Portsmouth Connex's Wild Ride through parts of Shawnee State Forest. Photo by Toni Dengel. Portsmouth-Scioto County offers a variety of biking opportunities for enthusiasts of all levels. The region features scenic routes along the Ohio River, providing picturesque views and a pleasant riding experience. Key Features Trails and Paths: There are several dedicated bike paths and trails that cater to both casual riders and more experienced cyclists. Community Events: The area often hosts biking events and group rides, fostering a sense of community among cyclists. Safety and Accessibility: Many routes are designed with safety in mind, making it easier for families and individuals to enjoy biking. Overall, Portsmouth-Scioto County is a welcoming destination for biking, combining beautiful landscapes with a supportive cycling community. Biking along Portsmouth’s Floodwall Murals Biking along the Floodwall Murals is especially fun as a family ride! Photo credit: Toni Dengel With over 2,000 years of history represented in over 2,000 feet of art, the Portsmouth Floodwall Murals are quite an impressive piece of art. Whether you are walking, jogging, or even biking along the floodwall, you can gaze upon the murals painted by famed artist, Robert Dafford. Dafford painted Portsmouth’s history on the floodwall – everything from the Hopewell Culture over 2,000 years ago to the steel and shoe industries of Portsmouth to the rich sports and entertainment history of the Portsmouth area and everything in between. When you reach the end of the floodwall, you will come to Alexandria Point Park. Here, you can enjoy the beautiful views of the Scioto and Ohio Rivers. Whichever way you choose to visit the Floodwall Murals, be sure to stop at the Scioto County Welcome Center for more information about visiting the Portsmouth-Scioto County area. Want to learn more about the Floodwall Murals? Visit their website and download their mobile app.   Portsmouth Connex's Wild Ride The Wild Ride event put on by local outdoors organization, Portsmouth Connex. Photo Credit: Toni Dengel Get ready for an unforgettable adventure at Portsmouth Connex’s Wild Ride ! The Wild Ride is a biking adventure through the stunning hills of Shawnee State Park and Shawnee State Forest in Ohio! This thrilling cycling event occurs annually on the third Saturday in June and offers a variety of routes, from 16.5 to 101 miles, perfect for riders of all levels. Whether you’re cruising the scenic paved paths or tackling the rugged gravel trails, you’ll experience the best of Ohio’s hilly terrain, all while surrounded by a lively, supportive community. And don’t worry—there are plenty of aid stations and roving support to keep you going, plus a finish line celebration with music and a festive atmosphere! For those craving a little extra excitement, there are competitive segments on the Storm, Rattlesnake, and Tick routes, where you can race for prizes and bragging rights. Plus, your registration comes with awesome perks like a stylish event t-shirt, a commemorative medal, and a drink voucher for the Portsmouth Brewing Company to celebrate your ride. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just looking for a fun day out in nature, the Wild Ride promises a perfect mix of challenge, beauty, and community spirit!    Mountain Biking at Shawnee State Park: A Hidden Gem for Riders Shawnee State Park in southern Ohio offers an excellent destination for mountain biking enthusiasts, featuring a variety of trails that wind through dense forests and rolling hills. Whether you're a beginner or an intermediate rider, this park provides a thrilling ride with its well-maintained network of tracks. Here's what you can expect from your adventure at Shawnee State Park. Trail Highlights: Cabin Fever Trail  (0.7 miles): Perfect for intermediate riders, this trail is a great introduction to the park’s terrain. Lampblack Trail  (1.0 mile): Another intermediate trail with diverse features that will keep you on your toes. Horseshoe Trail  (0.4 miles): A short but fun ride with technical sections that intermediate riders will appreciate. High Meadow Trail  (0.6 miles): Offering a balance between easy and intermediate difficulty, this trail features scenic views and gentle climbs. High Meadow - Gap Bypass  (0.3 miles): A shorter, intermediate trail that provides additional flow and a smooth ride. Down & Out (0.6-mile) downhill mountain biking trail featuring technical rock gardens, steep descents, and challenging terrain suited for intermediate to advanced riders. Trail Details: Shawnee's trails are primarily categorized as intermediate, with a few easier sections to accommodate riders of different skill levels. The network is designed to challenge riders with its mix of climbs, descents, and natural obstacles, including rocks and roots. While there are no advanced or expert trails, the existing trails provide a satisfying challenge for those looking to improve their technical skills. Scenic Views and Wildlife: As you ride through Shawnee State Park, you’ll encounter picturesque forest views and the occasional glimpse of local wildlife. Deer, wild turkeys, and a variety of birds are often seen in the area, adding to the peaceful atmosphere of the park. Conclusion: Shawnee State Park offers an ideal blend of adventure and nature for mountain biking lovers. With its mix of easy and intermediate trails, stunning scenery, and abundant wildlife, it’s a must-visit spot for cyclists in the region. Whether you're seeking a quick ride or a full day on the trails, Shawnee State Park is the perfect place to explore by bike. If you are in the area, be sure to stop at the Scioto County Welcome Center for more information about visiting the Portsmouth-Scioto County area.

