Old Mill Stream Scenic Byway Overview

Down by the Old Mill Stream (OH) [1]

Experience a wide array of activities along the Old Mills Stream Scenic Byway. The route teems with American history, ground-breaking finds from the Ice Age, and relaxing natural landscapes.

Giertz Lake at Riverbend (OH) [2]

The byway ambles through woods filled with majestic oaks, maples, and hickories. As pioneers settled what was then one large forest spreading throughout Ohio, they cleared spaces for houses and farming. As you travel along the road you will see these early farms and tiny villages still nestled within the shelter of the trees. Continuing on to Van Buren, enjoy Van Buren Park, a protected woodland perfect for a leisurely day of lounging and picnicking by the 45-acre lake. After lunch, explore the park's winding trails.

View of Blanchard River (OH) [3]

Old Mills Stream Scenic Byway provides opportunities to learn about American history, including the War of 1812. Going west past Findlay explore Hull's Old Trail. General William Hull's men hewed this trail out of the forest and across glacial ridges to create a quick route to Detroit, the center of British activity during the war.

West Gateway to Old Mill Stream Scenic Byway (OH) [4]

Diverse museums are scattered throughout this area. One of the most interesting museums is a converted mill from the 1800s. A few years after the War of 1812, the Wyandot Indians received a fully operational mill from the United States government for their help and loyalty during the war. The fully restored mill is famous for its similarity to the area's renowned covered bridges.

Though normal museum visits consist of inspecting artifacts in a building, Ghost Town Museum Park provides a more active experience with history. The town has been fully reconstructed to give you the feeling of stepping back in time. Re-enactors and hands-on exhibits give everyone a better understanding of the people who started this nation.

Take a slight detour from the route and visit Indian Trail Caverns. Along the Indian Trails, lovers of ancient history and nature will come together. The trails are shrouded in a constant green during the spring and summer. Throughout the trails you will find hundreds of caves with rare geological features that everyone will enjoy. The cavern network is also interesting because of the many species of Ice-Age animals and other prehistoric artifacts that have been found there. At the end of your cavern tour, stop at the exhibits to see the things that were found where you were just walking.

Riverside Park in Autumn (OH) [5]

It doesn't matter if you are interested in American History, ancient history, or just enjoying the scenery, everyone will be captivated by this area. Lounge in the shade of the huge oaks, maples, and hickories. Learn about America from the Ice Age to the War of 1812, through tours and hands-on fun for everyone. So pack up your car and spend as long as you want on the Old Mill Stream Scenic Byway.