Take in the scenery in Ohio's Hocking Hills region

If you're itching to get outside, consider a weekend in Ohio's

Hocking Hills region

. About an hour from Columbus and two from Cincinnati, the area features national forests, state parks, nature preserves, and lakes.

The biggest draw may be Hocking Hills State Park, a natural oasis with gorges, waterfalls, and extensive hiking trails and rock climbing possibilities. Caves and cliffs lure thrill seekers, as do the new

zip-line canopy tours

, just launched in April 2008. An ideal option for those wanting to see the park the way birds do, the zip-line tour spans three hours and includes 10 zip-line courses, four skybridges, and a few stops to catch one's breath and take in the vistas. A tour is $75 per person; kids get free admission with a paying adult on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

For those preferring a less intense getaway, the

Hocking Valley Scenic Railway

can show travelers the sights from the comfort of a vintage railcar. Two train routes are offered on weekends throughout the summer months; prices are $11 or $15 for adults, depending on which ride you choose.

And if you're not an outdoors person, don't fret. The region has plenty of other amusing diversions, from a thriving

arts scene

to

antique and boutique retailers

, as well as

fine dining establishments

.

To plan your visit, both the

Hocking Hills Tourism Association

and the

Athens County Convention and Visitors Bureau

offer good resources.

Read more of the

50 Affordable Stateside Escapes

.

Have a recommendation for the Hocking Hills region, or another great getaway within Ohio? Post your comment below!