Discover Findlay: Waterways, Nature and History

Findlay offers several points of interest to consider when planning your trip: the Blanchard River Water Trail through downtown, nature trails in two preserves and the Hancock Historical Museum. These destinations differ in their specific character: from a named loop trail to a nature preserve and a museum with its own programs.

Waterways in the Heart of Findlay

The 37.6-mile Blanchard River Water Trail runs through downtown Findlay. Riverside Park is in the heart of the city, includes a section of the Heritage Trail and provides access to the Blanchard River Water Trail. This gives you two distinct trails to consider when planning your trip: the section of the Heritage Trail and access to the water trail. Zonta Landing is also in Riverside Park and offers canoe and kayak rentals. Check on rentals before your trip if you plan to use them.

Nature Trails and Lakes

At Blue Rock Nature Preserve in Findlay, you can hike and birdwatch; both activities take place along the 0.3-mile Ladybug Loop Trail. Oakwoods Nature Preserve in Findlay covers 227.5 hectares and offers diverse habitats, nature trails and two lakes. There is a boat launch and a fishing pier at Shank Lake. The distinction can help you choose: Blue Rock focuses on a loop trail and two activities, while Oakwoods is an area with multiple habitats, trails and lakes.

Comparing Trail Lengths

The lengths of the two trails can be compared directly: the Blanchard River Water Trail is 37.6 miles long, while the Ladybug Loop is 0.3 miles long. The trails therefore differ considerably in length. The Water Trail runs through downtown; the Ladybug Loop is in Blue Rock Nature Preserve and is associated with hiking and birdwatching. For your trip planning, the comparison gives you a concrete idea of the length of each trail and also shows that they have different focuses.

Hancock Historical Museum

The Hancock Historical Museum is a privately funded, nonprofit history museum in Findlay. It was founded in 1970 by five local community leaders: Harold Corbin, Jack Harrington, Ed Heminger, Jim Brucklacher and Joe Opperman. The museum is also involved in educational programs, outreach and curatorial activities. These activities complement the story of its founding with a look at the museum’s work and programs. Findlay therefore offers a museum-focused attraction alongside nature and waterways.

Things to Explore in Findlay

When comparing your travel interests, it is also worth considering the type of destination: a specific loop trail, an outdoor preserve with diverse habitats, a water trail through downtown or a museum with history and its own programs.

For an overview of the wider area: Hancock.