Ohio, USA
Morning/Afternoon: Focus on Old Man's Cave. Explore the Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls. This site has a comprehensive Hocking Hills experience in a relatively compact area.
Late Afternoon: Drive to Ash Cave for an easy, accessible walk to Ohio's largest recess cave. Evening: Enjoy dinner in Logan at a casual restaurant, then head to your accommodation. This gives a concentrated taste of the park's main features.
For longer visits, combine core exploration with nearby attractions and adventure activities.
Day 1: Arrival & Core Exploration. Arrive, check into your cabin. Afternoon hike: Explore Old Man's Cave thoroughly (Upper, Middle, Lower Falls). Dinner at your cabin or a casual restaurant in Logan. Evening: Relax in your cabin's hot tub or around a fire pit.
Days 1-3: Deep Dive into State Park. Dedicate these days to thorough exploration of Hocking Hills State Park: revisit Old Man's Cave, Ash Cave, Cedar Falls, and Rock House. Explore Cantwell Cliffs and Conkles Hollow in depth, considering both the gorge and rim trails. Include a night hike if offered by a local guide (with appropriate gear like a Headlamp).
Combine the one-week itinerary with multi-day extensions. Spend more time relaxing at your cabin, explore more remote sections of Hocking State Forest, or venture further into Wayne National Forest.
For stays longer than two weeks, consider renting a cabin for an extended period. Focus on self-catering, explore all trails multiple times in different lighting, and take advantage of all nearby towns and activities.
Tailor your Hocking Hills trip to your specific interests with these focused itineraries.
Visit Robbins Crossing Historical Village, Nelsonville's Historic Square, and Mound City Group National Historical Park. Attend Tecumseh! Outdoor Drama.
Self-cater in your cabin. Enjoy tastings at Hocking Hills Winery and Hocking Hills Moonshine. Dine at local comfort food spots.
Tackle strenuous hikes, zipline, rock climb (with permits), kayak the Hocking River, or horseback ride. Equip yourself with a Daypack and Trekking poles.
Hocking Hills has options for every budget and changes dramatically with the seasons.
Accommodation: Stay at Hocking Hills State Park Campground or a basic private campground ($20-$40/night). Food: Self-cater all meals by buying groceries in Logan (Kroger, Walmart). Carry a Portable camping stove and a Water filter for trail water.
Accommodation: Opt for a comfortable, mid-priced cabin ($150-$300/night) with amenities like a hot tub and full kitchen. Food: Mix of self-catering and casual dining at local restaurants in Logan. Activities: Include one or two paid activities like ziplining or horseback riding, balanced with free hikes.
Hocking Hills changes dramatically with the seasons. Plan your trip to align with your preferred seasonal experience for optimal enjoyment.
Accommodation: Book a premier cabin ($350-$1000+/night) with high-end amenities like private pools, gourmet kitchens, and home theaters. Food: Consider private chef services (if available) or fine dining options (like Glenlaurel if open to non-guests). Enjoy wine tastings at the winery.
Each season presents a distinct Hocking Hills experience. Prepare for the weather to make the most of your visit.
During fall and major holidays, accommodations and popular activities sell out well in advance. Book several months ahead to secure your preferred options.
Hocking Hills weather changes. Always check the forecast close to your travel dates and pack accordingly, especially for hiking conditions.