Sylvan Deep has one of the most astonishingly beautiful rock formations in all of the Arc Preserves, rivaling even the finest of the geological spectacles found in Hocking Hills. The preserve lies in a particularly scenic region of Jackson County, 9 miles northwest of Jackson, the county seat, and within close driving distance of two other significant conservation lands: Leo Petroglyphs and Canter’s Caves 4H Camp.

9.45 am Please arrive no later than 9:45 am to park and settle in so we can begin promptly at 10 am.

10:00 am “Wilderness in the East, A River is a Stepping Stone, Not a Boundary” - A Sit-down Presentation by Nancy Stranahan, Arc Director. We will gather in an intimate conference room of Canter’s Cave 4H Camp, where Nancy will share the uplifting story on the Arc’s recent growth and our plans to continue to romance the Great Eastern Forest in the East’s Appalachian Heartland. She will also provide her perspectives on how and why the Arc has experienced such explosive growth in recent times, expanding from 8,100 acres in 2020 to what will likely be close to 20,000 acres by year-end!

12 -1:00 Lunch will be provided to our guests, free of charge, at Canter’s Cave. We can accommodate most of the common dietary preferences.

1:00 - 1:30 Drive to Sylvan Deep, roughly a 4.5-mile drive. Sylvan Deep has substantial parking but might prove limiting for especially large events. If our attendance to this event surpasses our parking, we will encourage attendees to car-share with others, and we will also use our new 15-passenger van to lessen the demand for parking spaces.

1:30 - 4 A Guided Hike at Sylvan Deep. The two-mile route planned at Sylvan Deep is a well-designed trail that is supported in places by surface-leveling, bridges, and steps. Nevertheless, the exceptionally rocky terrain makes this an inevitably physically challenging trail that presents many short and steep ascents and descents. If you are a moderately strong or very strong hiker, the exceptional scenery at Sylvan Deep is worth the effort, but this trail is not for everyone. If you are not a strong hiker, please know that this hike is totally optional, and we have a less challenging but extremely beautiful guided hike option described below. Spraying tick and chigger repellent on your legs, pants, and socks is always an act of self-care. Fortunately, we should be well past their peak population this time of year.

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1:15 - 2:30 A Guided Hike at Canter’s Cave. Canter’s Cave boasts, just like the larger region, phenomenal rock formations! If you want a shorter, easier hike, just stay on after lunch and join us as we explore the memorable landscapes of Canter’s Cave.