When time is of the essence, but your taste buds demand satisfaction, Scioto County has an array of quick bite options that promise flavor-packed experiences. From locally roasted coffee to decadent pastries, this guide will lead you through a culinary journey of quick bites that delight and satisfy. Lofts Coffee Company 842 Gallia St, Portsmouth, OH 45662 Any time of day is good at Lofts Coffee Company in Portsmouth, where aromatic coffee and delightful brunch options await. Sip on a carefully crafted latte or indulge in a hearty sandwich, all in a cozy and inviting atmosphere that sets the tone for a delicious day. Stopping by later in the day? They also serve an impressive selection of wines and creative cocktails along with charcuterie boards and snacking plates. Market Street Cafe 212 Market St, Portsmouth, OH 45662 Lunchtime calls for a visit to Market Street Cafe in Portsmouth, where fresh ingredients come together in delightful sandwiches, salads, and wraps. With a commitment to quality and flavor, this eatery provides a quick and satisfying meal that fuels your afternoon adventures. Sarah's Cafe & Bakery 21 Robert Lucas Rd, Lucasville, OH 45648 Nestled in the heart of Lucasville, Sarah's Cafe & Bakery is a charming, modern cafe where the aroma of freshly baked bread and treats meets the comfort of hearty lunches. Savor a flaky croissant with chicken salad, indulge in a specialty coffee, or grab a no bake cookie to go, all crafted with care and precision. Fork & Finger 232 2nd St, Portsmouth, OH 45662 Discover the heartwarming embrace of Fork & Finger, a true haven for those seeking the comforts of the South in Scioto County. Their menu showcases cherished Southern dishes, each a delightful journey into flavor and nostalgia. Be sure to save room for their enticing assortment of homemade cakes and pies, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your dining experience. Skyline Family Restaurant at Portsmouth Airport 130 Barklow Rd, Portsmouth, OH, United States, 45662 Skyline Family Restaurant, located at Portsmouth Airport, offers a warm and inviting atmosphere where you can savor homestyle cooking at its finest. Whether you're enjoying a hearty breakfast or a comforting dinner, their menu is filled with classic dishes that make you feel right at home. Oddfellows 526 2nd St., Portsmouth, OH, United States, 45662 Their delicious selection of fresh, seasonally appropriate items will keep you excited to visit and on their toes in anticipation from season to season. Not to mention their custom tiled wood-fired ovens crank out the tastiest pizzas and chicken wings in town. Oddfellows isn’t just a place to fill your appetite— come here to eat AND play! They offer four duckpin bowling lanes and ten arcade games which are a hit for all ages! Pro Tips for Quick Bites Excursion: Time It Right: Check the opening hours of each establishment to ensure they align with your schedule. Customize to Taste: Many of these eateries offer customizable options, so feel free to personalize your order. Local Love: Support local businesses and savor the flavors unique to Scioto County. Plan Ahead: If you're in a hurry, consider calling ahead for takeout or checking their online menus. From morning coffee to midday sustenance and afternoon treats, Scioto County's quick bite options provide a plethora of choices to suit every palate. This guide promises a whirlwind of flavors that embrace both convenience and quality, offering a culinary journey that's as delightful as it is satisfying.

Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Plateau, Scioto County offers more than just scenic beauty—it’s a living laboratory of Earth’s dynamic history. From ancient oceans to Ice Age floods, the rocks and landscapes here tell a fascinating geologic tale. If you're a geology buff, nature lover, or curious traveler, this guide is your roadmap to exploring some of Ohio’s most compelling natural features. A Geologic Map of Ohio (ODNR) A Journey Through Deep Time: Scioto County’s Geologic Story The bedrock of Scioto County is a record of over 450 million years  of geological evolution. Starting in the Ordovician Period , shallow inland seas deposited layers of limestone, sandstone, and shale , forming the foundation of the region. These layers are rich in marine fossils—remnants of a time when southern Ohio lay near the equator beneath warm, tropical waters. During the late Paleozoic Era , mountain-building events like the Alleghenian orogeny  uplifted and folded these sediments. Fast forward to the Pleistocene Ice Age , when massive glaciers swept across Ohio, reshaping ancient rivers and leaving behind a patchwork of moraines, outwash plains , and glacial lake deposits . One such glacial lake— Glacial Lake Tight —once covered a vast part of the county, dramatically altering its topography. Top Geological Destinations (Now with Deeper Science!) 1. Shawnee State Forest – Ohio’s Little Smokies Shawnee State Forest sits atop Mississippian-aged rocks , including the Borden Formation  and Maxville Limestone  (~330 million years old). These formations represent deltaic and shallow marine environments , with occasional limestone lenses formed in clear, warm seas. You can also find evidence of ancient karst features  like small caves and sinkholes in the Maxville Limestone, which was dissolved by groundwater after deposition. 🧠 Did you know?  The Borden Formation’s greenish-gray shale contains fossils of crinoids and brachiopods , animals that once lived on the seafloor. View point from the gazebo at Shawnee State Park Lodge and Conference Center. Notice the layer of fog atop the mountains in the distance. 2. Scioto River Valley This wide, fertile valley was shaped during the Wisconsinan glaciation (~20,000 years ago) . The current Scioto River follows a reorganized path after the Teays River —a preglacial river system—was buried by glacial till. Beneath the valley lies up to 400 feet of unconsolidated sediment , including sand, gravel, and clay , making it one of the best spots in Ohio to study glacial and post-glacial hydrology . 🧠 Did you know?  Boreholes in the valley show that ancient river gravels lie directly atop bedrock, under thick glacial lake deposits left by Lake Tight. Kayak launch point on the Scioto River near Lucasville, OH. 3. Raven Rock Natural Arch This arch, formed in the Pennsylvanian-age Conemaugh Group , was shaped by differential erosion . Harder layers of sandstone  resisted erosion, while underlying shale and siltstone  were worn away, leaving behind the arch. These rocks were laid down about 310 million years ago  in a fluvial system of swamps, rivers, and floodplains , occasionally punctuated by marine incursions. 🧠 Fun fact:  The sandstones here often exhibit cross-bedding  and iron oxide staining , indicators of ancient river channels and oxidation processes. Raven Rock. Raven Rock State Nature Preserve, West Portsmouth, OH 4. McDermott Quarry & Berea Sandstone Outcrops Just west of McDermott, along the railroad tracks, you’ll find outcrops of the Berea Sandstone , a late Devonian to early Mississippian  unit (~360 million years old). These sandstones were deposited in a tidal delta  environment, and many outcrops exhibit soft-sediment deformation , where wet sand was slumped or folded before fully lithifying. 🧠 Look closely!  You might spot ripple marks, planar bedding, and ball-and-pillow structures —all signs of ancient sediment dynamics. Cook's Photography, Portsmouth, Ohio, “Taylor Stone Stockyard McDermott, Ohio,” Scioto County Public Library Local History Digital Collection , accessed June 4, 2025, https://www.sciotolibrary.org/history/items/show/5362 . 5. Glacial Features & Glacial Lake Tight Deposits Lake Tight was formed when glaciers dammed the ancient Teays River, flooding valleys and depositing varved clays, silts , and fine sands  in the still water. These sediments are still visible in stream cuts  and roadside exposures . As the glacier retreated, it left behind kames (gravel mounds), terraces, and outwash plains , especially visible north of Portsmouth. 🧠 Geology in action:  The modern drainage system of Scioto County is a product of this glacial interference, showing how climate change shaped local hydrology. Figure 1—A GIS model showing Lake Tight in blue. Islands that would have existed above the lake’s estimated water level are shown in brown, and yellow areas denote exposures of paleomagnetically reversed sediments. The red line shows the Teays River’s path prior to glacial damming. The green line shows the limit of glaciation, marking the southernmost glacial advancement and where the natural impoundment of the Teays River occurred. Image reprinted from “A New Map of Pleistocene Proglacial Lake Tight Based on GIS Modeling and Analysis,” by James Erjavec, 2018, Ohio Journal of Science, Vol. 118, pg. 61. 