and twenty-one other states. 

Every one of our Quilt Barns tells a story. From the people who 

own the barns to the stories behind the paintings and the quilt 

patterns themselves, please take the time to read the stories of 

each of the 27 Quilt Barns that grace our landscape. 

To tour the Quilt Barns and other county attractions, pick up or 

call to request a Quilt Barn Driving Tour brochure. That driving 

tour is broken into three convenient driving loops so you may 

spend a couple of hours or a couple of days touring our Quilt 

Barns. To tour just the Quilt Barns, pick up a Quilt Barn Trail 

Driving Tour Brochure at the Vinton County Visitors’ Center. 

Wilkesville Quilt Barn 


5

A Stitch In Time... 

Liberty Star Basket – 62130 Locker 

Plant Rd. – This red, blue and gold 

basket pattern brightens this Locker 

Plant Rd. barn just outside of McArthur. 

Painted by Vinton County government 

employees, the pattern is an 

Americana basket with a gold star 

and is one of the county’s most patriotic 

quilts. 

Basket Weave – 29457 Goosecreek 

Rd. - This 100 year old barn is set in 

a picturesque valley at the former site 

of Royal, Ohio. It is near the Mt. Olive 

Covered Bridge and was painted 

by Sojourners Care Network. 

A Pig’s Tail – 29214 Goosecreek 

Rd., McArthur - This vibrant red and 

blue pattern hangs on a white barn 

that was once part of a pig farm. Located 

conveniently close to the Basket 

Weave Barn and the Mt. Olive Covered 

Bridge, this is one of the most 

unique quilts in the county. 

Christmas Star – 33977 Kelly Rd. - It 

is Christmas all year long at the Rada- 

6 

baugh residence. The Christmas Star 

is an Americana pattern and is painted 

in cheerful shades of red, blue, green, 

yellow and creamy white. Owned by 

Pam and Larry Radabaugh, the farm 

has been in Pam’s family since 1912. 

This quilt was painted by the Radabaughs 

with the help of their children 

and grandchildren. 

Country Farm – 54245 St. Rt. 50 W. 

Londonderry - Travelers along the 

west end of St. Rt. 50 are now greeted 

by a beautiful quilt block hanging on 

a barn overlooking the highway. This 

star quilt is painted in cheerful shades 

of yellow, blue, green and red and was 

painted by members of the Country 

Roads Quilt Guild. 

On Wings of Eagles – 53413 Eagle 

Mills Rd., McArthur - This Eagle 

Township barn is an ideal spot for the 

pattern On Wings of Eagles. Painted 

by employees of the Herbert Wescoat 

Memorial Library, the pattern uses 

brilliant shades of red, green and yel- 


Cross And Crowns Quilt Barn 

low and stands out beautifully against 

the rustic barn. 

Corn and Beans – 55416 Pretty Run 

Rd., McArthur – This Civil War era 

pattern is located at the farm of Kathy 

Seitz. This pattern reminded Seitz of 

her grandparents’ garden at this farm 

and all the time she spent there as a 

child. It was painted in shades of rusty 

red, greens and beige and was painted 

by visitors at the Vinton County Air 

Show. 

Turkey Tracks – 627 South Market 

St., McArthur This quilt square 

was painted by visitors to the Vinton 

County Wild Turkey Festival. Even 

two members of the country music 

band Confederate Railroad got in on 

the act. 

Maple Leaf – 33213 Depue Rd., 

McArthur - This traditional Maple 

Leaf pattern is painted in beautiful 

autumn shades of orange, yellow, 

brown and burgundy. The barn 

owners chose this pattern for the sen

Mosaic Quilt Barn 

timental value for their family. The 

pattern and colors were chosen by 

the Thompson family who own the 

barn. Their family also painted the 

quilt. 

Mountains – 143 Vires Rd., Hamden 

- This red, white and blue quilt 

hangs on a barn at a working farm 

near Hamden. The owners have 

farmed the land for thirty years and 

the lady of the house is a quilter who 

loves this pattern. Set off from the 

road, the rolling hills offer a perfect 

backdrop to this lovely quilt barn. 

It was painted by park guests at the 

Lake Alma Beach Party in 2008. 

Ohio Star – 62249 Chillicothe St., 

Hamden – Barn owners Don and 

Lena Staten took great care in choosing 

this quilt block and colors. Painted 

in red, blue, brown and 

white, each color has meaning. Blue 

represents the Ohio River, red is for 

the Cardinal, and brown is for the 

Buckeye. A white background makes 

the star stand out against their red 

barn. This quilt was painted by members 

of the Staten family. 

The Fan – 73231 St. Rt. 124, Wilkesville 

- This quilt barn has a special 

meaning for its owner. The Fan pattern 

was chosen because the owner’s 

grandmother made a quilt using this 

pattern when she was born. Though 

a little yellowed with time, the owner 

still cherishes this quilt along with a 

photo of her loving grandparents who 

gifted the quilt to her so long ago. It 

was painted by attendees of the Vinton 

County Jr. Fair in 2008. 

Follow the Drinking Gourd – 1 

Yankee Rd., Wilkesville - This barn, 

located in the heart of Wilkesville, 

sits on a farm that was once part of 

the Underground Railroad. It is believed 

that quilt patterns were used as 

code for escaped slaves. The drinking 

gourd is a reference to the North Star 

and is believed to advise travelers to 

follow that navigational beacon to- 


ward freedom. This farm also has historical 

significance as it was an overnight 

stop for Confederate Brigadier 

General John Hunt Morgan during 

his infamous raid through Ohio. The 

pattern was painted by reenactors 

and other visitors who attended the 

Morgan’s Raid reenactment in Wilkesville 

in 2006. 

Summer Winds – 31935 St. Rt. 93 

North, McArthur - This structure is 

the Exhibition Building of the Vinton 

County Fairgrounds, an agricultural 

hub for Vinton County. This quilt 

square was painted by the Vinton 

County Senior Citizens. 

There’s No Place Like Home – 

28801 St. Rt. 93, McArthur - As the 

old addage tells us, there truly is no 

place like home. And this quilt, with 

its vibrant shades of green, burgundy 

and gold will remind you of the 

coziness of home. It was painted by 

the staff of the Vinton County Visitors’ 

Center. 

7

A Stitch In Time... 

Pine Tree – 24808 Creola-Hue Rd., 

Creola - A new species of tree can 

now be seen growing at Weaver’s Tree 

Farm in northern Vinton County. Although 

the red, blue, green and yellow 

plaid tree cannot be purchased 

for Christmas this year, it can be seen 

hanging on a barn at the farm. The 

Pine Tree quilt block at Weaver’s is 

one of the community’s most unique. 

The farm is also home to Lois’ Antiques. 

Mosaic – 23084 St. Rt. 93 S., Logan - 

This colorful pattern hangs on a beautiful 

old barn that has been converted 

into a gift shop and workshop. The 

big red barn now is home to The Old 

Country Boutique and Gourd Farm 

but was once part of a large working 

farm. This pattern was painted by the 

kids and advisors who attended the 

Vinton County 4-H Camp in 2008. 

Autumn Sojourn – 66437 St. Rt. 

56 E.– This rustic barn on St. Rt. 56 

is the perfect spot for a quilt block. 

Owners Jim and Patty Martin enjoy 

the fall and the red, green, yellow and 

cream colored quilt is reminiscent of 

an orchard in autumn. This quilt was 

painted by members of the McArthur 

Business and Professional Women’s 

organization. 

Whirlygig – 26711 Pumpkin Ridge 

Rd., New Plymouth - The Whirlygig 

quilt block that hangs on the Equestrian 

Ridge Riding Stable will stun 

you. The vibrant purples set against 

black make this a quilt you will remember. 

It was painted by the staff of 

the Vinton County Visitors’ Center. 

Airplane – 66285 Airport Rd. on 

the Vinton County Airport Shelterhouse 

– This colorful block features 

a red and yellow airplane soaring 

through a bright blue sky. While the 

airport shelter house is not a barn, it 

is an important location in the county 

and a highly visible place for local 

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residents and visitors alike. This quilt 

was painted by visitors to the Vinton 

County Air Show. 

Cross and Crowns – Bethel Rd., 

New Plymouth - The owner of this 

Bethel Rd. barn has close ties to the 

Cross and Crown quilt block as her 

last name is Crownover. The blue 

and white palette was also carefully 

chosen as it represents the colors of 

Crowntime Farm’s horse racing. This 

pattern was painted by the staff of the 

Vinton County Visitors’ Center. 

Schoolhouse – The Old Swan 

School on St. Rt. 93 N. – This classic 

quilt block hangs on the Old Swan 

School, one of Vinton County’s few 

remaining one room schoolhouses. 

This little red schoolhouse pattern is 

a cheerful addition to the school and 

a meaningful one for many. The quilt 

was painted by the people who attended 

a reception in honor of Miss 

Dorothy Scott, a former teacher at 

the school, who recently released a 

book about her experience as an educator. 

