Hike the Gorge at Conkle's Hollow
Ohio › Conkle's Hollow State Nature Preserve
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Activities:
Hiking
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Skill Level:
Beginner
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Season:
Year Round
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Trail Type:
Loop
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RT Distance:
3 Miles
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Elevation Gain:
200 Feet
This hike has minimal elevation gain, making it perfect for all levels, yet still satisfying for a hiker looking for a short, brisk, adventure. Enjoy views not typically found in Ohio.
Starting from the parking lot, cross the small foot bridge before coming to where the trail splits. You will have 3 options (straight, left or right). My personal opinion on route will be described below.
Take the paved path that explores the valley floor first. It is an easy 1/2 mile out and back with some terrain that looks like more of a fit for Washington State than Ohio. The trail dead ends into a small cave at which point you can turn around once you're done exploring.
After retracing your steps, take the trail on your right to walk the rim clockwise (Note: this will save the best views for last). You will have roughly a 2 mile hike on a well kept path around the gorge. Since you are often walking next to steep ledges, please use caution if you are hiking in the snow, ice, or mud. Knowing this was an easy trail we maintained a brisk pace to get our workout in. Around mile 2, you will reach the rock ledges where you will be able to see down the valley and is a great spot for pictures.
The whole trip took us a little under 2 hours to complete including snapping some pictures on the rocks. Depending on your walking pace you could easily stretch this to 3 hrs.
Pack List
- Water bottle
- GoPro or Camera
- Hiking Shoes/Boots
This trail is by far the prettiest in the fall. It's great for normal hiking all year round, but best in the fall! Enjoy!
about 1 year ago
Got caught in the rain on this hike but that only added to the beauty once we reached the hollow! There was no one else there at the time because of the rain and it felt like we were in a rainforest. Very peaceful and serene!!
about 1 year ago
If you're going to go to conkle's hollow, I suggest doing the rim trail. It's only 2.5 miles, but it's well worth the hike. Plus there aren't as many people that hike the rim compared to the handicap-able sidewalk that goes only a half miles back. Also, to avoid people and the heat, I suggest going early in the morning. My friend and I got here around 8 am on a Saturday, and there were only about 2 people that we came across.
about 1 year ago
Hiked CH with my wife and son during the summer of 2015. Trails were well marked and made for a great afternoon!
over 1 year ago
