Escape for a Scenic Hike in Southern Ohio

Easily fill your morning with a breath of fresh air in this remote location in Scioto County, Ohio. Step into a protected wilderness preserve as you hike the 4.4-mile loop trail. Surprisingly, we had the Ohio Hanging Rock Trail to ourselves for the entirety of the trek. If you're looking to escape for some peace and quiet, this gem of a hike is ideal.

Snack break at Ohio Hanging Rock Preserve

On a 70 degree day in late May, we set out on this rewarding hiking adventure, which took our family of six about 3 hours to complete with plenty of time for exploring, snacking, numerous water breaks and picture taking. Our four children ranged in ages from 5-12 years of age and could handle the trails strenuous terrain. Although healthy active adults could probably complete the hike in 2 hours.

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Over View

This challenging hike 4.4 mile hike, steadily leads upwards from the valley to the backbone of the areas chief ridge. Creating visible interest along the path, expect to view wildlife, as well as, flowers, an assortment of colorful mushrooms, and delicate fanning ferns. Once you reach the far edge of the trail, your reward is a menagerie of towering rock formations, jutting overhangs and a network of moss ladened boulders splayed along the ridge in this natural wonderland.

Mushrooms at Ohio Hanging Rock Preserve

On lengthier day hikes, we always bring along a durable hiking backpack and stock it with the basic hiking essentials. If you’re curious what we deem essential, here is a full hiking guide and printable hiking list to get you started.

Ohio Hanging Rock Nature Preserve Trail At a Glance

Distance 4.4 miles, out-and-back trail with a loop

Difficulty Level Rated moderately hard/ challenging due to the distance, various terrains you will encounter, elevation gain, large boulders, and wet conditions.

Time Allotted It took our family of six, 3 hours to hike the whole trail, which included snack breaks and time to explore.

No Permit Required No permit is required for entrance.

Dogs are allowed on the preserve trails. They must be on a leash at all times.

Children This hike was a good one for active adults or families with older children. I felt comfortable taking my children, ranging in ages from 5-12. Near the end of the trail, my youngest child was carried by my husband for the last stretch. Make sure you feel secure in your children’s ability to follow directions and safety rules.

Entrance Fee None, the preserve is free which creates a budget-friendly outing for families.

Parking/ Trailhead

A small parking lot is located with space for about 10 vehicles. A sign is visible from the road.

Address Frederick Rd Wheelersburg, Ohio 45694

Sandstone outcroppings at Ohio Hanging Rock Preserve

Best Time to Hike It’s beautiful in all seasons. Lush green trails in the summer, colorful fall foliage in Autumn, spring bulbs and the peak season for waterfalls in spring and winter features snow covered landscapes.

Well marked trails at Ohio Hanging Rock Preserve

Signage The trail is well marked with white arrows on green signs located throughout the hike. Additionally, there are also trail signs to help with navigation. Due to the efforts of the Arc of Appalachia, this trail system is well maintained.

Map When we perused the map, we observed that the trail resembles a serpent. The body is the out and back section of the trail, whereas the far end is the loop which parallels a snake’s head.

A local shared that they call it a lollipop trail. A lollipop trail contains both an out & back trail which connects to a loop trail. Hikers will follow the out & back trail to the mouth of the loop, hike around the loop, and then proceed to take the out & back trail, until they reach the trailhead.

What to Expect

Luckily on a pleasant day in May there was ample shade.

To assist with visualizing the trail, I’ve broken down the hike into the differing trail sections, which we believe resembles a serpent. As you progress through the narrow trail expect ravines, switchbacks, creek crossings, inclines, and a labyrinth of tremendous rock formations, all of which added to the visual and striking scenery.

Out and Back Section

Several creek crossings at Ohio Hanging Rock Preserve

A large sign delineates the start of the trail. The beginning section of the trail is an out and back section with a slight incline. We progressed through the narrow trail that led through ravines, switchbacks, and crossed over the creek.

Along the stretches where the trail follows the babbling brook, parts of the trail were a bit muddy and slick so we were glad we had sturdy shoes with traction.

We had the trail entirely to ourselves for the duration of the hike. Dappled sunlight filtering through the trees and the soothing trickle of the creek set a serene atmosphere.

