Bigfoot conference to be held at Salt Fork Park

CAMBRIDGE ? Whether you know him as Bigfoot, a yeti, Sasquatch or just a fun fantasy, the shaggy mythical beast has been rumored to live in Ohio since the mid-1700s, with nearly 40 reported sightings since the mid-1980s alone. Guernsey County’s Salt Fork State Park is the place to be for sightings this spring.

Guernsey County hosts a number of events and destinations for cryptozoologists and skeptics alike. Those looking for a little nature with their local lore can check out the monthly Bigfoot Night Hikes led by the park naturalist. These events allow participants to hike the park trails after dark in search of the legendary Bigfoot.

Since 2005, the annual Ohio Bigfoot Conference has welcomed fans of the furry legend to gather and talk all things Squatch. This year the Bigfoot conference will take place May 6, at Salt Fork State Park. The event includes speakers from across the Bigfoot community, who will share their experiences and knowledge.

The weekend also features many free events including the largest vendor fair of Bigfoot merchandise, advanced hike, Bigfoot Festival and family hike. For more information about the weekend visit www.ohiobigfootconference.org.

Those looking for more outdoor fun can run or walk the Bigfoot races at Salt Fork State Park this summer and winter. The Summer Sasquatch 50K, 20 and 10-mile trail races will take place on June 10 and 11. The winter Bigfoot 50K, 20 and 10-mile trail races will be on Dec. 9 and 10.

These races cover a 10.4-mile loop course over rolling hills. Hikers can join in the 10-mile race where the generous cutoff time allows participants to hike at their own pace.

Salt Fork Lodge offers a Bigfoot race discount for participants. For more information, call 740-439-2751 or visit www.westernreserveracing.com/races/.

Submitted by Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors and Convention Bureau

This article originally appeared on The Daily Jeffersonian: Bigfoot conference to be held at Salt Fork Park