What to see at Ohio’s Leo Petroglyphs
In rural southeastern Ohio lies a hidden treasure of unique history that is little known and seldom visited. Leo Petroglyphs & Nature Preserve is located in Jackson County, Ohio, and protects more than three dozen ancient petroglyphs.
The rock art was cut into the sandstone by ancestors of American Indians around 1,000 years ago. It’s not known exactly what the symbols mean; however, they may tell a story essential to the people who lived there long ago.
Visiting the Leo Petroglyphs and Nature Preserve
When I visited the Leo Petroglyphs site, it was in early October. I was not sure what to expect. I had yet to do any research online and saw it was just a short detour on my way to Columbus. I had not seen petroglyphs in the east, only in the desert southwest, which was something I really enjoyed. I’ll never forget the first time I saw Newspaper Rock in Utah; it was breathtaking. So, needless to say, I was eager to check this place and hurried in that direction. I was immediately struck by how rural it was. The big blue sign was hard to miss, but if it were not there, it would be easy to assume it was just a covered picnic area.
I parked in the small lot and got out of my car. I was the only vehicle there and had a feeling I might be the only person that had visited all day. I walked around briefly, reading the signs and taking in the surroundings. Loud trucks continually roared by, each looking at me, seemingly saying, “What in the hell is this guy doing?” I could not help but wonder how many people who lived nearby had never stopped here.
Seeing the Petroglyphs
I walked to the covered viewing platform to protect the panel from the elements. Some carvings are difficult to make out, losing the battle to time. However, others are obvious. I easily made out the iconic image of a human head with deer antlers and bird’s feet. A nearby sign indicated it may signify a shaman or some supernatural being. There were supposed to be 37 individual petroglyphs in the sandstone slab. I’m unsure if I saw that many, but I could easily see quite a few: animal prints, birds, fish, a snake, and figurative drawings.
Hiking the Nature Preserve
After about a half hour hanging out, reading, and taking it in, I decided to head down a 0.7-mile loop that leads past tower hemlocks, a small waterfall, and through a gorge. The trail was overgrown in places, but certainly worth the time. I saw and heard plentiful songbirds and wildflowers along the way.
If you are in southeastern Ohio, the Leo Petroglyph site is definitely worth a stop. It has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1970. Also, if you are in the area, check out the nearby Buckeye Furnace State Memorial. And if you have the time, Hocking Hills State Park is an easy drive and worth visiting.
