Explore Ohio's Natural Heritage
Each year, the OEC hosts outdoor adventures that provide unique explorations of Ohio's natural heritage. This year's lineup of Real Ohio Tours includes our popular tallgrass prairie walkabout, a tour of a working, organic farm, and a hike through Crane Hollow Nature Preserve, all led by expert naturalists and environmentalists.
Along the way you'll have fun, meet other nature enthusiasts, and learn how to help protect our natural resources.
ALL TOURS ARE RAIN OR SHINE!
Schedule of Tours
Tallgrass Prairie Tour
July 31, 10:30 a.m.
Last open tour of the year!
Back by popular demand! Discover stunning tallgrass flowers, scenic ponds, birds, and butterflies during a leisurely walk through a hand-planted prairie.
Special breakfast reception at 9 a.m. for the OEC's Legacy Club & Capitol Club members. Learn about planned gifts and larger donations to the OEC.
Location: 6021 Mount Gilead Road, Fredericktown, OH, 43019
Cost: Free for members; $25 for non-members (includes one-year OEC membership). Become a member now!
Guide: Guy Denny, former Chief of the Ohio Division of Natural Areas and Preserves.
RSVP by July 23 Directions
To register: call (614) 487-7506 or email OEC@theOEC.org
Crane Hollow Hike
August 21, 10 a.m.
TOUR IS FULL! To be put on the waiting list, call (614) 487-7506
or email OEC@theOEC.org.
Crane Hollow Inc. invites you to explore this privately owned, dedicated state nature preserve in the heart of the Hocking Hills. Founder Jane Ann Ellis and Executive Director Heather Stehle will lead the group as we explore everything from the dry ridge tops, massive rock outcrops, and the cool stream valley shaded by majestic hemlocks.
Hikers should expect to hike difficult terrain including steep hills, uneven ground, and may also need to cross shallow streams as Crane Hollow does not have an organized system of trails. Participants should be in good physical condition and wear appropriate hiking boots or shoes, waterproof if you have them. Bring your rain gear. We will hike rain or shine. Restrooms are available at our meeting place, the Ellis home; however facilities do not exist on the preserve itself.
Please bring a bagged lunch to eat with the group on Jane Ann Ellis' back deck overlooking Crane Hollow. For those who have time to stay, Gary and Holly Coovert will share interesting and rare findings from Crane Hollow's All Taxa Biodiversity Inventory during lunch.
Jane Ann Ellis and her late husband, William Ellis, founded Crane Hollow, Inc. in 1980. Their vision was to establish a permanent, nature preserve for the plants, animals, and natural communities of the Crane Hollow watershed to be used by future generations for enjoyment and scientific study. Thanks to their diligent work, 1,500 acres of the 1,900 acres owned by Crane Hollow, Inc. are now dedicated as a state nature preserve by ODNR, Division of Natural Areas and Preserves.
Location: Private residence at 16820 State Route 678, Rockbridge, 43149
Cost: Free for members; $25 for non-members (includes one-year OEC membership). Become a member now!
Guide: Nature preserve staff and a local naturalist
RSVP by August 13 Directions
To register: call (614) 487-7506 or email OEC@theOEC.org
Thank you in advance for respecting the fact that this is a private residence. Crane Hollow is accessible by permit only and on guided hikes with Crane Hollow employees, partners, or contractors.
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