Got Cabin Fever? Indulge it.

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Winter this year has been (for much of the country) a very long, bitter, and brutal one.  Many of us are suffering from cabin fever, and can’t get out- or don’t want to.  I say, go with it.  An extended and frigid winter is no reason you have to stay cooped up in your own house, even if you are not a skier, skater, or if you left your dog sled in your other garage.  So what to do?  Head to Ohio.

Yes, Ohio.  Ohio doesn’t often get the respect it deserves.  Besides being the home of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and of Fannie May chocolates (and yes, you can go on a factory tour with samples to be had), it’s also the home to more number one children’s museums, zoos, and centers as a whole then any other state.  Take that, Florida!

So- head to Ohio.  There is this hidden gem called Hocking Hills, known as a “Scenic Wonderland” where there are 9 state parks and forests.  Steeped in Native American History,the clear abundance of natural resources and water encouraged pioneers to settle in the area in the 1790’s.  It’s still wild looking- wildlife that you can spot includes “deer, barred owls, ruffed grouse and an occasional bobcat”  as well as wild turkey (according to the Southeast Ohio Tourism Department).  Along with the natural hiking trails of differing lengths and levels of difficulty, many of which are marked off or able to be found on maps in visitors centers, are more then 15 natural waterfalls, some of which are seasonal.  The largest and most often flowing tend to be Cedar Falls and the Upper and Lower Falls at Old Man’s Cave.  You can walk a scenic 2 mile trail between them if you choose.

When you are ready to hunker down at the end of a long day outdoors (yes! in winter!) visit The Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls.  It doesn’t get more classic or comfortable then this.  And the best part?  You HAVE to unlpug. I said it.  Your cell won’t work, and you don’t have WiFi unless you walk down into the main lobby area (which also has a game room and library).  You have to talk to your family and friends.  Be social- in real life.  I admit- it’s a little rattling at first.  But then you ease into it and find that you actually relax and inhale, not being attached to your phone or other random devices.  It’s a vacation in it’s truest form.  You can eat on site, the restaurant is amazing and serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert.

The food is amazing, I loved everything I ate (and so did my family) and the staff was as kind as could be.  If you want to be a true hermit for this trip, or just eat in your own cabin, there is a full kitchen with working stove, refrigerator, and appliances. The cabin is rustic, comfortable, and completely furnished with “extras” like books and movies as well. Stay, go, eat where you want- why did we hate cabin fever, again?