Ohio's Rockbridge State Nature Preserve

Rockbridge State Nature Preserve, near Logan, Ohio, is a rarely visited gem in the Hocking Hills. It features a loop trail centered on a natural bridge and a waterfall, providing both great photo-ops and a nice hike over the hilly trails.

The rock bridge is another variation of a recess cave, similar to other Hocking Hills landmarks Ash Cave and Old Man's Cave. Time and water combined over millennia to ultimately create Ohio's largest natural bridge.

The preserve is right off US33, down a one-lane country road. Keep an eye out for a sign to "Rockbridge Nature Preserve", as it is easy to miss. The preserve is actually a bit south of the village of Rockbridge, so don't confuse signs for the two.

Our visit to Rockbridge was on the morning after a heavy rainfall. Thus, the waterfall at Rockbridge flowed heartily. We benefited from the extra liquid again at the other Hocking Hills parks visited that Saturday.

A loop trail to the bridge begins from the parking lot, tracing up and down over open pasture until reaching the woods. The trail through the woods is moderately strenuous, but well-placed benches provide a rest if needed.

After reaching the bridge, the waterfall stole the show for us - its impressive flow cascading over a cliff-face just behind the Rockbridge. The bridge itself showed the wear and tear of many a hiker over the years. It surprised us that one could still traipse across it.

We then hiked over to the Hocking River, where a convenient canoe access point exists. Obviously, the river also showed the effects of the recent heavy rain.

A spur off of the bridge loop trail led to a rock shelter, but we decided to put that off until a later visit - the rest of the Hocking Hills awaited us.

A trip to the Rockbridge is easily recommended as part of a full Hocking Hills assault. Expect to spend about 2 hours exploring the surroundings.