6. Route 823 – Portsmouth Bypass Corridor This modern highway slices through sedimentary layers from the Mississippian and Pennsylvanian periods , exposing excellent roadcut geology . You’ll see shale, siltstone, sandstone , and even thin coal seams . The layers often contain marine fossils  such as brachiopods, bryozoans , and crinoid columnals . 🧠 Field tip:  These roadcuts are textbook examples of cyclothems —repeating sequences of marine and non-marine sedimentation, common in the Pennsylvanian. An aerial view of Route 823 Bypass overlooking the Ohio River in the background. In order to make the road, they had to blast their way through the hills and mountains. The geologic formations can be easily seen as you travel along the roadway. 7. Route 52 – Ohio River Scenic Byway Running parallel to the Ohio River, Route 52 shows off river terraces , loess deposits , and glacial outwash . The terraces represent multiple stages of river downcutting  following glacial retreat. Loess, a fine windblown silt, caps many of the bluffs and is a direct indicator of Pleistocene climate conditions . 🧠 At the bluffs:  Look for exposed stratified sands and gravels  below loess layers—each represents a past episode of high river flow or glacial meltwater surges. 🗺️ Suggested Roadside Stops Shawnee State Forest Trails  – See Mississippian formations and karst features. Scioto River Overlooks  – Study valley fill and glacial outwash. Raven Rock Trailhead  – Observe sandstone arch formation processes. McDermott Quarry Site  – View tidal and deltaic bedding structures. Route 823 Roadcuts  – Examine Paleozoic fossil-rich strata. Route 52 Pull-Offs  – Investigate terrace stratigraphy and loess caps. Top Hiking Trails & Sites to Explore Geology in Scioto County 1. Tremper Mound and Earthworks Location : Near Portsmouth, along the Scioto River Highlights : Tremper Mound is a significant Hopewell culture  site, built around 100 BCE–500 CE. While primarily archaeological, its setting provides an excellent example of the Scioto River Valley’s alluvial and glacial geology . The mound sits on fertile glacial outwash plains , which made it a prime location for early human settlement. Geological Significance : Positioned on an elevated terrace above the floodplain . Near exposures of Quaternary sediments  and buried glacial channels. Provides views of pre-glacial valley alignment  along the former Teays River drainage system. Access : While there is no formal hiking trail, you can walk around the mound site and along the riverbank to observe its geologic setting. More Information : Arc of Appalachia – Tremper Mound Tremper Mound. Photo by Brian Prose 2. Shawnee State Forest Location : Western Part of Scioto County Highlights : Known as “Ohio’s Little Smokies,” this vast forest lies on Mississippian-age sandstone and shale , forming steep ridges and deep hollows  characteristic of the unglaciated Appalachian Plateau. Recommended Trails : Shawnee Backpacking Trail (35 miles)  – A multiday trek through varied terrain, ideal for serious hikers and geology enthusiasts. Lampblack Trail & Day Hikes  – Shorter options through ridge-top and valley exposures, often cutting through Berea Sandstone  outcrops. Features : Fossiliferous layers, iron ore seams, ancient weathering profiles. More Information : ODNR Shawnee State Forest or ODNR Shawnee State Park 3. Raven Rock State Nature Preserve Location : West Portsmouth, above the Ohio River Highlights : A dramatic overlook from a natural sandstone arch , formed through weathering and stream erosion  of the Upper Mississippian sandstone . Trail : Short but steep hike (permit required) to the top of the cliff, offering spectacular views of the Ohio River Valley —a landscape shaped by glacial meltwater and ancient river courses. More Information : Raven Rock Preserve Info 4. Ohio Hanging Rock Preserve Location : Near Wheelersburg, OH Highlights : Unique sandstone cliffs and overhangs, ideal for studying erosion features , jointing , and rock shelter formation . Geological Features : Part of the Pottsville Group , the Hanging Rock area displays sedimentary sequences with cross-bedded sandstones , once part of ancient river deltas. Access : Maintained trails through the preserve by the Arc of Appalachia nonprofit. More Information : Arc of Appalachia – Ohio Hanging Rock Hiking through Ohio Hanging Rock Preserve reveals these giant sandstone cliffs and overhangs. 🧭 Tips for Roadside & Trailside Geology Exploration Bring binoculars  and a notebook  to record your observations. Use topographic maps  or GPS apps with geology layers like Rockd or USGS Topo Maps. Check Permits : Raven Rock and some preserves require advance permission. Layer Up : Many trails go from valley to ridge, so temperatures can vary. Watch for Fossils : Particularly in the shale layers of Shawnee Forest and near stream beds. Stay safe : Use designated trails, and do not collect fossils or disturb natural outcrops unless permitted. Final Thoughts Scioto County offers more than just scenic drives—it’s a living textbook of geological processes, from ancient seas to glacial floods and Appalachian uplift. Whether you’re hiking to an overlook or cruising along Route 52, the land tells a story carved in stone.