Friends, relatives and former 

students helped to paint this block in 

red, blue, yellow and brown. 

Farm Friendliness – 27384 St. Rt. 

328, New Plymouth- This lovely farm 

has been owned by the same family 

for five generations. The barn that 

features the quilt pattern was noted 

on the deed at the time the farm was 

purchased in 1833. The barn was 

originally built on the ground but 

was raised onto a sandstone foundation 

around the turn of the Twentieth 

Century. This pattern was painted by 

members of the Vinton County Convention 

and Visitors’ Bureau Board of 

Trustees 

Anvil – 107 Commercial St., Zaleski— 

This quilt celebrates a piece 

of Zaleski’s history. The Anvil pattern 

hangs on the village’s original blacksmith 

shop. This yellow and blue pat- 


tern is a striking addition to the villagescape. 

This barn is also home to a 

gift shop called Zaleski Candleworks. 

Shortcut To School – Wheelabout 

Rd. (Near Lake Hope State Park) 

This brightly colored quilt will make 

you want to buy crayons and head off 

for a day at school. Painted by park 

guests at Lake Hope State Park, this 

quilt hangs on the Hope School oneroom 

schoolhouse. The school was 

constructed in 1931 and rehabilitated 

several years ago. It now serves as an 

interpretive center on Saturdays during 

the summer. 

Horse Squares – 73930 Buck Lane, 

New Marshfield - The Horse Squares 

Quilt Barn is unlike any other in Vinton 

County. This red, white and black 

pattern features a shadowy stallion 

that was painted by an artist friend of 

the barn owner. It hangs on a barn at 

Uncle Buck’s Riding Stable. 

V-Block – 74815 U.S. Highway 50 

- ‘V’ is for Vinton County! This quilt 

square was painted by members of 

the Zaleski Super Kids 4-H Club and 

is located on the grounds of ReUse 

Industries, a public business that specializes 

in reusing and recycling. 

A Word of Caution 

When viewing the Quilt Trail, use 

caution when slowing or stopping 

near a site. Stopping along busy roads 

can be dangerous and illegal. All sites 

are on private property and should 

be viewed from the public roads, unless 

otherwise indicated at the site or 

if it is a business open to the public. 

We are indebted to our barn hosts for 

their hospitality. 

Request a Driving Tour 

Call 1-800-596-4459 to request a 

Quilt Barn driving tour brochure or 

pick up one at an area visitors’ center.

Ebenezer Church 

This historic church is located conveniently near the 

Hocking Hills State Park area as well as many of our 

community’s cabins. Organized in 1875, this United 

Methodist Church has a small congregation but a lot 

of hospitality. They welcome visitors to their Sunday 

service which begins at 9 a.m. Located at 23808 Creola- 

Hue Road, just south of State Route 56. Come as you are 

to worship in this welcoming historic church. 

Landmark Architecture 

Atkinson Fire Tower Shurtz Octagon Barn 

Atkinson Fire Tower 

Standing 65 feet high on top of Atkinson Ridge, the view 

from the fire tower on a clear day is impressive. The fire 

tower was built by Division of Forestry in 1929 and opened 

the following year. The first land purchase of the Zaleski 

State Forest was made shortly after the tower was completed. 

The tower remained in use until the mid 1970’s 

when more modern forms of fire detection became accessible. 

It was closed to the public in recent years but has reopened 

since undergoing a major renovation. The tower is 

open to the public and is located at the site of the Atkinson 

Ridge Pine Tree Hunter’s Quilt Barn Camp. 

Octagon Barn 

The Shurtz Octagon Barn was built around 1885 to house 

working teams, one or two buggy horses and the family’s 

milk cows. Back in the early days, the family’s main animals 

were about 600 head of sheep. Center timbers in the lower 

part are 55 feet long, and an estimated 75 feet high from the 

lower side of the cupola. The upper level was used to store 

grain, as well as hay for the horses and cattle. The octagon 

shape of the barn enhanced its function in dairy agriculture. 

It also approached the shape of a circle, reducing the amount 

of building material needed. Located on Shurtz Road on 

private property. Please view from the road and refrain from 

trespassing on private property. 





9

10 www.vintoncountytravel.com · 1-800-596-4459

Come Out and Play 

In a place that literally claims more trees than people, you are guaranteed 

a natural ecounter or two when you visit us. Vinton County is about seventy 

percent forested and much of that area is public land for everyone to enjoy. 

What’s your favorite outdoor activity? Chances are, you can probably do it 

here! Here are just a few suggestions for how you can enjoy the great 

outdoors in Vinton County. 

Hiking 

With miles of trails through our state parks and forests, 

there are plenty of places to get out for a hike. Our trails 

lead you past scenic lakes, through valleys of wildflowers 

and into breathtaking forests. Best of all, you won’t 

find yourself fighting crowds but instead will enjoy a 

peaceful and calm commune with nature. 

Mountain Biking 

Lake Hope State Park’s 17-mile singletrack bike trail 

was chosen as Ohio’s top mountain bike trail by readers 

of “Mountain Bike Magazine.” Built by volunteers from 

the Athens Bicycle Club, this trail was created to please 

mountain bikers of all skill levels. Trails wind through 

the park’s back country up steep hills, through ravines 

and along the lake shore. 

Street Bikes 

If street bicycles are more your speed, Lake Alma State 

Park has a bike path that begins at the park and travels 

into the City of Wellston. This bike path is approximately 

three miles and follows a lovely scenic route 

past the lake and through a wooded area. This is an 

especially nice place for young families and couples 

seeking a leisurely ride. 

Fishing and Boating 

Vinton County is home to three lakes - Lake Alma, Lake 

Hope and Lake Rupert - all of which are open for fishing. 

Anglers will find good catches of bluegill, catfish, 

crappie, largemouth bass and other species. A valid 

Ohio fishing license is required. Non-powered watercraft 

and boats with electric motors only are permitted 

on our lakes. 

Hunting 

Vinton County is a veritable paradise for hunters. The 

State Forests, the Wayne National Forest and a host of 

private lands open to hunters provide many opportu- 

nities for hunters. A great population of white tail deer, 

water fowl, wild boar, squirrel and other small game is 

found throughout the county. Prepare for your hunt at 

the outdoor shooting range at the Zaleski State Forest. 

A valid Ohio hunting license is required. 

Horseback Riding 

If exploring the world on horseback is more your 

speed, the Zaleski State Forest is a great place to start. 

This forest has more than fifty miles of horseback riding 

trails. Nearby Tar Hollow and Hocking state forests 

have additional trails for riding. All of the state forests 

have primitive horse camp areas as well. Didn’t bring 

your own horse? Never fear because we have riding 

stables that offer guided trail rides! See our Membership 

Directory for details. 

Geocaching 

Are you looking for a high tech treasure hunt? There 

are numerous geocaches hidden around Vinton County. 

So bring your GPS and head out explore our county 

and find hidden treasure. Caches can be found at the 

Moonville Tunnel, the King Tunnel, the covered bridges 

and other interesting locations. Need help getting 

started? Visit www.geocaching.com 

Birding 

Birders will marvel at the variety of species found here 

and will revel in the outdoor areas to view them. There 

are several public areas that are perfect for birding and 

many cabin properties encouraging birding on their 

lands as well. 

Motorcycles 

Vinton County’s hills and dales provide fun and challenging 

roads for motorcycle enthusiasts. Tom’s Run in 

September is a poker run that raises money for a good 

cause and that travels along some of the county’s best 

driving roads. 


Lake Hope Bike Path 11

Cross That 

Bridge 

When You 

Come To It 

Once a vital piece of transportation history, 

covered bridges are becoming as rare as the 

horse drawn carriages that once traveled them. 

In Vinton County, just five of the more than 60 

covered bridges that once dotted the landscape 

remain today. Although most are not open to 

vehicle traffic, they all are open to pedestrians 

and are worth a visit. 

The most famous of Vinton County’s 

bridges is the Ponn Bridge. Also 

known as Gheers Mill and Barnes 

Mill, this bridge is best known as the 

Humpback Bridge. Built in 1874, the 

Humpback Bridge is the longest in 

the county and attracts the most visitors 

for its unusual shape. There are 

just a handful of these “humpback” 

bridges remaining in the world today. 

It has been closed to motor vehicles 

for several years but remains open to 

pedestrians. 

Mt. Olive Bridge was constructed 

in 1875 by Civil War veteran George 

Washington Pilcher. It covers Middle 

Fork Salt Creek and is open to pedestrians. 

The Bay Bridge was constructed 

12 

over Little Raccoon Creek but was 

moved several miles to a new home 

at the Vinton County Fairgrounds in 

1967. The move was precipitated by 

the construction of Lake Rupert. The 

bridge remains a unique attraction 

on the fairgrounds and is open to pedestrians. 

