Location: Avon Place, Athens
When you arrive at Sells Park, a small pond greets you after you walk up an easy hill. Benches tucked away in the trees give you the perfect spot to pause for some reflection.
When you're ready to hike, just follow the trail heads. Circle around the pond to the left and you'll find the first trail. Take the first left if you're looking for a quick work out. The steep incline on this trail is not for the faint of heart, but is well worth the quick walk up. At the top you'll find a look out point with a perfect view of the hills of Athens County.
If you'd prefer a more leisurely hike, just follow the path straight back. In just a few minutes you'll find a shallow cave and a tiny bridge crossing a creek. Keep going for a complete circle of the park.
As you hike, keep an eye out for mountain bikers. Sells Park is a biking favorite because of its awesome trails and easy access from the Ohio University campus.
A hiker takes a jump at the look out point in Sells Park. Photo by Stan Alost.