Okay, let's talk Hocking Hills. You've heard it's gorgeous, maybe seen those crazy pictures of Ash Cave or Old Man's Cave, and now you're trying to figure out what to *actually* do there. Good plan. I've spent more weekends than I can count scrambling over rocks and getting lost on trails out there – sometimes intentionally. Forget the fluffy brochures; here's the straight scoop on the best things to do in Hocking Hills, the stuff that's worth your time (and maybe a blister or two), plus the practical bits everyone forgets to mention until you're standing there wondering where to park or if you need bug spray. Seriously, bring bug spray.
The Big Guns: Must-Do Hocking Hills Attractions
Look, if it's your first trip, these spots are non-negotiable. They're popular for a reason. Crowded? Sometimes, yeah, especially Saturdays in October. Still worth it.
Hocking Hills State Park Core Attractions
This is the heartbeat. Think waterfalls, huge cliffs, caves (technically rock shelters, but "cave" sounds cooler), and trails that make you feel tiny. All free entry, which is amazing. Parking $5-$10 depending on the lot, paid at kiosks (cash/card usually accepted).
| Attraction | What Makes It Special | Key Trail Info | Practical Bits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Old Man's Cave | The superstar. Waterfalls, Upper & Lower Falls, the "Devil's Bathtub," gorge views, history. | Grand Loop Trail ~1 mile (connects others). Can get steep/steps. Busiest spot. | 19852 OH-664 S, Logan, OH 43138. Main parking lot fills FAST by 10 AM weekends. Arrive early or late. Restrooms available near trailhead. |
| Ash Cave | Massive, cathedral-like recess cave (700ft wide!). Easy paved walk to the cave & waterfall. Feels epic. | Paved Gorge Trail: 0.25 miles (one-way) to cave. Steep Rim Trail option (0.5 mi loop). | 26458 OH-56, South Bloomingville, OH 43152. Large parking lot. Most accessible major feature. Waterfall best after rain/spring. |
| Cedar Falls | Tallest continuous waterfall in HH. Gorgeous plunge pool. Feels wilder, greener than Old Man's. | Short hike down steps from parking lot. Can connect to Old Man's Cave (~2.5 mi one-way via Buckeye Trail). | 22483 OH-374, Logan, OH 43138. Parking smaller than Ash/Old Man's. Gets busy. Trail down involves steps. |
| Rock House | The only *actual* cave tunnel you walk through in the main park. Unique rock windows, feels adventurous. | Moderate 0.75 mile loop. Steep stairs down to cave entrance from parking. | Parking lot off OH-374. 14299 Park Rd, Laurelville, OH 43135. Fee station ($5 usually). Less crowded than the main trio. |
| Conkle's Hollow State Nature Preserve | Towering cliffs, deep gorge. Rim Trail has insane views (not for vertigo sufferers!). Gorge Trail flat but damp. | Rim Trail: 2.5 mi loop (rocky, narrow, heights). Gorge Trail: 1 mi paved (wheelchair/stroller friendly). | 24858 Benson Rd, Rockbridge, OH 43149. Different parking lot than Rock House. Rim trail closes if icy/wet. Dogs NOT allowed on Rim Trail (Nature Preserve rules). |
My Take: Old Man's Cave is iconic, but wow, it gets packed. If crowds stress you out, hit Ash Cave first thing - that sheer size quiets everyone down. Rock House feels like a hidden world, even with people around. Conkle's Rim Trail? Best views in the park, hands down, but check the weather – that trail is no joke when wet or icy. Seriously, skip it if it's slippery.
Beyond the Hiking Boots: Other Top Things to Do in Hocking Hills
Hiking's the main event, but you can't do it 24/7 (well, maybe you can, but your feet will revolt). Here's what else fills out the itinerary.