Stay Embrace a delightful escape in the idyllic Scioto County, where you can choose from charming bed and breakfasts exuding quaint elegance, budget-friendly hotels providing modern amenities, or immerse yourself in nature with camping under the starlit skies, creating a perfect getaway to suit every traveler's preference. Hotels Holiday Inn 711 2nd Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Quality Inn (Wheelersburg) 8226 Ohio River Road Wheelersburg, OH 45694 Website Red Roof Inn (Wheelersburg) 8340 Ohio River Road, Wheelersburg OH 45694 Website Shawnee State Lodge & Cabins 4404B State Route 125 West Portsmouth, OH 45663 Website Quality Inn (Portsmouth) 5100 Scioto Trail, Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Super 8 4266 US-23 Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Bed & Breakfasts Photo Credit: The Old Monastery The Old Monastery 2311 Timlin Rd Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Resorts Photo Credit: McChesney Ridge Big Bear Lake Family Resort 9906 Big Bear Creek Road Lucasville, Ohio 45648 Website McChesney Ridge 2198 Sedan Crabtree Road Lucasville, OH 45648 Website Vacation Rentals VRBO To view VRBO properties available for rent in Scioto County, OH click the button below. Website Journey Adventures 2914 Mackeltree Rd., Blue Creek, OH 45616 Website AirBnB To view AirBnB properties available for rent in Scioto County, OH click the button below. Website Camping Ohio River Campground (Shawnee State Park) 11152 US-52 Stout, OH 45684 Website Riverview Campground 1224 Kenyon Rd Franklin Furnace, OH 45629 Website Ben’s Happy Trails Riding Stable and Campground 3494 Big Spruce Road Otway, OH 45657 Website Bear Lake Horse Camp Contact the Shawnee State Forest office for more information. Website Wolford's Landing 6888 Front Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Turkey Creek Campground (Shawnee State Park) 5648 State Route 125 West Portsmouth, OH 45663 Website Lazy Village Campground & RV Park 13610 US Highway 52 West Portsmouth, OH 45663 Website Wayne National Forest 13700 US Highway 33 Nelsonville, OH 45764 (office) Website Lazy Village Campground & RV Park 13610 US-52 West Portsmouth, OH 45663 Website

Arts & Entertainment Events in Scioto County Explore Scioto County’s vibrant arts & entertainment scene! This is your premier destination for live music, theater performances, and artistic experiences in Scioto County, Ohio. From kid-friendly art events at the Portsmouth Area Arts Council , to live concerts at Columbia Theatre , or a musical at The Vern Riffe Center for the Arts , there is entertainment for everyone. Enjoy local arts, live music, & theatrical performances right here in Scioto County, Ohio!

About Meet our Director Hello and welcome to Portsmouth-Scioto Co unty! You can say that tourism has always been a part of my life in some way. As a kid, I grew up on a farm in northern Ohio just 20 minutes from one of the most famous amusement parks, Cedar Point Amusement Park. Despite being close to such a big attraction, my family traveled to various places around the country from Alaska to the Florida Keys and everywhere in between. This is where my inspiration for my career choice began. I began my career in tourism in a somewhat unconventional way. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Environment and Natural Resources with a focus on Parks, Recreation, and Tourism from The Ohio State University. After graduation, I traveled the country again, but this time not as a visitor, but rather as a park ranger for the National Park Service. My life as a park ranger took me to a variety of places across the country including Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Grand Canyon National Park, Zion National Park, and other such sites across the U.S. So what brings a park ranger to the hills of southern Ohio? My family. My wife and her family are from Minford, OH, located in the northeastern part of the county. Throughout my time here, I’ve grown to appreciate the cultural and natural resources we have right in our own backyard. From the hills in Shawnee State Forest to the Ohio River, there is always something beautiful to discover in Scioto County! I hope you enjoy your visit! – Nate Welch, Executive Director Stop by and see us! Tourism Partner & Member of the following organizations: