Blackhand Gorge

Blackhand Gorge is a significant geological and historical site located in Licking County, Ohio. This 4-mile-long (6.4 km) formation is carved by the Licking River through resistant sandstone. Its name originates from a prehistoric petroglyph of a black hand that was once visible on its cliff faces, a symbol believed to have signified peaceful passage for Native American tribes traveling to nearby flint pits.

Geological Significance

The gorge's walls are composed of Black Hand Sandstone, a durable rock that also forms the bedrock of the popular Hocking Hills region. The erosive power of the Licking River has sculpted this sandstone over millennia, creating the dramatic landscape of the gorge. While the original petroglyph was destroyed during the construction of the Ohio and Erie Canal in 1828, other carvings were recorded by early settlers before being lost to further development.

A Corridor Through Time

Blackhand Gorge has a rich history as a vital transportation corridor. From the early 19th century, it facilitated the movement of goods and people. The Ohio and Erie Canal utilized the gorge, requiring blasting to create a towpath. Later, the Central Ohio Railroad laid its tracks in 1850, carving "The Deep Cut" through solid rock. In the early 20th century, electric interurban lines also traversed the gorge, even necessitating the blasting of a tunnel. The construction of Dillon Dam in the mid-20th century altered the landscape and required the relocation of transportation routes.

Preservation and Access

In 1975, 957 acres (387 ha) of Blackhand Gorge were designated as an Ohio Nature Preserve, recognizing its unique natural and historical value. The preserve protects the geological formations and provides insight into Ohio's transportation history. While much of the original petroglyphic art is gone, the gorge itself remains a testament to the interplay between natural forces and human endeavors.