Another of Vinton County’s bridges 

was moved once during its history, 

only this one traveled feet rather than 

miles. Built in 1884 over Brushy Fork 

Creek, the Cox Bridge was moved approximately 

10 feet to the north several 

years ago to make way for a new 

bridge. In 2004, the bridge underwent 

a makeover thanks to a Make a 

Difference Day grant received by the 

Convention and Visitors’ Bureau. It is 


Humpback Bridge by Kathy McCorkle 

also open to pedestrians. 

The oldest of the county’s remaining 

bridges is the Arbaugh Bridge. 

Built in 1871, the bridge was closed to 

traffic for 30 years before a grant provided 

for improvements that allowed 

the bridge to be reopened. This is the 

only Vinton County covered bridge 

open to traffic. 

Covered bridges were once popularly 

known as Kissing Bridges. Young 

lovers would pause for a moment as 

they passed through the bridge to 

steal a kiss. They were also known as 

Wishing Bridges. A wish made inside 

a covered bridge is supposed to come 

true so be sure to make a wish during 

your visit to each of our five covered 

bridges!

Driving Directions 

Want to visit all five of our county bridges? Here are 

directions to get you there. From McArthur, follow 

US Rt. 50 West to Allensville. Turn Right onto Goosecreek 

Road an follow approximately two miles. 

The Mt. Olive Bridge is located on the Right. Turn 

Right onto Mt. Olive Road (next to the bridge) and 

follow back to Rt. 50. Turn Left onto Rt. 50 and return 

to McArthur. In McArthur, turn Left at the traffic 

light and follow approximately one mile to the 

Vinton County Jr. Fairgrounds. Turn Left into the 

Fairgrounds parking lot and follow the parking lot 

around the first white building. The Bay Bridge is 

located behind the white building. Return to Rt. 

93 and Turn Left to continue traveling north. Follow 

Rt. 93 approximately 7.5 miles to Woodgeard 

Road. Turn Left onto Woodgeard Road to see the 

Cox Bridge. Return to Rt. 93 and Turn Right to fol- 

low 93 south. Follow Rt. 93 through McArthur. Approximately 

2.5 miles south of McArthur, Turn Left 

onto St. Rt. 324. Follow approximately 4.5miles to St. 

Rt. 160. Turn Left on St. Rt. 160 and follow approximately 

10 miles. At the stop sign, Turn Left onto St. 

Rt. 32 and follow to County Rd. 43B. Travel about 3/4 

mile and turn left to get to the bridge. You can drive 

through the Arbaugh Bridge and follow this road 

back to Rt. 32. Turn Right onto Rt. 32 and travel back 

to the Rt. 160 intersection. Turn Left onto Rt. 160 and 

follow into the Village of Wilkesville. In Wilkesville, 

turn Right onto Country Road 8 and go about 2.5 

miles to Township Road 7. Please note that some 

road signs may be missing. It is best to follow your 

mileage rather than depend on signage in this area. 

Travel about 3/4 mile, and turn left on Twp. Rd. 4. Go 

about 1.25 miles to the Humpback Bridge. 


Bay Bridge 

13

14 

Uncle 

Buck’s 

Riding Stable And Dance Barn 

73930 Buck Lane • New Marshfield, Oh 45766 

740.664.2428 or 800.221.1122 

Scenic Guided 

Horseback Rides 

Event Facility Rental 

The Lady 

Buck Saloon 

BBQ and Cold Beer 

www.unclebucksstable.com • info@unclebucksstable.com 


Happy 

Hunting 

White Tailed Deer? Wild Turkey? 

Wild Boar? Waterfowl? Small 

game? We have them all! Vinton 

County is truly a wonderland for 

hunters. Our county is more than 

seventy percent forested and 

much of our county is publicly 

owned. 

Why would you travel far 

from home during hunting season 

when you can find plenty of 

game here in Vinton County? We 

welcome hunters. 

We have thousands of acres 

of public land in Vinton County 

that is available for public hunting. 

Please remember that hunting 

is prohibited in Ohio’s State 

Parks but is welcomed in our 

State Forests. Hunting on private 

property is also an option if you 

obtain written permission from 

the property owner. 

You can purchase hunting licenses 

and find check-in stations 

at locations throughout the 

county. For details, contact the 

Ohio Department of Natural Resources. 

The ODNR Wildlife Officer 

for Vinton County is Jared 

Abele, available at 740-589-9997. 

Also find information at www.wildohio.com. 

AUTUMN RIDGE 

CABINS 

HOT TUBS AND STONE FIREPLACES 

Lazy Hollow 

2 to 4 guests 

1 bedroom 

Romantic 


2 to 12 guests 

4 bedrooms 

Game Room 

• Fully equipped kitchens 

• Linens provided 


Autumn Memories 

2 to 8 guests 

3 bedrooms 

Secluded 

Wind Chime 

2 to 4 guests 

2 bedrooms 

Fishing Pond 

• Grills/Fire Rings 

• Picnic Areas 

• Central Air 

• Satellite TV (at some locations 

www.autumnridgecabins.net 

888-340-3444 

autumnridgecabins@msn.com 

15

Ghostly Adventures 

• 

Do you believe in ghosts? Deep in the 

forested hills of Vinton County stands 

one of the most legendary railroad 

tunnels in the world. According to 

age-old lore, the Moonville Tunnel is 

haunted by spirits who met their untimely 

deaths at this site. 

Once a booming village, little remains 

of Moonville other than a small 

cemetery, the tunnel and the stories of 

eerie brushes with unknown beings. 

It is these legendary tales that cause 

ghost hunters and thrill seekers from 

all over the world to visit the Moonville 

Tunnel. 

What are we to think of these bonechilling 

tales? Is it possible that at 

least two ghosts remain at Moonville 

and allow themselves to be seen by 

visitors? Witnesses reveal the same 

details when recounting the ordeal of 

meeting the more popular of the two: 

a man, standing close to eight feet tall 

with a white beard, seeing with eyes 

that glisten like balls of fire from under 

what appears to be a miner’s hat. 

16 

Dressed in dirty overalls, he swings 

a glowing lantern when one nears 

the tunnel and, according to some 

accounts, releases a blood-curdling 

scream. 

The second ghost has appeared to 

Do you 

believe in 

ghosts? 

many in two forms. Some have seen 

a shapeless entity, while others report 

a woman dressed in clothes of an earlier 

time. Accounts differ on several 

points regarding this apparition but 

many witnesses report smelling lav- 


Hike to Moonville Tunnel 

ender when she passes by. 

Is it possible that these ghosts and 

other reported spirits are roaming 

around Moonville looking for something 

or some way to take care of unfinished 

business? The answer may be 

found nowhere else but in the midst 

of a sleepless night on the eastern 

edge of Vinton County. 

The Moonville Rail Trail Association 

invites you to visit the Moonville 

Tunnel and decide for yourself. The 

organization is working to convert the 

former B&O railroad bed into a 16 

mile muscle-powered trail system that 

caters to walkers, bicyclists and horseback 

riders. One challenge is replacing 

several bridges that were removed by 

the railroad but they are working diligently 

to make the entire trail accessible 

to all. Visit them online at www. 

moonvillerailtrail.com to learn more 

and to find out how you can help. The 

frequently need volunteers to help 

with trail maintenance as well as donations 

to help fund their work.

Directions to Moonville 

The Moonville Tunnel is located in the heart of 

the Zaleski State Forest, only a few miles from 

Lake Hope State Park. 

From Lake Hope State Park, turn at the Lake 

Hope Dam onto Wheelabout Road. Drive 100 

years and turn left onto Shea-Moonville Road. 

Follow this road for about 2.5 miles until you 

reach the first steel bridge. Park your vehicle at 

the side of the road. At the bridge, look to the 

left side of the road for a wooded trail. Follow 

this trail to the top of the hill. At the top, look 

left to find the Moonville Tunnel. 

Note: Trail is located on Zalesk State Forest 

land of the Forest closes at 11 p.m. Also, please 

note that the Moonville Rail Trail Association is 

now working to replace the bridge to Moonville. 

Once this is complete, you will be able to 

drive past the iron bridge and then walk from 

the road across a bridge to Moonville. We do 

not have an expected completion date but 

you can look at the progress during your visit. 


Moonville Tunnel 

17

18 

Located 5 miles from Lake Hope and Moonville Tunnel 

Near the intersection of Rts. 677 & 278 in the big red barn 

We hand pour our own candles. 

Give your home an inviting aroma. 

Over 150 scents available. 

We have Moonville Tunnel 

candles and souvenirs. 

Follow us on Facebook! 

zaleskicandleworks.com zaleskicandleworks@yahoo.com 

Remy’s Mobiles Homes, Inc. 

