Hanging Rock OhioATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Hanging Rock, Ohio.
1. Ohio Hanging Rock Preserve
ANCIENT GEOLOGICAL WONDER
Ohio Hanging Rock Preserve is a 750-acre natural area featuring immense sandstone outcrops covered with mosses, ferns, and lichens that follow an elevation line forming a stunning geological formation. The preserve offers one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Ohio, winding from valley floor to ridgetops where visitors can observe rocks that were once the wave-washed shoreline of an ancient glacial lake known as Lake Tight. This region was historically significant as the nation's leading producer of iron, charcoal, and clay bricks, with evidence of these activities still present in the preserve.
2. Little Scioto Watershed
PRISTINE APPALACHIAN WATERS
Little Scioto Watershed flows through the remote hill country of northeastern Scioto County where the Ohio Hanging Rock Preserve is located. The watershed supports a classic Appalachian forest ecosystem with high species diversity including oaks, hickories, red maple, blackgum, sourwood, sugar maple, yellow buckeye, and tulip trees. Visitors can observe remarkable botanical diversity including butternut trees, northern roseshell azalea, pink lady slipper, and four state-listed rare plant species.
3. Frederick Road Hiking Trails
SCENIC FOREST PATHWAYS
Frederick Road Hiking Trails provide access to the spectacular geological formations and diverse ecosystems of the Hanging Rock region. The trails are open from sunrise to sunset, offering visitors opportunities to experience the area's abundant fern diversity and rare botanical species throughout different times of day. Hikers are rewarded with views of massive boulders and unique rock formations that tell the story of ancient geological processes that shaped the Ohio landscape.
4. Shawnee State Forest
OHIO'S LITTLE SMOKIES
Shawnee State Forest, located near Hanging Rock, is Ohio's largest state forest with over 60,000 acres of rugged, forested hills. The forest features more than 60 miles of hiking trails and 58 miles of bridle trails winding through dense woodlands often referred to as 'Ohio's Little Smokies' due to its hilly terrain. Visitors can enjoy camping, hunting, fishing, and nature viewing in this biodiversity hotspot that connects to the larger Appalachian ecosystem.
5. Scioto County Historical Society Museum
REGIONAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
Scioto County Historical Society Museum preserves and presents the rich history of the Hanging Rock region and surrounding Scioto County. The museum houses artifacts and exhibits detailing the area's significant iron production history, Native American heritage, and pioneer settlements. Visitors can learn about the historical importance of the Hanging Rock iron region that was once the nation's leading producer of iron, charcoal, and clay bricks during the 19th century.
6. Portsmouth Floodwall Murals
RIVERSIDE HISTORICAL ART
Portsmouth Floodwall Murals form an impressive outdoor art gallery spanning over 2,000 feet along the Ohio River floodwall. The murals, painted by renowned artist Robert Dafford, depict the rich history of Portsmouth and the surrounding areas including the Hanging Rock iron region. Visitors can take a self-guided tour to view more than 60 detailed murals illustrating the area's Native American heritage, industrial development, and cultural evolution.
7. Earl Thomas Conley Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATION AREA
Earl Thomas Conley Park offers recreational facilities along the scenic Ohio River near Hanging Rock. The park features sports fields, picnic areas, walking paths, and river access for fishing and boating. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities while taking in views of the river and surrounding hills that characterize this part of Appalachian Ohio.
8. Market Street Café
LOCAL APPALACHIAN CUISINE
Market Street Café serves authentic regional cuisine showcasing the flavors of Appalachian Ohio near the Hanging Rock area. The café specializes in home-style cooking with locally sourced ingredients, offering hearty dishes that reflect the culinary heritage of the region. Visitors can enjoy a welcoming atmosphere and traditional meals after exploring the nearby natural attractions.
9. Portsmouth Brewing Company
HISTORIC CRAFT BREWERY
Portsmouth Brewing Company continues the region's brewing tradition that dates back to the industrial heyday of the Hanging Rock iron region. The brewery produces craft beers using traditional methods while incorporating local ingredients and flavors inspired by the surrounding Appalachian landscape. Visitors can tour the facility, sample various beer styles, and enjoy food pairings that complement their brewing philosophy.
10. Shawnee State Park Lodge
FOREST RETREAT DESTINATION
Shawnee State Park Lodge offers comfortable accommodations surrounded by the natural beauty of Ohio's Appalachian foothills near Hanging Rock. The lodge features a restaurant serving regional cuisine, indoor and outdoor pools, and access to numerous recreational activities including hiking, fishing, and boating. Visitors can use this as a comfortable base for exploring the geological wonders and natural attractions of the Hanging Rock region.
11. Scioto Ribber
RENOWNED STEAKHOUSE EXPERIENCE
Scioto Ribber is a beloved local steakhouse known for its large portions and flame-grilled specialties near the Hanging Rock region. The restaurant has built its reputation on quality cuts of meat prepared over open flames, continuing a cooking tradition reminiscent of the area's historical iron-making fires. Visitors can enjoy the rustic atmosphere while dining on steaks, ribs, and other hearty fare after a day of exploring the natural attractions of Scioto County.
12. Appalachian Artisans Guild
LOCAL CRAFT SHOWCASE
Appalachian Artisans Guild displays and sells handcrafted items created by local artisans from the Hanging Rock region and surrounding Appalachian communities. The guild showcases traditional crafts including pottery, woodworking, quilting, and jewelry that reflect the cultural heritage of the area. Visitors can purchase unique souvenirs and gifts while supporting local craftspeople who preserve and continue the artistic traditions of Appalachian Ohio.
13. Southern Ohio Museum
ART AND REGIONAL HISTORY
Southern Ohio Museum houses an impressive collection of fine art and historical artifacts representing the cultural heritage of the Hanging Rock region and surrounding areas. The museum features rotating exhibitions of contemporary art alongside permanent displays of archaeological finds, industrial tools, and cultural items from the region's past. Visitors can explore galleries that connect the area's natural resources with its cultural development through thoughtfully curated exhibits.
14. Greenup Old Fashioned Days
ANNUAL HERITAGE FESTIVAL
Greenup Old Fashioned Days is a vibrant festival celebrating the heritage of the Ohio River Valley region near Hanging Rock. The annual event features music performances, craft demonstrations, historical reenactments, and food vendors showcasing regional specialties. Visitors can experience the cultural traditions that developed alongside the industrial heritage of the Hanging Rock iron region that spans across the Ohio River.
15. Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge
RIVER ECOSYSTEM SANCTUARY
Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge protects a chain of islands in the Ohio River near the Hanging Rock region. The refuge provides critical habitat for migratory birds, freshwater mussels, and numerous fish species that inhabit the river ecosystem. Visitors can explore the visitor center, hike nature trails, and observe wildlife while learning about the ecological importance of the Ohio River that has shaped the surrounding landscape including the Hanging Rock area.