Getting to the Trailhead

The trailhead for Airplane Rock is rather close to the well-known Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve, located at 24858 Big Pine Rd, Rockbridge, OH. Start by driving to Conkles Hollow then pass the preserve and continue driving on Big Pine Road. The road crosses over Big Pine Creek and immediately after there's a small turn-off that has enough room for maybe one car. The Airplane Rock Trailhead is located on the other side of the road next to an orange gate. There should be a “do not block gate” sign on the gate. Usually there won’t be anyone here, but if you happen to have bad luck you can park at the Rock Climbing and Rappelling area parking lot about half a mile further up the road. This will add an extra mile to your hike but the view from atop Airplane Rock is worth every step.


Trail Description:

The trail will start in a field but quickly venture into the woods. Soon you will reach a split in the trail: Go right and follow the orange blazes. Like the nearby Chapel Cave Hike, the Airplane Rock hike runs on a bridal trail. This trail is primarily for horse riders but hiking is completely permitted. After the split in the trail, the trail will begin to head uphill towards Airplane Rock. Approximately a mile later you’ll reach a wooden face that states that “no horses are allowed past this point”. Follow the short path by going through the fence. This will take you down to Airplane Rock. Return the way you came.

Airplane Rock by Chris Sanfino

Sources: http://trekohio.com/2012/08/21/airplane-rock/

Airplane Rock Trail

Distance: 2.5 miles (both ways)
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult