Mohican State Forest was my very first adventure in Ohio. The best part was it was just Winter and me. I was looking for something within about an hour of Columbus to spend time outside. And I found it! A quick drive through the rolling hills between Columbus and Cleveland got me to my destination – Mohican Covered Bridge. I found out during my research that Ohio has over 125 covered bridges! I decided to go check this one out and get in a 2.3 mile hike as well. The hike is listed on all trails as Covered Bridge to Pleasant Hill Dam.
Mohican Covered Bridge
First up was all the photos at Mohican Covered Bridge. After about an hour drive I found a spot to park in the small parking area on one side of the bridge. This was also where the trail head to little and big lyons falls is located. You can both drive and walk across the covered bridge. Winter and I opted to walk across and venture down the Clear Fork Mohican River for some gorgeous views and fun in the water. Winter also got to practice some distance place training. And she’s still got it!
Little and Big Lyons Falls
After we explored around the Mohican Covered Bridge we set out on the trail to Little and Big Lyons Falls. The trail was really straight forward. It follows along the Clear Fork Mohican River bank for half a mile before turning into the forest. Winter and I stopped right before the trail turned to play in the water some more and enjoy the beautiful day.
The next stop on the hike was Big Lyons Falls. The fall a small yet tall waterfall that was in a nifty little alcove. Then the trail turned up a set of stairs and continued for 0.25 miles to the top of Little Lyons falls. Winter and I got a little adventurous and climbed down in an attempt to see the fall from a different view. It was really just an adventure, we didn’t get that great of a view to be honest. But we still had a great time climbing off the trail a bit.
The trail continues after little lyons falls to the Pleasant Hill Dam, which provided some gorgeous views. We then continued down the other side of the river back to the trail head. This section of the trail was beautifully shaded and wide, perfect to let Winter wander around a little.
Before you go
Before you make the trip out to Mohican State Forest there a few things to know. First – it really is pretty rural, and there are very few options for restaurants or food. I would definitely recommend packing a lunch to enjoy along the river bank at the picnic area. Second – this park is pretty popular. This is both good and bad. If you are looking for something more secluded or a place to let you pup stretch their legs, this is not the place. But as an opportunity to spend some time outside, this is a great option! Overall, Winter and I had an amazing time, and she definitely loved the windows down car ride home and playing in the river.
While Ohio doesn’t provide the same views as hiking in Utah does, it is unique in its own way and has some really gorgeous pockets of wilderness. Check out more of my Ohio adventures on the website!