Toledo Outdoor Activities

Every summer, the double-decker Good Time I forges connections between mainland Ohioans and their island-dwelling neighbors to the north. En route to Put-in-Bay and Kelleys Island, captains divulge each island’s history and point out popular attractions such as Marblehead Lighthouse and their reflections in the water. To further prime passengers for island revelry, the _Good Time I_’s weekend tours regale guests with live DJs and mixed drinks.

After spotting vacationers parasail over Florida's beaches, the founder of Put in Bay Parasail decided to create a way for North Coasters to get the same thrill above Lake Erie's waters. Since then, thousands of parasailers have taken flight and sailed up to 300 feet over the water, enjoying beach views and attempting to touch the sun while USCG-licensed captains safely steer. Setting forth from South Bass Island, Captain Jason Hall outfits guests with life vests and valuable knowledge nuggets, gleaned during more than two decades of water adventuring. Alternatively, high-quality paddleboards send aqua explorers on adventures closer to Erie's water. Staff point boarders in the direction of great spots for sunbathing, bobbing, or surfing based on their skill level and fluency at communing with lake trout.

For 129 years, the farmhouse at Country Lane Tree Farm has looked out over acres of trees and crops as they bear fruit, change colors, and catch a light dusting of snow. The Bowlander family keeps the land bustling through the seasons by inviting families and school groups to come take part in farm activities. Craft barn events happen in the spring and summer, along with farm tours where children can see and interact with a variety of animals. Activities include, milking cows, holding chickens and ducks, and gazing profoundly into the deep eyes of Peaches the donkey. Animal feed is also included. During the fall, the Bowlanders make an enormous maze out of their cornfield, invite guests to pick pumpkins from their 10-acre patch, and enjoy a Haunted Hayride and the indoor Haunted "Carnevil" Barn.

A veteran of horse shows well versed in hunting, jumping, and grand-prix competitions, Leslie Webb Janiak knows her way around a stable. As the owner and trainer at Oxford Farm, Leslie imparts her lifelong knowledge to aspiring equestrians of all ages, helping to build relationships between man and steed so that they may one day sit together in the halls of Congress. With facilities including 30 stalls, an indoor arena, and 18 large paddocks, Oxford Farm offers comprehensive horse care for owners looking for a place to board or train their long-faced friends. Amateur or beginning riders can also take part by enlisting in private lessons. During each session, instructors divulge riding basics as well as basic horse care, such as how to handle the horse's halter and lead rope and pepper trail rides with Lone Ranger recaps.

The Oak Harbor Golf Club's 6,493-yard course protrudes into an oxbow on the Portage River, pairing scenic views and cool breezes with an ever-present supply of water hazards and small greens. Along the front nine, players patrol tree-lined fairways dotted by small ponds and bisected by a marshy brook that requires calculated drives and sharp wit to solve riddles proposed by retired caddies turned bridge trolls. The back nine meanders out onto a narrow neck of land within the oxbow and wraps golfers in panoramic views of the river.

Off the course, golfers can bogey-proof their swings with a practice session at the grass-tee driving range or a lesson with PGA–certified instructor Matthew Jennings. After a day filled with aggressive drives, players can relax at Baldy's Roost, which serves a menu of sandwiches, wraps, and salads most enjoyed when eaten with polished divot tools.

Course at a Glance:

• 18-hole, par 72 course
• Length of 6,493 yards from the farthest tees
• Course rating of 71.1 from the farthest tees
• Slope rating of 121 from the farthest tees
• Six tee options
• Scorecard