More than buggies

from May 2023 Ohio Magazine

SCENIC BYWAYS

Johnny Appleseed Historic Byway

In Richland and Ashland counties, travelers can follow the journey of John Chapman better known as Johnny Appleseed — who spent time in the area during the early 19th century. Spanning 30 miles of state Routes 39, 430 and 603, the byway connects Mansfield, Loudonville and Mifflin, while celebrating Ohio heritage (and apples) at stops like the Johnny Appleseed Forest in Mansfield and Mallory’s Apple Cider in Loudonville.

“A lot of different states claim [Johnny Appleseed] as their own, but I think Ohio in this particular area has the most documented,” says Louis Andres, committee chairman for the Johnny Appleseed Historic Byway.

Malabar Farm State Park off state Route 39 in Lucas offers sunset views from the top of Mount Jeez, as well as the opportunity to tour the home of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Louis Bromfield and dine at Malabar Farm Restaurant. After dinner, tuck in for the night at the Maple Syrup Cabin, a cozy 1940s structure outfitted with modern amenities.

Nearly 12 miles north, on state Route 603, Charles Mill Lake Park offers camping along the water. Pontoon boaters, kayakers and fisherman alike enjoy the calm waters of this 1,350-surface-acre lake that is part of the Muskingum Watershed Con- servancy District. The park has nearly 500 campsites available, from primitive spots to RV hookups, and plenty of onshore recreation to enjoy, including disc golf, a swimming pool and a bocce ball court.

Just up the road in Mifflin, stop at Chuy’s Tacos and Margaritas (formerly the Mifflin Inn) for a cold drink and street tacos to cap off the day.

Maumee Valley Scenic Byway

Running northeast of Defiance through Perrysburg and Maumee up to the southern edge of Toledo, the Maumee Valley Scenic Byway covers nearly 90 miles on state Route 424/295 (also known as old U.S. Highway 24) and state Route 65, following the path of the Maumee River and telling the story of the region’s history and its role during the War of 1812.

“The old U.S. 24 that follows the river is now a casual, enjoyable, leisurely drive along a very scenic route,” says Maura Johnson, chairperson of the Maumee Valley Scenic Byway Committee. “The Maumee River formed the natural boundary for what was the frontier of the Northwest Territory.”

Begin in Defiance at Independence Dam State Park, which offers views of the Maumee River and opportunities for on-thewater recreation, such as boating, water-skiing, canoeing and kayaking. Along the north shore, travelers can hike 3 miles through history on the Miami & Erie Canal Towpath.

The driving route continues into Grand Rapids, a classic Ohio canal town that offers canal boat rides, restaurants, shops and more. Continue to Fort Meigs in Perrysburg to view a reconstruction of the American army’s fortification against British troops during the War of 1812. Visitors can tour the fort and grounds April 1 through Oct. 31 and visit an on-site museum year-round.

Cross over the river to visit the site of Fort Miamis, which also played a role during the war. This historic site is home to remnants of the fort as well as a monument to the Battle of Fallen Timbers.