About the Trails

The 1000 acre Glen Helen Nature Preserve in Yellow Springs, Ohio has over 20 miles of interconnected trails featuring a variety of points of interest along the way. A trail side museum and a visitor center provide a wealth of information on the geology of the Little Miami River valley and the ecology of the preserve. The large Yellow Spring, from which the village gets it's name, has been designated a National Natural Landmark by the National Parks Service. Glen Helen Nature Preserve is owned by Antioch University in Yellow Springs and managed by the Glen Helen Ecology Institute. The preserve operates without state or local tax money, so drop a dollar or two in one of the donation boxes.

The trail surfaces vary greatly. Many portions of the trail system are bare earth and an absolute delight to feel with the feet. There are loose natural rocks, rock outcroppings, and tree roots along the way so watch your step. There are a couple of trails toward the eastern side of the preserve that were once roads and are covered in gravel and cinders.

In addition to the Yellow Spring, there are numerous other springs. There are various and interesting rock formations, water falls, and one very large hollow tree.

How to Get There

Glen Helen Nature Preserve is located in Yellow Springs, Ohio, just south of Springfield. From I-70 take US 68 south about 8 miles to Yellow Springs. Turn left (southeast) on Corry Street. The trail side museum and visitor center is about 0.4 of mile down Corry Street on the left. Water and rest rooms are available inside the museum.

Visit the Glen Helen Ecology Institute web site for more information about Glen Helen Nature Preserve.

© 2008 by Greg Morgan. All rights reserved.
26-JAN-08