Get a Different View
- Hocking Hills Canopy Tours/Ziplining: Multiple companies. Soaring over the treetops is a rush. Hocking Hills Canopy Tours (10714 Jackson St, Rockbridge, OH) is well-established. Tours vary (1.5 - 4 hours), prices $60-$120+ per person. Book WELL in advance, especially weekends. Weight limits apply. Honestly? It's a blast, but pricey.
- Hocking Valley Scenic Railway: Relaxing train ride through the hills. 33 miles, ~2 hours. Historic diesel locomotives. Departs from Nelsonville Depot (33 W Canal St, Nelsonville, OH). Check schedule (seasonal, weekends mostly). Prices ~$20 adult, $14 child. Scenic, yes. Thrilling? Nah. Good for a rainy day or if you need a sit-down. hvsry.org
- Kayaking/Canoeing/Tubing: Paddle the Hocking River. Hocking Hills Adventures (31251 Chieftain Dr, Logan, OH) offers rentals and shuttles. Scenic, peaceful way to see the valley. Prices vary ($20-$50+ per person depending on trip length/boat type). Tubing is super laid-back (and cheap, like ~$15). Great for hot summer afternoons. Water levels matter – call ahead if it's been dry.
Explore Quirky & Cool
- John Glenn Astronomy Park (JGAP): Free public observatory. Friday/Saturday night public programs (weather permitting). Cool architecture. Dark skies = amazing stargazing. Bring a blanket! 20531 OH-664 N, Logan, OH. jgap.info Even if you're not there for a program, stopping during the day is neat.
- Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center: Stop here FIRST if you're coming in from Columbus or points north. 13178 St Rt 664 S, Logan, OH. Maps, expert advice, restrooms, local info. Staff know the area inside out. Free coffee sometimes!
- Shopping & Galleries: Logan (county seat) has the main strip. Art & Clay on Main (craft gallery), Hocking Hills Market (local goods, coffee, sandwiches), Paper Village (quirky gifts). Don't expect big box stores. It's mostly small, local shops. Some stuff is touristy, some genuinely cool artisan work.
Fueling Up: Where to Eat Around Hocking Hills
Hiking makes you hungry. Finding decent food near the park can be... an adventure itself. Here's the lowdown:
| Spot | What It's Known For | Location & Vibe | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Millstone BBQ | Smoked meats (ribs, brisket), southern sides (mac & cheese!), patio. Hearty portions. | 12790 Grey St, Logan, OH (Logan). Casual, popular, can have waits. | Open 11am-8pm (check days, closes earlier some nights). Solid choice post-hike. Prices typical for BBQ (~$12-$25 plates). |
| Pizza Crossing | Wood-fired pizza. Creative toppings & classics. Salads, sandwiches. | 1005 E Main St, Logan, OH (Logan). Casual, order-at-counter. | Open 11am-9pm (varies). Good pizza, decent prices ($15-$25 large). Quicker than sit-down sometimes. |
| Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls Dining Lodge | Higher-end rustic. Farm-to-table, seasonal menus. Nice ambiance. | 21190 OH-374, Logan, OH (Near Cedar Falls). Reservations HIGHLY recommended. | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (check hours). $$-$$$. Best for a sit-down, non-casual meal. Great breakfast. |
| Hamburger Inn Diner | Classic greasy spoon. Breakfast all day, burgers, shakes. Old-school diner feel. | 112 E Main St, Logan, OH (Logan). Tiny, popular, counter seating. | Open early (6am?) - 2pm or 3pm. Cash only! Cheap, filling, nostalgic. Pancakes are huge. |
| Hocking Hills Coffee Emporium | Local coffee roaster. Espresso drinks, drip coffee, pastries, light bites. | 17 W Main St, Logan, OH (Logan). Cozy, good wifi spot. | Essential morning stop. Grab coffee & muffins for the trailhead. Open mornings/early afternoons. |
| M&M Family Dining | Standard American diner fare. Big breakfasts, burgers, sandwiches. Reliable. | 12675 Grey St, Logan, OH (Logan). Family-friendly, booths. | Open 6am-8pm usually. Nothing fancy, but consistent and portions are large. Good value. |
Food Reality Check: Don't expect a booming foodie scene. Options are mostly casual American/diner/BBQ/pizza. Plan ahead – many places close early (8pm or 9pm), especially outside Logan. Sundays have limited options. Stocking some groceries if you have a cabin is smart. That cute little ice cream place by the Hemlock Bridge trailhead? Worth the stop on a hot day.
