Hocking Hills State Park: 1st Time Visitor Guide

Tucked away in the rolling hills of southeastern Ohio, Hocking Hills State Park is a stunning natural getaway packed with waterfalls, caves, hiking trails, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re visiting for a relaxing cabin retreat or an action-filled escape into nature, Hocking Hills Ohio offers something for every kind of traveler. If it’s your first time here, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make the most of your trip, including hidden gems few visitors know about (below).

Overview

Hocking Hills State Park is the centerpiece of the region, known for its deep gorges, towering cliffs, waterfalls, and hemlock forests. Surrounding areas include scenic byways, historic towns, and a variety of outdoor recreation options like zip-lining, canoeing, and rock climbing.

10 Best Things to Do in Hocking Hills:

10) Hike Old Man’s Cave Trail:

Old Man’s Cave is the crown jewel of Hocking Hills, and for good reason. The trail takes you through narrow rock passages, towering cliffs, waterfalls, and lush forests. Along the way, you’ll pass the Upper Falls, Devil’s Bathtub, and Lower Falls, all offering postcard-worthy views. The name comes from a hermit who once lived in the recesses of the cave, adding a touch of local legend. While it’s one of the most popular spots, it’s worth braving the crowds as it perfectly showcases the dramatic scenery Hocking Hills is famous for.

9) Explore Ash Cave:

Ash Cave is one of the most awe-inspiring natural landmarks in the Midwest. Stretching over 600 feet wide and nearly 100 feet deep, the massive horseshoe-shaped recess cave feels like a cathedral carved into stone. A seasonal waterfall tumbles 70 feet from the rim into a shallow pool below, creating a magical atmosphere. The paved trail leading to the cave is handicap-accessible, making it a great stop for visitors of all ages and abilities. In spring, wildflowers brighten the path, while in winter, frozen icicles transform the waterfall into a sparkling display.

8) Visit Cedar Falls:

Cedar Falls is often described as the most beautiful waterfall in the park. A half-mile hike through hemlock and hardwood forest leads you to a dramatic cascade framed by mossy cliffs. Despite the name, the falls are surrounded mostly by hemlock trees, not cedars. Cedar Falls is also a popular photography spot, especially after heavy rains when the water flow is at its peak. You can reach it directly or combine it with the Old Man’s Cave and Ash Cave trails for a longer adventure.

7) Conkles Hollow Nature Preserve:

This preserve offers one of the deepest gorges in Ohio, with towering sandstone cliffs rising nearly 200 feet. The gorge trail is short — about a mile — but packs in striking scenery, from sheer rock walls to a quiet waterfall at the end. Because it’s a designated nature preserve, the trail is less crowded than the main attractions, making it a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. An upper rim trail is also available for those seeking a more challenging hike with sweeping views down into the gorge.

6) Rock House Garden:

Unlike any other formation in Hocking Hills, Rock House is a natural cave tunnel cut into a 150-foot cliff. Inside, you’ll find a series of “windows” that open out onto the forest, giving the cave the feel of an ancient stone dwelling. Historically, the site was used by Native Americans and early settlers for shelter, and its name reflects that human-like quality. It’s a fun stop for families, with plenty of opportunities for exploring and photography. Keep in mind, it can get slippery, and pigeons often roost inside.

5) Take a Canopy Tour:

For a thrill beyond the trails, Hocking Hills Canopy Tours offers zip-lining experiences that take you soaring above treetops, ravines, and streams. The tours range from family-friendly options to adrenaline-pumping adventures, including nighttime zip-lining under the stars. Along the way, guides share fun facts about the forest ecosystem, making it both exciting and educational. It’s one of the best ways to experience the landscape from a whole new perspective. Try zip-lining through the forest with Hocking Hills Canopy Tours.

4) Stargaze at John Glenn Astronomy Park:

Hocking Hills is one of Ohio’s premier stargazing destinations, thanks to minimal light pollution. At John Glenn Astronomy Park, you can marvel at crystal-clear night skies and even peer through powerful telescopes during free public events. The park hosts educational programs about constellations, planets, and celestial events, making it an unforgettable stop for families and astronomy enthusiasts. Even on a quiet night, simply lying back and stargazing here is a magical experience.

3) Kayak or Canoe on the Hocking River:

For a more relaxed outdoor adventure, head to the Hocking River. Rentals are available in Logan, where you can choose from kayaks, canoes, or even inner tubes. The calm waters make it suitable for beginners, and the scenic shoreline is dotted with trees, wildlife, and occasional cliffs. It’s a great way to cool off on a hot summer day, and you can paddle at your own pace, whether you want a short float or a half-day trip. Rent gear in Logan and explore the calm waters of the river.

2) Horseback Ride at Spotted Horse Ranch:

Saddle up and explore Hocking Hills on horseback with a guided ride through Spotted Horse Ranch. The trails meander through forests, meadows, and rolling hills, giving you a slower-paced way to take in the scenery. The ranch offers rides for beginners and experienced riders alike, and the connection with the horses makes it a memorable experience. In autumn, the trails are especially breathtaking with fall foliage. Scenic trails through forest and fields on guided tours.

