Hocking Valley Geology, Canal & Wildflower Hike-Rohr Preserve and Canal Lock 8

Visit AOA’s Rohr Quarry preserve and hike among the vestiges of the 19^th century Sharp & Crook quarry.  Once one of the largest sandstone quarries in the region, the mining activities cut deep into the high ridge, providing stone for many structures throughout central Ohio.  The site retains the high sandstone walls left behind like ghosts when the quarry closed early in the 20^th century.  A mature forest has since reclaimed the quarry site which now masquerades as a seemingly natural Hocking Hills sandstone outcrop landscape.

We’ll view evidence of mining activity and learn from several expert geologists about the geologic history that led to the formation of the Hocking Hills distinctive blackhand sandstone  formations and subsequent erosion and exposure.

The Rohr Preserve abuts the Hocking River and includes a section of the old Hocking Canal which was used to ship sandstone blocks throughout the region.  The quarry and Hocking canal remnants preserve a unique piece of the Hocking valley’s cultural and economic heritage.

After the quarry visit we will make the short trip down the road to AOA’s conserved Hocking Canal Lock No. 8 – and view firsthand how sandstone blocks from the quarry were used to construct essential structures of the period.  We will be able to get up close and even stand inside the nearly 200-year-old lock, while a Fairfield County Parks historian of canal history explains some interesting faucets of the Hocking canals.

The Rohr quarry and Hocking Canal preserves feature unique cultural, natural and economic heritage of the region. They are part of AOA’s Hocking River Conservation Corridor which works to preserve key natural and historical sites for the community.

This and other AOA events are free and open to the public.  This event will be held rain or shine – so please come prepared and dress appropriately for the weather and hiking on slopes.

Time:  Please arrive prior to 10:00 a.m.  This event will last approximately three hours.

What to Bring:  Lunch, snacks and/or drinks of your choice.  Insect repellant recommended during tick season.

Location:  We will park at the Rohr Preserve which is located on Sugar Grove Road, approximately 3 miles north of Sugar Grove.  Look for AOA volunteers to direct on-site parking.  The Google map address for the property is 3830 Sugar Grove Road, SE, Lancaster, OH, 43130.

Please consider joining AOA and/or making a donation to help us maintain and acquire more unique properties like Rohr Quarry and Lock No. 8.  

Google Map Link: 

https://www.google.com/maps/place/3830+Sugar+Grove+Rd+SE,+Lancaster,+OH+43130/@39.6665258,-82.5560604,195m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x8847f4aee99c86a3:0x79da320754059188!8m2!3d39.6665248!4d-82.5555132