Difficulty Level: Moderately challenging with significant ascents and descents. Hikers should wear sturdy walking shoes and bring water and trail snacks.

Fort Hill, owned by the Ohio Historical Society, is one of the best preserved Hopewell hilltop enclosures in the world. The earthen wall is between 6 and 15 feet high, with 33 gateways along its impressive one and a half mile length. Because it was built on a hill top instead of agricultural land, this earthwork fared much better than most Hopewell complexes. Hikers who make the ascent can actually walk beside an intact 2,000 year old embankment wall.  The hike will also include a visit to the 175-foot diameter circular enclosure that was also built by the Hopewell Culture at the base of the hill.

Fort Hill is also a National Natural Landmark due to its high biodiversity, relatively intact forest ecosystem and tall forest canopy.  Early May is a good time to see some of the late spring wildflower species that dot the forest floor. A ranger from Hopewell Culture National Historical Park will explain aspects of Fort Hill’s forest ecology as well as it ancient history during the hike.  Participants should meet at the Fort Hill museum and will have time to explore its displays before the hike.