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Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve
2730 Pump Station Rd SE, Lancaster, OH 43130, United States
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Comments
Ed
Review №1

A very pleasant hiking trail that takes you up to the top of the hill where you can see sandstone boulders and a valley full of rhododendrons. Be sure to wear hiking gear as the terrain is unlevel with tree roots and stones. This a medium level hike and is uphill. No bathroom facilities are available. Exercise caution when you look over the rock cliffs as there are no handrails. Enjoy nature and be sure to leave no ( trash ) behind.

Ph
Review №2

Good exercise walking to the top of the hill and back.

jo
Review №3

The cave and rocky area Is on top of a hill.The path is thin and relatively steep, lots of loose sand. Not good for small kids. Bring water and wear boots...Its very beautiful once you reach the cave and rocks.

Je
Review №4

Peaceful, serene, beautiful surroundings— I couldn’t ask for more delightful hiking conditions or views. Abundant wildflowers and other natural wonders. Great spot to hike with friends, the Appalachian Ohio Alliance, or alone. Very glad I experienced this nature preserve.

Ad
Review №5

Interesting views, trail was in good condition. I would not classify it as an easy trail. It is an uphill climb for the first half a mile or so with lots of switch backs. The trail does slope down hill sideways for a portion so it you have balance issues, use caution.

An
Review №6

Awesome hike!! A little misleading at first. Trail gets pretty steep for about half a mile with lots of turns and uneven trail. But once at the top the views of the microclimates down below are well worth it.

Sc
Review №7

Love this craggy little loop, I have yet to come hear when all the Rhododendron is in bloom, but I did find pink lady slippers ️

Eu
Review №8

We went on June 12th. The Rhododendrons werent blooming yet. Its an easy, relaxing, well-marked hike, though. This wooded, out and back lollipop trail takes you uphill to a ridge, then pretty much levels off the rest of the way, although the surrounding terrain is very hilly, and there are cliffs, and cool views. There are actually two loops in the trail - one in the middle of the trail, and the one at the end. From the beginning of the trail to the first loop, the trail arrows are yellow, and the tree markings are orange. If you continue past the first loop, the arrows and tree markings are blue. Coming back is downhill after passing the middle loop. There are other pretty wildflowers along the trail, really cool looking rock formations, and cliffs. I think the whole trail is maybe a little over two miles.

Ra
Review №9

Wasn’t able to visit while the Rhododendrons were in bloom but still worth the visit. Starts with a half-mile uphill hike and then levels out but be cautious if it has been raining since it can be quite muddy!

Bo
Review №10

Amazingly beautiful woodlands, with interesting rock formations and a variety of microclimates. A bit difficult to find, tucked in behind a large natural gas pump station. Unfortunately road noise is intrusively audible throughout the preserve trail system.

Hi
Review №11

Great trail for hiking with kiddos! Not toddlers though

Ji
Review №12

A steep climb but well worth the effort.

Be
Review №13

The sign is impossible to find without navigation directing you to the parking area. Really nice short hike though. If you stick to the trail youll think it should be called nice rocks and prickers preserve. Do a little exploring at the base of the rocks and theres some really nice stuff as well as some rhododendron patches.

D
Review №14

Really awesome rock formations and a well marked trail. Able to do it with a 3 year old and carrying a baby.

Ca
Review №15

The most beautiful hike ive taken but be prepared for a very steep climb

Da
Review №16

Small Preserve with some hills and nice scenery. Hiking by permit only.

Ke
Review №17

Great place to hike. Rock formations are amazing. Would like to visit in June when the rhododendron are in bloom.

De
Review №18

One of my favorite places for a quick hike. Rarely see anyone else there. Its great anytime of year.

me
Review №19

You must go. Very small gravel parking lot its right next to the pumping station easy to miss. Trailhead map shows one Trail. The orange Trail. Theres another one beyond the orange Trail, the Blue Trail. Is very similar to the orange Trail

Ma
Review №20

Nice preserve with very little use. If you want a quiet place to enjoy nature, this is it.

Da
Review №21

Nice, easy trails with much greenery.

Ry
Review №22

Nice trails

Le
Review №23

BEAUTIFULamazing hiking and climbing, especially off trail!But honestly be careful

JP
Review №24

Beautiful preserve, Nice trail, quiet place with outstanding views.

Ma
Review №25

A great place for a hike. Lots of cool fauna as well as beautiful scenery. As mentioned there is no road front signage but its well worth the stop.

Le
Review №26

Beautiful rock features. Well-marked trail. Parking is a little non-descript--no sign.

El
Review №27

As you would guess from the name - lots and lots of beautiful rhododendron! And mountain lorel!

Pe
Review №28

There are no signs for this preserve from any road, but this place is awesome!!!! So worth the time to stop and visit.

su
Review №29

It was breathtaking

Re
Review №30

Beautiful

Ch
Review №31

A little gem

Information
100 Photos
31 Comments
4.7 Rating
  • Address:2730 Pump Station Rd SE, Lancaster, OH 43130, United States
  • Site:http://naturepreserves.ohiodnr.gov/rhododendroncove
Categories
  • Tourist attraction
  • Park
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:No
Amenities
  • Good for kids:Yes
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