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Attractions & Sightseeing

Attractions & Sightseeing

Ohio, USA

Iconic Natural Landmarks

All major landmarks are part of Hocking Hills State Park, which offers free entry and is open from dawn to dusk year-round. Parking is available at each site.

Trails can be slippery when wet or icy; check conditions before heading out.

Central Park Sites

  • Old Man's Cave: Complex network of waterfalls, gorges, tunnels, and rock formations.
  • Ash Cave: Ohio's largest recess cave, with an easy accessible trail to a massive overhanging cliff.
  • Cedar Falls: Picturesque waterfall in a lush gorge, connecting to other sites via longer trails.
  • Rock House: The only true tunnel-like cave, featuring natural windows carved by erosion.

Beyond the Main Park

Additional Gorge & Cliff Areas

  • Cantwell Cliffs: Known for its rugged and remote trails, with deep cliffs and narrow passages.
  • Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve: A deep, narrow gorge with towering sandstone cliffs up to 200 feet high.
  • Gorge Trail (Conkles Hollow): An easy, paved, accessible trail into the stunning canyon.
  • Rim Trail (Conkles Hollow): A strenuous and challenging trail offering panoramic views.
  • Generally less crowded than main Hocking Hills sites, offering a quieter experience.
  • Not recommended for individuals with mobility issues due to challenging terrain.

Important Visitor Notes

  • Arrive early (before 9 AM) or late afternoon to avoid the largest crowds and find parking.
  • Wear sturdy, Waterproof hiking boots for all trails.
  • Bring a Headlamp or flashlight for better visibility inside Rock House.
  • Trails can be slippery when wet or icy; check conditions, especially in winter.

The Grandma Gatewood Trail connects Old Man's Cave, Cedar Falls, and Ash Cave for longer, more challenging hikes.

Other Natural Attractions

  • Wayne National Forest: Surrounds portions of Hocking Hills, offering additional opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and primitive camping.
  • Lake Logan State Park: A popular spot for water-based recreation, including fishing, boating (electric motors only), and swimming.
  • Dells Natural Preserve: A less-visited ODNR property, offering a quieter hiking experience with unique rock formations.
  • Rockbridge State Nature Preserve: Home to Ohio's largest natural bridge, offering a relatively easy hike to view this impressive geological feature.

Cultural & Historical Insights

  • Welcome Center:

    Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center in Logan for maps, brochures, and local event information.

  • Local Museums:

    Hocking County Historical Society Museum in Logan for exhibits on local history and pioneer life.

  • Historical Village:

    Robbins Crossing Historical Village (Hocking College, Nelsonville) is a recreated 19th-century Appalachian village.

  • Scenic Byway:

    Ohio's Winding Road Byway highlights natural beauty and Appalachian heritage.

  • Native American History:

    Mound City Group National Historical Park (Chillicothe) protects prehistoric Native American earthworks.

Hidden Gems & Quieter Escapes

Discover serene locations off the main tourist path for a more solitary nature experience.

Secluded Natural Areas

  • Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve

    A more remote and rugged preserve located north of the main park areas.

  • Challenging Trails

    Offers challenging trails and a true wilderness experience, generally less visited by tourists.

  • Peaceful Escape

    A quiet spot for serious hikers seeking solitude.

  • Chapel Cave (21 Horse Cave)

    A large, deep recess cave within the Hocking State Forest, with a distinct 'natural chapel' formation.

  • Challenging Hike

    Accessible via a longer, more challenging hike through the forest, a rewarding discovery for persistent explorers.

  • Hocking State Forest

    Adjacent to Hocking Hills State Park, offering a different kind of outdoor experience with more primitive trails.

Old Man's Cave

The most popular section of Hocking Hills State Park, with a complex network of waterfalls and gorges.

Ash Cave

Ohio's largest recess cave, known for its massive overhang and seasonal waterfall. Features an easy, paved trail.

Cedar Falls

A picturesque waterfall and rocky gorge area, lush with vegetation, creating a serene environment.

Access Notes

All state park sites offer free entry and are open from dawn to dusk. Parking areas are available but can fill quickly during busy periods.

  • Check for seasonal changes in water levels at waterfalls.
  • Trail conditions vary; wear appropriate footwear and plan for uneven terrain.
  • Respect natural environments by staying on marked trails and leaving no trace.

Other Attractions & Activities

Beyond the iconic state park sites, the Hocking Hills region offers further natural beauty and opportunities for engagement.

Explore cultural insights and additional outdoor spaces to round out your visit.

Regional Natural Wonders

Explore these diverse natural spaces outside the main state park cluster.

Explore Further

  • Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve: Remote, rugged, offers a wilderness experience.
  • Rockbridge State Nature Preserve: Home to Ohio's largest natural bridge.
  • Lake Logan State Park: Ideal for fishing, boating (electric motors only), and swimming.

Cultural & Historical Sites

Explore the rich history and local culture of the Hocking Hills area.

Heritage & Arts

  • Hocking County Historical Society Museum: Exhibits on local history and pioneer life.
  • Robbins Crossing Historical Village: Recreated 19th-century Appalachian village.
  • Ohio's Winding Road Byway: Scenic route demonstrating Appalachian history.

