Rockbridge: Nature, Gardens and Canopy Tour

Rockbridge lies in the wooded gorges of the Allegheny Plateau. Several distinct themes may shape your stay: a protected landscape with a natural rock bridge, a sanctuary for native butterflies, gardens featuring an art and garden show, and a canopy tour through the treetops. If you’re looking for hotels in Rockbridge, you can plan your trip around whichever of these interests you most.

Nature and Landscape in Rockbridge

Rockbridge State Nature Preserve is a 202-acre protected area that protects Ohio’s largest natural rock bridge. The bridge spans a gorge, with a span of 50 feet. The two measurements refer to different things: 202 acres is the area of the preserve, while 50 feet is the span of the natural formation. This gives you a sense of both the scale of the preserve and a specific measurement of its defining geological feature. The setting is the wooded gorges of the Allegheny Plateau.

Butterfly Ridge offers a different focus. This 21-acre sanctuary is dedicated to promoting native butterflies. Butterfly Ridge is also an environmental education center, with courses and a one-mile hiking trail. The sanctuary, trail and courses represent different aspects of the site: protecting native species, a specific trail distance and environmental education. Check with the center in advance about visiting and course dates.

Tours and Gardens as Excursion Themes

Hocking Hills Canopy Tours is located in Rockbridge, right off U.S. Route 33. The Original Canopy Tour follows a network of cables and adventure sky bridges through the treetops, with participants gliding through the canopy. The tour is listed as taking 2.5 to 3 hours. This time frame describes the tour’s duration and is a different consideration for planning your day than the length of the hiking trail at Butterfly Ridge. The Original Canopy Tour is designed for guests who are in reasonably good health. Consider this participation requirement when deciding whether to include the activity in your stay.

Bishop Educational Gardens covers 36 acres, including three acres of landscaped gardens. The figures distinguish the total area from the garden area: the three acres refer to the landscaped gardens, while the 36 acres refer to the entire property. Bishop Educational Gardens also hosts Lilyfest, an art and garden show. This adds art and a named event to the garden theme. If you want to time your visit around Lilyfest, check the organization’s current information in advance.

The responsible organization describes access to Bishop Educational Gardens as being limited to members or participants in scheduled free public programs. Before your visit, check its current information about possible closures.

For the broader travel overview: Hocking County.