Summer is here! What to do? What to do?

Dear friends,
The summer solstice has arrived, the sweltering heat is upon us and the hum of air conditioners can be heard in many neighborhoods. This means that the Hocking Hills and the surrounding areas are once again teeming with travelers from all corners of Ohio and its nearby states. If you've hiked all you can hike and are still looking for something to do in the area, there is no shortage of activities planned for the coming weeks.
Today kicks off the annual hand feeding of the Hummingbirds at Lake Hope State Park. Hold a small feeder in your hand and watch with delight as these beautiful Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds drink. You can feed the hummingbirds at Lake Hope Nature Center Wednesday through Sunday from 1:00pm to 3:00pm until August 30th. As many as 25 Hummingbirds have been seem at one time. Stop by and try your luck!
If you are interested in being so up close and personal with the wildlife, you could always Bird By Kayak with Touch the Earth Adventures. On Saturday July 27, Julie Davis, president of the Columbus Audubon will lead a birding adventure on the waterways of Southeast Ohio. Experience and identify by sight and sound such birds as osprey, heron and various woodpeckers. The cost is $40.00 and kayaks are provided. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 740-591-9094.
If romance is in your plans, a torchlight canoe trip may be in order. Experience the Hocking River lit by torch light. The sounds of the evening animal chatter become the soundtrack for torch flames reflecting on the rippling water and the wonder of the moon and stars above. A roaring campfire, refreshments and entertainment await your return from what will surely be a canoe trip you will never forget. The Hocking Valley Canoe Livery will be your guides fro this adventure. Make reservations now to as to not miss out on the fun.
For the adrenaline seekers, visit the Hocking Hills Canopy Tour. Take a 3 hour tree top adventure along the Hocking River, over a cave and a waterfall. Professional guides will wisk you along 10 ziplines and 5 sky bridges and will give you the most unique view of Hocking Hills.
If it is in the air conditioning that you want to be, then make reservations now for the next cooking class at The Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls. Join Chef Anthony on July 22 as you learn to make quick finger foods that are easy and not time consuming. These are perfect for little get togethers with friends. Some examples are Prosciutto wrapped asparagus with Parmesan and Salsa Fresco with Pearl Mozzarella and Crostini. This mid week class is from 11:00am-2:00pm, includes lunch and the cost is $35 / person.
It just goes to show that, even when the hiking trails become crowded there is still much to do in Southeast Ohio. You don't have to look very hard to have an adventure!

Inkeepers,
Ellen and Terry

MOONLIGHT KAYAK LAKE LOGAN

I always wanted to try kayaking. And, to try it with Mimi and her company Touch the Earth Adventure. When my cousins and I were looking for something fun to do we decided to go on the Moonlight Tour, What a great time we all had. We met at Lake Logan with about 10 other people. Mimi instructed us how to paddle and kayak. After a short lesson, we carried our kayaks to the lake. Then, we spent two hours exploring Lake Logan and all it has to offer. Unfortunately, the moon decided not to show itself that evening. But, we still had lots of fun. It was a peaceful, relaxing evening. And, I wasn't even sore the next day. This will definitely be on my "to do" list again. Everyone should go kayaking at least once.

Ellen

Innkeeper