1) Check Out the Hocking Hills Scenic Air Tours:

For a truly unique perspective, take to the skies with Scenic Air Tours. These small-plane flights give you panoramic views of the forest, cliffs, and waterfalls that make Hocking Hills so special. From above, you’ll see how vast and wild the region really is something you can’t fully appreciate from the ground. It’s a bucket-list-worthy experience and perfect for a special occasion.Take to the skies in a small plane for stunning aerial views.

Among these 10 options, I also recommend this Tripadvisor post on Hocking Hills for even more visitor recommendations.

5 Hidden Gems

5) Cantwell Cliffs:

Cantwell Cliffs is one of the park’s most rugged and less-visited areas. The trail winds through narrow passageways, steep stone steps, and dramatic cliffs that make it feel like an adventure playground. It’s a challenging hike, but the payoff is stunning scenery without the crowds of Old Man’s Cave. If you’re looking for a wilder side of Hocking Hills, this is it.

4) Hemlock Bridge and Whispering Cave Trail:

This newer trail showcases one of the park’s largest recess caves — Whispering Cave — with a 105-foot seasonal waterfall flowing from its rim. The hike takes you across a scenic suspension bridge, adding to the adventure. While the waterfall can be modest during dry seasons, the massive cave chamber alone is worth the visit.

3) Rockbridge State Nature Preserve:

Located just outside the main park, Rockbridge is home to Ohio’s largest natural rock bridge, stretching nearly 100 feet long and 10 to 20 feet wide. A moderate hike leads you to the bridge, where you can walk across the top and admire the gorge below. It’s an impressive geological feature and a great side trip if you’re exploring the area.

2) Lake Hope State Park:

For a change of pace, visit nearby Lake Hope State Park. This spot offers a range of activities, from swimming and boating in the clear waters to hiking and mountain biking along scenic trails. The park is surrounded by Zaleski State Forest, making it a peaceful retreat with plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities. It’s an excellent addition to a multi-day trip in the region.

1) Chapel Cave:

Tucked along the Twin Falls Trail, Chapel Cave is one of the most atmospheric spots in Hocking Hills. The cave earned its nickname “21 Horse Cave” because local folklore claims 21 horses once took shelter inside during a storm. The hike to the cave is less-traveled, giving it a sense of discovery, and the Twin Falls nearby make the journey even more rewarding.

Best Times to Visit

• Fall (Late September–October): Peak foliage and cool temperatures make for ideal hiking.
• Spring (April–May): Wildflowers and flowing waterfalls.
• Summer (June–August): Great for swimming, camping, and water activities, though it can be crowded.
• Winter (December–February): Less crowded, with beautiful ice formations in the caves and waterfalls.

Video Tour

1–5 Day Sample Itinerary

Day 1:

• Arrive, check into cabin
• Sunset hike at Ash Cave
• Dinner in Logan

Day 2:

• Full hike: Old Man’s Cave, Cedar Falls, Ash Cave loop
• Afternoon zip-lining
• Stargazing at John Glenn Astronomy Park

Day 3:

• Explore Conkles Hollow + picnic lunch
• Visit Rock House
• Dinner and wine tasting at Hocking Hills Winery

Day 4:

• Morning canoe/kayak tour on the Hocking River
• Visit Cantwell Cliffs
• Relax at your cabin with a campfire

Day 5:

• Short hike to Rockbridge Natural Arch
• Stop by local shops in Logan
• Drive back

Packing List

You can get the majority of the items on this list from my Amazon gear store:

• Sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes
• Weather-appropriate clothing (layers recommended)
• Daypack with water, snacks, and first-aid kit
• Flashlight or headlamp
• Bug spray
• Rain jacket
• Map or offline trail app
• Camera or binoculars
• Reusable water bottle
• Bathing suit (for summer visitors)

Epic Hocking Hills Ohio Photos (location details):

Where to Stay

• Campsites: Check options
• Hotels: Check options

Things to Know Before You Go

• No cell service: Download maps or use GPS offline.
• Start hikes early: Parking lots at popular trails fill up quickly, especially in fall.
• Trails can be slippery: Wear proper shoes and watch for ice in colder months.
• Leave no trace: Stay on trails and pack out all trash.
• Reservations: Book cabins and tours early, especially during peak seasons (check deals).
• Pet-friendly: Many trails and cabins allow dogs but check in advance.

Related

• Cuyahoga Valley National Park
• Monument Valley Tribal Park
• Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Final Thoughts

For nature lovers, photographers, families, and solo explorers, Hocking Hills Ohio is one of the Midwest’s best-kept secrets. With its blend of scenic beauty, hidden gems, and accessibility, it offers an unforgettable outdoor experience. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, hiking through caves, or unwinding by a campfire, your first visit to Hocking Hills State Park won’t be your last.

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