Category: Mohican

With no snow and temperatures in the 50s for most of the day, Mount Greylock Regional High School cross-country skiers Ollie Swabey and Jude Bakija, both 17, wore shorts as they did the Mohican Trail in Williamstown with roller skis on Monday, near the trail entrance at Syndicate Road.

GILLIAN JONES-HECK — THE BERKSHIRE EAGLE

Dreary, dismal and damp, with near-record above-normal temperatures and areas of dense fog more typical of early spring.

That’s been the persistent pattern for a most unusual December in Berkshire County and beyond. With frost confined to only a handful of early mornings, temperatures have been above normal on 23 of the month’s 29 days — often by double digits.

The result: Heating needs, based on temperatures averaging more than 6 degrees above normal, have been nearly 30 percent below normal.

Snowfall totaling less than 2 inches means this month joins 1999, 2006 and 2015 for the least amount of snow on the ground in December, according to National Weather Service records at Pittsfield Municipal Airport.

But more than 5 inches of rain puts the month 40 percent above normal for precipitation. Widespread flooding followed a deluge of nearly 2.7 inches on Dec. 17 and 18.

A most unusual sight for the end of December: Like other Berkshire waterways, Stockbridge Bowl was entirely ice-free and placid on Friday afternoon under persistent fog and drizzle. Drier and more seasonable weather is predicted for the county in the days ahead.

CLARENCE FANTO/BERKSHIRE EAGLE

The next few days won’t feel as mild, but will still be above average. Typical temperatures for late December and early January range from the mid-teens to the low 30s in the…

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We’re revisiting some of our favorite stories of the year. This one was originally published July 20.

I picked this one because I appreciate all the individual and groups of artists I have gotten the opportunity to talk to, but I think it is especially important to highlight Indigenous culture, history, and life given that our dominant culture is strategically designed to ignore, erase, or destroy those precious things, and Terri is a wonderful woman playing her part in fighting that. 

— Isaac Trussoni

Wisconsin is no stranger to the presence of deep, yet often under-discussed Native American history that ties in so closely with the state. While much of the visual representation of Native history is most immediately seen in the geography of Wisconsin, many artists are pushing for more visibility and vocality around Native history and culture through their own creations. 

Terri O’Connor is one such local artist. While Terri now lives in Poynette, Wisconsin, she has been around the Madison area since her early 20s. O’Connor’s passion for art started long before she found her way to Madison as art was second nature at home.    

“I started my art way back when I was young,” O’Connor told Madison365. “I just always dabbled in the art scene a bit, slowly working with the tribe on quite a few little projects that they had. My dad was an artist, so he had paintings that he had done in the house like some horses, I remember. I also had my mom’s brother who was an artist, so he did a lot of beautiful artwork, too, as a painter, as well. I saw that and was always interested in art.”

O’Connor grew up surrounded not just by art, but by Native American art and culture specifically…

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This writer is dark, dirty, ‘doughless’ and looks like a crook | New Straits Times 0){ var regexp = /pwtv=(.*?)(&|$)/g; var matches = regexp.exec(purl); if(matches.length >= 2 && matches[1].length > 0){ profileVersionId = ‘/’+matches[1]; } } var wtads = document.createElement(‘script’); wtads.async = true; wtads.type = ‘text/javascript’; wtads.src = url+profileVersionId+’/pwt.js’; var node = document.getElementsByTagName(‘script’)[0]; node.parentNode.insertBefore(wtads, node); })(); ]]>

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OPEN SOURCE: This story originated from a question via the Open Source platform at this link. Readers can use the platform to submit tips and questions.

HANOVER TOWNSHIP — Some popular backcountry “park-and-pack” campsites in Mohican-Memorial State Forest have reopened, but a few remain closed. 

The backcountry campsites scattered throughout the state forest have been closed since June 2022, when a tornado ripped through the area, leaving fallen trees and disfigured trails.

Crews with the state’s division of forestry have taken the last year-and-a-half to clean up and reopen the sites.

Sites 1 through 7 reopened in late October, with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Forestry making an announcement on its website Nov. 13.

Three other sites, however — eight, nine and 10 — remain closed indefinitely. 

A sign denotes the closure of an area at Mohican-Memorial State Forest in July 2022. Credit: Dillon Carr

Chad Sanders, the forest’s manager, said the reason those will remain closed is so his office and law enforcement can consider management options.

“Eight, nine and 10 have always been problematic,” he said.

