The rural charm of central Ohio is part of what makes Kenyon unique, and there’s no better time to enjoy it than during the summer. From hiking through prairies to lazily floating down a scenic river, there’s something for everyone. As the summer solstice approaches on June 20, here are a few ideas for enjoying the outdoors around campus.
Explore New Trails
The Brown Family Environmental Center (BFEC) will officially add to its nine miles of trails this summer when it unveils its new North Trail System. Located on the north side of New Gambier Road, it features two more miles of trails through forests and restored prairies and provides a link to existing paths. A ribbon cutting and guided hike will take place at the new 17852 Yauger Road entrance on June 28 at 10 a.m. in conjunction with the Philander Chase Conservancy — Kenyon’s land trust that owns and conserves the property — and Knox County Parks District.
Get Starstruck
Away from bright lights and big cities, Gambier is a great place to enjoy the constellations and planets that light up the night sky. Just a short walk from campus, perched on a hill at the BFEC, is the Franklin Miller Observatory. Its public open houses on the last Friday of most months — the next one will be June 27 from 9 to 11 p.m., weather-permitting — offer a great chance for everyone to get up close and personal with the cosmos.
Admire Nature’s Grand Finale
For decades, students have made pilgrimages to Sunset Point — a secluded, wooded spot on the southwestern edge of campus — in order to watch the sun dip over the horizon. This “secret” spot can be accessed using a trail off College Drive near Horvitz Hall. Just look for the large rock with a plaque from the Class of 1997; follow the path to Sunset Point and continue on for a relaxing walk through the forest.
Go on a River Cruise
Whether it’s rafting, canoeing, kayaking or just floating blissfully along with the current, there are countless ways to enjoy the natural beauty of the Kokosing River. With designated access points near campus at Laymon Road Bridge and Big Run Road, a refreshing dip with friends in the “River of the Little Owls” is never far from reach. Updated information about current river conditions is available from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
Mind the Gap
The Kokosing Gap Trail, a 14-mile paved recreation trail winding from Mount Vernon to Danville, offers a picture-perfect trip through forests and farmland. A popular route for cyclists and joggers alike, it is built on a former Pennsylvania Railroad line that hugs the bank of the Kokosing River. Pick up the trail behind the Lowry Center, near the locomotive and caboose parked outside, or by the BFEC.