There's A Gorge In Ohio That Looks Just Like Red River Gorge, But Hardly Anyone Knows It Exists
Sarah McCosham
Author
Hocking Hills is known across the state for its breathtaking beauty and world-class hiking and recreation. Places like Old Man’s Cave and Ash Falls top the bucket lists of most Ohio adventurers, as one could easily spend days and weeks exploring Hocking Hill’s waterfalls and caves. There are a lot of similarities between Hocking Hills State Park in Ohio and Red River Gorge in Kentucky, in fact, including a little-known gorge in the former that bears a striking resemblance to the Grand Canyon of Kentucky. Let’s look at some of these places like Red River Gorge right here in Ohio.
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Check out the incredibly scenic Hocking Hills State Park - it's just like having our very own Red River Gorge in Ohio in this video from Shore Me Some More:
Have you visited the Cantwell Cliffs in Hocking Hills before? Do you agree this Ohio gorge is just as wondrous as its Southern lookalike? Have you discovered any more places like Red River Gorge? Share some of your adventures with a comment.
If you are looking for a little luxury relaxation surrounded by natural wonders, check out the man-made Sandstone Falls in Hocking Hills at The Cliffs.
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More to Explore
Exploring Ohio Natural Areas
Where are some scenic places in Ohio?
From the beautiful Hocking Hills to the shores of Lake Erie, Ohio has some pretty incredible places to explore. Here are a few scenic places in Ohio that will make your heart sing:
- Cedar Bog Nature Preserve: A bog may not seem like a scenic area, but you might be surprised by how much wildlife there is to enjoy in this unique natural area in Ohio. And technically it isn't even a bog. A more accurate term is a fen, which just means it is a wetland area that drains water rather than retains water. As far as all of that wildlife goes, there are over 40 endangered, threatened, and rare plants and animals that call this wonderful site home. It contains the most diverse variety of plant life in all of Ohio!
- Headlands Dunes State Nature Preserve: This is another one of Ohio's unique natural areas. This beautiful sandy oasis on Lake Erie makes it seem like you are dipping your toes into the ocean. There is a unique blend of beach grass, switchgrass, red osier, Canada wild-rye, and sandbar willow that dance in the wind creating a desert-like feel that perfectly accentuates the rolling sand dunes. Another key feature of the area is the Fairport Harbor West Breakwater Light - a historic lighthouse that guides ships to safety on Lake Erie.
- Brandywine Falls: If you love dynamic waterfalls, there is plenty to love about Ohio. Brandywine Falls in Cuyahoga Valley National Park is the tallest one in the state. Its 65 feet of rushing water plunges into a beautiful gorge surrounded by forest, interesting rock formations, and rugged hiking trails. There are also two fantastic viewing areas to see the upper and lower portion of the falls.
These are only a small amount of the many wonderful natural areas in Ohio. One of the best ways to discover even more is by going on a hike. Check out our guide to the best Ohio hiking trails to find a whole lot more adventures. Be sure to give AllTrails+ a try to get up-to-date maps for every hike.