Clear Creek Metro Park in Rockbridge, Ohio, features over 5,300 acres of woodland, Blackhand sandstone cliffs, ravines, and creeks and is home to more than 2,200 species of plants and animals. It’s also home to the Clear Creek Nature Preserve, the largest state nature preserve of its kind in Ohio. Here, guests can explore the great outdoors and enjoy hiking, canoeing, fishing, educational programs, and more – and it’s all just a 30-minute drive from the Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls! The next time you’re in the area, take a trip to Clear Creek Nature Preserve and experience the exceptional beauty of Hocking Hills firsthand.
What You’ll See at Clear Creek Nature Preserve
1. Flora & Fauna
Because of the unique topography of the area, Clear Creek Nature Preserve provides a habitat for a wide variety of plants and animals. Over 1,200 different types of plants have been identified, including mountain laurel, rhododendron, skunk cabbage, witch hazel, and persimmon trees. The valley is also home to over 150 species of birds like eastern bluebirds, great blue heron, wild turkey, and many species of warblers. Beavers, bobcats, chipmunks, and deer are also frequently spotted.
2. Nature Programs
Visitors can enjoy a variety of educational programs that take place in Clear Creek Nature Preserve throughout the year. The programs focus on understanding different types of animals, plants, geology, and human history found in the park. The Preserve also offers naturalist-led hikes that let you explore areas of the park that are not currently open to the public.
3. Scenic Hiking Trails
If you decide to explore the park on your own, there are 7 miles of rugged hiking trails for guests to enjoy. The Hemlock to Creekside Meadows Loop is a popular 3-mile loop trail that’s perfect for all skill levels. Accessible from April until October, you’ll have awesome views of wildlife, rock formations, and Hemlock groves and can rest on a wooden bench at the top of the ridge that overlooks the ravine.
Another popular route is the Cemetery Ridge Trail, which begins with a steep zigzag ascent through the woods. At the top of the ridge, the trail alternates between forest and meadows and provides 2.5 miles of moderate to difficult hiking. Or, take the beautiful 0.9 mile Lake Trail that leads to an observation deck overlooking Lake Ramona. After your hike, feel free to have lunch in the Fern or Creekside Meadow areas where you’ll find picnic tables, grills, and restrooms.
Come Home to the Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls!
Before you head out for an afternoon of fun at Clear Creek Nature Preserve, be sure to book your stay at our Hocking Hills bed and breakfast! Our comfortable guest rooms, cozy cottages, and peaceful cabins will provide you with a restful night’s sleep before you start your day, and you’ll be treated to a hearty gourmet breakfast each morning that will leave you feeling refreshed and restored. We can’t wait to hear about what you discover in Hocking Hills!
For more information on cool places to visit in Ohio, including Great Seal State Park,
request a copy of our free Hocking Hills vacation guide.