Big Ridge State Park Tour

Dogs Leashed

Features Fall Colors · Lake · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

This is a short, 5-mile hike that takes you to some of the highlights in Big Ridge State Park. Enjoy hiking over Pinnacle Ridge and through Dark Hollow before making your way back to the car or the campground.

There's a backcountry campsite along the Dark Hollow Trail West for those looking to tent for a night.

The hike begins with a steep uphill following the Lake Trail to Big Ridge Dam (be sure to stop and look – it's an early 1900's Civilian Conservation Corps construction).

At the split, follow the Dark Hollow Trail West to the left along the lakeshore and into the hollow between Big Ridge and Pinnacle Ridge. Observe the original homesites along the trail enshrouded in dense undergrowth.

At the next junction, head back toward the campground on the Big Valley Trail. Finally, cross the road and follow the Chestnut Ridge Trail back to the cabin area. Continue to follow the road back to the parking area where you started.

Numerous wildflowers and ferns grow in Dark Hollow.

This was one of the original settlements west of the Appalachians in the U.S.