Conkle's Hollow State Nature Preserve
Explore a deep, ancient gorge with towering sandstone cliffs and lush forests, offering accessible trails and breathtaking overlooks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy peace
Conkle's Hollow State Nature Preserve
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a deep, ancient gorge with towering sandstone cliffs and lush forests, offering accessible trails and breathtaking overlooks.
"You won’t believe these views… Conkles Hollow Nature Preserve is one of the most underrated slices of nature you will find ANYWHERE. "
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The Rim Trail has steps and uneven terrain. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for a safe and enjoyable hike.
💧 Check Waterfall Flow
The waterfall is seasonal. Visit after rain for the best chance to see it flowing.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Deep Gorge
Gorge Trail
Walk beneath towering 200-foot Black Hand sandstone cliffs, feeling dwarfed by nature's grandeur.
Seasonal Waterfall
Gorge Trail
Discover a beautiful, albeit seasonal, waterfall at the turnaround point of the Gorge Trail.
Panoramic Overlooks
Rim Trail
Experience breathtaking vistas of the gorge and surrounding Hocking Hills from the Rim Trail.
CCC History Displays
Rim Trail
Learn about the Civilian Conservation Corps' impact on the region with informative displays along the trail.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Fewer Crowds
Choose Your Trail Wisely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The Rim Trail has steps and uneven terrain. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for a safe and enjoyable hike.
💧 Check Waterfall Flow
The waterfall is seasonal. Visit after rain for the best chance to see it flowing.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Gorge Trail
The Gorge Trail is mostly paved and accessible, making it ideal for families with young children or strollers.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The towering cliffs and lush greenery offer incredible photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The Rim Trail has steps and uneven terrain. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for a safe and enjoyable hike.
💧 Check Waterfall Flow
The waterfall is seasonal. Visit after rain for the best chance to see it flowing.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Gorge Trail
The Gorge Trail is mostly paved and accessible, making it ideal for families with young children or strollers.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The towering cliffs and lush greenery offer incredible photo opportunities.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be spotty. Download trail maps beforehand to navigate easily.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty of Conkle's Hollow, particularly the dramatic gorge and impressive cliff faces. The accessible Gorge Trail is a major plus for families and those with mobility concerns, while the Rim Trail offers breathtaking overlooks. Some visitors note that it can get crowded, especially during peak seasons, and the Rim Trail can be challenging due to steps and uneven terrain.
"This is a great hike in the Hocking Hills region. The main trail though the gorge is wheelchair accessible, except for the final part to the waterfall. There was definitely a small crowd, so don't expect to feel isolated.
The hike around the gorge is also great! Some very incredible views. The fall foliage was amazing. There is an old CCC cabin just over halfway through the trail, which was cool. There are numerous displays that explain the history of the Civilian Conservation Corps in the region."
Nathan Whelan
"The rim trail, at a moderate 2 1/2 miles, is lovely. It starts with SEVERAL steps straight up, with a couple landings to rest. The scenery is beautiful, however we were there after a lot wind over night, that blew down a lot of the colorful leaves. Still it was a beautiful hike. Highly recommended. They also have 1/2 mile wheelchair accessible trail that runs down the middle of the gorge."
Barry Kaye
"We hiked the 2 mile rim trail in the early afternoon and the shorter gorge trail later in the day close to 6 pm. I would consider the rim trail moderate difficulty but if you have any knee issues be mindful there are a lot of rock and steps to climb, but roots that will trip you up which makes it more strenuous. The vista views on the rim were amazing and you really appreciate the height if you do the gorge trail after. It was a lovely woodsy hike and a small doe was eating nearby. The gorge trail was stunning especially when the sun is going down. It’s a super easy walk perfect for families."
Nicole Ridgely
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Conkle's Hollow is located at 24858 Big Pine Rd, Rockbridge, OH 43149, within Hocking State Forest and near Hocking Hills State Park. It's accessible by car, with parking available at the trailhead.
While close to Hocking Hills State Park, Conkle's Hollow is a State Nature Preserve within Hocking State Forest. It offers a distinct experience from the main park areas.
The drive from Columbus to Conkle's Hollow is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. It's a scenic drive through rural Ohio.
