Sometimes, the shorter hikes can be the most impressive hikes. The next time you’re looking for a scenic but short hike that’s fairly easy to conquer, consider Conkle’s Hollow. Hiding in the small town of Rockbridge, Ohio in the beautiful Hocking Hills region, the Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve Gorge Trail is an easy trail that leads to a seasonal waterfall.
Close to the beloved Hocking Hills State Park, this underrated nature preserve is just as inspiring as other popular hiking areas in the region, such as Old Man’s Cave.
You’ll find Conkle’s Hollow along Big Pine Road in Rockbridge, Ohio.
Along the Gorge Trail, you’ll encounter unique rock formations, steep cliffs and deep green everywhere you turn. It’s the perfect place to get away and connect with nature.
The Gorge Trail is a 0.5-mile trek with asphalt, so it’s wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Nearly everywhere you turn, there’s something beautiful to see. Ferns carpet the floor and deep green moss cover many of the boulders.
Please note: Pets are not permitted at Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve.
The closer you get to the waterfall, the more challenging the trail becomes. Wheelchair access is unfortunately not available past a certain point.
This rugged, rocky gorge is often considered one of the deepest in Ohio with 200-ft. cliffs.
Once you’ve reached the point where rocks surround you on all sides, you know you’re close to the falls.
Most days, there’s a small trickle to be found.
But after heavy rainfall, the waterfall flows pretty powerfully, creating a shallow pool at the base.
(You’ll definitely want to pack your camera for this trail!)
Have you ever hiked the Gorge Trail at Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserver before? If so, we want to know what your experience was like!
This content was originally published here.