On Sunday, Feb. 5, the annual Groundhog Hike was hosted by Athens Conservancy and the Friends of Strouds Run at Strouds Run State Park near Athens. This year’s hike, held in honor of Conservancy founder John Knouse, marked 20 years of the event.
There was heavy turnout at the event. Conservancy board member Greg Kessler said there may have been as many as 70 people … along with a number of friendly dogs and even a cat in a special cat-carrying backpack.
“Turnout was probably the largest in many years,” Kessler said. “I think we were lucky to have a beautiful day, and many people who were eager to get out in nature after being indoors during winter.
Starting in the late morning, the attendees mingled together in and around the Bulldog Shelter with a warm fire, hot chocolate, coffee, and a plethora of snack options until 12:30 pm, when the hikes started. Attendees had two trail options depending on how long they wanted to hike, both led by Conservancy guides. Kessler, one of two guides for the longer hike, said he enjoyed the experience.
“I am used to seeing the same people at events like this, and when I go out hiking or mountain biking in the Athens area, but I knew very few people on this day,” Kessler said. “Many of them came from out of town and it was exciting to know that we are hosting an event that attracts people to travel to the Athens area.”
All hikers were back at the shelter shortly after 2 p.m., and the day concluded with a raffle drawing, more snacks, and lots of post-hike conversations.
Athens Conservancy thanks everyone who attended the Groundhog Hike, and especially all of the volunteers who lent a helping hand.
- Article by Danny Murnin, Ohio University sophomore and part of 1804 Communication
- Thank you to our photographers, Danny Murnin, Jane Balbo, Greg Kessler