Near Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve
Small street at the West Trailhead.
Near Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve
Large pond along Pond Trail
Near Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve
Recess
Near Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve
Rock outcropping
Near Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve
Recess

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve

5.0 (3 Ratings)
Dip into Hocking County and get a taste for of the Hocking Hills.
8
mi
Distance
1,536
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
CaveFall ColorsGeologically SignificantRiver/CreekSpringWaterfall

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
7.95mi
Distance
1,536ft
Elevation Gain
1,536ft
Elevation Loss
35%
Max Grade
1,050ft
High Point
798ft
Low Point
Path Type
Loop
Description
The route starts at the West Trailhead which has ample parking and a new bridge to connect you to the trail. Waypoints are well-marked on posts along the trail; each containing a trail map to guide you through the preserve. From the West TrailHead, the route takes you through mature forest passing by rock formations and recesses that are characteristic of the Hocking Hills Regions as well as three ponds. There is a majestic stand of mature Beech trees along the trail between waypoints H and K. At Waypoint K, turn left and follow the Cemetery Trail which winds along the side of a hill with a lovely expanse. The Cemetery Trail dumps you out of the hills near some Preserve buildings. Waypoint M marks the 1/2 way point of the loop allowing for some rest before climbing back into the hills. Inclines are gentle in the preserve relative to other parts of the Hocking Hills and the route contains several switchbacks to ease the climbs. At waypoint H, bear right and follow the Meadow Trail which traces its way along the bottom a hill before curving around and up to meet waypoint F. From there, follow a grassy connector trail back to waypoint G. At waypoint D, bear right and follow the Pond Trail. The Pond Trail has some fairly steep up and downs and leads you to the third and largest pond in the preserve. The short segment between waypoints B and C wind through a wide meadow nestled between several hills and deer were active during my hike through this segment. From Waypoint B it is about a mile of back tracking to reach the West Trailhead.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
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Contributors
Rob Major