Our Family Serving Your Family in 

Two Convenient Locations 

One of the Largest 

Selections of Manufactured 

Homes in Southern Ohio 

McArthur 

596-4024 

58953 U.S. 50, 7 Miles West of McArthur 

Monday-Friday 9-6 Saturday 9-2 

Chillicothe 

663-2222 

St. Rt. 23, 2 miles south of Chillicothe, 

Monday-Friday 9-6 Saturday 9-5 

Financing and Area Wide 

Deliver Available 

Huge Selection of Single and Sectional Manufactured Homes- 

Good Selection of Previously Owned Homes 


Coming at Ya by Ned Hall Creekin by FBU 


Puffed up Tom by Janet E. Tyler 

Worth a Thousand Words 

Vinton County is one of Ohio’s 

most beautiful destinations and 

a real treasure for photographers. 

During your stay, be sure to look 

for those fantastic photo opportunities 

all around Vinton County. 

Preserve the places, faces and interesting 

happenings that you 

find during your visit by photographing 

them and submitting 

your work to our contest! The Vinton 

County Convention and Visitors’ 

Bureau (CVB) has announced 

the rules and categories for the 

2011 Vinton County Proud and 

Beautiful Photography Contest. 

The CVB sponsors the annual contest 

to gain pictures of the county 

that are suitable for marketing. 

There is no residency requirement 

for the contest. It is open 

to any amateur photographer 

including the folks who are just 

visiting. The most important rule 

is that the photo must have been 

taken in Vinton County after January 

1, 2006. There is one division 

for adults and kids. Prizes will be 

awarded to the overall contest 

winners. 

This year’s contest categories are 

as follows: 

People In Action - Capture 

people in their element-- artisans 

at work, folks having fun at local 

events and people enjoying all 

that Vinton County offers. Photos 

containing the distinguishable 

faces of people must be accompanied 

by a photo release signed 

by each person. 

Landscapes, Streetscapes and 

Landmarks of Vinton County-What 

makes Vinton County 

unique? What makes this place 

beautiful? Capture the scenery 

and Vinton County’s unique sites 

at their best! 

Historic Vinton County – Capture 

Vinton County’s historic sites 

as they look today. 

Open - Do you have a great 

photo that doesn’t fit the above 

categories? Submit it here! 

Winning entries may be used in future marketing 

projects including print advertising, on 

www.vintoncountytravel.com and in future 

editions of this guide! In fact, the photos on this 

page are 2011 contest winners. Contact the CVB 

at 1-800-596-4459 or at info@vintoncounty. 

com for information. For full contest rules or to 

submit a picture to the contest, visit us online 

at www.vintoncountytravel.com. You may also 

stop by the Vistors’ Center at 104 W. Main St. in 

McArthur to learn more and to see some past 

winning entries on display. 

Tree Swallow by Prem Balson 

19

Close to Home... 

Vinton County is deep within Southeastern Ohio 

and the Hocking Hills region. Considered one of 

Ohio’s nearly hidden treasures, Vinton County is 

known for its rugged hillsides, seemingly endless 

woodlands and wealth of diverse wildlife. Once 

full of industry, the land has reverted back to one 

of Ohio’s few remaining truly wilderness areas. 

Many areas for recreation can be found in the 

numerous public parks and forests within Vinton 

County’s boundaries. Nearby cities include Columbus 

and Lancaster to the north, Huntington, 

West Virginia to the south, Athens - home of Ohio 

University to the east, and Cincinnati to our West. 

...Just Off The Beaten Path 

From Columbus, Ohio 

Take Route 33 East to Logan. At Route 93 Exit, turn left 

onto Route 93. Route 93 goes directly to McArthur. 

From Logan, Ohio 

Take Route 93 South to Vinton County. Route 93 goes 

directly to McArthur. 

From Toledo, Ohio 

Take I-75 South. Merge on to OH-15 via Exit 156. OH-15E 

becomes Rt. 23 South. Take Route 23 South to Columbus. 

Take 270 East and continue South until you reach 

Route 33. Follow Route 33 East to Logan. At Route 93 

Exit, turn right onto Route 93. Route 93 goes directly to 

McArthur. 

From Athens, Ohio 

Take Route 50 West. Route 50 goes directly to McArthur. 

From Chillicothe, Ohio 

Take Route 50 East. Route 50 goes directly to McArthur. 

From Cleveland, Ohio 

Take I-71 South to Columbus. Take 270 East toward 

Wheeling, WV to U.S. 33 East (Lancaster Exit). Follow 

Route 33 East to Logan. At Route 93 Exit, turn right onto 

Route 93. Route 93 goes directly to McArthur.

The Outdoors: A Directory 

22 

Lake Hope State Park 

State Route 278, McArthur 

740-596-5253 

www.lakehopestatepark.com 

Once a small iron furnace community, 

Lake Hope State Park and the 

surrounding Zaleski State Forest are 

dotted with remnants of the past. 

An old cemetery, an iron furnace 

and hints of a ghost town still linger 

along the trails thick with trees 

and wildlife. There are hiking trails, 

backpacking trails and a singletrack 

bike trail that was chosen as one of 

Ohio’s top mountain biking trail by 

readers of “Mountain Bike Magazine.” 

There is also a nature center, 

cabins and camping. 

Heron at Lake Hope 

Lake Alma State Park 

Lake Alma Road, Wellston 

740-384-4474 (seasonal) 

http://www.zoomnet.net/~alma/ 

Lake Alma State Park was originally 

constructed as a private amusement 

park in 1903 complete with dance pavilion, 

outdoor theater and merry-goround. 

Although little remains of the 

former recreational area, Lake Alma 

State Park now offers visitors camping, 

boating, fishing, a playground 

and beach area. There are also hiking 

trails and a paved bike path. 

Zaleski State Forest 

State Route 278, Zaleski 

740-596-5781 

http://www.ohiodnr.com/forestry 

Zaleski State Forest is Ohio’s second 

largest forest covering 28,000 acres. 

There are two backpack trails, bridle 

trails and a horse camp with 16 sites. 

The renovated 1930’s Hope School 

House now serves as an interpre- 


tive center to teach local history. 

The renovated fire tower provides a 

breathtaking forest view. 

Richland State Forest 

740-774-1596 

http://www.ohiodnr.com/forestry 

Flint outcrops, the remnants of the 

19th century ghost town of Richland 

and an All-Purpose Vehicle (APV) 

area bring visitors to this Ohio State 

Forest. 

Wellston Wildlife 

Area/Lake Rupert 

State Route 683 

740-594-2211 

This area features an assortment of 

recreational activities including fishing, 

boating and bird watching. The 

325-acre lake is stocked with Northern 

Pike, walleye, largemouth bass, 

bluegill and channel catfish.

Vinton Furnace 

Experimental Forest 


740-596-5781 

www.ohiodnr.com/forestry. 

The 12,089-acre Vinton Furnace 

State Experimental Forest, as well 

as the neighboring 3,405-acre Vinton 

Furnace State Wildlife Area represent 

a rare, contiguous block of 

forestland, which is home to a wide 

array of native Ohio flora and fauna, 

including a number of endangered 

species. The site also hosts one of 

the most important forest research 

centers in the country. Remote hiking 

trails, hunting areas and the 

remnants of the Vinton Iron Furnace 

make this forest wildlife area a 

unique place to visit. Nearly hidden 

in the undergrowth of the woodland, 

Belgium Coke Ovens used to make 

coke from coal are quite possibly the 

only remaining in the world. 

Wayne National 

Forest 

740-753-0101 

www.fs.fed.us/r9/wayne 

With over 300 miles of hiking, biking, 

off-road vehicle and horseback 

riding trails, this forest spans several 

Ohio counties including Vinton. 

From canoeing to hunting, horseback 

riding to mountain biking, the 

Wayne offers a wide range of recreational 

opportunities for visitors. 

A Forest Trail Permit is required to 

operate off-road vehicles or to ride 

horses or mountain bikes in the forest. 

Contact the Wayne for land useage 

information regarding the Vinton 

County property. 


Lake Hope 

Tar Hollow State Park 

Tar Hollow Road, Laurelville 

740-887-4818 

www.bright.net/~thollow/index.htm 

Features a 22 mile network of hiking 

trails. Seventeen miles of paved 

forest roads and fourteen miles of 

gravel forest roads provide a great 

opportunity for a scenic drive and 

allow good access to all areas of the 

forest. Horsecamp and trails accomodate 

four legged visitors as well. 

Hocking Hills 

State Park 

State Route 664 South, Logan 

740-385-6842 

www.hockinghillspark.com 

Mammoth rock formations, recess 

caves and over 25 miles of hiking 

trails make Hocking Hills State Park 

one of Ohio’s best known natural 

areas. There are five major sections 

of the park including Ash Cave, Old 

Man’s Cave and Cedar Falls. 

23

24 

ALICE’S HOUSE 

Let us help you research your family history 

Home of the Vinton County Historical 

and Genealogical Society 

207 S. Sugar Street 

McArthur, Ohio 45651 

Open April -December 

Weds., Thurs., Fri. (Noon -3 p.m.) 

For appointment: 740.596.4291; 

740.596.5426; 740.596.8353; 740.887.2651 

All the comforts of home in an 

idyllic 11-acre setting 

Halfway between 

Old Man’s Cave & Lake Hope 

• Spacious deck overlooks pond and timber 

• WiFi, Satellite TV 

• Wii video game console 

• Sleeps up to 8 

• Nordic hot tub 

• Fine dining one mile away 

740.707.9738 

www.hockinghills.com/gingerbread 

Honey 

Fork Cabins 

66437 State Route 56 

New Plymouth, Ohio 45654 

(740) 385-1952 1-800-763-1474 

Relax in the seclusion and privacy of our log 

cabins. Enjoy the luxury of a hot tub, cable TV/ 

VCR, central AC, plus lots more. Also available, a 

romantic colonial home and two rustic cabins. 

Just six miles east of Ash Cave. 

See our ad for Clay-Bryn Castle 

www.honeyforklogcabins.com 

www.hockinghills.com/honeyfork www.honeyfork.com 


Come to the Hocking Valley Scenic 

Railway where history comes alive. 

Take a leisurely ride along the Hocking 

River through Southeast Ohio. 

Stop at a pioneer log village. 

Saturdays & Sundays (May 26- Oct. 28) 

• Noon & 2:30 p.m. 

Special Trains in 2012 

• Easter 

• Nonstop Preseason 

• Robbery Trains 

• Memorial Day 

• Fireworks Shuttle 

• Caboose 

• Labor Day 

• T urs./Fri. Extra Fall 

F o l i a g e 

• Cancer Benefi t 

• Boo Train 

• Santa 

• North Pole Express 

• New Years Eve 

www.hockingvalleytrain.org 

740-753-9531 • 800-967-7834 

Depot/Gift Shop Voice Mail Only 

SR 33, Nelsonville OH (Next to Rocky Gear)

Birds 

of a 

Feather 

Birders flock to Vinton County every year for an intimate 

birding experience. With its abundant forests, Vinton 

County is a haven for more than 50 documented 

species and the community is filled with birding opportunities. 

Throughout the warm weather months, events 

are planned around this very popular hobby at our state 

parks. 

One activity that brings visitors back each year is the 

hummingbird feeding program at Lake Hope State Park. 

At the Nature Center in July and August, visitors are invited 

to make their own hand-held feeder and learn the 

best techniques for luring ruby-throated hummingbirds 

to their feeder. Then they simply relax and enjoy this unusual 

encounter with nature. This program is free and is 

held at the park several days a week. 

The park also will host hummingbird expert Allen 

Chartier, who conducts a banding program at the park 

every summer. Chartier has banded nearly twenty birds 

at Lake Hope in four years, including a female that he 

recaptured after banding her at Lake Hope the previous 

year. Call Lake Hope State Park at 740-596-3030 for 

more information on Chartier’s program and to learn 

more about the hummingbird program. The hummingbird 

program is sponsored by the Friends of Lake Hope 

and donations are cordially accepted if you would like to 

support birding at the park. 

While here, be sure to check out other birding opportunities 

in the area. It is a well known fact that the entire 

Hocking Hills region is a hot spot for birding areas. For a 

check list of species, tips for beginning birders or to view 

the Hocking Valley Birding Trail, visit www.birdhocking.com. 

Also note that many of our lodging facilities cater to 

the needs of birders and even have private acreage with 

abundant birding opportunities. Some host private tours 

by appointment. 


Hand-Feeding a Hummingbird by Prem Balson 

Tree Swallow by Prem Balson 

Struttin’ Around by Janet E. Tyler 

Heron at Lake Hope by FBU 

25

Dates you will want to remember 

We love to celebrate life here in Vinton County! Between 

May and December our calendar is packed full of events 

to suit every taste. From great literature to Appalachian 

heritage to holiday fun, our celebrations make Vinton 

County a great place to visit. 

We have a Beach Party, Shop Hops and the largest free 

air show in Ohio. There’s a hometown 4th of July celebration 

and even a weekly farmer’s market to celebrate the 

bounty of the land all summer and fall. 

If you would like to rub elbows with famous authors, the 

Herbert Wescoat Memorial Library and the Friends of the 

January 21 

Hocking Hills ShopIn 

Drive & Discover 

Enjoy a scenic drive through the 

hills while shopping for gifts and 

treasures at unique shops. The 

third Saturday of each month there 

will be special offers or Artist Demonstrations 

that showcase the 

uniqueness of the shops. (www. 

HockingHillsShopIn.com or 1-888- 

892-8640) 

January 28 

Arrival of Winter 

Photography Workshop. 

Eight hour workshops are available 

with a catered lunch included for a 

fee of $129. Special events workshop 

fees may vary in cost. Four 

hour workshops are done by appointment 

year round most anytime 

Sunday – Friday for a fee of 

$89. Workshops are held at the 

26 

Old Bear’s Den Center, 16961 Harble-Griffith 

Rd. Logan, Ohio 43138. 

(740-380-2039) www.theoldbear. 

com/photohoffman@earthlink.net 

February 18 


Drive & Discover. 









892-8640) 

Frozen Waterfalls 






Library invite you to their amazing Spring Literary Arts 

Festival every April. This weekend long invite usually features 

New York Times bestselling authors, Pulitzer Prize 

winners, visual and performing arts. 

Please keep in mind that some events were not available 

for publication within this guide at press time. However, 

we update our online calendars as information becomes 

available. So we encourage you to visit us on the web at 

www.vintoncountytravel.com. You can also follow us on 

Facebook to keep up with new developments. Find us at 

facebook.com/vintoncounty. 





$89. Workshops are held at the 

Old Bear’s Den Center, 16961 Harble-Griffith 

Rd. Logan, Ohio 43138. 

(740-380-2039) www.theoldbear. 

com/photohoffman@earthlink.net 

March 17 











892-8640)

for events you will never forget 

March 24 

Cabin Fever, Spring Nature 








Sunday – Friday for a fee of $89. 

Workshops are held at the Old Bear’s 

Den Center, 16961 Harble-Griffith 

Rd. Logan, Ohio 43138. (740-380- 

2039) www.theoldbear.com/photohoffman@earthlink.net 

April 7 

Mason’s Breakfast 

Hearty breakfast served 8 a.m. to 

10 a.m. the first Saturday of most 

months at the Mason’s Hall in Wilkesville. 

(740-669-4831) 

Ninth Annual Easter Egg Hunt 

Kids can search for prize-filled eggs 

and families can participate in “egg” 

citing games! Held at the Lake Hope 

State Park Nature Center at 1 p.m. 

Easter Hop 

Easter baskets aren’t just for kids 

anymore! Join in this special shop 

hop to get cookies and candy plus 

discounts for participating shops 

and a voucher for lunch. Begin at 

Scenic Way Gifts and Art Glass Stu- 

dio to pick up your basket and directions. 

Bring you basket to each 

participating shop to have it filled 

with goodies. Cost is $20. Tickets are 

required in advance. Call 740-596- 

1913 to buy yours. 

April 13 

Chinese Auction and Soup and 

Sandwich Dinner 

The Theme for this year’s soup and 

sandwich dinner will be Titanic in 

memory of the anniversary of the 

sinking of the Titanic. This fundraiser 

provides scholarships and financial 

help for youth to attend 4-H 

summer camps. It will be held at the 

Vinton County Community Building 

from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Carryout 

is available. 

April 13-15 

A Spring Literary Arts Festival: 

The Plot Thickens 

Enjoy a mystery themed weekend featuring 

displays, children’s activities, 

a writing contest, live entertainment 

and keynote presentations by authors 

including Stephanie Barczewski, author 

of “Titanic: A Night Remembered.” 

There will be a Clue themed casino 

night and a Titanic themed murder 

mystery dinner theater performed by 

Random Acts to mark the 100th anniversary 

of the loss of Titanic. Events 

are free or have nominal admis- 


sion fees. Sponsored by the Herbert 

Wescoat Memorial Library and the 

Friends of the Library. (740-596-5691) 

April 14 

Lake Alma Clean-up Day 

Meet at the Birch Bottom Shelter 

House at 10 a.m. Groups and individuals 

pitch-in to spruce up the 

park for spring. Come out and enjoy 

the fun. A great community project 

for groups. Lasts until noon. (740- 

384-3345) 

Waterfalls & Wildflowers 








Sunday – Friday for a fee of $89. 

Workshops are held at the Old Bear’s 

Den Center, 16961 Harble-Griffith 

Rd. Logan, Ohio 43138. (740-380- 

2039) www.theoldbear.com/photohoffman@earthlink.net 

April 20-22 

Eleventh Annual Shoot the Hills 

Photography Competition 

Photography weekend and competition 

throughout Vinton and three 

other counties. Held at Old Man’s 

Cave at the Hocking Hills State Park. 

27

April 21 

Annual Wildflower Walk 

This 1.5 mile walk along Raccoon 

Creek allows visitors to get up close 

with wildflowers. A Lake Hope State 

Park naturalist teaches participants 

to identify the wildflowers and discuss 

folklore. Meet at the Hope Furnace 

with your vehicle at 1 p.m. Participants 

will caravan to another site. 

Lasts until 3 p.m. (740-596-3030) 


Drive & Discover. Enjoy a scenic drive 

through the hills while shopping for 

gifts and treasures at unique shops. The 

third Saturday of each month there will 

be special offers or Artist Demonstrations 

that showcase the uniqueness of 

the shops. (www.HockingHillsShopIn. 

com or 1-888-892-8640) 

May 3-6 

Vinton County Wild Turkey Festival 

Celebrating 28 years, this Vinton 

County tradition features live entertainment, 

parade, games, rides, food 

and fun. (740-591-1118) 

May 5 

Lake Hope Youth Fishing 

Tournament 

For kids ages 1-16. Adults must be 

present with each child. Trophy presentation 

and cookout afterwards. 

Lake Hope provides the poles and 

bait or you can bring your own. 

Meet at the parking lot below the 

Lake Hope dam at 9 a.m. -11 a.m. 

(740-596-3030) 





(740-669-4831) 

May 12 

Migration Birdwalk 

Search different habitats around 

28 

Lake Hope for spring migrants. Last 

year they saw 50 species of birds. 

Some binoculars provided. Meet at 

the Hope Furnace at 9 a.m.-Noon. 

(740-596-3030) 

May 19 



Enjoy a scenic drive through the hills 

while shopping for gifts and treasures 

at unique shops. The third Saturday 

of each month there will be 

special offers or Artist Demonstrations 

that showcase the uniqueness 

of the shops. (www.HockingHillsShopIn.com 

or 1-888-892-8640) 

June through September 

Friends Farmer’s Market 

Pick up locally grown produce every 

Saturday 9 a.m. to noon. The 

first Saturday of each month also 

includes a craft sale. Located at 

the Herbert Wescoat Memorial 

Library in the parking lot facing 

Market Street. (740-596-3529) 

May 26 

Memorial Day Celebration 

Celebration held at the Lake Alma 

Campground. Family friendly activities, 

tournament games, bean dinner, 

fun and a lot more. Celebration 

sponsored by the Friends of Lake 

Alma (740-384-3345). 

Northern Vinton County Shop Hop 

Take advantage of the holiday 

weekend to find something special. 

Several shops and artists’ studios 

throughout northern Vinton County 

participate in this hop giving you 

an opportunity to shop for unique 

merchandise. (www.vintoncountytravel.com 

or 1-800-596-4459) 

May 27 

Memorial Day Services 

Remember the true meaning of this 

holiday at 11 a.m. in the Wilkesville 

Village Square (740-669-3020) 

June through September 

Friends Farmer’s Market 

Pick up locally grown produce every 

Saturday 9 a.m. to noon. The 

first Saturday of each month also includes 

a craft sale. Located at the 

Herbert Wescoat Memorial Library 

in the parking lot facing Market 

Street. (740-596-3529) 

June 2 





(740-669-4831) 

June 9 

Youth Fishing Derby 

Sponsored by the Friends of Lake 

Alma. Kids 15 and under can fish for 

the big one and participate in activities 

for the day. Derby will be held 

across from the Camp Office 9:00 

a.m. – 11:00 a.m. (740-384-3345) 

June 10 

Vinton County Airport 

Motorcycle rides, airplane rides, and 

food will be available that day. 

June 16 




gifts and treasures at unique shops. The 

third Saturday of each month there will

e special offers or Artist Demonstrations 

that showcase the uniqueness of 

the shops. (www.HockingHillsShopIn. 

com or 1-888-892-8640) 

July 1 – August 31 

Hand Feeding Hummingbirds 

Participants can make a feeder and 

attempt to hand feed hummingbirds 

at the Lake Hope State Park 

Nature Center. Times and days to be 

announced. (740-596-3030) 

July 4 

Independence Day Parade 

Smalltown patriotism at its finest 

can be found can be found at this 

annual community event. Held at 

11 a.m. near the Wilkesville Village 

Square. Food is available afterwards 

at the Wilkesville Community Center. 

(740-669-5646) 

July 5-7 

Vinton County Athletic Booster’s 

4th of July Celebration 

Enjoy a hometown holiday celebration 

that benefits the athletes 

of Vinton County. Festivities will 

include a parade, entertainment, 

food, games, fireworks and more. 






(740-669-4831) 








merchandize. (www.vintoncountytravel.com 

or 1-800-596-4459) 


Lake Alma Motorcycle Benefit Ride 

One hundred mile ride with three 

stops along the way. Registration 

starts at 10:30 a.m. with the ride starting 

at noon. Enjoy food and entertainment 

at the end of ride. Cost is $10 per 

rider or $15 if you have a passenger. 

Ride starts and ends at Lake Alma. 


Vinton County Airport 

A Bean dinner and fish fry will be 

held at the Vinton County Airport. 

July 1 – August 31 

Hand Feeding Hummingbirds 

Participants can make a feeder 

and attempt to hand feed hummingbirds 

at the Lake Hope State 

Park Nature Center. Times and 

days to be announced. 

(740-596-3030) 


Zaleski Flint Knap-In 

Learn how to make primitive arrowheads, 

primitive tools, and atl-atls. 

Displays and demonstrations. Held at 

the Lake Hope State Park Nature Center 

10 a.m. – 4p.m. (740-596-3030) 





treasures at unique shops. The third 

Saturday of each month there will 

be special offers or Artist Demon- 

strations that showcase the uniqueness 

of the shops. (www.Hocking- 

HillsShopIn.com or 1-888-892-8640) 

July 23-28 

Vinton County Junior Fair 

Enjoy an old fashioned junior fair 

complete with food, livestock, rides, 

a tractor pull and more! Held at the 

Vinton County Junior Fairgrounds. 

(740-596-2176) 


Volunteer Fireman’s Association 

Annual Fish Fry 

Help out a good cause and enjoy some 

delicious fish! Held on the Wilkesville 

Village Square. (740-669-7000) 

August 4 

16th Annual Community 

Beach Party 

Sponsored by the Friends of Lake 

Alma. Community activities held 

throughout the park includes: Baby 

contests, Jr. Miss, Little Miss Lake Alma 

& Sand Castle, music groups, pet show, 

tournament games, kids games, and 

food. Something for everyone! (740- 

384-3345 or 740-384-4474) 





(740-669-4831) 

August 18 




gifts and treasures at unique shops. 

The third Saturday of each month 

there will be special offers or Artist 

Demonstrations that showcase the 



892-8640) 

29

August 19 

Ridge Top Music Festival/Big Boy 

Toy Day 

Local music festival, airplane rides 

and lots of fun. The event is being 

held at the Vinton County Airport. 

(740-596-0268 or 740-418-2612) 

September 1 





(740-669-4831) 






participate in this hop giving you an 

opportunity to shop for unique merchandise. 

(www.vintoncountytravel. 

com or 1-800-596-4459) 

Annual Wilkesville Bean Dinner 

This event began as a reunion for 

Civil War veterans shortly after the 

war and has continued as a much 

loved Wilkesville tradition. The meal 

is prepared much the same way as 

the founders prepared it. Begins at 

11 a.m. at the American Legion in 

Wilkesville. (740-669-3020) 

The 5th Annual John Sowers 

Memorial Games 

Events held at the Campground. 

Tournament games, Bean Dinner, fun 

and a lot more. Sponsored by the 

Friends of Lake Alma. (740-384-3345) 

September 15 

Sixth Annual Tom’s Run 

Travel through Vinton and neighboring 

counties on the poker run 

to benefit Vinton Industries and for 

those with Developmental Disabilities 

in Vinton County. The theme 

of this run is “one person can make 

30 

a difference in the lives of many” to 

honor Tom Ferguson, a longtime 

member of Vinton County DD Board. 

