#blackhand gorge

[starry-eyed-butch]

I went outside again. Another 8+ miles. A beautiful morning followed by a big brunch cause it was like 2pm. 🌱

#transmasc #ohio #butch #piercings #stoner #nblw #nature #blackhand gorge #bicycle #cycling

[gfdelmar]

Sunrise gorge hike allowed me to see some ferns, blackhand sandstone, and critters! Two juvenile fawns and a fox!

#nature #plants #hike #naturecore #flowers #trees #adventurecore #goblincore #gorge #moss #mosscore #fox #fawn deer #fawn #ferns #ecology #green aesthetic #nature aesthetic #hiking #geology

[tipsywench]

Looking up nearby hiking spots and got excited when I read this description:

The name "Blackhand" originated from a dark, hand-shaped Indian petroglyph that was engraved on the face of a massive sandstone cliff along the north side of the river.

And then I read a bit more:

The engraving was destroyed in 1828 during construction of the Ohio-Erie Canal, which went through the gorge.

#way to go 1820s dipshits

[angrywizard]

#blackhand gorge #state park #hiking #nature #ohio #peaceful

[matmarrash]

Field Work Update and Thank You!

The last few weeks of making photos and videos about photos have been some of the busiest of this entire year. Instead of producing the standard talking-head episodes of Large Format Friday, I headed out into the field to produce some work first-hand. I’d be lying if I said these were easy to make, but they have a slower pace and level of interaction with the photo that I’m starting to enjoy. The first of the two trips was a return to Rock House in Hocking Hills:

The morning itself was super chilly, but without any wind gave the air an eerie silence. The trail leading up the to cave entrance of the Rock House was slick from the previous night’s snow, making for a slippery hike. “Bad” conditions aside, it was a wonderful time to be alone on the trail and witness the calm, diffused morning light. Eight sheets of film were exposed, and you can watch the creation of all of them above.

This past week, I decided it was time to head back to a location I haven’t visited since early 2018. Blackhand Gorge is one of Licking County Ohio’s biggest draws, and one of Ohio’s largest State Nature Preserves. If the name sounds familiar, it’s because I made several trips out there during my project, Ohio Uninterrupted. t’s packed with miles of trails for hiking and biking, with a variety of natural and manmade attractions to keep folks coming back for more. When I arrived first thing Thursday morning, I couldn’t have anticipated the type of fog and haze that greeted me at the entrance to the trails.

So, these are already on various portions of social media, why the blog post? I wanted to share my thoughts on the making of these videos and share the finished work in more a 5 second snippet of the video. Starting with the work, I’ve picked three favorites from each shoot and have uploaded high res versions to Flickr. Below is a gallery of the images that you can click through to view even larger.

As for how the videos turned out, I think this is a positive direction for the channel and has a feeling closer to what I had imagined when rebooting the channel earlier this year. Not only am I chatting with the viewer about large format, they’re able to see the interaction between photographer, camera, and the scene being photographed. With a little magic of television in developing and scanning, the viewer even gets to see the finished result right at the time of the exposure, to reinforce the various talking points made during each composition. Essentially, someone watching a “Field Work” series episode is tagging along on a LF hike, setup, and shoot and getting see all that goes into making large format pictures.

Is there anything you’d like to see out of future episodes of Large Format Friday? I’d love to hear your thoughts.

If you’ve watched any LFF episodes and/or have subscribed, I want to offer my gratitude. It’s been a tough year, but seeing that folks are interested in large format and helping the channel grow is truly heartwarming. Thank you all so much for the support and know that I’m going to keep giving my all to bring you more great content!

Have a safe and happy Holiday Season, and we’ll see you in 2021!

#mat marrash #large format friday #8x10 #landscape photography #hocking hills #state nature preserve #rock house #blackhand gorge #ilford #b&w photography #youtube #flickr

[libraford]

Hey, I have some new followers lately and I'll make a more thorough intro post later when I'm back from Blackhand Gorge, but right now I'd like to turn your attention to my photography blog @lens-of-a-dream where I have lots of cool photos.

[ultraheydudemestuff]

Lake Katharine State Nature Preserve

1703 Lake Katharine Road

Jackson, OH 45640

Lake Katharine State Nature Preserve is a magnificent natural area in southeast Ohio's Jackson County, just northwest of and outside the city of Jackson. Owned and administered by the State Division of Natural Areas and Preserves and comprising 2,019 acres, it was acquired by the Division of Natural Areas and Preserves through the foresight and generosity of two long-time business partners, Edwin A. Jones and James J. McKitterick. The focal point of this preserve is a clear water lake called Lake Katharine, an artificial lake surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs. The lake was named after Edwin Jones' wife, Katharine.

The rich Appalachian forest is cut by three deep ravines in which are found magnolias, eastern hemlock, sweet gum, birch and beech. The dry ridge tops support an association of mountain laurel, Virginia pine, and oak. The preserve has many native orchids as well as diverse spring flora. This nature preserve represents the northernmost extension of some southern species, such as bigleaf magnolia (Magnolia macrophylla) and umbrella magnolia (Magnolia tripetal). Lake Katharine harbors the state's largest and finest populations of both of these state-listed species. It also includes more northerly species such as wolf-foot clubmoss (Lycopodium clavatum).

The valley is a small gorge, located in southerly extensions of the same geological series of rocks that forms the Hocking Hills Region. The bluffs are formed of weathering-resistant sandstone, including the blackhand sandstone. The stream that drains the lake is a tributary of Little Salt Creek, which flows through the eastern end of the reserve. The preserve features three principal trails, the one-mile Calico Bush Trail, the two-mile Salt Creek Trail, and the 2.5-mile Pine Ridge Trail. Boating is allowed on the lake by written permit only. The western portion of the preserve is off-limits to visitors, and is reserved for scientific research.

[applevalleylakeohio]

Is Apple Valley Lake Open to the Public?

You've heard about this beautiful place called Apple Valley Lake, a premier tourist destination at the heart of Knox County, Ohio. But before you pack your bags for a vacation, you might be wondering, 'Is Apple Valley Lake open to the public?'

Apple Valley Lake, Ohio is a private community that welcomes tourists, travellers, and families looking for a vacation home. You can either stay at Apple Valley as a guest of the property owner or rent out a lovely home to experience luxurious lakefront living.

However, in order to use the facilities such as the camping area, community center, clubhouse, lake and beaches, you have to be a property owner or be accompanied by a property owner as a guest. For the immediate family of the property owner, guest passes can be purchased so they don’t have to be with the property owner while using the facilities.

"What are some of the amenities available for property owners and their guests?"

Some facilities available for the use of property owners and their guests are: 

Private Lake - Apple Valley Lake is crystal clear and has an average depth of 30 feet. It is one of the few lakes in the area with no horsepower limit.

Private Beaches - three private beaches can be found on Apple Valley Lake: King Beach, Davis Beach and Sutton Beach. All of them are equipped with picnic facilities, kiddie playground, and a beach house with restrooms and changing facilities.

Bennett Park - a private park with a picnic shelter, playground and fishing pond and a vast grassy terrain perfect for family bonding moments, and as a venue for family gatherings and occasions.

Floral Valley - a community center with an indoor pool, a lobby area with TV and fireplace, a kitchen, a small meeting room, and a large banquet area for social events.

Clubhouse - a two-story building located on the east side of the lake which is a popular venue for wedding receptions, family reunions, parties and other events. The clubhouse also houses the outdoor pool and fitness center. 

Apple Valley Marina - a full service facility where pontoons and non-power boats may be rented, and new as well as previously owned boats, trailers, boat lifts and engines can be purchased.

Campers' Village - A vast area which provides all the necessities for campers, including electric and water hookups, as well as facilities such as playground with shaded seating, basketball court, horseshoe pit, a laundry room, two bath houses and a picnic shelter complete with grills.

