Date: 02/25/2023 – Distance: 3.4 mi – Elapsed Time: 2.75 hr – Ascent: 302 ft – Descent: 312 ft – Difficulty: Hard
Yo, check this one out. This was a good hike. Purported to be one of the best wildflower displays in the Eastern United States, the 300 acre Ohio River Bluffs Nature Preserve is situated on the hills along the Ohio River just west of Manchester, Ohio. Last time I was here, I witnessed over two dozen different wildflowers blooming at the same time, and there were large masses of them. It’s truly an amazing place, and I am returning in hopes of seeing this spectacle once again, especially since everything is early.
The preserve is managed by the Arc of Appalachia group, which is a nonprofit organization with lots of properties in south central Ohio, aimed at preserving and protecting Ohio’s special areas where rare flowers and animals still exist.
Sign at the entrance on Gilkison Hollow Road just off US 52.There is only enough parking for maybe 10 vehicles.The kiosk is located at the back of the lot. This wasn’t here last time I was here.The map shows 3 trails, however only the yellow one is completed.Lots of diversity here, unfortunately it’s only a small sample of what used to be here along the Ohio River. It is supposed to be “one of the most beautiful wildflower displays in the Eastern United States.”The area supports other things as well including diverse tree species and migratory birds and rare salamanders.The trail begins across from the parking lot.There is a small creek crossing, which is laden with fossils in the limestones.Immediately, there are signs of early wildflowers. I believe the cut leaf is Dutchman’s Breeches.The cut leaf here is a Dwarf Larkspur.The variegated leaf is a Water Leaf.The long slender leaves are called Spring Beauty and you can see a bud coming up on the closest one.The creek is clear with some small cascades.Virginia Bluebells just starting to flower. At least two weeks early.This cut leaf is called a Toothwort.Jacob’s Ladder should start blooming soon.You have to look closely for this tiny flower called Harbinger of Spring aka Salt and Pepper.The fungi are also interesting.The Veronica flowers are very hard to spot.Bittercress also has tiny flowers. These often grow in the cracks of sidewalks.I’m not sure what this is but it looks interesting.Purple Cress is starting to flower.A prime example of the diversity here, in this one foot space, there is Dwarf Larkspur, Toadshade Trillium, and Cutleaf Toothworts.A closer look at the Toadshade Trillium.Some blurry Spring Beauties starting to bloom.Purple Cress.White Trout Lily.Virginia Bluebells.The trail has a loop.You can see the Ohio River.Another view of the richness of the wildflowers here.Wow, Virginia Bluebell.White Trout Lily.There are sections where the Bluebells cover the hillside.Corydalis aka Scrambled Eggs.Pay attention at this sign. The new trail goes left, and the trail gets difficult to follow to compete the loop.You have to watch for these pink ribbons.Spring Beauty.Spring Beauty is so wonderful and delicate.This Dwarf Larkspur will be blooming soon.There is another new trail being developed down the road, but it’s not started yet. However, there are some Blue Eyed Mary flowers along the road, but they weren’t up yet.
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