Where to Crash: Hocking Hills Lodging Options
This is huge. Where you stay defines your trip vibe. Book months ahead for peak seasons (fall weekends, summer holidays).
- Cabin Rentals (King): The classic Hocking Hills experience. Hundreds of cabins from basic to insane luxury (private hot tubs, game rooms, fireplaces, killer views). Perfect for groups, families, romance. Privacy is the big sell. Companies: Cabins by the Caves, Getaway Cabins, Hocking Hills Lodging Company, etc. Prices vary wildly ($150-$600+/night). Check location – "close to Old Man's Cave" usually means 10-20 min drive still. Read reviews carefully.
- State Park Lodges & Cabins: Hocking Hills State Park Lodge (20020 OH-664 S, Logan, OH). Hotel-style rooms with stunning views (try for gorge view rooms!). Basic cabins also available inside the park. Convenient location near Old Man's Cave. Restaurant on-site. Rooms can feel a bit dated, but the location/view is unbeatable. Prices moderate (~$120-$200/night). Book via Great Ohio Lodges.
- Inns & B&Bs: More personal service. The Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls (21190 OH-374, Logan) is top-tier – cozy cabins, yurts, lodge rooms, excellent restaurant/spa. Romantic. $$$. Glenlaurel (Scotch-themed Inn, unique) is another upscale option. Smaller B&Bs scattered around – check reviews.
- Camping: For the budget-conscious or outdoorsy. State Park Campgrounds (Old Man's Cave area): Electric sites, showers. Private Campgrounds: Often more amenities (pools, mini-golf, cabins too). KOA, Hocking Hills KOA Journey, others. Book sites WAY in advance. Primitive options exist in Wayne National Forest nearby.
Making it Work: Hocking Hills Logistics & Pro Tips
This stuff makes or breaks your trip. Trust me.
| Logistics Factor | Key Information & Tips |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | Spring (April-May): Waterfalls raging, wildflowers, cooler temps. Muddy trails possible. Fall (Oct-early Nov): Peak foliage (INSANE crowds weekends). Book EVERYTHING a year ahead. Weather perfect. Summer (June-Aug): Warm, green, busy. Can be humid. Great for water activities. Winter (Dec-Mar): Frozen waterfalls, snowscapes, magical & QUIET. Trails icy - MICROspikes essential! Some attractions may have limited access. Cabins with fireplaces shine. |
| Getting There & Around | Driving is essential. No real public transport within HH. Closest airports: Columbus (CMH ~1 hour), Dayton (DAY ~1.75 hours). Rent a car. GPS works mostly, but download offline maps (cell service gets spotty!). Roads are twisty – allow more drive time than maps suggest. Parking at popular trailheads fills by 10-11 AM weekends – go EARLY or LATE. |
| Essential Packing List | Footwear: STURDY hiking shoes/boots with good tread (rocks are slippery!). No flip-flops on trails! Clothing: Layers! Temperatures change. Rain jacket ALWAYS. Hydration: Reusable water bottle(s) – fill before hitting trails. Navigation: Trail map (free at Welcome Center/trailheads), phone (download offline AllTrails map). Bug Spray & Sunscreen: Ticks & mosquitoes are real. Sun exposure on trails varies. Cash: Some parking kiosks/small vendors prefer it. Headlamp/Flashlight: If hiking near dusk. Winter: MICROspikes (non-negotiable!), warm layers, hat/gloves. |
| Staying Safe | Stay on Marked Trails: Seriously. Cliffs are real. Getting lost off-trail is dangerous. Heed Warning Signs/Closures: They are there for a reason (rockfalls, flooding, ice). Check Water Levels: After heavy rain, trails near streams can flood. Hydrate & Fuel: Carry water & snacks. Tell Someone Your Plan: Where you're hiking & expected return. Weather Awareness: Ohio weather changes fast. Check forecast. Respect Wildlife: Observe from a distance. Don't feed animals. Leave No Trace: Pack out ALL trash. Protect this beautiful place. |
Thinking about things to do in Hocking Hills in winter? It's breathtaking. Frozen waterfalls at Ash Cave? Unreal. But those trails turn into ice rinks. I learned the hard way – one clumsy step without spikes and I was on my backside faster than you can say "Conkle's Hollow." Microspikes strapped over your boots are worth every penny. Rent them if you don't own any. Just bring layers.
