Lanterman's Mill

Photography by Andrew Livelsberger

Written by  Dani and Andrew Livelsberger

Background:
Tucked up in the Youngstown/Boardman area, North East Ohio we have the Mill Creek Metro Parks. 

Lanterman's Mill was built in 1845-46 by German Lanterman and Samuel Kimberly.   It was built for grinding corn, wheat and buckwheat.  A unique feature of the mill is that it's water wheel is located inside.

The mill went through restoration, starting in 1982 and finished up in 1985, thanks to the Ward and Florence Beecher Foundation.

There are also a few trailheads that start here, so not only can you visit the mill, but also go on a hike.

Parking can be found in 2 lots across the street from the entrance to the mill.  Walking distance is very short and access can be from street level or a dirt path that leads from the closest lot, under the giant bridge.

Impression:
The Mill Creek Metro Park system is very well put together and maintained.  One of the must see areas there is Lanterman's Mill and the surrounding trails.

The mill is open on the inside and for a modest $2 per person, you can get into the wheel room.   Just inside the entrance is a gift shop and park maps.

Behind the mill, you will find a covered bridge that leads to some shorter trails.  Longer trails can be found on the east side of the mill (side facing the waterfall).

A note on the trails.  They are not steep or hilly, but they are covered with large rocks and exposed roots.    We mention this only to give you a heads up that good footwear should be considered.

The back deck give you view to the top of the falls as well as a good view up and down the river.

One of the original mill stones.  There are several on display around the entrance to the mill.

View west from the covered bridge just behind the mill.

This is a typical structure found along the east gorge trail

Stringy moss growing on a tree along the east gorge trail

A family hikes the east gorge trail.

A spur trail that goe up to road access on the east gorge trail.

At the end of hte east gorge loop, you'll find what is called the "princess Bridge".  Not sure of its exact history, but we do know that Idora Park used to be located on the opther side of the bridge in the pictture below. Perhaps this bridge was an entrance to the park or part of the park itself.

Many people take advantage of the park system here.

This person uses the bridges structure to aid in doing some pull ups.

We've been wanting to get to this area for a long time and we finally had the time to get there.  The weather was perfect for the hikes we took and the visit to the mill.  A nice, non strenuous hike coupled with a bit of Ohio history makes for an exciting time here in Youngstown, OH.