Located in Hinckley, Ohio, Whipps Ledges is a popular tourist destination offering stunning geologic views and a multitude of recreational activities. This meandering eight-mile stretch of sandstone cliffs, ravines, and outcroppings forms a meandering sandstone escarpment that runs along the Hinckley-Chippewa Creek. The ledges are composed of two main layers of sandstone, known as the Lower and High ledges. The Lower Ledges are furrowed by several deep ravines and offer an exhilarating view of the Chippewa Creek Valley, while the High Ledges offer breathtaking views of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Additionally, the area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting numerous trails, campsites, and picnic areas that are perfect for adventure-seekers of all ages. Visit this link for more information.
To understand the unique geology of Whipps Ledges, it is necessary to first understand the age and origin of its rocks. The sandstones that comprise the ledges are part of the Ohio Shale Formation, which is divided into two distinct rock units: the Upper and Lower Ohio Shales. While the Lower Ohio Shale was formed by a process of compaction and cementation, the Upper Ohio Shale was created through the process of metamorphism. It is during this process that the Upper Ohio Shale underwent significant changes in structure, mineralogy, and chemistry, resulting in the formation of the soft layers of sandstone we see today at Whipps Ledges. See here for information about Hinckley Spillway: A Symbol of Water Conservation in Ohio.