What’s your pre-hike fuel of choice? Some gravitate toward trail mix or smoothies. I’m an unabashed carb lover, so anything that involves bread — especially fresh-baked and still warm from the oven — speaks to me. Of course, a pre-hike meal does require some sort of hiking component, and I love the variety of trails in the southeastern corner of the Buckeye State. While Hocking Hills State Park is generally the place most associated with this region in the Appalachian foothills, the town of Athens boasts some equally incredible trails, which brings us to today’s Ohio adventure: a mountain hike at a hidden gem park and delicious meal at a hidden gem pizzeria.

This, friends, is the perfect pre-hike fuel. Or post-hike motivation. Warm, cheesy, and delightfully saucy, there's a reason Avalanche Pizza is a cult favorite in Athens, Ohio.
Avalanche Pizza/Google Local
The thing is, outside of Athens, Avalanche Pizza is relatively unknown, making this hidden gem pizzeria a delightful discovery for Ohio explorers as they make their way to the mountainous foothills of the state.
Orlando Perez/Google Local
With two locations in Athens -- a traditional pizzeria *and* slice house -- feel free to grab slice to go... or stay for a proper sit-down meal! There are no wrong choices at Avalanche Pizza.
Avalanche Pizza/Google Local

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Another local secret? Strouds Run State Park. Located outside of the city of Athens and within easy driving distance of Ohio University, Strouds Run State Park surrounds Dow Lake and boasts a robust array of recreation opportunities.
Ron Thomas/Google Local
For avid outdoor enthusiasts, the park features miles of scenic hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails full of beautiful views and rugged, varied terrain.
Michael DiBenedetto/Google Local
Even better? The Ohio State Park is home to some truly beautiful archways and caverns just waiting to be discovered -- and because this park is such a pristine hidden treasure, you might have it all to yourself!
Brian Halley/Google Local
The lake, meanwhile, offers boating, paddling, swimming, and a shaded campground, making. this Ohio State Park an all-around all star that's well-suited for all kinds of adventure seekers -- especially with a belly full of delicious 'za.
Corey Smythe/Google Local

Have you dined at Avalanche Pizza before? This hidden gem pizzeria in Ohio is a delicious secret worth sharing — and makes the perfect pre-hike fuel for a day on the trails at Strouds Run State Park.

Of course, there’s more than just great restaurants waiting in Athens, Ohio. Did you know this college town is considered one of the most haunted places in Ohio?

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Avalanche Pizza, 329 E State St, Athens, OH 45701, USA
Avalanche Pizza - Slice House, 540 W Union St, Athens, OH 45701, USA