Public transportation is very limited in this rural area. Driving your own vehicle or renting a car is the most practical way to reach Conkle's Hollow.
Absolutely! Conkle's Hollow is a perfect destination for a day trip, especially when combined with other nearby Hocking Hills attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Conkle's Hollow State Nature Preserve does not have an entrance fee. It is free to visit and explore.
Conkle's Hollow is generally open from dawn to dusk year-round. It's always a good idea to check the official Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) website for any seasonal closures or updates.
No advance booking is required for Conkle's Hollow. It's a public nature preserve, and you can visit anytime during operating hours.
Typically, pets are not allowed in Ohio State Nature Preserves to protect the delicate ecosystems. Always check the latest regulations before your visit.
Yes, there is a parking area available at the trailhead for both the Gorge Trail and the Rim Trail. It can fill up during peak times.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Conkle's Hollow features two primary trails: the 1.2-mile Gorge Trail (accessible, mostly paved) and the 2-mile Rim Trail (moderate difficulty with steps and overlooks).
Yes, the Gorge Trail is largely wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it a great option for families and those with mobility concerns. The final section to the waterfall may be less accessible.
The Rim Trail is considered moderate. It involves a significant number of steps at the beginning and uneven terrain with rocks and roots, offering rewarding views.
Expect towering sandstone cliffs, lush hemlock forests, moss-covered rocks, and a beautiful gorge floor. The scenery is often described as breathtaking and otherworldly.
Yes, visitors have reported seeing wildlife such as deer and various bird species. It's a great place for nature observation.
📸 📸 Photography
The base of the gorge with its towering cliffs, the seasonal waterfall, and the panoramic overlooks from the Rim Trail are prime photography locations.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, creating dramatic shadows and highlighting the textures of the sandstone.
Drone usage is typically restricted in Ohio State Nature Preserves to protect wildlife and the natural environment. Check ODNR regulations for specifics.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the gorge, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A tripod can help with low-light conditions.
Yes, the old CCC cabin along the Rim Trail is a unique historical element that makes for interesting photographs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the Rim Trail offers incredible views, it's more challenging and might be best for families with older children or those who are experienced hikers. Remember to pack snacks and water, and keep an eye on little ones near any drop-offs. 🚶♀️ Accessible Travelers
📸 Nature Photographers
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the gorge and a tripod for low-light conditions. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails: Gorge vs. Rim
The Rim Trail is a 2-mile loop that takes you along the top of the gorge. Be prepared for a more strenuous hike, as it begins with a significant number of steps and involves uneven terrain with rocks and roots.
Along the Rim Trail, you'll also find informative displays detailing the history of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the area, including an old CCC cabin. Many visitors recommend doing both trails to get a comprehensive experience of Conkle's Hollow. Hiking the Rim Trail first can give you a sense of the gorge's scale from above, making the Gorge Trail experience even more impactful.
The Geological Marvel of Conkle's Hollow
+1 The unique rock formations, sculpted over millennia by erosion, create a sense of awe and wonder. The presence of Eastern Hemlocks and moss-covered boulders adds to the ancient, almost primeval atmosphere of the gorge. The preserve's geology also contributes to its unique microclimate. The deep gorge offers shade and moisture, supporting a diverse array of plant life, including wildflowers that bloom in the spring.
The seasonal waterfall, while not always a roaring cascade, adds a touch of magic to the gorge floor, especially after rainfall. Understanding the geological history of Conkle's Hollow enhances the appreciation for its stunning natural beauty and the forces that shaped this remarkable landscape. Capturing Conkle's Hollow: Photography Tips
The interplay of light and shadow on the sandstone formations is particularly striking during the golden hours of early morning and late afternoon, creating a dramatic and moody atmosphere. Don't overlook the smaller details that make Conkle's Hollow so special. The moss-covered rocks, delicate wildflowers (especially in spring), and the textures of the Eastern Hemlocks provide excellent opportunities for macro photography.
If you're lucky, you might even spot some local wildlife, so having a telephoto lens handy can be beneficial. Remember that cell service can be unreliable, so downloading offline maps and ensuring your camera batteries are fully charged before you go is crucial for a smooth photography experience. 
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