Athens County, Ohio Driving Extravaganza Recap
Date: Mid-July
Location: University Inn, Athens County, Ohio
Participants: 50 Porsches
Athens County provided yet another magnificent driving endeavor in mid-July. The weather was perfect as fifty Porsches gathered at the University Inn, ready to shift into high gear. This event was an extravaganza of exploration, with banked curves on country roads crossing back and forth over state lines. We organized into four groups of a dozen cars each, chasing each other and enjoying the beauty of the countryside alongside the dynamic power of our Porsches.
Driving Sessions:
We had four designated runs throughout the weekend:
There is nothing better to start the day than a nice choice of Porsche colors.
Friday Afternoon - A Scenic Trip to the Big Muskie Bucket
On a bright summer morning, we set out from the Ohio University Inn, located at 331 Richland Avenue in Athens, OH. Our destination was the iconic Big Muskie Bucket in McConnelsville, OH, a historic landmark that showcases the region's rich mining heritage. The drive promised to be a picturesque journey through the rolling hills and charming small towns of Ohio.
Starting the Journey
Leaving the Ohio University Inn, we quickly found ourselves on Richland Avenue. The route guided us through a series of scenic roads, with the directions providing a clear path. We took OH-32 E/US-50 E, then transitioned through OH-690 N, OH-550 E, OH-377 N, and finally onto OH-78 E. The drive itself was an hour and five minutes, covering a distance of 46.2 miles.
Through the Heart of Ohio
As we continued on OH-78 E, the landscape around us transformed from urban settings to lush greenery and tranquil farmlands. The small towns along the way, with their quaint houses and local shops, added to the charm of the trip. We passed by landmarks and familiar sights, each turn bringing us closer to our destination.
Arriving at the Big Muskie Bucket
After an hour's drive, we reached Bristol Township and soon found ourselves approaching the Big Muskie Bucket. The anticipation built up as we neared this colossal artifact of mining history. Located at 4470 OH-78, McConnelsville, OH, the Big Muskie Bucket is a testament to the area's industrial past and the engineering marvels of its time.
The Big Muskie Bucket: A Glimpse into History
Standing in front of the Big Muskie Bucket, we were awestruck by its sheer size and historical significance. The bucket, once part of the largest single-bucket digging machine ever created, is now a revered monument. It served as a crucial part of the mining operations in the region, and today, it stands as a tribute to the hardworking miners and the technological advancements of the era.
Saturday Morning - Athens, OH to Williamstown, WV: A Scenic Drive Through Ohio
Our trip from Athens, Ohio, to Williamstown, West Virginia, was a picturesque journey through southeastern Ohio. Starting in Athens, the route took us through small towns, lush countryside, and historic landmarks, showcasing the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Scenic Stops: Congress Run and McConnelsville
From Glouster, we took Congress Run Road, emphasizing the rustic beauty of the region. Navigating through Valley Street and Congress Run Road, we merged onto OH-78 E, reaching McConnelsville, OH, and explored W Riverside Drive before continuing to Olive Township.
Exploring Caldwell and Lower Salem
In Caldwell, OH, we continued on OH-78 E, then turned onto OH-564 E/Frostyville Road. This segment took us to Lower Salem, OH, via OH-145 and OH-565 E, passing through more picturesque vistas.
Final Leg: Graysville to Williamstown
In Graysville, OH, we transitioned onto OH-260 S, then followed OH-26 S to Marietta, OH. Crossing the Ohio River Scenic Byway, we reached the Mtta Williamstown Bridge, entering West Virginia. Finally, we continued onto Highland Avenue, reaching 211 Highland Ave, Williamstown, WV.
Reflections on the Drive
This journey from Athens to Williamstown was more than a drive; it was an exploration of southeastern Ohio’s hidden gems. The route offered scenic beauty, historical landmarks, and small-town charm, making it a memorable and comprehensive travel experience.
Saturday Afternoon - WV to Athens, OH
The journey offered a delightful mix of scenic byways, small-town charm, and a brief spell of rain, adding a touch of drama to our otherwise serene drive. We began at Da Vinci's, heading south on Highland Avenue before crossing the Mtta Williamstown Bridge into Ohio. The initial leg took us along the Ohio River Scenic Byway, where we enjoyed views of the river and historic Marietta.
Exploring Marietta
Driving through Marietta, we navigated along Gilman Avenue and Groves Avenue, eventually merging onto OH-676 W/Lancaster Street. The quaint streets and historic buildings of Marietta were a charming backdrop for the first part of our drive.
Rural Routes and Rain Showers
As we continued west on OH-676 W, the skies darkened, and a light rain began to fall. The showers lasted about 20 minutes, providing a refreshing break and casting a beautiful sheen over the lush countryside. The rain-soaked roads led us through Waterford and onto OH-377 N towards Malta.
Final Leg to Athens
The last part of our journey took us through Little Hocking and Coolville. We navigated various state routes, including OH-555 S, Clifton Road, and US-50 W. The rain had cleared by now, leaving the landscape glistening under the late afternoon sun.
Finally, we arrived in Athens, taking OH-682 N and Richland Avenue to reach the Ohio University Inn. The drive, despite the temporary rain, was a delightful way to spend a Saturday afternoon, offering a perfect blend of nature, history, and small-town charm.
Saturday Evening - Social Gathering:
We gathered in the hotel Solarium and Courtyard with refreshments and appetizers right after the dual run. This was a perfect opportunity to "Meet and Greet" all the participants. Following the social hour, attendees peeled off for dinner at a variety of local restaurants.
Sunday Morning - Drive to Hocking Hills Cars and Coffee
On Sunday morning, we set off from Athens, Ohio, aiming to reach Hocking Hills for the Cars and Coffee event, followed by a meal at a local restaurant.
Leaving Athens
Starting from Athens, we drove west on Richland Avenue and merged onto OH-32 E/US-50 E, enjoying scenic countryside views.
Zanesville and Sheetz Stop
Continuing north on OH-555 N, we passed through small towns before reaching Zanesville, where we made a brief stop at Sheetz for refreshments.
Heading to Logan
From Zanesville, we headed south again on OH-555 S, merging onto OH-78 W, and drove through lush greenery and rolling hills. We made another quick stop in Glouster at Dairy Queen before the final stretch.
Arriving at Hocking Hills
The drive concluded as we navigated through Logan, taking OH-93 S to OH-664 S, and reached Grey Street. We enjoyed the vibrant Hocking Hills Cars and Coffee event, showcasing classic and modern vehicles.
Final Meal
After the event, we had a delightful meal at a local restaurant, capping off our memorable weekend drive through southeastern Ohio.
Each run was in sync, providing wonderful fun, speed, and camaraderie among fellow Porsche enthusiasts. It was a fantastic experience, and we hope to see you all again next year!
Special thanks to Steve and Gwynne Krekeler and Phil and Annette Dougherty for putting together another fantastic weekend of camaraderie and driving.
Call for Photos:
We would love to see and share your favorite moments from the trip! Please submit 5-10 photos from the event to admin@ovrpca.org. Your contributions will be added to the event gallery. You can view all the photos shared on the Flicker album here on on the Flickr site at 2024 Athens.
