Sweeping Views at Raven Rock State Nature Preserve
Escape for a Scenic Hike in the Middle of Portsmouth, Ohio
The Raven Rock Trail is a thrilling hike that allows you to delve into the history of the area, as well as, enjoy the bird’s eye view of the Ohio River Valley from the top of this Ohio nature preserve.
Incredible views at Raven Rock
On a recent trip, my family set out to hike to the summit of Raven Rock State Nature Preserve. The Southern Ohio trail is rated moderate in difficulty. Be prepared for wet, muddy conditions at the start of the hike, stair climbs, and steep drop-offs at the summit. This out-and-back shady hike is an ideal length for families with a lot of interesting features to hold children’s attention, plus sweeping views of the Ohio River Valley at the summit.
Tips Bring water and snacks for the hike. There is a bench at the top of Raven Rock that makes a great resting spot. Another option is to make a whole day of it by packing a picnic lunch to enjoy next door at the spacious Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park.
This post may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission on items at no additional cost to you. All opinions expressed and reviews are my own.
Raven Rock State Nature Preserve Trail At a Glance
Distance 2.5 miles, out-and-back trail
Difficulty Level Rated moderate due to steep elevation, exposed roots, wet & muddy conditions, which can make it slippery.
Time Allotted It took our family of six, 1.5 hours to hike the whole trail, which included snack breaks and time to explore.
Raven Rock entrance sign is not visible from the road due to foliage
Permit Required A permit is required for entrance, which needs to be secured 14 days ahead of time. The permit and parking pass will be emailed to you and must be on your person during your hike. The permit can be accessed here by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Although it takes some forethought, it helps keep the preserve and sustain the natural ecology and trails, while also promotes fewer people crowding the trail. * Check with Shawnee State Park office because they often will have same-day permits for Raven Rock but are not guaranteed.
No Dogs are allowed on the preserve trails
Children This is a ideal hike for families. I felt comfortable taking my children, ranging in ages from 5-12. Make sure you trust your children’s ability to follow directions and safety perimeters because there are steep drop offs at the trails summit.
Entrance Fee: None, Ohio continues to be one of the few states in the United States that does not charge admission or a parking fee for its state parks. Day use areas, hiking trails, and beaches have no fees for use, which makes this a budget-friendly family adventure.
Parking/ Trailhead
Look for the Malone-Cox Rd sign and a tiny parking area
The Raven Rock sign is hidden from view from the road, so it can be tricky to locate the trailhead. The tiny parking lot is located at the end of Malone- Cox Rd, across from the high school, with a sign that says "Scenic Scioto Heritage Trail. Additional parking can be found across the street at Earl Thomas Riverside County Park, but does require crossing a busy state route.
Address 52, Old River Rd, West Portsmouth, OH 45663
History of Raven Rock
The rock is a historical site which was once the lookout point for Native Americans attempting to spot European settlers on the Ohio River. Laying in wait, the Shawnee would ambush settlers at the mouth of the Ohio River. The rock was first named Patterson's Rock, after a specific settler sought shelter when his boat capsized. In 1854, it was later changed and renamed Raven Rock.
Raven Rock bares a resemblance to a raven taking flight
There are multiple legends passed through the years on why the name was chosen. Some say it was after the black ravens that roosted on the sandstone ledges. An alternative story is that the rocky outcropping bares the resemblance of a raven launching into flight, hence the name.
At the top of the hike, besides the stunning views, there is an educational sign sharing information about the history of the rock and the Shawnee Indian Tribe.
What to Expect
The trail is shady
On a lovely day in May, we started the day with an adventure on a 2.5-mile out-and-back trail in Portsmouth, Ohio. Despite the fact the hike is just off the a state route, the trail feels quiet and secluded. This rewarding hike is the perfect length for families to enjoy. It took us about an 1.5 hours to complete with ample time to explore, enjoy snacks & water breaks and take pictures. Our four children ranged in ages from 5-12 years of age and could handle the trails terrain.
