Meander: verb – follow a winding course (of a river or road); wander at random (person); proceed aimlessly (speaker or text); to wander aimlessly or casually. Synonyms: ramble, roam, rove, hike, and wander.
Embrace Autumn’s Slower Pace
In our task-oriented, schedule-driven world, a break from strict routine is sometimes necessary for mental and physical health. Autumn is a perfect time to slow down and recalibrate. After all, the natural world is doing just that. Birds are preparing for fall migration, burrowing animals are finding their winter quarters, and gardens have passed their peak production. The most obvious sign of autumn is the change in the foliage of trees, vines, and bushes; the seasonal brilliance of color draws people to country roads and parks – to meander and explore the changing world.
Discover Eastern Ohio’s Diverse Landscape
Eastern Ohio, the foothills of the Appalachians, provides a diverse landscape of small towns, river views, parks and forests, and cities with an industrial heritage. To take a meandering drive along the Ohio River Scenic Byway, a 462-mile journey through 14 counties, is to capture a microcosm of America while enjoying the beauty of autumn. But if time is limited, rather than spending a week to travel the entire Byway, you can make a day trip to one of the counties.
Explore Jefferson County’s Natural Autumn Beauty
With Steubenville as its county seat, Jefferson County has several sites that encourage meandering among fall colors. Jefferson Lake State Park is near the town of Richmond. It is nestled within oak and hickory wooded hills and offers visitors miles of rugged, multi-use trails. A winding country road leads to Friendship Park, a 1320-acre preserve just outside the small town of Smithfield. The park has trails for hiking, bird watching, and mountain biking.
Steubenville’s Historic Beatty Park
Within the city of Steubenville, historic Beatty Park features both rugged and easy nature trails. It also provides information on the park’s history and the flora and fauna found within it, including a 320-million-year-old fossil. Memorable fall hikes and events are regularly scheduled. Moss-covered stonework and steps encourage visitors to ramble this unique nature preserve in the heart of a city.
Celebrate Fall Festivals
Roam among artisans and craftsmen at the various fall festivals in the area. The charming river city of Toronto will hold its 46th annual Art Festival on Labor Day weekend, August 31 and September 1. This festival features a diverse selection of handmade arts and crafts and continuous live entertainment. The village of Wintersville celebrates Apples, Peaches, and Pumpkin Pie on September 7 as part of its monthly Wednesdays in Wintersville. Steubenville’s First Fridays on Fourth will have its Fall Festival with crafts, food, games, and music on October 4.
Find New Roads to Roam this Fall
Relaxing on a casual drive, taking a strenuous hike, and getting away from the desk, the screen, and the routine will bring benefits. So, meander around Ohio this fall. Find new roads to roam, new places to wander, and new sites to explore. For more information on the possibilities in Jefferson County, go to VisitSteubenville.com.
Visit Compass Cuisine for all your fall entertaining recipes.