Sanders said illegal activity at those campsites has ramped up since the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We’ve had homeless people camping there, partying and drugs associated with that,” Sanders said. “We had some incidents with neighbors, people threatening neighbors.”

The park-and-pack sites have been open for public use for more than 20 years, Sanders said. 

The relative ease of registration and the fact they are free to use makes the sites popular among outdoor enthusiasts, Sanders said. 

“The idea behind them is if you wanted to park your car, hike in a short distance with your family, you could,” he said. “It’s like having a camp away from a campground.” 

The parking lot…

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Summary:
Ohio is home to numerous scenic waterways that offer excellent opportunities for kayaking and canoeing. From tranquil lakes to winding rivers, the state boasts a diverse range of locations suitable for paddling enthusiasts of all skill levels. This article explores some of the best places for kayaking or canoeing in Ohio, highlighting their unique features and attractions. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful paddle through serene nature or an adventurous journey with thrilling rapids, Ohio has something to offer for everyone.

Introduction:
Kayaking and canoeing are popular outdoor activities in Ohio, attracting both locals and visitors alike. With its abundance of lakes, rivers, and reservoirs, the state provides ample opportunities for paddling enthusiasts to explore its natural beauty. Whether you prefer a leisurely paddle on calm waters or an adrenaline-pumping adventure through rapids, Ohio has a variety of destinations to suit your preferences. In this article, we will delve into some of the best places for kayaking or canoeing in Ohio, highlighting their unique characteristics and attractions.

1. Hocking River:
The Hocking River, located in southeastern Ohio, offers a picturesque setting for kayaking and canoeing. With its gentle current and scenic surroundings, this river is ideal for beginners and those seeking a peaceful paddle. The Hocking Hills region, through which the river flows, is renowned for its stunning rock formations, lush forests, and abundant wildlife. Paddlers can enjoy a leisurely journey while immersing themselves in the tranquility of nature.

2. Mohican River:
The Mohican River, situated in north-central Ohio, is a popular destination for kayaking and canoeing enthusiasts. This river offers a mix of calm stretches and exciting rapids, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers. The Mohican State Park, encompassing the river, provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including camping, hiking, and fishing. Paddlers can enjoy the thrill of navigating…

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Several things put the Buckeye State on the map, from the Rock and Rock Hall of Fame and world-class stadiums to being the home of the Wright Brothers. However, there is no disputing the state’s natural beauty. Its fertile soils have nurtured lush forested surroundings with pristine waterways, resulting in a charming variety of flora and fauna. Furthermore, the Appalachian Plateau, which makes up a huge chunk of the state, is dotted with lovely nature spaces, presenting endless outdoor opportunities. 

Skipping big cities like Cleveland and Columbus and heading to the rural localities raises the prospect of experiencing the state’s natural side. The small towns harbor the best outdoor adventures in Ohio’s open spaces, thanks to sprawling park grounds, nature preserves, and abandoned farmlands. Whether planning to hike, camp, swim, or sightsee, these are the best towns in Ohio for the outdoorsy vacationer. 

Loudonville

Pleasant Hill Lake near Loudonville, Ohio.

The “canoe capital of Ohio” delights visitors with a range of river adventures. This little locality boasts multiple canoe liveries, including Mohican Adventures Canoe Livery & Fun Center. Visitors can choose from kayaking, rafting, canoeing, and tubing for a fun trip down the Mohican River. But this is only the tip of the iceberg. At Mohican State Park, you can enjoy a vibrant recreation hub with opportunities for hikers, hunters, anglers, campers, skiers, and snowmobilers. The park is surrounded by the dense Mohican-Memorial State Forest, allowing you to get lost in the belly of Mother Nature.

If hiking sounds like too much work, you can get behind the wheel for a trip along the Wally Road Scenic Byway to soak in breathtaking scenes of the fertile Mohican and Walhonding Valleys. The route traverses forested hilltops, wetlands, and deep…

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Summary:
Ohio is home to numerous picturesque camping spots that offer a variety of outdoor experiences. From serene lakeside retreats to dense forests teeming with wildlife, the state boasts a range of camping destinations for nature enthusiasts. This article explores some of the best camping spots in Ohio, highlighting their unique features and amenities. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly campground or a secluded wilderness experience, Ohio has something to offer every camping enthusiast.

What are the Best Camping Spots in Ohio?