Wear footwear with traction
On day hikes, we always bring along a hiking backpack and stock it with the basic hiking essentials. Curious what we deem essential, here is a full hiking guide and printable hiking list to get you started.
Luckily on a sunny day in May there was plenty of shade on the trail as we traversed through numerous switchbacks, inclines, and around rocky boulders, all of which made for an interesting and scenic trail. Rated moderately hard, the first bit of the hike was wet and muddy so we were glad we had sturdy hiking shoes and trail sandals. Surprisingly, we had no issues with mosquitos or ticks, but make sure to always check yourself and your children following an extended time in wooded areas.
A bench is a great spot for a picture and a snack break
As we neared the top there was a bench to rest and a sliver of the view through the foliage, that hints at what’s instore around the bend to the left. Get your camera ready for some Insta-worthy photos.
The Rewarding View at Raven Rock Summit
View of the Ohio Valley from the Top of Raven Rock State Nature Preserve
Upon reaching the summit, you'll be rewarded with sweeping views atop two natural sandstone arches, which are quite lovely to behold. A bird's eye view of the the Ohio River Valley, foothills and local Portsmouth West Highschool stretches out below.
Sandstone Arches at Raven Rock State Nature Preserve
The sandstone cliff is an exposed overhang containing two natural forming arches. One of the arches appears as a hole in the rock face and the other is a narrow line of rock along the edge of the cliff.
Base of Raven Rock
If you decide to boulder down below the rock, tread carefully since it is a steep incline that has been worn smooth without much traction or footholds. It can be slippery and is steep.
What To Wear & Bring
Widespread Views at Raven Rock
Wear footwear with plenty of tread to navigate the rocky, steep terrain. The key to an enjoyable hike is to be prepared with the right clothing, hiking shoes and gear.
Bring water, snacks or a picnic lunch to enjoy.
Make it a whole day of adventures by heading next door to the sprawling Earl Thomas Conley Park, which features a splashpad, tennis courts, playground and a pump track
Nearby Attractions
Earl Thomas Conley Riverside County Park & Red Bull Pump Track
Doug Coleman Splash Pad
Adjacent to the hike is a sprawling County Park loaded with fun family- friendly activities to try. Kids will love cooling off in the splashpad, having a picnic lunch and playing on the playgrounds.
Up for a daring adventure? Try out one of the newest outdoor attractions in Scioto, Ohio. The Red Bull Pump Track is the largest Pump Track in the state of Ohio. You may be asking, what is a pump park? Basically it’s bike courses featuring a continuous loop of rolling hills and mounds, raised banks, and turns. Instead of peddling, riders utilize a pumping motion to perpetuate their movement and speed by with their upper and lower body as they progress around the track and over the obstacles. It’s fun for all ages and great exercise.
Pump Track at Early Thomas Conley Riverside Park
Nearby Restaurants
Buckeyes Dairy Bar
Enjoy a leisurely meal this summer with ice cream and a tasty Buckeye burger, fries and pizza while the kids have some outdoor fun, putting their skills to the test on this charming miniature golf course. Beautiful landscaped course and shaded outdoor setting for relaxing with a tasty treat of ice cream.
Market Street Cafe
Grab a picnic lunch at Market Street Cafe. Enjoy fresh wraps, warm paninis and signature drinks at this quaint cafe in downtown Portsmouth. With unique flavors, we loved the Turkey Crunch Wrap, the warm Chicken Mushroom Melt and the Boneyfiddle Club Melt. Don’t skip the sugar cookies either!
* 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
Shawnee Lodge and Conference Center
Scioto County has various options for hotels, rustic lodges, VRBO rentals, cabins and campgrounds in the area. Check bookings.com for availability. If you’re searching for a place to stay to immerse yourself in the beauty of the area, look no further than Shawnee Lodge and Conference Center.
Staying two nights in the rustic cabins was the perfect way for our family to be in the center of all the outdoor activities that the Shawnee State Park and Forest provide, plus still have access to amenities like an indoor and outdoor pool and dining restaurants.
