Valentine’s Day Hikes

Looking to surprise your special someone with a unique experience on Valentine’s Day?

Go beyond the roses, chocolates, and 5-hour wait for a table at a chain restaurant — go for a hike.

Here are the top places to go and I know because I’ve been to all of them:

Adams County, Ohio — I know at first blush you are thinking — Adams County? She’s done lost her mind. Get moving early and grab some donuts at one of the many Amish stores. We like the caramel cinnamon donuts — a.k.a. Amish Crack. These donuts are beyond good. Next stop, stroll up to the Buzzardroost Rock Trail. Which is a little longer of a hike but much easier since they moved the trail head across the road — so you don’t need to play your own personal game of  Frogger! And, the trail doesn’t cut up that impossibly steep hillside. Don’t get me wrong — you are still going to be climbing a few hills but at least this version isn’t as steep.

After, enjoying the view and getting back to your car, head down the road to Wilderness Trail — just be prepared for mud. If a muddy beautiful woodland hike with awesome rocky outcroppings isn’t your thing — might i suggest the lovely Adams Lake State Park and Adams Lake Prairie State Nature Preserve or the Chaparral Prairie State Nature Preserve.

Madison, Indiana — There are enough chocolate, tea, coffee, cookie, cake, pie, and greasy spoons places to eat along the main street — you’ll definitely need to go hiking the gorgeous Clifty Falls (Ha ha ha ha ha.) Clifty Falls State Park and Nature Preserve. I suggest starting at the Nature Center and hiking Trail 1 and climb the Observation Tower and continue to Trail 3 towards the playground. Connect to Trail 4 towards Hoffman Falls and Lilly Memorial. Connect with Trail 5 and continue to Tunnel Falls. Want to do a short section? I love Tunnel Falls the best. Want to do even shorter, check out the North Gate area and do Trail 7.

Seymour, Indiana — Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge Is the one you love a bird lover? Then, you MUST head over to this amazing refuge. Look at their Facebook page for the latest information.

Cincinnati, Ohio — Want to have the big woods experience without going to Northern California? Head over to California Woods Nature Preserve for a wonderful hike through the woods and over several hills! After, head to Terry’s Turf Club for great music and better burgers!

Have a wonderful Valentine’s Day!