1. Hocking Hills State Park: Nestled in the heart of the Hocking Hills region, this state park is renowned for its stunning rock formations, cascading waterfalls, and lush hiking trails. Campers can choose from a variety of campsites, including electric and non-electric options, and enjoy activities such as fishing, canoeing, and birdwatching.

2. Mohican State Park: Situated along the scenic Clear Fork Gorge, Mohican State Park offers a range of camping opportunities. With over 1,100 acres of woodlands, campers can explore miles of hiking and biking trails, go horseback riding, or enjoy water activities on the park’s lake. The park also features a variety of camping options, including RV sites, primitive campsites, and cabins.

3. East Harbor State Park: Located on the shores of Lake Erie, East Harbor State Park is a haven for water lovers. Campers can enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing in the lake, or simply relax on the sandy beach. The park offers both electric and non-electric campsites, as well as amenities such as showers, playgrounds, and picnic areas.

4. Wayne National Forest: Spanning over a quarter-million acres, Wayne National Forest provides a true wilderness camping experience. With numerous dispersed camping sites, visitors can immerse themselves in the forest’s natural beauty and enjoy activities like hiking, hunting, and wildlife watching. It’s important to note that permits may be required for certain…

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The 1992 film version of The Last of the Mohicans has one of the best and well-known musical scores ever done for a movie.

“Hidden History” is a diary series that explores forgotten and little-known areas of history.

Put on some headphones and turn up the volume:

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James Fenimore Cooper was born in New Jersey in 1789. When he was only a year old, his family moved to upstate New York, where they founded the town of Coopersville and his father was elected to the US Congress. James proved to be a remarkably intelligent young man, entering Yale University at age 13. But he also had a deep rebellious streak, and was kicked out of the University after three years, after pulling a number of pranks involving donkeys and exploding doors. In 1806 the 17-year old Cooper joined the crew of a sailing ship, and five years later enlisted in the US Navy. When his father died, Cooper inherited a substantial sum of money, and also married a wealthy heiress.

Returning to upstate New York, Cooper became interested in the area’s historical sites, which included battlefields from the French and Indian War, the Revolutionary War, and the War of 1812. He also heard several stories firsthand from one of his neighbors, the statesman John Jay.

Inspired by these stories, in 1820 Cooper wrote his first novel, titled Precaution, a historical romance in the style of Jane Austen. Written under a female pen name, it was a commercial failure. Undaunted, Cooper tried again a year later with The Spy, a historical novel set during the Revolutionary War. This was a success, and Cooper went on to begin a five-part series of novels, set in the frontier towns and wilderness of northern New York. The series was called “The Leatherstocking”, and…

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Summary:
Ohio may not be the first state that comes to mind when thinking about snowshoeing destinations, but it offers a surprising number of excellent trails for this winter activity. From the picturesque Cuyahoga Valley National Park to the serene Mohican State Park, snowshoers can explore a variety of terrains and enjoy the beauty of Ohio’s winter landscapes. This article highlights some of the best places for snowshoeing in Ohio, providing insights into the trails, facilities, and natural wonders that await outdoor enthusiasts.

What are the best places for snowshoeing in Ohio?

1. Cuyahoga Valley National Park:
Located between Cleveland and Akron, Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers over 125 miles of trails suitable for snowshoeing. From easy strolls to more challenging treks, visitors can explore frozen waterfalls, dense forests, and the iconic Cuyahoga River. The park also provides snowshoe rentals and guided tours for those new to the activity.

2. Mohican State Park:
Mohican State Park, situated in north-central Ohio, boasts breathtaking views of the Clear Fork Gorge and the Mohican River. With 13 miles of trails, snowshoers can immerse themselves in the park’s diverse landscapes, including hemlock forests, open meadows, and rolling hills. The park offers snowshoe rentals and regularly grooms its trails during winter.

3. Hocking Hills State Park:
Known for its stunning rock formations and waterfalls, Hocking Hills State Park transforms into a winter wonderland during snowy months. Snowshoers can explore the park’s six major hiking areas, each offering unique natural features such as caves, cliffs, and gorges. It is advisable to bring your own snowshoes as rentals may not be available.

4. Lake Metroparks:
Lake Metroparks, located in northeastern Ohio, provides several snowshoeing opportunities across its various parks. Chapin Forest Reservation, Penitentiary Glen Reservation, and Girdled Road Reservation offer scenic trails through woodlands and along frozen lakes. Snowshoe rentals are available…

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