Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve is a part of the Hocking Hills State Park system.

There are two trails within the nature preserve and I began my hiking adventure with the rim trail which is 2.5 miles long and promises some spectacular views.

A set of stairs leads to the start of the trail taking me along the top of the gorge.

Conkle Hollow’s Rim Trail

At the beginning of the trail there is a steep climb so a set of chains have been installed for hikers who may need some assistance to make it up the hill.

Colorful rock formations hide behind the trees.

Looking down into the gorge from the rim trail, it is no surprise that some believe this to be the deepest gorge in the state of Ohio.

Gnarly tree roots occasionally appear along the trail so it is important for hikers to be aware of them so they don’t trip, fall or become injured.

I carefully looked over the cliffside to determine how high I was standing above the gorge below.  The views from here are breathtaking.

There are moments along my hike where I stop to take in the amazing scenery.   I can only imagine this hike and how spectacular it must be in the fall when the leaves are changing.

Stunning Scenery

Cliff-Hanging Scenery

In the distance, frozen water hangs along the cliff of the gorge.

Another view looking down into the gorge

Fir trees stretching up from the gorge below

The challenges of hiking the Conkle’s Hollow Rim Trail

The Conkle’s Hollow Rim trail took me about 2.5 hours to complete which left me plenty of time to hike the Gorge trail below, a 1.2 mile loop.  I am looking forward to exploring the gorge after having seen it from above.  This will give me the opportunity to photograph some of the frozen waterfalls along my route.

Have you hiked Conkle’s Hollow State Nature preserve Rim Trail?  I would love to hear if you enjoyed it as much as I did if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below!  Many thanks and Happy Trails!

What to See and What to Do:

Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve
24858 Big Pine Road
Rockbridge, OH  43149

• Admission Fee:  There is no fee for hiking the trail.
• Hours:  Open daily
• Length of the Tour:  2 – 3 hours
• Tips for Your Visit:  Wear comfortable shoes for hiking.  The rim trail can be very dangerous, so check out the trail before bringing children with you.  Stay on the trail.  Visit the nature preserve’s website for a map.

Where to Stay:

Hocking Hills Treehouse Cabins
22784 Purcell Road
South Bloomingville, OH  43152
Telephone:   614 599 1899
Website:  https://www.hockinghillstreehousecabins.com/

Where to Eat:

JimBo’s Burgers and Beer
23356 State Route 52
South Bloomingville, OH  43152
Telephone:  740 332

What to Read: 

• Hocking Hills, by Doreen McMillian
• Hocking Hills Day Hikes, by Mary Reed