Property owners and their guests can enjoy fishing on the lake as well as other recreational activities such as water skiing and leisure boating. Click here for more information on the amenities in Apple Valley Lake.

"If I’m not yet a property owner or don’t know anyone who owns property at Apple Valley Lake, can I still spend my vacation there?"

Yes, you can definitely spend your vacation in Apple Valley Lake and enjoy the beauty of lakefront living. Some homes in Apple Valley Lake are available for rent. Click here to see a list of available homes to choose from for your vacation. 

If you rent a lakefront home, you can sit on the dock and let your senses experience Apple Valley Lake or swim by the dock and create fun-filled memories.

Apple Valley is also nearby a gorgeous seasonal golf-course that is open to the public. The Apple Valley Golf course is known for being one of the finest in Central Ohio.

You can also take the scenic route and drive leisurely to some interesting sights near Apple Valley Lake. Whether you’re a water sports enthusiast, nature lover or history buff, there’s something for almost everyone.

"What are some must-see places near Apple Valley Lake that are open to the public?"

In addition to the picturesque and amazingly clear lake and beaches, Apple Valley is within a short driving distance of these other popular tourist attractions:

Honey Run Park - A secret treasure in the heart of Knox County, it is a vast 2-acre property which includes a mesmerizing 25-foot high waterfall. Take a hike from the waterfall to the Kokosing River and marvel at the spectacular blackhand sandstone cliffs and boulders.

Knox County Hellbender Preserve - A sanctuary for the “Eastern Hellbender” -- Ohio’s largest amphibian, this 15-acre site covers the Buckeye Grove Loop Trail. Geocaching enthusiasts will love this preserve.

Ariel Foundation Park - This stunning 250-acre site was previously a glass-making factory, adaptively reused to create a unique park with architectural ruins, lakes, observation tower, walking trails, steel sculptures, and a museum. 

Roscoe Village - This unique historic community allows visitors to step back in time and relive the 1830’s, a time when the canal system changed the course of Ohio history.

Kokosing Valley Camp and Canoe - designated as Ohio’s first state water trail, it combines a campground and canoe livery in one location. In addition to kayaks, canoes and tubes ready for use, the site also features other facilities such as a heated swimming pool, a unique golf driving range, and a beautifully landscaped 9-hole miniature golf course.

Knox County Historical Society - a museum that showcases the rich history of Knox County, with exhibits about business and industry, notable personalities, kitchen and household memorabilia, means of communication, and early forms of transportation.

Mohican State Park - a 1,110-acre property adjacent to the Mohican state forest, Mohican State Park offers a unique wilderness experience with the striking Clearfork Gorge, hemlock forest and scenic Mohican River, as well as luxurious accommodations and complete camping facilities.

Mansfield Snow Trails - the Ski Capital of Ohio, this 80-acre commercial ski resort is the first in Ohio. Complete with all the amenities you need for skiing or tubing, Mansfield Snow Trails also offers ski lessons for children and beginners. 

Kokosing Gap Trail - offering miles of awesome flora and wildlife, Kokosing Gap Trail is a paved, 14-mile recreational trail built on a former Pennsylvania Railroad line. It features the 0-6-0 locomotive and Chesapeake & Ohio Caboose #90776, along with a rotary park playground.

Brown Family Environmental Center - a 500-acre preserve located in the Kokosing River valley of central Ohio, to conserve natural diversity and engage people of all ages with nature. 

Kokosing Nature Preserve - located in the picturesque countryside of Gambier, Ohio, The Kokosing Nature Preserve consists of twenty-three acres of restored prairies and woodlands. It is a perfect place for picnics and leisurely walks.

Wolf Run Park - Enjoy 260 acres of rolling topography and contiguous open space featuring nearly ten miles of hiking trails, woodlands, a pond and other natural features. Wolf Run Park is the perfect place to relax and have fun. There’s something for each member of the family, including a kids bouldering area, a fishing area and a nearly two-acre “bark park” for your canine babies.

