Wildflower Hike at AOA’s New Johnson / Yeiser Preserve Queer Creek Conservation Corridor Hocking Hills Conservation Initiative
Join us for a spring wildflower hike on one of AOA’s newest conserved properties in the heart of the Hocking Hills. AOA recently purchased a spectacular 111-acre parcel along Queer Creek from the Johnson family. Located in the unincorporated community of South Bloomingville, the parcel protects both sides of a stretch of Queer Creek and spans ridgetop to ridgetop across the valley bisected by Highway 664 on the northern entry. This site contributes to creation of a conserved habitat corridor along Queer Creek, a high priority AOA water quality protection goal.
The Johnson-Yeiser parcel conserves outstanding Hocking Hills and Blackhand sandstone geologic formations including high steep bluffs and rock outcrops, shelter caves and numerous large slough rocks. There are several high-quality wetlands on the site. Most of the property is covered by older growth hardwood forests with large stands of hemlock and many native wildflower species.
The new Preserve protects over 2,200 linear feet of riparian corridor along Queer Creek, an Exceptional / Coldwater Habitat, Superior High Quality Waters, as it flows south from Old Man’s Cave to Salt Creek. There are two headwater streams in gorges on the west side of the site that flow into Queer Creek. The Preserve Increases lands AOA has preserved in the Queer Creek watershed to over 1,900 acres.
We will hike around the property enjoying the spring wildflower show while exploring the massive Black-hand sandstone formations and enjoying the scenic views. Afterwards, participants are free to stay and roam the site with AOA volunteers to help remove non-native invasive plants.
This hike as well as other AOA events are free and open to the public. We will meet rain or shine – so please come prepared and dress appropriately for the weather and hiking on slopes.
Time: Meet at 10:00 a.m. The trip will last approximately two to three hours. Participants can leave early or stay as long as you like.
What to Bring: Binoculars to view birds and wildlife. Pack drinks and/or snacks of your choice. Feel free to bring a lunch and eat along the trail. Bug repellant is recommended.
Location: Meet at 21624 Chilcote Road in South Bloomingville, just north of Highway 664. Use the street address or the Google map link below for directions. Look for AOA’s green cones and signs along Chilcote Road at the entry drive to the property. AOA staff will help direct you onto the property.