The Hidden Park That Will Make You Feel Like You’ve Discovered Ohio’s Best Kept Secret
While most people are familiar with the beauty of Ohio’s beloved Old Man’s Cave hiking trails and the Hocking Hills State Park, less people are aware of the similar breathtaking, adventurous nature hike you will experience at Nelson Kennedy Ledges State Park. While it’s not technically “hidden,” it’s a highly underrated, lesser-known state park that’s an true hidden gem of Ohio.
Check it out:
Portage County is home to this 160-acre park, which features rugged cliffs, hidden waterfalls, unique hiking trails and diverse plant life.
Although there are no overnight facilities available at this park, it's a great day trip destination. There are 3 miles of trails that take hikers along the rim of the ledges and into the gorge.
The most narrow portion of the trails is near "Devil's Icebox," which is a cold cave that's a cool refuge on a hot summer day. (Pictured: "The Squeeze.")
Nelson Kennedy Ledges State Park is located at 12440 OH-282, Garrettsville, OH 44231. Have you ever been to this park before? If so, share your photos and stories with us! We want to know what your experience was like.
April is the Ohio staff writer for Only in Your State. She is an Ohio native with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism from E.W. Scripps School of Journalism. With more than 10 years of writing experience and a background in news reporting for local Ohio newspapers, she's published pieces in multiple print and online publications. When she's not on deadline or chasing after her toddler, she's hunting for hidden gems in Ohio or getting lost in a good book.
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