- This event has passed.
Wildflower Hike at AOA’s Bison Hollow Preserve
April 20 @ 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Free
Spring is in the air and the wildflowers are busting out at AOA’s Bison Hollow State Nature Preserve. Enjoy a springtime ramble through the gorge and admire the many native wildflowers that carpet the floor of the mature hardwood forests. Wildflowers we will see are typical of the Hocking Hills region and should include a mix of early ephemerals and later spring bloomers such as Columbine, Bloodroot, Trillium, Dutchman’s Breeches, Virginia Bluebells, Cut-Leaved Toothwort, Trout Lily, Foam Flower, Jack in the Pulpit, Dwarf Crested Iris, Phlox, Canada Violet, Solomon’s Seal and False Solomon’s Seal, among many others.
AOA’s Bison Hollow Preserve SNP presently consists of 1,060 acres with protection of another 45 acres in process – forming a largely unfragmented preserve of over 1,100 acres along the South Branch of the East Fork of Queer Creek. It is located in the southern extent of the picturesque Hocking Hills, straddling the Hocking – Vinton County line. Bison Hollow is part of AOA’s Hocking Hills Conservation Initiative that has conserved over 90 properties and 5,000 acres.
The site features spectacular scenery and showcases typical Hocking Hills landscapes including high rock walls that delineate the main gorge, sandstone outcrops and features, and numerous wonderful waterfalls. The property includes mature to older growth forests with large hemlock groves.
Pack a sack lunch as we will break to eat and enjoy the peace and serenity of the deep forest environs and the many waterfalls that line the gorge.
The Bison Hollow SNP hike and other AOA events are free and open to the public.
Time: Meet at 10:00 a.m.
What to Wear: This activity will be held rain or shine – so please come prepared and dress appropriately for the weather and hiking on slopes. The path through the gorge requires walking alongside and crossing the South Branch of the East Fork of Queer Creek. Water levels in the creek vary widely depending on recent rainfall but can usually be navigated with high-top (at least 6 to 8-inches) hiking shoes or boots. Please wear appropriate footwear and/or be prepared to get wet feet.
What to Bring: Lunch, snacks and/or drinks of your choice. Insect repellant is recommended during tick season.
Location: We will be using the north, non-public entrance to the Preserve that crosses private property. This entry is located at the southern end of Amerine Road just south of Ash Cave, at the gate to a private home site – see Google Map link below. Drive to the end of the road where AOA staff and volunteers will direct parking alongside the roadway.