First bikes leave at 11:00am from Super 

Valu parking lot. (740-596-2249 

or tomsrunfoundation@gmail.com) 

September 16 

Vinton County Air Show 

The Vinton County Airport hosts the 

largest free air show in Ohio. Event 

features plane rides, acrobatic flying, 

RC flying and all sorts of fun in the 

skies. Day also features some of the 

best chicken bbq around. Admission 

is free but parking donations 

are requested. Chicken dinners 

available at 11 a.m. Air show begins 

at 1 p.m. Proceeds help the VC Pilots 

and Boosters Association fund airport 

operations. (740-357-0268 or 

740-418-2612) 

September 22 










892-8640) 

October 6 





(740-669-4831) 

October 20 

33rd Annual Fall Hike 

Three mile guided hikes begin at 10 

a.m. from the shelter house. Hike 

ends at the Hope Furnace with bean 

soup and cornbread. Shuttles return 

you to your car. Enjoy sassafras tea 

to start. (740-596-3030) 











892-8640) 

Zaleski Park Day 

Three on three basketball, games for 

kids, food, parade, baby contest and 

more! (740-596-4681) 

Fall Color Tour 

Photography Workshop 




fees may vary in cost. Four hour 

workshops are done by appointment 

year round most anytime Sunday 

– Friday for a fee of $89. Workshops 

are held at the Old Bear’s Den 

Center, 16961 Harble-Griffith Rd. Logan, 

Ohio 43138. (740-380-2039) 

www.theoldbear.com/photohoffman@earthlink.net 

October 21 

Leaf Peep/Young Eagles 

The Leaf Peep and Young Eagles will 

host a mini tractor pull. Food and airplane 

rides will be available. 

October 26 – 27 

Annual Halloween 

Campout & Haunted Trail 

Spooks, ghosts and goblins camp at 

Lake Alma State Park for a weekend 

of ghostly activities. Prizes awarded 

for Best Decorated Campsites, trick 

or treat and games for the kids. (740- 

384-3345)

October 27 

Haunted Trail 

Back by popular demand the Haunted 

Trail will be open this evening 

for everyone to enjoy again or are 

brave enough to enter for the first 

time. Held at Lake Alma State Park. 

(740-384-3345) 

Rural Ohio Appalachia 

Revisited (ROAR) Day 

Celebrate Appalachian culture 

through crafts, music, food, Quilt 

Barns and fun. Regional artists will 

demonstrate their skills and sell their 

wares. Wagon rides, games for the 

kids and many other activities round 

out the day. Celebrate Appalachian 

Halloween too. (740-596-3030) 

November 3 





(740-669-4831) 

November 10 








merchandise. (www.vintoncountytravel.com 

or 1-800-596-4459) 

Vinton County 

Floral 

We Every Blooming Thing 

www.vintoncountyfloral.com 

105 N. Market Street 


740-596-4280 

November 17 

Wilkesville Masonic Lodge 

Free Thanksgiving Dinner 

Celebrate Thanksgiving with friends 

old and new at this free Thanksgiving 

dinner. Begins at noon at the 

Wilkesville Community Center (740- 

669-4831) 










892-8640) 

Signs of Winter 

Photography Workshop 


with a catered lunch included for 

a fee of $129. Special events workshop 





$89. Workshops are held at the Old 

Bear’s Den Center, 16961 Harble- 

Griffith Rd. Logan, Ohio 43138. (740- 

380-2039) www.theoldbear.com/ 

photohoffman@earthlink.net 


December 1 

Christmas in Downtown 

Join us for a hometown holiday 

celebration complete with music, 

giveaways, craft sale, discounts, 

door prizes, parade, horse drawn 

wagon rides and much more. One 

lucky person will even win $100 

cash. The Vinton County Chamber 

of Commerce sponsors the festivities 

in downtown McArthur from 3 

p.m. to 6 p.m. and Santa visits with 

the kids following a parade. Additional 

entertainment will follow that 

evening. (1-800-596-4459 or www. 

vintoncounty.com) 

December 7 

Community Christmas Program 

The spirit of the holidays is alive and 

well in Wilkesville. This is a beloved 

community tradition and the music 

is wonderful! Held at the Wilkesville 

Community Center. (740-669-3915) 

December 15 










892-8640) 

For a walk down memory lane and a great selection 

of Antiques, Civil War Artifacts, Crafs, Unique 

Items and Gifs, stop by REMEMBER WHEN. 

We are conveniently located one block west of the 

intersection of S.R. 93 and U.S. Route 50. 

31

Our Members: 

Shopping, Lodging and Service Directory 

Shopping 

Christmas Treasures 

29205 Ilesboro Road 

Logan, Ohio 43138 

740-385-9537 or 877-385-9537 

www.windchimeshosales.com/ 

christmastreasures.htm 

Cross Creek Extreme Outdoors 

58522 US HWY 50 


740-596-2000 

Cross Creek General Store 

and Filling Station 

58522 US HWY 50 


740-596-2213 

Fiddlestix Village 

24180 St. Rt. 93 (just south of the St. 

Rt. 56 intersection) 

Creola, Ohio 45622 

740-596-2408 

www.fiddlestixvillage.com 

32 

Gill’s Family Pharmacy 

530 North Market Street 


740-596-2566 

www.gillsrx.com 

Honeyfork Fabrics 

19151 Goat Run-Honey Fork Road 


740-385-6072 

www.honeyforkfabrics.com 

Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls 



800-653-2557 

www.innatcedarfalls.com 

McArthur Super Valu Grocery 



740-596-2289 

www.mcarthursupervalu.com 

Pumpkin Ridge Quilts 

and Repair 

26940 Pumpkin Ridge Road 


740-596-2345 

www.pkquilts.com 


Red Door Thrift Store 

395 East High Street 


740-596-2394 

Remember When Antiques 

118 West Main St. 


740-596-4607 

Scenic Way Gifts 

and Art Glass Studio 



740-596-1913 or 888-892-8640 

www.scenicwaygifts.com 

Vinton County Floral 



740-596-4280 

morey0@frontier.com 

Weavers Tree and Antiques 

(*Quilt Barn Site) 

24808 Creola-Hue Road 


740-596-4424 

www.weavtree@ohiohills.com

Wind Chime Shop 

29205 Ilesboro Road 


740-385-9537 or 1-877-385-9537 

www.windchimeshopsales.com 

Zaleski Candleworks 

(*Quilt Barn Site) 

107 Commercial Square 

Zaleski, Ohio 45698 

740-596-7054 

http://zaleskicandleworks.com 

Services 

Blue Ribbon Lodging 

info@blueribbonlodging.com 

www.blueribbonlodging.com 

Booth Real Estate 

and Insurance 

111 South Market Street 


740-596-5815 or 1-800-880-0809 

www.boothrealestate.net 

Giant Subs, Party Platters, 

Soups and Salad! 

Now Serving Breakfast 

Hours: 

Monday - Friday 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. 

Saturday 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. 

Sunday 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. 

111 N. Market Street, McArthur 

740-596-5800 

C.A.R.E. United Methodist 

Outreach/Red Door Thrift Store 

395 East High Street 


740-596-2394 

Cotner, Cooley, Clark and 

Sharp LLC 

108 East Main Street 


740-596-5126 

www.3cscpa.com 

Cross Creek General Store 

58522 US HWY 50 


740-596-2213 

Dodrill Realty 

121 W. Main St. 


740-596-5110 

http://dodrillrealty.net 



1896 Baldridge Road 


(Turn south in Hue off St. Rt. 56) 

Equestrian Ridge 

Riding Stable 



740-603-2523 

www.equestrianridge.com 

Flutes and Peppercorns Events 

Center and Mobile Kitchen 

33368 Wolf Hill Road 

(Events Center) 

