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If you’re looking for a getaway that’s both scenic and secluded, look no further than Hocking Hills, Ohio. It is located in the Appalachian foothills and features stunning rock formations, caves, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a nature lover’s paradise. It has a population of just over 2,000 people and is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
This beautiful region is home to some of the state’s most stunning natural features, as well as a variety of fun things and attractions to keep visitors entertained.
Here’s a look at 32 things to do in Hocking Hills:
1. Hike through Old Man’s Cave
Old Man’s Cave is one of the most popular attractions in Hocking Hills, and for good reason. This picturesque gorge is home to a variety of hiking trails, as well as a stunning waterfall. It is also named after Richard Rowe, who was a hermit that lived in the cave for many years.
Whether you’re looking for a short hike or a longer excursion, Old Man’s Cave has something to offer.
2. Visit Ash Cave
Ash Cave is another one of Hocking Hills’ must-see attractions. This massive cave measures 700 feet long and 100 feet deep, and features a beautiful waterfall at its entrance.
Visitors can take a short hike to the cave or explore one of the longer trails that wind through the area.
3. Take a Scenic Drive
Hocking Hills is home to some of Ohio’s most scenic roads, making it the perfect place to go for a leisurely drive.
There are a variety of routes you can take, but be sure to check out Hocking Drive and Rock House Road for some of the best views.
If you are looking for a longer drive, you can also take the Hocking Hills Scenic Byway, which is a 100-mile loop that takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of the state.
4. Go Horseback Riding
One of the best ways to experience Hocking Hills is on horseback. There are some stables in the area that offer trail rides, and you can even go overnight camping with your horse.
Whether you’re an experienced rider or a beginner, horseback riding is a great way to explore the region. Consider using a guided tour if you’re new to the area.
5. Canoe or Kayak Down the Hocking River
For a truly unique experience, consider renting a canoe or kayak and floating down the Hocking River. This is a great way to see some of the area’s most scenic spots, and you can even stop along the way to go hiking or swimming.
The Hocking River is a popular spot for fishing, so be sure to bring your rod and reel if you’re hoping to catch dinner. It is also a great place to go tubing.
6. Go Ziplining
Looking for an adrenaline-pumping activity? Hocking Hills is home to a number of zipline courses, where you can zip through the trees and take in the scenery from above. It involves a lot of physical activity, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
It is a great activity for both adults and kids.
7. Go Rock Climbing and Rappelling
Hocking Hills is a mecca for rock climbers, with a variety of cliffs and crags to explore. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, you’ll find plenty of routes to challenge yourself.
There are also many guided tours available if you want to learn from the experts. Check out High Rock Adventures if you’re looking for a guided tour. There is also a rope course and zip line for those who want to take their adventure to the next level.
Why stop at climbing rocks when you can also rappel down them? Hocking Hills is also a great place to go rappelling, with a variety of cliffs and waterfalls to choose from. It is less demanding than rock climbing and offers plenty of adrenaline!
8. Take a Scenic Train Ride
For a truly unique way to see Hocking Hills, take a ride on the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway. This historic train winds its way through the scenic Hocking Valley, offering passengers stunning views along the way.
You can even take a dinner train ride and enjoy a meal as you watch the scenery go by.
The steam train starts in the town of Nelsonville and makes its way through the Hocking Valley, with stops in Athens, Logan, and Waterloo.
9. Visit Conkle’s Hollow
Conkle’s Hollow is one of the most secluded spots in Hocking Hills, and it’s also one of the most beautiful. This deep gorge is home to a number of hiking trails, as well as a stunning waterfall. If you’re looking for a place to get away from it all, Conkle’s Hollow is the perfect spot.
If you want a nice place to take a dip, look no further than Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve. This hidden swimming hole is located at the bottom of the gorge and is a great place to cool off on a hot day.
10. Go Fishing
Hocking Hills is home to several lakes and streams, making it a great place to go fishing. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just getting started, you’ll find plenty of spots to cast your line.
There are also a number of guided fishing tours available if you want to learn from the experts. One of the best tours is the Hocking Hills Fly Fishing Adventure, where you can learn about fly fishing and try your hand at catching some trout.
11. Visit Cantwell Cliffs
Cantwell Cliffs is another one of Hocking Hills’ must-see attractions. This towering cliff face is home to a variety of hiking trails, as well as an overlook that offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Whether you’re looking for a short hike or a longer excursion, Cantwell Cliffs have something to offer.
12. Take a Scenic Boat Ride
For a truly unique way to see Hocking Hills, take a scenic boat ride on one of the area’s many lakes and rivers.
This is a great way to relax and take in the scenery, and you can even stop along the way to go swimming or hiking.
You can find boat rental companies in Hocking Hills, or you can take a guided tour with one of the many tour operators in the area.
13. Go Caving
Hocking Hills is home to tons of caves, making it a great place to go exploring. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced caver, you’ll find plenty of caves to investigate.
Take a guided tour if you want to learn from the experts. One tour company that offers caving tours is Ohio Caverns, which has a number of different tours to choose from.
14. John Glenn Astronomy Park
If you want to get away from the light pollution of the city, John Glenn Astronomy Park is the perfect spot. This dark-sky preserve offers some of the best stargazing in the state, and you can even take a guided tour to learn more about the night sky.
It is located within Hocking Hills State Park, and it is open year-round.
15. Hocking Hills Winery
Hocking Hills Winery is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a glass of wine. This family-owned winery offers a variety of reds, whites, and sparkling wines, all made from grapes grown right in Hocking Hills.
You can also take a tour of the vineyard and learn about the winemaking process. The winery is open year-round and offers a variety of events throughout the year.
16. The Rock House
The Rock House is one of the most unique attractions in Hocking Hills. This cave-like structure was once used as a shelter by Native Americans, and today it’s open for tours.