Despite the dense forest and water elements for much of the time, surprisingly, we had no issues with mosquitos. Although, we did pick off some ticks at the end of the hike. It’s advisable to thoroughly check yourself and your children following an extended time in forested areas.

Lake Tight Trace Loop

After the Lake Tight Trace Loop sign, you will hike the 2.3 mile loop, until you return to the mouth of the loop. In my opinion, the loop is the star of the show!

Waterfalls

A small waterfall and a bridge can be found in the next stretch of trail. When we visited, at the end of May the falls were a mere trickle, but after a heavy rain or in the spring I am sure they would be more substantial.

First small waterfall at Ohio Hanging Rock Preserve

You can venture underneath the C shaped overhang and go under the small stream of water trickling over the top.

Shortly afterwards a wooden bridge leads over the creek and to the second smaller falls. This too had a small flow of water from the creek above.

Rock Shelters

Next up - was the main event and according to my children, the highlight of the hike. As you approach the ridge, a massive sandstone shelter greets you.

Overhanging Shelter at Ohio Hanging Rock

Rewarding hike at Ohio Hanging Rock Preserve

Massive Boulder Labyrinth

The next portion of the trail is the real jewel, featuring massive outcroppings and immense boulders ladened with vibrant moss and lichen. At the far end of the trail within the loop, is where the largest sandstone rock formations lie. It was by far our favorite spot to explore during the hike, and a perfect setting for some Insta-worthy shots.

The trail weaves between the massive rock formations and shallow cave shelter openings. The sandstone cliffs were covered in vibrant lime green moss and lichens.

A maze of vibrant lime-green moss cover rock formations at Ohio Hanging Rock

After returning to the mouth of the loop, you will continue back to the trailhead filled with tons of memories and maybe some epic photos from the hike.

History of Ohio Hanging Rock Preserve

The vast 750 acre preserve in Scioto County was once covered with water, except for the higher elevated ridges. The freshwater lake was called Lake Tight, hence the name of the loop section of the trail.

Rules of the Preserve

Adhere to the "Leave No Trace" policy and follow the rules of the preserve. The preserve is a protected area. Hikers must stay on the marked trails and refrain from picking flowers or collecting rocks. Hunting, caving, fishing, biking, rock climbing, campfires, and swimming are all prohibited. For additional information about the rules and additional hikes in the area refer to Arc of Appalachia.

Tips on What To Wear & Bring

Choose footwear with traction to assist with uneven, rocky terrain. The key to any enjoyable hike is selecting the right equipment and clothing. Here are some of our favorite clothing, hiking shoes and day pack.
Bring plenty of water, snacks or a lunch to enjoy.

Nearby Attractions & Restaurants

Looking for more activities to do in the area, here are the top 20 Summer Bucket List Activities for Kids in Scioto County, Ohio. Venture to Shawnee State Park, which has a host of outdoor adventures including: mountain biking, kayaking, swimming, archery and hiking.

Earl Thomas Conley Riverside County Park & Red Bull Pump Track

Featuring at pump track, splashpad and playgrounds, everyone will be entertained at Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park

Buckeyes Dairy Bar

Enjoy a summer treat of ice cream and miniature golf course.

Market Street Cafe

Fresh salads, wraps, warm paninis and signature drinks at this cute cafe in downtown Portsmouth.

* In collaboration with Shrpa and the Portsmouth Scioto County Visitors Bureau, part of our stay was covered. All opinions and reviews expressed are my own.

Where to Stay in the Area

With a wide selection of hotels, rustic lodges, VRBO rentals, cabins and campgrounds in Scioto County area, it’s easy to acquire the right accommodations for your party with bookings.com. If you’re looking for a place within the state park, Shawnee Lodge and Conference Center is a great option.

We stayed two nights in the rustic cabins so we could be near all the outdoor activities in the state park and still use the pool and amenities of the Shawnee Lodge.

Closing Thoughts

Hikers won’t be disappointed while exploring this secluded hike in Southeastern Ohio, especially if you prefer uncrowded, lesser known trails. Ohio Hanging Rock is one of the best hikes in the area.

In summary, this Southern Ohio trail is rated moderate to difficult. This out-and-back, shady hike is a strenuous hike due to the length, but it is well worth the spectacular landscape at the far end. The trail has a lot of interesting features from narrow ravines, creek crossings, small waterfalls, to massive boulders on the highest ridges.

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