Cantwell Cliffs
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Cantwell Cliffs is in a stunning area of Hocking Hills, which is part of the Allegheny Plateau and is situated primarily in Hocking County, Ohio.
Visit Cantwell Cliffs
Cantwell Cliffs get their name from the Cantwell Family. They were one of the first families who decided to settle in this area. Cantwell Cliffs is located in the stunning Hocking Hills State Park. It is located in the northern section of this huge state park and it is around 17 miles from Old Man’s Cave.
Cantwell Cliffs are quite remote, so it does not tend to have the large visitor numbers that the other areas of Hocking Hills State Park receive. Even though this is a remote location, it is still well worth the trip out to see it. It has long been argued that this area is actually the most stunning area of Hocking Hills State Park.
About Cantwell Cliffs
The Cantwell Cliffs area has had a lot of erosion, and this is the reason why it is quite stunning. There is a very deep valley, steep cliffs, and there is a rock shelter that is under the cliff. When you walk towards the rock shelter, you will notice some large slump blocks that have fallen away at some point from the main cliff area.
There is a narrow passage when you go toward the rock shelter and this is called ‘Fat Lady’s Squeeze’. There are also a lot of concretions that occur on the cliff face, and one other thing that is quite unusual is a limited amount of cross-bedding in the middle zone.
The concretions that you can see on the cliff face happen where the iron oxide and cementing agent have been concentrated. In fact, it has been concentrated so much that the sandstone becomes discolored into a lovely red color.
Trails at Cantwell Cliffs
There are two trails at Cantwell Cliffs: the gorge and the rim routes.
Each of the two trails is just over one mile long. The two trails actually interconnect at the midway point, so it is quite possible to go around both trails. Please note that there are quite a few steps on this trail, so you should have a good level of fitness.
I also recommend that you either bring a paper map or download a copy onto a device. There are signs on this these two trails, but as they interconnect, it can be quite easy to lose your bearings.
If you would like to print a map of the trails at Hocking Hills State Park, you can find one here.
Please note that hikers who want to have a go at this trail have a good pair of boots on and have a bit of experience hiking. While it is a nice area for a hike, due to the steps and the ruggedness of the area, it is better not to bring people who have mobility issues or small children.
Cantwell Cliffs Trail
This is the main trail in the Cantwell Cliffs area. As I have written above, the two trails do interconnect, and where the trails split, you will want to take a left to go on this trail. The trails will take you past the large cave that has an overhang. It should also be noted that after the snows of winter have melted away, there will be a waterfall here for a few weeks. You will then make a small loop, and you will end up at the start.
Rim Trail Loop
The Rim Trail Loop is their trail at Cantwell Cliffs. This trail begins at the parking lot, and instead of going left at the trail split, you will need to take a right. After a few meters, the trail splits again. At this split, you will need to take a left, and this takes you down into the gorge.
You will then take a right and follow the gorge. Then, there is the connector trail that takes you to the Cantwell Cliffs Trail. You then continue hiking until you reach the Fat Lady’s Squeeze. You can then either carry on hiking down the steps to the Rock Shelter or you can leave the gorge.
Another beautiful hike in Hocking Hills! Be prepared for a ton to stairs and steep drop offs. Unfortunately when we visited, all of the waterfalls were dried up. While amazing, I can’t even imagine how beautiful this hike is with the water flowing! An absolute must when visiting the area!
MSue (TripAdvisor)
Cindy’s Insider Ohio Tips!
I think this is an often-overlooked park in Hocking Hills! This is a great hike with lots of steps and cliffs. It is perfect for the adventurer!
Where Is Cantwell Cliffs Located?
Let’s Visit Cantwell Cliffs!
Have you found your way to Cantwell Cliffs yet? What is your favorite trail? We’d love to know what you think about the area! Leave a comment below and share your experience!
Did you know that Cantwell Cliffs is just one of seven major hiking areas of Hocking Hills? Make sure you check out our round-up post dedicated to those areas here: 7 Major Hiking Areas Of Hocking Hills!
Cedar Falls, Ash Cave, and Conkles Hollow are at the top of my list of favorite places to explore in Hocking Hills! Full of wondrous sights and beautiful wildlife, be sure to let us know if you visit!
If hiking is your passion, have you considered Yellow Springs Hiking?
Make sure you check our round-up of Ohio State Parks, where you can find lots of information about other activities in the great Ohio outdoors!
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