New Clifton Gorge Exploration Center Opened to Public

Article Presented By Hometown-Motors, Inc.

(Clifton) – Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and First Lady Fran DeWine joined Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Director Mary Mertz for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to open the new Exploration Center at Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve. It is the first facility of its kind at an Ohio state nature preserve.
 
“Clifton Gorge is one of our most beloved state nature preserves, offering visitors the chance to explore geologic marvels and take in stunning views of the Little Miami River,” said Governor DeWine. “By creating spaces like the new Exploration Center, ODNR continues to find new ways to engage visitors and enhance outdoor recreation.”
 

Governor Mike DeWine joined ODNR Director Mary Mertz and the community for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to open the Clifton Gorge Exploration Center.

 
After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, guests toured the center’s exhibits, participated in hands-on activities, and had the opportunity to step into a replica slump block cave. The space’s aquarium wall offers a glimpse of the fish and other aquatic species that call the Little Miami State and National Scenic River home.
 

The new center showcases Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve’s natural and cultural history with interactive exhibits.

 
“The new center will help Ohioans and other visitors understand the history of this area, which is an important story to tell,” said First Lady DeWine. “It’ll be a great place for everyone – especially kids and families – to explore.”
 
“From highlighting the natural beauty of Clifton Gorge’s geology and native wildflowers to sharing first-hand accounts of how the gorge and river influenced 19th century settlers, the Clifton Gorge Exploration Center shines a spotlight on hundreds of years of natural and cultural history,” said Director Mertz.

Along with the ribbon-cutting, guests were treated to short, guided hikes from ODNR. Outside the center, guests were also invited to paint the building’s new rain barrel, adding their artistic touch as part of the celebration.
 
“Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve is full of natural wonders year-round,” said ODNR Division of Natural Areas and Preserves Chief Jeff Johnson. “This new center is an exciting addition which will highlight the importance of conservation and preservation of Ohio’s rare habitats for future generations.”

The Clifton Gorge Exploration Center will be open three days a week, Friday through Sunday. The center’s hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The exploration center may be reserved for small group programming by emailing the regional preserve manager at Michelle.Comer@dnr.ohio.gov.  The preserve’s trail system is open year-round from sunrise to sunset.
 
Registered as a National Natural Landmark in 1968, Clifton Gorge protects one of the most spectacular dolomite and limestone gorges in the state. It also encompasses a 2-mile stretch of the Little Miami State and National Scenic River, just east of John Bryan State Park. The 268-acre site offers 3 miles of hiking trails and connects to the state park’s trail system. Beautiful in any season, the variety of wildflowers, including the rare snow trillium, are especially vibrant in the spring.