Escape to the Edge of Appalachia
Some places don’t just whisper their beauty—they shout it from the treetops. The Edge of Appalachia Preserve System in Adams County, Ohio, is one of those places. Spanning a staggering 20,000 acres, this untamed landscape of rugged cliffs, wildflower-laced prairies, and crystal-clear streams is more than just a nature retreat—it’s an invitation to step into a wilder, quieter world. Here, time slows down, the air is thick with birdsong, and adventure is measured in footsteps, not miles per hour.
A Natural Sanctuary Unlike Any Other
Just 75 miles east of Cincinnati, The Edge is Ohio’s largest privately owned nature preserve, safeguarded by The Nature Conservancy and the Cincinnati Museum Center. It’s a lifeline for over 100 rare species—including the elusive Allegheny woodrat and the nocturnal Indiana bat—and a refuge for those who crave an authentic brush with the wild.
Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or just looking for a little solitude, The Edge offers more than 27 miles of hiking trails that cater to every type of wanderer:
Buzzardroost Rock Trail – A short but rewarding 2.2-mile climb to a jaw-dropping overlook of the Ohio Brush Creek valley.
Lynx Prairie Trail – A hidden gem of an ecosystem, bursting with wildflowers and rare prairie grasses.
Helen C. Black Trail at Cedar Falls – A shaded hike leading to a mesmerizing 15-foot waterfall that tumbles over ancient limestone.
Come in the spring, and the forest hums with new life. Visit in the fall, and the hills glow in hues of copper and gold. No matter when you go, the Edge of Appalachia will steal your breath—and maybe even your heart.
Where to Stay: Cozy Cabins and Hidden Retreats
After a day in the wild, settle in at one of these handpicked stays:
Murphin Ridge Inn – A pastoral retreat with gourmet dining, cozy cabins, and sweeping Appalachian views.
Cave Hill Cabins – Tucked away in the woods, these cabins offer full amenities and the kind of tranquility you only find in nature.
Arc of Appalachia Lodges – Rustic yet elegant lodges with front-row access to some of Ohio’s most scenic trails.
Shawnee Lodge & Conference Center – A family-friendly lodge with all the comforts of home, just minutes from the preserve.
Where to Eat: Savor the Flavors of Adams County
Exploring works up an appetite, and Adams County delivers with a mix of down-home diners, Amish bakeries, and hidden gems:
Keim Family Market – Warm, flaky pastries and homemade cheeses straight from an Amish kitchen.
Miller’s Bakery & Furniture – Famous for their homemade pies and fresh-baked breads.
The Greene Beanery Coffee House & Roastery – A charming, small-town café serving up locally roasted coffee.
Moyer’s Winery & Restaurant – The perfect place to sip local wine and watch the sun set over the Ohio River.
Blake’s Pharmacy & Soda Shop – A vintage soda fountain where nostalgia meets the best milkshakes in town.
Why You Should Go Now
The Edge of Appalachia isn’t just a place you visit—it’s a place you feel. It’s the hush of the forest at dawn, the crunch of leaves beneath your boots, the thrill of spotting a hawk soaring overhead. It’s a reminder that in a world of distractions, true adventure is still waiting—right where the wilderness begins.
So pack your bags, lace up your boots, and come experience Ohio’s wild side. The Edge is calling—are you ready to answer?