623 S. Market St. (Mobile Kitchen) 


740-596-5184 

www.flutesandpeppercorns.com 

Friends of Lake Alma 


Wellston, Ohio 45692 

740-384-4474 

BEST NEST CABIN 

Enjoy Hocking Hills Flora and 

Fauna, Private hiking, fi shing, hot 

tubs, and spectacular stargazing 

Best Nest Cabins 

34125 Moore Rd. 

Logan, OH 43138 

1(800) 213 8780 

(740) 385-4073 

www.bestnestcabins.com 

33

34 

Friends of the Herbert 

Wescoat Memorial Library 



740-596-5691 

www.vintoncountypublic.lib.oh 

Gill’s Family Pharmacy 



740-596-2566 

www.gillsrx.com 

Hocking Hills 

Scenic Air Tours 

66285 Airport Road 


740-380-2031 or 740-649-2207 

www.hockinghills.com/airtours 

Herbert Wescoat 

Memorial Library 



740-596-5691 

www.vintoncountypublic.lib.oh 

Hocking Hill Scenic Railway 

33 West Canal Street 

Nelsonville, Ohio 45764 

800-967-7834 (messages only) or 

740-753-9531 

www.hvsry.org 



McArthur Super Valu 

Groceries, Deli, Bakery, Ohio Lottery 

Agent, Western Union Agent 

Open 7:00 am to 10:00 pm 

7 Days a week 

(740) 596-2289 

550 North Market Street, McArthur, OH 45651 

Find us on facebook at mcarthursupervalue.com 


800-653-2557 


McArthur Super Valu 



740-596-2289 

www.mcarthursupervalu.com 

Pumpkin Ridge 

Quilts and Repair 



740-596-2345 

www.pkquilts.com 

Remy’s Mobile Home 

58953 US Highway 50 


740-596-4024 

www.remysmobilehomes.com 

The Old Bear’s Den 

Photo Shop 

16961 Harble Griffith Road 


740-380-2039 

www.theoldbear.com 

Uncle Buck’s Riding Stable 

and Dance Barn 

73930 Buck Lane 

New Marshfield, Ohio 45766 

740-664-2428 or 1-800-221-1122 

www.unclebucksstable.com 


Vinton County 

Historical Society 

207 South Sugar Street 


740-596-0253 

WesBanco 

115 West Main Street 


740-596-5263 

www.wesbanco.com 

Lodging 

A.Georgian Manner 

Bed and Breakfast 

29055 Evans Rd. 


800-606-1840 

www.georgianmanner.com 

Autumn Ridge Cabins 

20101 State Route 93 South 


740-385-6077 

www.autumnridgecabins.net 


P.O. Box 352373 

Toledo, Ohio 43635 

419-704-4220 

www.bartonbmeadows.com 

Bella Luna Log Cabins 

South Bloomingville, Ohio 

614-571-8861 

www.bellalunacabin.com 

Hot Tubs 

2.5 Miles of 

Walking Paths 

3 Miles from 

Ash Cave 

www.innacabins.com 

(866) 661-8973 

63218 State Route 56, Creola, OH 45622

Best Nest Cabins 

34125 Moore Road 


740-385-4073 or 1-800-213-8780 

www.bestnestcabins.com 

Beverly Hills Cabin 

23290 Locust Grove Road 


740-596-3900 

www.beverlyhillscabin.com 

Blue Ribbon Lodging 

info@blueribbonlodging.com 

www.blueribbonlodging.com 

Cottage at Scenic Way 



740-596-1913 

www.scenicway.com 

Franks Country Cottage 

61698 Locker Plant Road 


740-988-7031 

www.hockinghills.com/frankscottage 

Gingerbread Haus 



740-707-9738 

www.hockinghills.com/gingerbread 

Historic Host Vacation Rentals 

740-596-2408 or 1-877-364-4786 

www.historichost.com 

Stafford Hill CabinS 

One bedroom (loft) cabin with 

king sized bed, fully equipped 

kitchen, towels & linens included, 

plush robes, 42” flat screen TV, 

DVD, gas fireplace, hot tub, 

charcoal grill on back deck, covered 

front porch, beautiful scenic view, 

located on a private, serene hill. 

Enjoy walking! 

740-438-0590 

www.staffordhillcabins.com 

Hocking Hills Dreamscape 

Hideaway 

Collison Road 


740-215-9875 

www.dreamscapehideaway.com 

Honey Fork Run 



740-385-1952 or 1-800-763-1474 

www.honeyfork.com 

Inn A Cabin 



740-596-5856 or 1-866-661-8973 

www.innacabin.com 




800-653-2557 


Juniper Ridge Getaway 

71485 Largent Rd. 


740-385-4587 


27331 St. Rt. 278 


www.lakehopestatepark.com 


Majestic Cabins Inc. 

64046 Bethel Road 


866-566-1900 

www.majesticvacationhomes.com 

Ravenwood Castle 

and Medieval Village 



740-596-2606 or 1-800-477-1541 

www.ravenwoodcastle.com 

Stafford Hills Cabins 

3222 Swart Road 

Albany, Ohio 45710 

740-438-0590 

www.staffordhillcabins.com 

Restaurants 

Flutes and Peppercorns Events 

Center and Mobile Kitchen 

33368 Wolf Hill Road (Events Center) 

623 S. Market St. (Mobile Kitchen) 


740-596-5184 





800-653-2557 


BEVERLY 

HILLS 

CABIN LLC 

23290 Locust Grove Rd. • Creola, OH 45622 

“Come join us in the country!” 

Phone: 740-596-3900 

Toll Free: 1-877-282-2246 

beverlyhillscabin.com 

35

36 

Ravenwood Castle 

and Medieval Village 



740-596-2606 or 800-477-1541 

www.ravenwoodcastle.com 

Subway of McArthur 



740-596-5800 

The Main Eatery 

511 West Main Street 


740-596-4596 

Uncle Bucks Riding Stable 

and Lady Buck Saloon 



740-664-2428 or 1-800-221-1122 


David M. Booth 

D. Randall Booth 

Brokers 

Recreation 

Equestrian Ridge Riding Stable 



740-603-2523 

www.equestrianridge.com 

Friends of Lake Alma State Park 


Wellston, Ohio 45692 

740-384-4474 

http://www.zoomnet.net/~alma/ 

Hocking Hills Scenic Air Tours 

66285 Airport Road 


740-380-2031 

www.hockinghills.com/airtours 

Hocking Hills Scenic Railway 

Nelsonville, Ohio 


740-596-5815 

www.boothrealestate.net 

dbooth@boothrealestate.net 

Te answer for all of your real estate and insurance needs. 

Home, Auto, Life, Health, Long Term Care, Medicare Supplement 

111 South Market Street, McArthur, Ohio 

800-967-7834 

www.hockinghillsvalleytrain.com 




740-596-5253 

Uncle Bucks Riding Stable 

and Lady Buck Saloon 



740-664-2428 or 1-800-221-1122 


WIND CHIME SHOP • CHRISTMAS TREASURES 

THE CANDLE SHOP 

Your visit to the Hocking Hills 

won’t be complete without having 

“� e Chime of your Life” at the Wind Chime Shop 

Be “Wowed” when you walk in the door of 

Christmas Treasures and Th e Candle Shop. 

We’re easy to fi nd… 

Just around the bend from the Hocking Hills State Park. 

29205 Ilesboro Road, Logan, Ohio 43138 

740-385-9537 • 877-385-9537 • www.windchimeshopsales.com

Flutes and Peppercorns 

Homemade cuisine featuring local ingrediants and nature inspired 

events give new meaning to fine dining. We are available for catering 

and private events. By reservation only. 

740-596-5184 


Gourmet Peddler 

Enjoy comfort food with a gourmet twist 

March - November. 10 a.m. to sellout Tuesday through Friday 

St. Rt. 93 South of McArthur at the old Steer Inn 

Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls 

Lodging � Spa 

Restaurant � Gift Shop 

Meetings & Events 

Nestled between 

Old Man’s Cave and 

Cedar Falls 

1-800-653-2557 

www.innatcederfalls.com 

St. Rt. 93 Just South of St. Rt. 56 

Fresh Country 

Lodging and Shopping 

in a whimsical little village 

of unusual buildings chock full of 

Appalachian History and Heritage. 

Sleep in: 

The Appalachian Quilt Cabin 

A Genuine Historic General Store 

Cookie Cottage ~ 1930s Interior 

Shop for country gifts on 

Saturdays and some other days 

www.FiddlestixVillage.com 

www.HistoricHost.com 

740-596-2408 


37


Hope Furnace 

The Hope Furnace is one of only three remaining iron 

furnaces in Vinton County. Iron furnaces were built to 

extract iron from the iron ores native to the region. During 

the mid-1800’s, iron furnaces began to spring up around 

the Vinton County area, employing about 100 employees 

each and prompting the creation of new communities. 

The discovery of high-grade ore in the Lake Superior Region 

brought the iron furnaces in this region to a standstill in 

the late nineteenth century. Towns like Wilkesville, Dundas 

and Zaleski prospered during the iron era and still remain 

today. The furnace is located on State Route 278 near Lake 

Hope. On-site signage details the furnace history and the 

ore making process. 

38 

Herbert 

Wescoat 

Memorial 

Library 

Serving the informational, educational and recreational 

needs of the Vinton County area 

-a member of the Southeast Regional Library System (SERLS) and 

the Ohio Valley Library Consortium (OVLC)- 

(740) 596-5691 

120 N. Market St. • McArthur, OH 45651 

www.vintoncountypublic.lib.oh.us 

“What’s in your bookbag Carry the card that counts!” 

Your library card gives you access to e-books, print 

materials, DVDs, audio books, interlibrary loan 

services, Internet access, research databases (such as 

Mango online language-learning system, NoveList 

and Heritage Quest Online) 

Other library services include fax service, local history collection, 

access to Ancestry.com (in-house), movie nights, book discussions, 

outreach services, and free computer classes. 

M-T, 8:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.; F, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; 

Sat., 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; Closed Sundays 

Serving Vinton County 

for 40 years 

visit us online at 

vintoncourier.com 


Carriage House 

suite includes full 

kitchen, bath, game room, 

panoramic view from balcony porch 

Breath-taking view! 

When you wish upon a star… 

Your dreams can come true. 

Victorian House 

and Carriage House 

sleeps up to 12. Three 

master suites with king 

size beds, one with private hot 

tub and see-through fi replace. Outside 

hot tub and an in-ground pool. Full 

game room with large fl at screen TV, 

bar, pool table and other games. 

. 

www.clay-bryncastle.com 


39

July 1 - Vinton County Courier

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