Conkles Hollow Gorge Trail Hiking Guide
The lower trail at Conkles Hollow walks you into a slot of Black Hand sandstone that ODNR says is only 100 feet wide in places and that some consider Ohio's deepest gorge. A thick canopy shades the bottom, cliffs close in on both sides, and the path ends at a waterfall. Part of it is paved, which makes this among the better wheelchair options in the region.
Up the Hollow
From the preserve lot on Big Pine Road, a sidewalk heads up the gorge floor and later gives way to dirt and stone. Hiking Project maps it as 0.6 mile each way with 101 feet of gain, so 1.2 round trip, matching GoHocking's 1.2 (with 72 feet). ODNR says about 1 mile, its map shows 0.5 one way, and the Hocking Hills Organization's GPS logged just 0.7 total. Unlike most trails in the park, this one is out-and-back, so you return the way you came. Allow around an hour.
Accessibility
ODNR identifies this as one of the area's wheelchair-accessible trails, but the map marks where the sidewalk ends, before the falls. Past that point the path turns to rugged dirt and rock, and it is no longer suitable for wheels. Plan the outing around what the paved stretch offers: the cool air, tall cliffs and the first of the rock walls. Others in the group can walk on and meet you back at the turnaround.
Grotto and Falls
Along the way, a boardwalk leads past small recess caves, including Horsehead Grotto, named for a natural stone shape on its left side. ODNR's map also marks a slump rock along the way. The waterfall at the end depends on water levels; Hiking Project says it is far more impressive when the whole area is running high. Come after a rainy spell if the falls are your reason for going.
Rules of the Preserve
Pets, including leashed dogs, are prohibited on every trail at the preserve; only service animals are permitted. Ohio has barred them from state nature preserves since 1970 to protect rare plants and wildlife. You must also stay on the path. Opening time is a half hour before sunrise and closing a half hour after sunset. It costs nothing to enter or park, and no pass or reservation applies to this trail.
Flooding and Other Hazards
Flood water has shut this gorge before: flash flooding on July 1, 2025 closed the preserve along with the Old Man's Cave gorge. ODNR's preserve page listed no closure when checked on November 4, 2026. In winter, expect ice on the unpaved rock section. Wading is not allowed at the falls, and wet stone demands care. A sturdy pair of shoes is enough for the rest of the year. Weekdays are quieter if you want the gorge to yourself.
Hiking tips for Conkles Hollow Gorge Trail
- Check recent rainfall before you go; the falls depend on it.
- Plan to turn back at the end of the sidewalk with a wheelchair or stroller.
- Leave dogs behind; there is no leashed exception in a state nature preserve.
- Allow time to stop at the grotto boardwalk.
- Avoid the gorge bottom during or right after heavy storms.
Nearby trails to explore
- Conkles Hollow Rim Trail
- Rock House Trail (Hocking Hills State Park)
- Ash Cave Loop (Hocking Hills State Park)
Hike this trail with TrailMates
The gorge at Conkles Hollow works for almost any group, including hikers using wheels. Post it in TrailMates, ask about access needs in the event's group chat, and pick a quiet weekday morning. Download TrailMates on the App Store or Google Play.