Just 75 miles east of Cincinnati lies the 16,000-acre Edge of Appalachia Preserve, considered one of the most biologically diverse collections of natural systems in the Midwest. The preserve boasts more than 100 rare plant and animal species within 11 unique preserves, including four that have been recognized as National Natural Landmarks a testimony to their national significance and ecological importance. Activities include hiking, wildlife watching, river access, picnic area, volunteer opportunities (contact sross@tnc.org). The preserve is open year-round, dawn to dusk.
LOCATION:
4274 Waggoner Riffle Road
West Union, OH 45693
TRAILS:
Lynx Prairie Trails
Length: 1.5 miles (three interconnecting loop trails, named Red, White and Green)
Difficulty: EASY.
The Wilderness Trail
Length: 2.5-mile loop trail
Difficulty: MODERATELY DIFFICULT.
Buzzardroost Rock Trail
Length: 3 miles
Difficulty: MODERATELY DIFFICULT.
DIRECTIONS:
From West Union:
Turn left (east) onto State Route 125. Travel east on SR 125 for about 7 miles toward the village of Lynx.
To visit Lynx Prairie, follow SR 125 into Lynx, then turn right (south) onto Tulip Road. Follow Tulip Road south .8 miles and turn left onto Cline Road. Follow Cline Road for .7 miles to the parking area and trail head. Public access to Lynx Prairie is available from a trail beginning in the east corner of the parking area.
Access to the Buzzardroost Rock trail is a small parking lot on Weaver Road, which is entered from SR 125 just west of Lynx. The trail begins at the parking lot and crosses south over the highway and continues on.
To visit Wilderness Trail, follow SR 125 toward the village of Lynx. Take a left on Lynx Rd. then take the next left on Shivener Rd. (gravel). Parking lot at the end of Shivener Rd.
To visit the Dr. George Rieveschl Jr. Creek's Bend overlook, travel East on SR 125 about 6 miles, turn right (south) onto Waggoner Riffle Road and continue on Waggoner Riffle about 2 miles to Creek's Bend overlook. Parking area located on the right, behind the wooden fence.