You can also hike to the top of the cliffs for an incredible view of the surrounding area. It is located within Hocking Hills State Park and is open year-round.
17. Cedar Falls
Cedar Falls is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Hocking Hills. This scenic waterfall is accessible via a short hike, and it’s a great spot to cool off on a hot day.
You can also swim in the pool at the base of the falls or explore the nearby caves. Come here during the winter to see the falls frozen over.
18. Day Trip to Cincinnati
Just a short drive from Hocking Hills is the city of Cincinnati. This vibrant city offers a variety of attractions, including museums, restaurants, and professional sports teams such as the Bengals. If you’re looking for a day trip from Hocking Hills, Cincinnati is the perfect destination.
19. Day Trip to Columbus
In addition to Cincinnati, you can easily visit another nearby city, Columbus. Columbus, Ohio is known for its many colleges and universities, as well as its professional sports teams. While here, you can visit the Statehouse, the German Village, and the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.
20. Hocking Hills State Park
Hocking Hills State Park is the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors. This state park offers a variety of hiking trails, as well as a swimming beach and boat rentals. You can also camp in the park or stay in one of the many cabins. Regardless of how you spend your time, Hocking Hills State Park is a great place to enjoy the beauty of nature.
21. Go Camping
Hocking Hills is the perfect place to go camping, as there are campgrounds located throughout the area.
Whether you’re looking for a primitive campsite or a full-service RV park, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Hocking Hills.
Campers come here to enjoy hiking, fishing, and swimming. Popular campgrounds include Hocking Hills State Park, Lake Logan State Park, and Hollow State Park.
22. Visit Logan, Ohio
If you go to Hocking Hills, you should also visit the nearby city of Logan. This small town is located in the heart of Hocking Hills and offers a variety of shops and restaurants. Take a stroll down Main Street and explore all that Logan has to offer.
Some popular eateries include the Pearl Diner, M&M Family Diner.
While you are in this area, you may want to visit the only washboard manufacturer in the United States which is still in operation, The Original Washboard Company.
If you are looking for a souvenir while in Logan, be sure to check out some of the unique shops, such as The Curio Shop and The Country Store.
23. Hocking Hills Canopy Tours
Hocking Hills Canopy Tours offers a unique way to experience the area’s forests. This tour takes you on a zip line through the treetops, and you can also go on a guided hike.
The tour is suitable for all ages and is a great way to get outside and explore the natural beauty of Hocking Hills.
24. Rockbridge State Nature Preserve
Rockbridge State Nature Preserve is a must-see for any nature lover. This preserve is home to a variety of plant and animal species, as well as a stunning natural bridge.
You can also go hiking or fishing in the preserve, or simply enjoy the scenery.
25. Hemlock Bridge
Hemlock Bridge is a beautiful wooden bridge that spans a gorge in Hocking Hills. This bridge is open to pedestrians and is a popular spot for photography.
You can also hike to the bottom of the gorge for a closer look at the waterfall. Plan to take about 2.5 hours to make your way around.
26. Clear Creek Metro Park
Clear Creek Metro Park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. This park offers a variety of activities for hikers, fishers, and picnic goers. You can also rent a canoe or kayak to explore the creek.
The park opens at 6:30 am and is home to over 800 species of plants and 150 bird species. Get here by taking Route 33.
27. Hocking Hills Moonshine Distillery
Hocking Hills Moonshine Distillery is a local distillery that offers tours and tastings.
During the tour, you’ll learn about the history of moonshine and how it’s made. You’ll also have the opportunity to sample some of the distillery’s products.
The distillery is open Monday-Saturday from 11 am to 8 pm in Logan, Ohio.
28. Pencil Sharpener Museum
The Pencil Sharpener Museum is a unique museum that is located in Logan, Ohio. This museum is home to over 3,000 pencil sharpeners, making it the largest collection in the world.
The museum is open Monday-Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. Admission is free, but donations are accepted. It is easy to find as it is close to Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center.
29. Ohio State Reformatory
The Ohio State Reformatory is a historic prison that is located in Mansfield, Ohio. This prison was operated from 1896 to 1990 and is now a museum.
The reformatory offers tours that take you through the prison, and you can also explore the grounds on your own. The reformatory is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm.
30. Play Golf
If you want to get in a round or two on the golf course while in Hocking Hills, there are plenty of courses to choose from. Some popular courses include Hocking Hills Golf Club, Lake Logan State Park, and Hocking Valley Golf Club.
Hocking Hills Golf Club is located in Logan and offers 18 holes of golf. Lake Logan State Park is located in Hockingport and offers a 9-hole course. And finally, Hocking Valley Golf Club is located in Nelsonville and offers 18 holes of golf.
31. Visit Local Breweries
If you love craft beer, you’ll be happy to know that there are several breweries located in Hocking Hills. Some of the most popular breweries include Jacked Up Brewery, Hocking Hills Brewing Company, and Rockmill Brewery.
Jacked Up Brewery is located in Logan and offers a variety of beer styles. Hocking Hills Brewing Company is located in Nelsonville and has a taproom where you can taste their beer. Rockmill Brewery is located in Lancaster and offers tours of its facility.
32. Spa at The Inn Cedar Falls
After all the watersports, hiking, golfing, and other adventures, you may need to relax and give your body full spa treatment. The Spa at The Inn Cedar Falls can offer you just that.
This spa offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body treatments. The Spa at The Inn Cedar Falls is open Monday-Saturday from 9 am to 8 pm and Sunday from 11 am to 6 pm.
Relax in a hot tub, get a massage, or try one of the many other services offered at this full-service spa.
In conclusion, there are many great things to do in Hocking Hills, Ohio. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery, you’ll find plenty to do in this scenic area. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Hocking Hills today!