Related Questions

"When is the best time to go to the Apple Valley Lake?"

Apple Valley experiences four seasons, with warm and humid summers, freezing winters, and partly cloudy weather year round.

Apple Valley Lake is Instagram-worthy any time of the year. Each season of the year gives a different rendering of the lake that you’ll want to capture. 

Some attractions near Apple Valley Lake are only open during certain seasons. For instance, the Apple Valley Golf Course and Kokosing Valley Camp and Canoe close during the winter.

According to weatherspark.com, over the course of the year, the temperature in Apple Valley Lake typically varies from 20°F to 83°F and is rarely below 3°F or above 90°F.

Based on the tourism score, the best time of year to visit Apple Valley for warm-weather activities is from mid-June to mid-September.

"Is Apple Valley Lake the perfect location for my vacation home?"

Yes, Apple Valley Lake is the perfect place to buy your vacation home!

I live here and love it. I'd love to take you on a tour of our lake homes the next time you visit.

Apple Valley Lake is not only a premier tourist destination, it is also a thriving community of neighborly people who go out of their way to help each other. A lot of my clients who are not originally from Apple Valley Lake, fall in love with the whole package: the place and the people.

One such client wanted to rent a home for a week before deciding to buy a property. I set him up with several rental choices. He and his family rented one of the homes I recommended and loved it! 

He was not a relative of the homeowner he rented. So he couldn’t use the amenities. However, because it was a waterfront home, they could sit on the dock and swim near the dock. They loved it so much, they purchased a lakefront home from me that same season.

Don’t deprive yourself the chance to own a luxurious lakefront home, live a life like you’re always on vacation and be a part of this lovely community. Click here to learn more about how to get a lakefront home at Apple Valley Lake.

In case you can not view this video here, please click the link below to view Is Apple Valley Lake Open To The Public? on my YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/W7JsNA-AsAA

#Sherrie Toth #Apple Valley Lake #Apple Valley Lake OH #Apple Valley Homes for Sale

[fleche38]

Blackhand Gorge by mat4226 Photographs made while exploring and documenting Ohio’s State Nature Preserve system. Some of the only places left in the state where nature remains uninterrupted. These lands are underappreciated, underfunded, but rich with a subtle beauty that I revere with my view camera. Tachihara 8x10 Double Extension Schneider G-Claron 355mm f/9 Ilford HP5+ Pyrocat HD 1:1:100 www.marrash.com https://flic.kr/p/P8RGjD

#IFTTT #Flickr #blackhandgorge #8x10 #matmarrash #statenaturepreserve #snp #largeformat #bw #filmisno

[angrywizard]

#blackhand gorge #state park #hiking #nature #ohio #peaceful

[matmarrash]

Blackhand Gorge

Two terms that are sometimes interchangeably used when describing efforts to protect the environment and natural resources are preservation and conservation. While they have some differences, they're two means to a similar end. Coming right from the folks at the National Park Service:

"Conservation seeks the proper use of nature, while preservation seeks protection of nature from use."  -- Sellars, Richard West. Preserving Nature in the National Parks: A History

Places showcased in the Ohio Uninterrupted project take the preservation effort several steps further than visiting a local or state park (see here for the full list of rules & regulations for visiting Ohio's SNP's). All of that being said, Blackhand Gorge is a great example of what can happen when both preservation and conservation efforts work together. 

Located east of Newark, Ohio along the Licking River, Blackhand Gorge is an SNP that has a lot to offer for every visitor. For the history buff, there are remnants of the Erie canal (above photograph) that have been in place since the early 1800's. For the family goers, there's four miles of bike trail following the East to West flow of the Licking River. Casual hikers have an added six miles of trails that offer neat vantage points both North and South of the river. So while there are dedicated preserve acres that have a few tighter rules for hiking and use, there's plenty of room for exploration and fun too. 

