Blackhand Gorge

The Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve is managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Features include:

A 4.3 mile paved trail (8.5 miles out-and-back) follows the scenic Licking River surrounded by a 957 acre nature preserve. Parking lots are provided at the east and west ends of the trail.
Un-paved hiking trails on both the north and south side of the gorge provide more challenging hikes for those wanting to explore the terrain. Dogs are not allowed on the un-paved trails.
Canoeing and kayaking are very popular on this stretch of the Licking River. Launch sites are located at Riverview Park in Newark at the Brownsville Rd. trailhead area.

The preserve's entrance and main parking lot are located at 2200 Gratiot Rd SE, Newark, OH 43056.