This road was closed several years back to protect endangered species including the timber rattlesnakes and many plants. It had offered the most magnificent views in Shawnee. Many times I have either driven or walked this road taking in the breathtaking sights on the ridge as the brilliant colored spring wildflowers graced the roadways. Also, I remember the hillsides of towering white oaks beside the road near Camp 5. They gave freely of their shade to me on many hot summer days. I’d lie beneath the outstretched branches imagining the oaks speaking of the fascinating events of centuries past. I always felt as if heaven were at hand.

From Road 5, the planned hike could continue to Camp 5 and then to Camp 6, which holds a special place in my heart. My family affectionately named this camp, The Valley of the Hemlocks. Even as a small child of 8 years old, I’d hike with my father, who is an avid outdoorsman, to the Valley. There I was entranced by the lofty, stalwart but somehow delicate hemlock trees beside the clear, rocky Appalachian stream. Nearby was my favorite swimming hole where as a child I’d jump from a protruding rock ledge and cool off as Dad relaxed and read. This Sunday I had traded my bathing suit for a book; but I couldn't wait to lie beside that swimming hole, dip my feet in the water and read.

As Jeff and I neared the woods edge beside road, I began to walk faster. I felt as if I were 8 again. Anxiously, I awaited the awe-inspiring view of those magnificent oaks on the roadside. In excitement, I somehow managed to slightly jog up the remainder of the hill. I topped the hill. I was on Road 5!

Suddenly, I was literally speechless as I peered upon the clear-cut hillsides where those abundant oaks once reached toward the sky. Quickly anger followed the shock. What on earth is happening here? What about all the endangered species? Why did the Division of Forestry state they needed to close this scenic road to protect and now all I see is devastation? As tears welled up in my eyes from both anger and sadness, Jeff tried to comfort me with his jovial spirit. Unfortunately, it didn't work this time for I was too overtaken by grief.

After inspecting this horrific site, we hiked to Camp 5 where lunch was planned. This camp is a very short distance off the road near the clear-cuts. Upon arrival, we noticed a buffer of trees all around to hide the logging. Understandably, lunch was not appealing to me this day. Furthermore, we didn’t make it to the Valley of the Hemlocks. I couldn’t acquire the desire to go any further.

Part of my heart belongs to Shawnee State Forest from over 30 years of hiking, camping, swimming and connecting with nature to sometimes heal my weary soul from the occasional tragedy which life had brought my way. If Shawnee is destroyed, a part of me will be gone too.

After my appalling experience on Road 5, I knew that Shawnee, a 63,000-acre hardwood forest in beautiful southern Ohio, needed immediate help. A few months later I founded the Voices For the Forest. It is a dedicated group of nature lovers determined to serve as the voice for Shawnee. Our goal is not only to protect the environment and wildlife but also to preserve this immense woodland. In addition, my personal hope is that many generations will be able to find a piece of heaven in Shawnee and give to their children what my father gave to me. His gifts included many cherished memories, a love of nature and solitude, and a place to go for inspiration, rejuvenation and peace all amongst the splendor of the Appalachian forest of Shawnee.