COLUMBUS, OH - Thousands of years ago glaciers moved across Ohio creating dramatic landscapes like those found at Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve. Today, a deep cut canyon funnels swift moving river water through a narrow channel at this Greene County nature preserve, offering some of Ohio's most breathtaking views and making it a top destination among outdoor enthusiasts.
Thanks to generous Ohioans, many of the trails, boardwalks and overlooks at this southwestern Ohio preserve were built or improved over the years with donations made to Ohio's Natural Areas Income Tax Check-off Fund, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). "The check-off program provides Ohioans with an opportunity to support ODNR's nature preserves, scenic rivers and endangered species programs by contributing a portion of their state income tax refund," said Sam Speck, ODNR director. "Our state nature preserves rely on the generosity of Ohioans to support important improvements that might not otherwise be possible."
In recent years, check-off dollars have paid for more than $13,000 in trail improvements, including railings to delineate the trail and protect the preserve, according to the ODNR Division of Natural Areas and Preserves. Other check-off fund projects have included construction of a boardwalk bridge at the bottom of the scenic Amphitheater Falls, two overlooks near the old paper mill site and informational bulletin boards.
The 269-acre preserve was registered in 1968 as a National Natural Landmark because of its spectacular limestone and dolomite gorge. The gorge also is popular for its scenic waterfalls, fascinating rock formations and dramatic overhanging cliffs. The shaded, north-facing slopes provide a cool, moist environment for northern species such as hemlock, red baneberry, Canada yew, arbor-vitae and mountain maple. The preserve encompasses a two-mile stretch of the Little Miami State and National Scenic River, just east of John Bryan State Park. In spring, the gorge is one of the most spectacular places for viewing Ohio's wildflowers, including the rare snow trillium, eastern columbine, golden alexander and jack-in-the-pulpit.
Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve is located on State Route 343, about five miles east of Yellow Springs.
The ODNR Division of Natural Areas and Preserves oversees 127 state nature preserves and 20 state scenic river segments throughout Ohio. For additional information about Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve or the Natural Areas Income Tax Check-off program, visit the ODNR web site at ohiodnr.com