Scotch Ridge Nature Park

The Scotch Ridge Nature Park has a rich history. The site
is rumored to be home to the woodland culture and other
native american tribes. A rocky ridge in the river at the
eastern edge of the site once served as a ford across the
north river. Also at this location, the road that became
highway five once crossed the river and wound its way up
Scotch Ridge.
In more recent history, the site was supposedly home to
the Keeney Hoover Mill, which was one of a handful of flour
mills in the Carlisle area. Across the river to the east of the
site, there are remnants of clay pits that once supplied clay
for bricks that were manufactured in Carlisle.

The 3.3 mile, 10-foot wide paved trail twists and turns through the diverse landscapes of scenic Carlisle. Approximately 10,000 years ago, the last of the glaciers retreated from northern Warren County leaving behind a unique landscape along Carlisle’s North River. The river valley contains five distinct native ecosystems: a riparian wetland and woodland, a mesic and upland prairie and an oak savanna, all located within a distance of 2,500 feet. Accessing the Carlisle Nature Trail from the north end, visitors explore an off-street trail which passes the restoration of the five native ecosystems in the Scotch Ridge Nature Park, cross the bridge over North River, go past Carlisle Middle School, tunnel under Scotch Ridge Road and travel the on-street trail past the Aquatic Center, and on to the Summerset Trailhead. You can stay in Carlisle to visit the Farmer’s Market, catch a game at Lindhardt Park, relax at North Park, or spend time in downtown Carlisle. Everyone, whether they take a short or long ride, are encouraged to grab ice cream, a drink and appetizer.