Clifton Gorge Nature Preserve

Dolomite Cliff face in Clifton Gorge.

Yet another beautiful place to hike and enjoy nature in the state of Ohio. One can see why it was named a National Natural Landmark in 1968. Part of the Little Miami State and National Scenic River system it covers roughly 268 acres. The park is on a 2 mile stretch of the river.

We started by taking the Rim Trail through the forest catching glimpses of the river below.

Little Miami River from Rim Trail.

The preserve is home to Eastern Hemlocks, Red Baneberry, Canada Yews, Mountain Maples,
and Chinkapin Oaks. We made our way down to the Gorge Trail that meanders by the river. It can be rather slippery with moss on the stones and the dampness. We descended into a cool and narrow canyon with dolomite and limestone cliffs towering above us. In the spring it is supposed to be a haven for wildflowers including rare Snow Trillium.  Saw a lovely patch of bright golden Cone flowers by the Blue Hole.

The Blue Hole is at a widening of the river. It is calm and lazy, rather looks like a secluded grotto with overhanging trees. Tiny minnows and turtles swim in the cool waters. The scene was caught in 1851 by African-American artist Robert Duncanson which now hangs in the Cincinnati Museum of Art. The Shawnee called it "Spirit Pool".

The Blue Pool in August.

                          


The Blue Hole by Robert Duncanson, 1851.


 

We turned up at this point and followed the Gorge Trail back towards Clifton. There are Slump caves to explore and large Slump rocks in the river. These are overhanging pieces of dolomite that have broken off and fallen. A rather large one is called Steamboat Rock.



Steam Boat slump rock, other end.

 

Being August you could see that some areas that normally have falls were dry but it was still dramatic. Just a lovely walk and the trails were quite busy with happy hikers. We climbed the stone steps back up to the Rim Trail and went to the Nature Center.

River View from the covered bridge at Clifton Mills.

We also went to Clifton to see the Historic Mill and their covered bridge. Nice view of the river and gorge from there too. I look forward to returning to the Gorge in the Autumn which should prove spectacular with color. A truly pleasant day exploring the countryside.