Choose your vibe and find it on the Buckeye Frontier.
Forest, field, city and beach: For a comprehensive overview of the variety Licking County has to offer, look no further than this route from Hanover to Hebron, whose highlights change with every dip and turn in the road.
Here you’ll find an artful blend of scenery and history as the manmade and natural co-exist: Both of their influences remain strong in this place we are proud to call home.
1. Hanover
Head west from Hanover and turn south across Ohio 16, where the route passes farmers’ fields with expansive views of the country sky mingled with forested areas whose canopies drape gracefully over the road. This stretch of the Buckeye Frontier crosses and runs parallel to the Licking River, from which Licking County takes its name (inspired by salt licks in the area when it was settled in 1808).
Rising up above field and farm, the handles of Longaberger’s “big basket” building can be seen from a distance off Staddens Bridge Road to the north.
2. Downtown Newark
Eventually the countryside gives way to homes and buildings as downtown Newark comes into view. Take a side trip into town to peruse the county seat’s Courthouse Square, whose recent renovations speak to the value of hometown pride. Various shops and restaurants beckon with an excuse (as if you needed one?) to linger over a cup of coffee, glass of wine or window shop for a piece of local art. For an even more hands-on experience, stop into The Works to learn about local history, art and science--including the facility’s most recent addition, a 2,200-square-foot planetarium known as the SciDome. Check attheworks.org for hours and admission.
3. Dawes Arboretum
South of Newark and back across the Licking River on Ohio 13, the stately Dawes Arboretum is a treasure trove of nearly 2,000 acres’ worth of outdoor exploration and learning for adventurers of all ages and abilities. The arboretum was established in 1929 by Beman and Bertie Dawes as a place “To encourage the planting of forest and ornamental trees … to give pleasure to the public and education to the youth.” Today, it displays nearly 5,000 different types of woody plants available for viewing on an afternoon stroll or educational hike with the kids. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 5-15.
4. Buckeye Lake
When you begin passing signs for boat docks and lakeside dining, you’ll know you’re close to Buckeye Lake. The lake, constructed in 1826 as a canal feeder, was once the site of an amusement park, complete with rides, an arcade and two dance halls. While the park is long gone, the spirit of Buckeye Lake lives on as a place for folks to gather and make lakeside memories. The recently completed Buckeye Lake dam is a perfect spot for sunset bike ride or jog; stop by a local restaurant or brewery to add a delicious dynamic to your village experience.
5. Canal Greenway Bridge
Outside Buckeye Lake, look for the Hebron Fish Hatchery, where you’re sure to spot a heron or two waiting for its next meal. The facility, a draw for birdwatchers from across the state, boasts 63 rearing ponds, several walking trails and an observation deck. On the west side of the road just past the hatchery, the idyllic Canal Greenway Covered Bridge stands among the grasses, an 80-foot wooden truss bridge built in 1992 begging to be photographed for your living room gallery wall.
6. Village of Hebron
As your journey draws to a close, consider yourself privileged to be able to travel along the historic U.S. 40, also known as National Road. Known as the “First Highway in America,” the approximately 700-mile National Road extends from Cumberland, Maryland to Vandalia, Illinois. Along the route, the village of Hebron serves as an ideal spot to wind down with a plate of your favorite comfort food and/or an ice cream cone (make it a double, please) and reflect on the roads you’ve traveled.
