Crooked Run Estuary LbNA #2513 (ARCHIVED)

New Richmond, Clermont County, OH
Difficulty: easy, 1 mile loop
Placed: December 24,2001

Driving:
The Crooked Run Nature Preserve is located East of Cincinnati on the Scenic route 52. About 15 miles (east) of the city limits of New Richmond ,Ohio. (going East ) Turn Right on the first street after crossing Rt.222.

You can also access Crooked Run NP entering through Chilo Lock #34 Park which is next to the preserve. The Crooked Run Nature Preserve is listed as one of the top "Watchable Wildlife " viewing areas in the state.

Clues:
From the parking lot ,take the gravel road E-SE past the Yurt overnight cabins. At the information kiosk you will find a map to borrow. At this point take a bearing of 140° . (trail will take you CCW thru the preserve). (You have probably worked up a sweat by now). Take a breather at the river overlook! See if any Great Blue Herons are flying today.
Continue on trail .At the next Y go Right. Follow trail to the gravel drive. Take a Left at the drive for a short distance. You will get back on single track. Proceed past three bird blinds to your right. Be on the lookout for a giant Great Blue Heron ( I have named him Hank ) in the Estuary area. After you have passed the third blind, and before going back onto the gravel road, notice a sign "Trail follows road". Six paces before the sign (on your left ) you will notice a large rough barked tree with vines woven into it's bark. The treasure you are seeking is IN the tree trunk under a piece of bark. On the North side of the tree waist high. Take caution before reaching into the hole. When the box was placed the hole was vacant......I think. After stamping please replace with the box out -of- sight of non- letterboxers. Continue on gravel road. Follow the arrows and you will come to a footbridge. After crossing the bridge notice the observation tower to your left. You will eventually come to the main trail which will take you past the info station, then to the parking lot.

by Franzsolo