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Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve
4.9 ★★★★★ 2,777 Google reviews · Running trail in Rockbridge, Ohio · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Mixed
- Distance
- 2 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Conkles Hollow 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.
Tree-lined hiking trails along sandstone cliffs or at the foot of a gorge dotted with waterfalls.
What runners say about Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve
“The gorge trail is a beautiful trail that's fairly simple for children, older hikers and anyone looking for stunning views that feel so unreal.”
“It was a very nice and easy trail most of the way back.”
We did both the 2.6 mile rim trail along the cliffs and the gorge trail inside the grotto. Both were beautiful hikes. Very lush in the grotto. Lots of recent rain so trails were muddy and slippery. Large parking lot.
We did the 2 1/2 mile cliff edge hike. Dont recommend children that dont listen or pets that pull on the leash. This isnt for the faint of heart or if you're afraid of heights. 200 foot cliffs and at some spots the trail is 2 foot wide. Wish the streams were flowing because there is 5 or so waterfalls.
A fantastic preserve. The gorge trail is absolutely beautiful. There are many wondrous natural features to see. The trail is nearly fully accessible. The final section to the falls is an easy and very short hike. Definitely make time for this one if you are in the area. We did not hike the Rim Trail.
We hiked the 2 mile rim trail in the early afternoon and the shorter gorge trail later in the day close to 6 pm. I would consider the rim trail moderate difficulty but if you have any knee issues be mindful there are a lot of rock and steps to climb, but roots that will trip you up which makes it more strenuous.
Trail conditions & character
“The gorge trail is a beautiful trail that's fairly simple for children, older hikers and anyone looking for stunning views that feel so unreal.”
“This short trail is accessible for almost anyone , even most of the "trail" ( mostly a paved path ) is smooth and level.”
“Grotto trail is mostly along a flat boardwalk but to see the waterfall at the end must climb over some large rocks.”
“This short trail is accessible for almost anyone , even most of the "trail" ( mostly a paved path ) is smooth and level.”
“Lots of recent rain so trails were muddy and slippery.”
“This short trail is accessible for almost anyone , even most of the "trail" ( mostly a paved path ) is smooth and level.”
“The parking lot does get crowded, which underscores just how unique this place is.”
“There are no bathrooms for this trail, or water fountains so plan accordingly.”
“Grotto trail is mostly along a flat boardwalk but to see the waterfall at the end must climb over some large rocks.”
“There are no bathrooms for this trail, or water fountains so plan accordingly.”
Plan your run at Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceMixed — more than one surface along the route, so check the segment you plan to run
- Distance2 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- 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
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