Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve

Clifton Gorge is a spectacular place to visit!  Here's a description: "This 268-acre preserve protects one of the most spectacular dolomite and limestone gorges in the state. Registered as a National Natural Landmark in 1968, Clifton Gorge encompasses a 2-mile stretch of the Little Miami State and National Scenic River. Geologically, it is an outstanding example of interglacial and post-glacial canyon cutting. At one point, the river funnels through a deep, narrow channel, which was apparently formed by the enlarging and connecting of a series of potholes in the resistant Silurian dolomite bedrock. In other sections of the gorge, cliff overhangs have broken off forming massive slump blocks scattered along the valley floor. The shaded, north-facing slopes provide a cool, moist environment for northern species including hemlock, red baneberry, Canada yew, arbor-vitae and mountain maple. This is one of the most spectacular sites in the state for viewing spring wildflowers including the rare snow trillium."


We visited Yellow Springs, a fun little art town right by the gorge, the same day.  Cute little knitted items dressed up the signs and light posts, local artisans sold their wares at many, many, many local shops, vibrant paints colored the walls of most every building, native plants grew all about - it's quite a cool place to visit if you travel this way.  We are planning on the fiber fest there in September...can't wait!