In the Activity Spotlight we highlight some of the many great activities available within a short drive from Ravenwood Castle.

As a guest at Ravenwood Castle you have a wide array of activities to enjoy, both on property and in the greater Hocking Hills area. The selection of sight-seeing and hiking destinations alone is enough to fill multiple trips!

One destination you will be sure to want to make time for is the Wayne National Forest. This jewel of the Appalachian foothills is a great spot to experience nature at its best.  We suggest exploring the area at a leisurely pace in order to best enjoy the natural beauty which surrounds you.  You will encounter wildflowers, butterflies, unique rock formations, a wide variety of trees and abundant wildlife.

Your time in the forest will be shared with a variety of wildlife. Sharp eyed hikers are likely to notice white-tailed deer, gray fox, woodchuck, opossum, and gray squirrel. Common birds in the area include turkey, ruffed grouse, pleated woodpecker and wood duck.

No matter in which season you visit, Wayne National Forest holds its own special beauty.  Springtime brings with it the white dogwoods and blooming pink redbuds; summer offers vistas including the emerald green hills reflected in quiet lakes; perhaps best known in the area is autumn and the wonderful fall colors; even the blustery winter holds its own magic, with the beauty of shimmering snowfalls.  No matter when you visit you are sure to find memories that will last a lifetime.

For the more active outdoor and nature lover, Wayne National Forest offers over 200,000 acres of peaceful wilderness to explore.  There are over 300 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, and with a special permit you can even ride designated trails on an ATV.

No matter how you decide to enjoy Wayne National Forest it is a great way to spend the day in the Hocking Hills. Once you are done exploring, come on back to Ravenwood Castle and relax in the Raven’s Roost Pub or enjoy a calming soak in your suite’s whirlpool tub!

Jim Reed

Jim Reed is a lifelong gamer who started with the original red box Dungeons & Dragons. After spending 20 years in the corporate world, he decided it was high time that work be fun and struck out on his own. Jim now owns and operates Ravenwood Castle, and spends his days ensuring his guests have as much fun as he does.