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Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve
4.8 ★★★★★ 1,778 Google reviews · Running trail in Yellow Springs, Ohio · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Limestone & dolomite gorges offering varied hiking paths, some with wooden walkways & lookouts.
What runners say about Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve
“Please continue the no dog rule, as no reasonable person wants pet owners and their dog poop ruining this beautiful area like they have every other nearby park.”
“Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk or an adventurous day exploring nature, this park is a must-visit”
Nov 6 - Turkey vultures, waxwings & more The trails are beautifully maintained, clean, and easy to explore, making it an enjoyable outing. I particularly loved photographing the wildlife—the area is teeming with diverse species and offers plenty of opportunities to capture nature at its finest.
As always, this area is spectacular it’s so peaceful and beautiful. I’ve been able to hike this park during all four seasons and fall is by far my favorite. Clifton Gorge, State, Nature, preserve, and John Bryan State Park do not have any type of entry fee, but Glen Helen nature preserve does because it is private and…
This nature preserve is stunning. If you are in the area, please don't miss it. It's amazing that you can be driving through cornfields and all of a sudden there's this! Be aware that the lower trail is a little more precarious and lots of rocks. Can be very slick if it has just rained.
Peaceful walk through beautiful woodland trails beside the river. Went midweek middle of the day. Easy parking a short stroll from Clifton Mill where you can get a hearty breakfast before hitting the trails.
Trail conditions & character
“Please continue the no dog rule, as no reasonable person wants pet owners and their dog poop ruining this beautiful area like they have every other nearby park.”
“Some trails are easy others needed sturdy footwear and good balance as rocky path is quite slippery after the rain.”
“I'd say if you're not really out for a hike, and just want to see some nice views of nature, just stop at the parking lot by the mill.”
“Please continue the no dog rule, as no reasonable person wants pet owners and their dog poop ruining this beautiful area like they have every other nearby park.”
“Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk or an adventurous day exploring nature, this park is a must-visit”
“There aren't restrooms here, but there are at the nature center which you can hike to.”
“It may be challenging if one does not feel stable on their feet and not passable for strollers or wheelchairs.”
Plan your run at Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websiteohiodnr.gov
- Phone+1 614-265-6453
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Tuesday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Wednesday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Thursday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Friday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Saturday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Sunday | 8 am–8 pm |
Running trails near Yellow Springs
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
John Bryan State Park
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