The Remote Trail Through Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve In Ohio Winds Through A Sandstone Gorge And An Old Railway

Ohio was made for nature lovers, history buffs and explorers.

If you need something new and exciting to add to your Ohio bucket list, there's a little-known nature preserve that's perfect for both hiking and biking. Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve in Licking County is home to 10 miles of trails that showcase some incredible views, Ohio history and other unique features. You’ll learn about Ohio’s Native American, canal and railroad history via this nature preserve’s incredible trail system. The best part? The entire preserve is absolutely beautiful.

The Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve features a 4-mile-long sandstone formation that the deep green Licking River flows through.

Here, you'll fall in love with nature all over again.

The Blankhand Trail is the only paved trail and bike path in the Ohio nature preserve system, making it an easy hike for those who prefer to walk and explore

Note: This particular trail covers about 4.3 miles, making it approximately 8 and a half miles out and back.

Along the trails, you'll find signs that explain the history of the area. It's fascinating to imagine what it was once like.

In the 1820s, canal workers blasted the cliff face to make way for the Ohio-Erie Canal Towpath.

In the 1920s, the Central Ohio Railroad and an electric interurban trolley line passed through the area. Today, remnants of the tunnel remain.

Old canal locks also remain along the trails and a modern railroad has been relocated to higher ground. (Please note: The interurban tunnel is not accessible via the trails.)

Fun fact: The name "Blackhand" comes from an ancient petroglyph that was found on the face of the cliff.

The dark, hand-shaped mark inspired several Indian legends among early pioneers. Today, it no longer remains since the construction of the canal.

The entire area of this nature preserve is stunning. We recommend taking a hiking trail or two off of the paved path for even more adventure.

To view a map of all the nature preserve's trails, click here.

Have you ever explored Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve before? If so, we want to know what your experience was like!

For more hiking adventures in Ohio, check out our previous article: 10 Of The Greatest Hiking Trails On Earth Are Right Here In Ohio.