More Outdoor Pursuits

Activities for active travelers seeking different ways to experience the outdoors.

Adventure & Recreation

  • Mountain Biking: Designated trails within Wayne National Forest.
  • Disc Golf: Course located at the Hocking Hills State Park Campground.
  • Horseback Riding: Guided trail rides through scenic landscapes.
  • Photography: An exceptionally photogenic destination for nature and landscape photography.

Planning Your Visit

Visitor Notes

  • Carry a Trail map and sufficient water for all hikes.
  • Exercise caution near cliff edges and slippery areas.
  • Rock climbing and rappelling are permitted only in Hocking State Forest with permits and guides.

Evening Entertainment

Live Performances & Local Venues

  • Occasionally, Hocking Hills Winery hosts live music performances.
  • Stuart's Opera House in Nelsonville is the main venue for live theatrical performances and concerts.
  • Local pubs and bars are available in Logan for a casual drink.

In-Cabin Entertainment

  • Many cabins feature game rooms for evening enjoyment.
  • Private hot tubs offer a relaxing way to unwind after a day of hiking.
  • Outdoor fire pits are popular for cozy evenings and stargazing.

Shopping & Local Products

Discover unique finds and local crafts to remember your Hocking Hills visit.

Local Markets & Crafts

Seasonal farmers markets in Logan offer local produce. The Hocking Hills Market has antiques and souvenirs. Local shops feature handmade goods.

Souvenir Ideas

Items featuring local natural imagery, Hocking Hills apparel, local food products (jams, honey, maple syrup), and handmade crafts.

Shopping Guidelines

Support local businesses and artisans. Luxury shopping is very limited. Shipping assistance is available at local postal services in Logan.

Further Outdoor Exploration

Wayne National Forest

Surrounds portions of Hocking Hills, offering extensive multi-use areas.

Lake Logan State Park

A popular spot for water-based recreation, including fishing and boating.

Dells Natural Preserve

A less-visited ODNR property, offering a quieter hiking experience.

Rockbridge State Nature Preserve

Home to Ohio's largest natural bridge, with a relatively easy hike to view.

Hocking State Forest

Offers more primitive hiking trails and opportunities for hunting and fishing in designated seasons.

Cultural Institutions

While nature is main, local institutions offer insights into the area's history.

Local Heritage

  • Hocking County Historical Society Museum in Logan showcases local history.
  • Robbins Crossing Historical Village offers a recreated 19th-century Appalachian experience.

Hidden Gems & Activities

For a more solitary and rugged experience, explore these less-visited spots.

Off the Beaten Path

  • Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve: Remote, rugged, and quiet.
  • Chapel Cave (21 Horse Cave): A large recess cave accessible via a challenging hike.
  • Primitive hiking trails in Hocking State Forest offer an untamed experience.
  • These spots provide deep solitude away from crowds.

Visitor Tips for Attractions

Always carry a Trail map and sufficient water, especially on longer hikes.

For some sites, GPS might be less precise; ensure you know your exact location for emergency services if needed.

Specialized Activities

Beyond hiking, explore unique and exciting activities the Hocking Hills region offers.

Aerial Adventures

See Hocking Hills from a new perspective with exhilarating zipline tours.

Zipline & Canopy Tours

  • Hocking Hills Canopy Tours offers multiple zipline courses.
  • Includes a "SuperZip" (longer, faster zipline) and night tours for an unique view.
  • These tours provide an aerial perspective of the forested landscape.

Water & Rock Activities

Engage with the environment through paddling or climbing adventures.

Kayaking, Canoeing & Climbing

  • Kayaking/Canoeing available on the Hocking River or Lake Logan.
  • Local outfitters Offer rentals and shuttle services for river trips.
  • Rock Climbing/Rappelling is permitted only in Hocking State Forest with permits and guides.

Trail Adventures

Explore the diverse terrain through a variety of trail-based activities.

Hiking & Biking

  • Hiking is the paramount activity with routes for all difficulty levels.
  • Mountain Biking: Designated trails available within Wayne National Forest.
  • Horseback Riding: Several stables offer guided trail rides.

The main state park trails are not suitable for bikes or horses.

Arts & Culture

Beyond nature, opportunities exist to engage with the region's cultural fabric.

Performances & Workshops

  • Stuart's Opera House (Nelsonville): Hosts live music and theatrical performances.
  • Tecumseh! Outdoor Drama (Chillicothe): An epic outdoor historical play (seasonal).

Ohio University in Athens (30-40 minutes drive) offers various cultural events.

Relaxation & Wellness

After active days, options for rest and rejuvenation are available.

Unwind & Recharge

  • Many luxury cabin rentals offer in-cabin spa services like massage therapy.
  • Photography is a relaxing and creative activity amidst the scenic beauty.

Private hot tubs are a common and desired amenity in many cabin rentals.

Evening & Shopping

Limited Nightlife

Entertainment and nightlife options are very limited; plan for evenings at your cabin.

Local Shops

Discover local artisan workshops, craft stores, and the Hocking Hills Market for souvenirs.

Souvenirs

Look for items with natural imagery, Hocking Hills apparel, and local food products like maple syrup.

Important Reminders

Safety on trails is important; always check conditions and wear appropriate footwear. For cultural events, check schedules in advance as they can be seasonal.