The Arc of Appalachia is pleased to have several preserves with hiking trails open to the public, and we are working to develop more as time, funding, and supporter interest allow. Friends of the Arc members may hike year round, any day, on all of our trails. Other visitors are also welcome, but may be subject to hours of operation and parking fees.
Where to Hike
The Highlands Nature Sanctuary features a short but beautiful complex of trails at the Appalachian Forest Museum that showcase the Rocky Fork Gorge. These are open to the public on weekends, 9:30-5:00pm, without an admission charge. Please note that dogs are not allowed at the Sanctuary. The Sanctuary also offers 14 miles of wilderness trails visiting botanical hotspots and beautiful geology throughout the preserve. Wilderness trails are only open to Friends of the Arc members.
Fort Hill has 11 miles of trails through one of the largest pieces of mature forest in southern Ohio. Hikers may also view the ancient Hopewell Culture earthworks on the site. Fort Hill is open to the public free of charge, year round, during daylight hours. Hikers may bring dogs on a leash to Fort Hill.
Serpent Mound has a large grassy area for walking and viewing the ancient earthworks at the site. There is also a short but interesting nature trail that showcases the cliffs that the Serpent Mound is built upon. The park is open to the public daily during daylight hours for a small parking fee, and welcomes dogs on a leash. The parking fee is waived for Friends of the Arc members.
Other trails are in development - keep in touch with us on Facebook or our email list to receive updates about new trails.