John Bryan & Clifton Gorge - Get out and Hike!

As we Blue Blaze Ohio there will be few places that offer such ease of access to hiking trails as John Bryan State Park. This 752-acre park contains a beautiful limestone gorge cut by the Little Miami River. Often called the most scenic state park in Ohio, John Bryan and the Little Miami that runs through it is designated a state and national scenic river and a portion of the gorge itself is designated a national natural landmark.

This area was originally called “Riverside Farm” by John Bryan, who purchased 335 acres along the gorge and later bequeathed to Ohio. "...to be cultivated by the state as a forestry, botanic and wildlife reserve park and experiment station."  In May of 1925, Bryan's land became one of the state's first forest parks. The U. S. Department of the Interior designated John Bryan State Park and the adjoining Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve as a National Natural Landmark by the U.S. Department of the Interior.

What beckons hikers of all abilities to the trails is the area’s stunning rock formations. The Little Miami River, which drops 130 feet along the gorge, cuts waterfalls, gorges, deep pools and shallow areas along the river route. A variety of rocks, some which are easily carved by the powerful current and other, stronger rocks have created a trail system that weaves around large outcroppings and boulders rising up from the woodland floor affording prime places to examine the many layers of stone sediment and rock that records the history of the area.

The trails are not necessarily difficult, but you must wear sturdy shoes. The trails are littered with exposed rocks, muddy spots and tree roots, and steps made from exposed stone. Other trails that are a bit away from the river are easier to walk and are quite beautiful as well. The visitor center off Corey Street will advise you of the trails that are best suited for your ability. Truth be told, with all the excellent rock outcroppings and views of the river you will want to take your time on these trails. 

The area is also rich in plant life.

Canadian plant species: Canada yew, redberry elder, mountain maple, arborvitae and even a few hemlocks are fond in the park. If you are more into wild flowers, especially spring ephemerals, you should be happy to learn that 340 species of wildflowers grow wild here including Snow trillium, Virginia bluebells, bellworts, wild ginger, Dutchman's breeches, Jack-in-the-pulpit and wild columbines to name a few.

More hiking!

Just east of John Bryan State Park is Clifton Gorge; 268 acres of awe inspiring views. The remarkable topography of the gorge is the result of post glacial canyon cutting. Clifton Gorge, a preserve, is the site of one of the most spectacular dolomite and limestone gorges in the state. The gorge was registered as a National Natural Landmark in 1968 and Clifton Gorge encompasses a 2-mile stretch of the Little Miami State and National Scenic River.