Camusfearna Gorge

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Private, Onsite Hocking Hills Hiking Trails

Glenlaurel opened in 1994, and since then, it has grown from a wilderness area into one of the most romantic getaways in Ohio. Our Hocking Hills lodging takes its name from a Scottish usage of the word “glen” which means a secluded, narrow valley, and “laurel” which is an evergreen found in abundance on the estate. Laurel Run crosses the property, and Laurel Township is home to the Inn. The Land itself is magical, and our Camusfearna Gorge is home to hundreds of birds, squirrels, deer, flora, fauna, and geology.

Our Land Tells Its Own Story

Glenlaurel consists of 140 acres in Ohio’s beautiful Hocking Hills, which through the middle runs Camusfearna Gorge. The original owner chose the name Camusfearna out of the book “Ring of Bright Water” by Gavin Maxwell. The novel is about a man from Glasgow, Scotland, who extensively searched the north coast of Scotland for a place to raise his otters. After finding the perfect place, he was puzzled by the word on the hearthstone, “camusfearna.” Throughout the novel, the man searches for the meaning of the word. The word means “it is no wil-o-the-wisp that I have followed here.”

The local topography is very hilly and broken by deep ravines and steep precipices, much the rest of the unique Hocking Hills area of Ohio. The gorge, which is located on our private estate, is a timeless place that changes with every season. 

Your Own Private Trail Into the Wild

The heavily wooded series of walking trails, rock cliffs, and waterfalls showcase the most astonishing and beautiful trails, both on the Camusfearna Gorge Trail, the Highland Scott’s Trail, and the Thistle Bluff Walk. These private hiking trails offer glimpses of beautiful rock formations, including 50-100-foot rock cliffs, caverns, two creeks, and waterfalls. The gorge trail is a leisurely 1 1/2-hour (half-mile) hike that features several breathtaking waterfalls and many other wonderful landmarks: Throne Court, Big Ben (a centuries-old pine), Turkey Point, Jurassic Crossing, and Dripping Rock Cave… just to name a few.

Many guests enjoy a hand-in-hand walk in our Camusfearna Gorge to view nature at its best. It’s a far cry from the often crowded experience you’ll have at nearby Hocking Hills State Park. Walk or hike the trail, and you’ll see why so many guests come back each season to experience the beauty & serenity of this natural wonder. These Hocking Hills hiking trails are a perfect place to spend hours exploring on your couples retreat with your special someone.

Elevate Your Hikes

Glenlaurel’s private hiking trails are extraordinary on their own, but imagine pairing them with everything you need for the perfect hiking getaway, all wrapped up in one beautifully curated package.

The Hiker’s Getaway Package is designed for those who want to experience the very best of Glenlaurel’s 140-acre estate without missing a thing. Set out each day with handcrafted walking sticks in hand and a gourmet picnic lunch packed and ready, explore the rock cliffs, waterfalls, and hidden wonders of Camusfearna Gorge at your own pace. Return each evening to a candlelit multi-course dinner at Thistle and Stone; the perfect reward for a day well spent on the trail.