Water rushing through the rapids drowns out the sounds of urban living and presents a scene reminiscent of the valley's wilderness past. A variety of fish live in the river providing prey for Belted Kingfishers and Great Blue and Green-backed Herons. In the spring, Ohio's State wildflower, the White Trillium, grows in the floodplain woods along with Wild Ginger and many types of violets. Summer and fall wildflowers also are abundant. After climbing the steps on the Oxbow Trail, hikers can stop to catch their breath and turn around to take in an excellent view of the park.
Ridge tops in both areas have dry sandy soil with oaks as the dominate trees.
The Beacon Journal Publishing Co.