Hocking Hills State Park – Attractions & Things to Do
There is so much to see and do in beautiful Hocking Hills State Park. Millions of years ago a glacier pushed down from Canada and stopped just short of our region before receding. The glacier left us with some of the most beautiful rock formations and waterfalls in the United States.
The Hocking Hills region is spread out over approximately 25 miles. Whether you choose to hike, bike or drive you will find magic at the end of each trail! There is something for everyone here in the hills - restaurants, antiquing, fishing, swimming, horseback riding, zip lining, off road adventures, rock climbing, wineries, birding, canoeing, weddings, reunions, train rides, breweries, escape rooms and much, much more. Plan a long enough stay to see it all! All of the Hiking is FREE!
ASH CAVE
Pet Friendly – Handicap Accessible
This is one of the most spectacular places to see in Hocking Hills. There is a cement sidewalk that will lead you to the main attraction. The lower trail is a total of 1/2 mile. There is also an upper rim trail if you’re up for the challenge.
The Grandma Gatewood Trail that leads to Cedar Falls and eventually Old Man’s Cave can begin here.
This would be a 6 mile hike one way from our cabins.
OLD MANS CAVE
Pet Friendly
The granddaddy of waterfalls in Hocking Hills State Park is Old Man’s Cave. You can easily spend an afternoon at this one park. There is an upper and lower falls at Old Mans. There is a gift shop, museum and concession stand on site.
At the upper falls you will find the start of the Grandma Gatewood Trail that will lead you to Cedar Falls and Ash Cave. This is a 6 mile hike one way to the other attractions.
CEDAR FALLS
Pet Friendly
The granddaddy of waterfalls in Hocking Hills State Park is Old Man’s Cave. You can easily spend an afternoon at this one park. There is an upper and lower falls at Old Mans. There is a gift shop, museum and concession stand on site.
At the upper falls you will find the start of the Grandma Gatewood Trail that will lead you to Cedar Falls and Ash Cave. This is a 6 mile hike one way to the other attractions.
CONKLES HOLLOW
State Nature Preserve
This park boosts an upper and lower trail. The lower trail leads you through a canyon of massive rock formations to a waterfall at the end.
The upper trail leads you to Airplane Rock which is one of the most photographed spots in the State of Ohio.
THE ROCK HOUSE
Pet Friendly
The Rock House is the only true cave in the Hocking Hills State Park. Well known to have been home to local native Indian tribes and later to robbers and thieves.
You can actually climb up in to the cave but be sure and take pictures from below as well. Massive stone steps will take you to the bottom of the valley below.
CANTWELL CLIFFS
Pet Friendly
The hike at Cantwell Cliffs takes you on a trail that follows the top of massive cliff walls. You will eventually descend into a beautiful gorge that takes a trail through rock formations and stone steps. Bring your camera, hiking stick and plenty of water.
NATURAL BRIDGE AND WATERFALL
Rockbridge State Nature Preserve
Although this can be a challenging hike, it is not to be missed when visiting Hocking Hills. This is one of the largest natural bridges in the US. There is often a beautiful waterfall and fantastic views of the Hocking River. There is also a side trail to the Rock Shelter if you’re up to the task.
ROCKSTULL NATURE PRESERVE
Pet Friendly
This is one of the hidden gems in the Hocking hills region. A long time local favorite and one of those secluded, rare places that you can enjoy with no one else is around! Take a solo expedition and see rock walls, waterfalls and old Indian steps formed in the granite; this place is a sanctuary for the soul.
MOONVILLE TUNNEL
Nelsonville Pet Friendly
This famous landmark is said to be haunted by ghosts from the past. This trail is off the beaten path and will give you chills as you walk through the old tunnel. Pictures taken in and around the tunnel are known to have ghostly apparitions show up in the background so be sure and take a shot or two.
AIRPLANE ROCK
Located near Conkles Hollow this little beauty can be a bear to find – but never fear, we will get you on the right path. This is so beautiful to see in the fall, which makes it one of the most photographed spots in the state!