For my first visit to the gorge, I kept my wandering to the North side trails. Starting at the dried up canal locks, I followed the trail Southeast and through an old tunnel towards the large sandstone rock formations. At their peak, the largest sandstone cliff sits ~20m high with a neat view of the winding river. The majority of my visit featured overcast light, but some late morning sun managed to peek out after making the above two photographs . Normally I stray away from heavily dappled light, but there a few leaves catching the best of it. With some near 1:1 macro work and a yellow filter, I was able to capture what you see below. 

After returning from this trip, I caught up with a photographer friend of mine from the Newark area that made some recommendations for my next visit. It's always helpful to get tips and tricks from a local, and I'm already excited for what I'll be able to discover on the South side of the Licking river.

If you'd like to check out any of these fantastic SNP's for yourself, remember most of them are free to visit, and usually only an email away from getting permission. Check out more of the Ohio Uninterrupted series by following the tags in this blog post, and see you next time!

#blackhand gorge #ohio #ohio uninterrupted #central ohio #state nature preserve #large format #black and white

[jessekarma]

Can’t remember my last Saturday off so we took full advantage and booked it to BHG. We had a fun day and Alfie was pooped! (at Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve) https://www.instagram.com/p/CHmDFrals_g8KeMCdlD58_CBSYNyBffCMocuo80/?igshid=1slfgst6tu7ji

[alexad097]

insta: “focus on the now + the future” 🦋 vs. real life: “hurry & take the pic before my quad cramps up” lol || 07.13.20 (at Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve) https://www.instagram.com/p/CCm1RyxnP4I/?igshid=1tn6820iamahz

[libraford]

I think I'll go to Blackhand Gorge tomorrow.

[ultraheydudemestuff]

Coalton Wildlife Area

State Route 93

Jackson, OH 45640

Coalton Wildlife Area is a 1760-acre state wildlife area located 1 mile west of Coalton, OH. The property is in Coal and Liberty Townships, Jackson County. The wildlife area is accessible by way of county and township roads from US-35 and OH-93. The Chief Logan Council of the Boy Scouts of America once owned an 80-acre parcel within the boundary of the wildlife area. It was known as Ophir Falls Boy Scout Camp. The camp was located in the Southwest Quarter of Section 6 of Coal Township. This parcel was later purchased by the Mead Corporation in 1959. The Mead Corporation would eventually purchase adjacent properties to form what is now known as Coalton Wildlife Area. The Mead Corporation, later known as MeadWestvaco, managed the property to produce wood fiber for their Chillicothe, Ohio paper mill. In 2007, the Ohio Division of Wildlife acquired the property from Scioto Land Company. The property was acquired using the Wildlife Fund. Wildlife Restoration federal funding was also used to acquire the property.    

The topography of the wildlife area varies from steep and rocky to rolling hills. Trails established through previous logging activity allow easy access on foot through most of the property. Nearly all of this wildlife area is wooded. Oak, hickory, and yellow poplar are the dominant tree species. Timber harvesting through recent decades has produced a diversity of age classes which include young forest, brush land, pole and saw timber. Management activities will continue to focus on maintaining diverse forest age classes to improve deer, squirrel, and wild turkey hunting opportunities. White-tailed deer, wild turkey, squirrel, and cottontail rabbit are the principal game species. All furbearers known to this region are also common here. A rich variety of songbirds are also present due to the diverse forest types found here.

Like many of Ohio's wildlife areas, Coalton Wildlife Area consists of former coal-mining lands. It is located just northeast of Lake Katharine State Nature Preserve, but lacks the degree of spectacular gorge formation found there, because the blackhand sandstone, which forms the gorges, is only exposed in the lowest stream valleys. Nonetheless, there are still plenty of rock formations and beautiful scenery. There is also little in the way of road penetration, so that the land can be appreciated without traffic interference.