Best attractions and places to see around Athens include a variety of natural features and trails. The region offers lakes, forests, and bikeways, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. These areas are characterized by their natural landscapes, including rivers and wooded terrain. Visitors can explore different types of trails suitable for cycling and hiking.
Last updated: May 29, 2026
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Highlight • MTB Park
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
This lovely stretch of bikeway runs along the Hocking River, with good views down the river and across to the other side. Take care to be courteous of other cyclists and walkers on the path.
0
0
Chauncey-Dover Trailhead Park is a kick-off area for the over 88 miles of trails within Wayne National Forest. This newly renovated area has a mountain bike pump track.
0
0
In the early season, you may be serenaded by spring peepers in Utah Pond.
0
0
Life on the newly finished Baileys Trail System, featuring 88 miles of single track for hikers and mountain bikers in a quintessential section of Wayne National Forest; lush deciduous forests on rolling terrain.
0
0
The Athens region offers a variety of natural features. You can visit Utah Pond, a quiet lake surrounded by tall pine trees, or Dow Lake in Strouds Run State Park, popular for boating and swimming. The area also features lush deciduous forests, such as those found along the Salt Works Trail in Wayne National Forest.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Utah Pond is a peaceful spot for a break, and Dow Lake offers picnic areas and restrooms, making it ideal for a family outing. The Hockhocking Adena Bikeway is also family-friendly for cycling and walking along the Hocking River.
For cycling, the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway provides a scenic route along the Hocking River. Mountain bikers can explore the Salt Works Trail, which offers single track in Wayne National Forest. Additionally, Chauncey-Dover Trailhead Park serves as a kick-off point for over 88 miles of trails within Wayne National Forest and features a mountain bike pump track. You can find more cycling routes in the Cycling around Athens guide.
The Salt Works Trail in Wayne National Forest offers single track for hikers through lush deciduous forests. For more options, explore the Hiking around Athens guide, which includes routes like The Ridges Loop Trail and Trace and Finger Rock Loop.
Yes, Utah Pond is a popular fishing spot, known for its quiet, shady environment surrounded by tall pine trees.
The Athens area is rich in outdoor recreation. You can enjoy cycling on the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway, hiking or mountain biking on the Salt Works Trail, or boating and swimming at Dow Lake. Chauncey-Dover Trailhead Park also provides access to extensive trails in Wayne National Forest.
Yes, Dow Lake in Strouds Run State Park offers picnic areas and restrooms. Chauncey-Dover Trailhead Park is also a renovated area with facilities for visitors.
Trails like the Salt Works Trail feature single track through lush deciduous forests on rolling terrain. The region generally offers natural landscapes with wooded areas and river views, as seen along the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway.
While specific viewpoints are not detailed, Utah Pond is noted as a quiet, shady place surrounded by tall pine trees, offering a serene natural setting. The Hockhocking Adena Bikeway also provides good views down the Hocking River.
Dow Lake is a 2,760-acre lake within Strouds Run State Park. It's a great spot to relax and is popular for boating and swimming. You'll also find picnic areas and restrooms nearby.
The Hockhocking Adena Bikeway is a lovely stretch of bikeway that runs along the Hocking River, offering scenic views of the river and its surroundings. It's a popular path for both cyclists and walkers.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: