If you thought Ohio didn’t have canyons to explore, think again. Hocking Hills State Park is one of the most beautiful parks in the country and top 3 in the Midwest. Hocking Hills is located at OH-374, in Rockbridge, Ohio. For more information, click here.
Cantwell Cliffs in Rockbridge, Ohio features a deep valley, steep cliffs and even a rock shelter that visitors can explore. Although the trail is only a 1-mile loop, it isn’t for the faint of heart―but the scenery you’ll encounter along the way makes the journey more than worth while.
This picture is owned by Mike Gealy
Located in the northern part of the Hocking Hills region, Cantwell Cliffs is a remote, yet breathtaking hiking destination.
This picture is owned by Mike Gealy
The deep valley and picturesque cliffs were formed by erosion caused by Buck Run, according to the Hocking Hills State Park website.
This picture is owned by Kris TIn
The trail is a 1-mile loop that takes about an hour or so to complete. There are several stairs to climb, making it a fairly strenuous journey if you aren’t used to hiking often.
You’ll pass through several narrow staircases and crevices that can be difficult to get through.
This picture is owned by Mike Gealy
There’s even a “Fat Woman’s Squeeze” (pictured), which is the most narrow passage you’ll encounter.
This picture is owned by Mike Gealy
The rock shelter area can be a nice to spot to stop and relax. It’s the perfect place to take in the view and catch your breath for a few minutes.
This picture is owned by Mike Gealy
As the trail is a scenic loop, you can choose to either hike along the rim of the canyon or down into the gorge first. Both offer stunning perspectives.
Cantwell Cliffs is one of the most scenic areas in the Hocking Hills. If you love an inspirational hike, be sure to put it on your Ohio bucket list.
For more of Ohio’s best parks and amazing locations, click here. For the best family activities in the area, click here. For Ohio’s best lodging and campgrounds, click here.