Hiking and History at Lanterman's Mill in Youngstown, Ohio

Hiking and History at Lanterman's Mill in Youngstown, Ohio

Lanterman's Mill and hiking along the gorge at Mill Creek in Youngstown, Ohio treated us to a much needed outdoor excursion after a day of driving from the Chicago area to Youngstown on our trip to Pennsylvania. The site combines both history and nature melding it into an interesting site on a variety of levels.



History of Lanterman's Mill:

Lanterman's Falls is a natural waterfall and was immediately recognized as a key location for a mill by early surveyors in 1797. Several mills occupied the location before Lanterman's Mill was built in 1845-1846 by German Lanterman and his brother-in-law Samuel Kimberly. This mill was the third mill built on the site. The previous mill before Lanterman's was constructed was washed away by a flood.

Solely operated as a gristmill, Lanterman's Mill closed in 1888 due to the advent of roller mills that were more efficient as well as less costly to run. Throughout the years, the mill served many purposes including serving as a bathhouse, concession stand, nature museum and more. The mill was restored in 1982-1982 and today operates once again as a gristmill grinding corn, wheat and buckwheat. The mill also houses a gift shop of locally made items as well as flours milled by the gristmill. Unfortunately, the mill was not open during our visit but we hope to return in the future when we can take a peek inside.

During open season, you can still go inside Lanterman's Mill!

Hiking Along the Gorge:

We ventured to Lanterman's Mill primarily to visit the mill and waterfalls. We expected a few trails but did not expect the trail system to be as extensive as it is. The gorge is striking. Trails include a boardwalk with the creek on one side and sandstone rock wall on the other. Stunning in all seasons!

Hike along the boardwalk through the gorge of Mill Park.

The Gorge Trail is a two mile trek through a breathtaking landscape of rock outcrops, forest, creek and more. Really beautiful!

Mill Creek flowing under a bridge.

The bridge adds another interesting element at Mill Park. We parked on one side of the bridge and then crossed under it to get to the mill. The bridge certainly adds to the beauty of the area!

Covered Bridge:

How can you not love the Covered Bridge at Lanterman's Mill? This particular Covered Bridge is modeled after one that farmers would cross to bring their grains to the mill.

Covered Bridge at Lanterman's Mill

Our hike at Lanterman's Mill was one of the first of our road trip and really started us off with an amazing experience. Lanterman's Mill, Lanterman's Waterfall and the gorge meld a magnificently scenic area for family exploration. We look forward to return visits to explore the mill further and enjoy a nature uplift.

**Disclosure: No compensation was received for this post. All opinions are 100% my own.