Today’s hike didn’t go how Cyble and I had envisioned it. Yet, unlike normally when the destination changes and everything’s worse tbis ended up better than I ever expected. I woke up thinking Morgantown was the same distance from Newark as Wheeling and that was a dumbass mistake. Yet, sometimes you win, sometimes you learn. Instead of heading straight to Cooper’s Rock near Morgantown, West Virginia, Cyble and I took a detour that turned into one of the most beautiful, muddy, quiet, awe-inspiring hikes I’ve done in Ohio.
We drove from Newark to Cambridge, Ohio, and ended up at Piatt Gorge in Woodsfield. From there we went on to Raven Rocks, about 19 miles away in southern Belmont County, and spent the whole day chasing waterfalls, heart rocks, caves, creek crossings, laughs, slips, and exactly zero people.
Piatt Gorge: Caves, Waterfalls, and Heart Rocks
Piatt Gorge was incredible. The trail loops through rich hardwood forest, switchbacks, and rock shelves. We took the west side trail through a massive cave-like passage that opens up into a waterfall. Waterfalls were everywhere: some roaring, some trickling, some dry even though it was raining. Every waterfall was perfect for photos, and some spots looked swimmable, though I didn’t see any signs saying you could or couldn’t.
I had both Luna and Cyble with me and they got all the views, all the rocks, all the laughs. I fell twice, didn’t get hurt, and got some hilarious photos. At one point I collected two heart rocks at the same spot and gave them to Cyble for her and her boyfriend Hunter. I brought home twenty-four little heart rocks, I photographed one huge heart rock big enough for five people to sit on, another large one under a waterfall that I left because it was too poetic, two orange slabs with red and black stripes, two cool conglomerates, and some other orangey stones I liked. Six of these went straight onto my altar.
The trail was wet and muddy with a few creek crossings. It’s kid- and dog-friendly, but some cliffy sections will pose situations where help for kids and others may be needed. Benches are scattered along the path, but it’s not ADA accessible. Shoes that can handle mud are a must.
Planning a day trip from Newark, to Cambridge, or nearby Ohio towns? Piatt Gorge is perfect for waterfalls, caves, and heart rocks. Grab a friend, your dog, a camera, and some waterproof shoes. You’ll want to take your time and explore the cave and waterfall sections.
What’s your favorite Ohio cliff or fall?
Tell us in the comments!
Raven Rocks: Cliffs, New Signs, and Quiet Trails
Next, we went to Raven Rocks nature preserve in Beallsville, Ohio, which is open to the public but privately owned. The 0.4-mile loop at the trailhead drops into ravines with sandstone cliffs and small waterfalls. There are new wooden steps replacing the old ones and trail signs now that weren’t there last time I visited. The place was quiet with no one else around, giving a sense of being completely immersed in nature.
Trails were wet and muddy, with some creek crossings and cliffy areas that need attention if you’re bringing kids. Dogs are allowed and Luna’s energy made the hike even better. We picked up some garbage in the parking lot and carried it to the bins. Please remember to respect the trails.
Cooper’s Rock: The Classic Dream
Though we didn’t make it there today, Cooper’s Rock near Morgantown, WV, still calls to me. It has miles of trails, overlooks of the Cheat River Canyon, and rock formations that make for epic hiking and photography. After today, I’m even more excited to return.
Trail Notes and Tips
Trails in these locations are muddy and slick after rain, so wear shoes you don’t care about. Creek crossings are simple but need attention. Kid- and dog-friendly doesn’t mean easy, cliff areas need supervision. Pack out trash and respect private property. Every fall, every splash, every heart rock, and every waterfall is part of the experience.
So tell me what do you collect on your trail adventures?
Today’s hike exceeded expectations. Piatt Gorge and Raven Rocks are beautiful, challenging, and unforgettable. Share this with someone you want to explore these trails with. You’ll get laughs, muddy shoes, incredible photos, and the quiet magic that only hidden Ohio trails can offer.
Two other epic Ohio hikes: Hike hike
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