So of all the places to hike in the greater Hocking Hills area of southeastern, Ohio, I've hiked Conkles Hollow by far the most! You have 2 choices. Hike the upper rim (over 100 steps up and 2 1/2 miles) or hike in the hollow (gorge) at the bottom level (1/2 mile, flat, super easy). The lowest level goes straight back walking on a boardwalk and a concrete path for the most trail. If someone is not able to walk on uneven terrain, you WILL get to see jaw dropping trees, rock formations, gorgeous ferns and so much more. If you're able to make your way to the VERzy back, you will see the small waterfall and step in the water if you choose. Bring your 📷!!! If you go up to the upper rim, you will earn your way getting up to the top. I think it's at least 90 steps to get up there and you NEED to pay attention! There are a few fairly dangerous spots and ppl HAVE fallen and died. Just use good sense. The views up there are amazing as well. Parking is generous and there are restrooms now with a few picnic tables. The entrance to the trailhead is all the way at the back of the parking lot for both trails after you cross the large footbridge. There are handicapped parking spaces and wheelchairs can go about 2/3rds or more along the concrete trail and bridges. Dogs are permitted ONLY in the parking lot but NOT on the trail. There is a donation box for those who wish to do so. UPDATE: I added quite a few pictures from the bridal trails across from the rappelling parking lot. To get to THAT parking lot, pull out of Conkles Hollow and turn left. The rappelling parking lot is on the left less than one mile. Walk across the road and use the metal bridge. Turn left at the first trail intersection to find Table Rock and...
Read moreEver since my first visit with my son, I have continued to go back year after year. Parking is free and there is handicapped / wheelchair access with ramps and an entirely paved lower trail. Be ready to view to an array of boulders, cliff views, a creek, and a stream of falling tricking water that can resemble a small waterfall after a good rain. This lower area of Conkle's Hollow is gorgeous in the spring and summer with lots of ferns, moss, and foliage. Great for kids or the elderly, and not too far of a hike, maybe 3/4 of a mile there and back. Some bug or mosquito repellent is advisable.
Above is a 5+ mile Upper Rim Trail with quite a few stairs to begin or end with, and hand rails to assist in the ascent or descent. Along the way are a few places that offer views from above overlooking the area. Like most of Hocking Hills, there are very few banisters, so stay away from the cliff edges. As per the Park Ranger, one danger is that the tree roots don't go very deep into the soil and cannot be relied on to hold onto to lean out, or used for support. They may uproot. Multiple deaths occur annually in the park. Be smart, be safe, and...
Read moreI visited Conkles Hollow State Park in the morning and had an incredible experience. The trails were quiet and peaceful with very few people around, which made the scenery feel even more serene and personal.
The Rim Trail is a 2.5-mile loop that wraps around the gorge. It begins and ends with stairs, but the rest of the trail is fairly easy to walk. However, some parts run very close to the edge of the gorge, with steep drop-offs—so I wouldn't recommend this trail for children or dogs. That said, it offers stunning views and I was lucky enough to walk alongside a family of deer, which was a special sight!
The Gorge Trail is much shorter, about 0.5 miles, and partially paved. The final stretch to the main attraction (the waterfall) isn’t paved, but the view of the gorge is absolutely worth it. Since I was one of the first there, the whole area felt peaceful and untouched—just pure natural beauty.
Highly recommended if you're looking for a scenic and quiet hike surrounded by wildlife and...
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