When you’re excited to head to Hocking Hills, Ohio in the name of an amazing getaway experience, it’s likely that your itinerary is already bursting at the seams. This area of the state is packed with opportunities for outdoor adventures that truly beckon to those visitors with a heart for the great outdoors. No matter what time of year you arrive, Hocking Hills promises to have something intriguing to explore and discover. It’s collection of charming communities provide everything a shopping and dining enthusiast could want while the surrounding landscape is as dynamic as they come. For those that are interested in immersing themselves in the natural beauty and wonder of this area, make a little room on the list of must-do activities for a visit to Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve while you’re here.
Natural Wonder to Be Discovered
Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve is located at 24858 Big Pine Road in Rockbridge and invites guests to come and explore over 87 acres of pristine, wild and protected land. Located within Hocking County, this inspiring landmark is dotted with everything from Black Hand sandstone cliffs that rise 200 feet into the air to a 100 foot wide gorge that comes complete with cascades. Conkle’s Hollow is known and loved by those who enthusiastically pursue encounters with wildlife as the diverse terrain offers up a number of habitats where everything from birds to ground-roaming mammals can thrive.
Jimbo’s Bar and Diner | Conkle’s Hollow Nature Preserve
Photographers will find Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve to be an oasis of potential when it comes to capturing that ideal shot. Making the most of cliff-top vantage points or angling the camera below a waterfall is sure to have you returning home with some incredible shots. The beauty and wonder of this area has long been recognized as unique. The state of Ohio purchased the area in 1925 to make sure it was maintained and in 1977, it was given the title of a State Nature Preserve.
Planning a Visit to Conkle’s Hollow
If you’re arriving to Conkle’s Hollow with a vehicle, a spacious parking lot makes finding a place to park simple. This destination is particularly popular with hikers as it provides 3.5 miles of trails. The lower-gorge trail is now paved and handicapped accessible for those arriving with wheelchairs and provides one mile of discovery. Be sure to arrive early in the morning to beat the afternoon crowds!
Additional Activities and Restaurants to Enjoy in Rockbridge
For those outdoor enthusiasts who can’t wait to spend every waking moment immersed in natural beauty, a trip to Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve promises to check every box on the list. In addition to the fun to be had at this scenic destination, guests often love the fact that its Rockbridge location keeps them close to other attractions and savory stops worth exploring as well. When you’re ready to add to the itinerary, make sure that a few of the following stops make your must-try list while you’re in town.
Appalachian Art and Craft Market
Located at 26774 US Highway 33 in Rockbridge, the Appalachian Art and Craft Market is a one of a kind stop when you’re in the mood to follow up outdoor adventure with some artistic inspiration. With over 200 vendors available, a stop at the Appalachian Art and Craft Market is one that promises to provide that unique souvenir or gift you’ve been searching for to commemorate your Hocking Hills adventure. From handcrafted goods to furniture, apparel, decorative accent items, and collectibles, this is a place that’s easy to linger. Whether you’re on the hunt for candles, food items, or patriotic décor, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for amongst the multi-storied display floors. As an added bonus, visitors to the Appalachian Art and Craft Market can also pick up area guides and maps to help plan their visit and many guests use this destination as a starting off point for hitting the nearby trails.
Clear Creek Metro Park
Continue your nature-filled journey through Rockbridge by incorporating a stop at Clear Creek Metro Park while you’re in the area. Located off of Clear Creek Road, this sprawling preserve covers more than 5,300 acres of wooded terrain and is dotted with pristine creeks, ravines, and sandstone cliffsides to be admired and enjoyed. Hemlocks, oaks, and ferns fill out the foliage in Clear Creek Metro Park and many visitors come to make the most of hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife spotting in equal parts.
Book a Stay Today
Enjoy every moment in Hocking Hills and let the team at Buffalo Lodging Company help you book a wonderful cabin rental while you’re here. Contact us today to learn more about our ever-growing portfolio of options and to begin planning your trip to enjoy sighteeing in our area.