Hocking Hills Things to Do: Your Questions Answered (FAQ)
You've got 'em, I've heard 'em. Let's tackle the common ones.
| Question | Straightforward Answer |
|---|---|
| How many days do I need for Hocking Hills? | Absolute Minimum: 1 very full day (hit Old Man's, Ash, Cedar Falls). Better: 2-3 days to see main sights at a good pace + maybe an extra activity (zipline, kayak). Ideal: 3-4 days to truly relax, explore deeper trails, enjoy your cabin, and not feel rushed. Weekends get packed – midweek visits are golden. |
| Is Hocking Hills good for kids/families? | Yes! Plenty of shorter, accessible trails (Ash Cave Gorge Trail, Cantwell Cliffs upper rim partially, Cedar Falls lower part). Kids love the caves, waterfalls, and adventure. But: Always watch kids closely near cliffs/edges (rails are minimal). Carry young kids on steeper/unstable sections (Conkle's Rim is VERY advanced for little ones). Pick trails matching their abilities. |
| Can I bring my dog to Hocking Hills? | State Park Trails: Yes! Leashed dogs are welcome on trails at Old Man's, Ash, Cedar Falls, Rock House. CONKLE'S HOLLOW: Dogs are NOT allowed on the Rim Trail (State Nature Preserve rule). They are allowed on the paved Gorge Trail. Always clean up after your pet! Bring water/bowl for them. |
| Are the trails difficult? | Varies Wildly:
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| What's the closest town with hotels/supplies? | Logan, OH is the main hub (~10-20 mins from Old Man's Cave area). Has grocery stores (Kroger, Walmart Supercenter), gas stations, pharmacies, restaurants, some chain hotels (Holiday Inn Express, Best Western). Larger stores/services are in Lancaster, OH (~30-40 mins west) or Athens, OH (~40 mins southeast). |
| Why book lodging so far in advance? | Popularity. Especially for quality cabins or lodge rooms during peak season (fall weekends, summer holidays, spring breaks). Places book up 6 months to a year ahead for those prime dates. Waiting often means slim pickings, higher prices, or staying much farther away. Seriously, book early. |
| Is there cell service in Hocking Hills? | Spotty. Major carriers (Verizon, AT&T) have coverage in Logan and *some* spots near popular trailheads/park areas, but it drops fast in the gorges and deeper woods. Assume no service on most trails. Download offline maps (Google Maps, AllTrails+) and tell someone your hiking plan beforehand. |
So, what are the best things to do in Hocking Hills? Honestly, it depends. Want sheer wow factor? Hit the big parks. Craving peace? Find a quiet trail midweek or explore deeper in winter. Need thrills? Zip line. Just want to chill? Get a cabin with a hot tub and relax. The key is planning ahead (especially lodging!), packing smart (those boots!), and embracing the outdoors. It's not always pristine perfection – trails get muddy, parking can be a hassle, some restaurants are just okay – but standing under Ash Cave or seeing the view from Conkle's Rim on a crisp morning? Yeah, that stuff sticks with you. Go explore.
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