Hocking Hills is a picturesque wonderland in Southeastern Ohio.
It is deeply connected to nature and showcases breathtaking caves, waterfalls, and parks.
The place is adorned with emerald green forests where sunshine occasionally peeks through the canopies.
Its canyons and the waterfalls infuse a rejuvenating feeling in the visitors, and the hikes are exhilarating and boost excitement.
It is a sight to behold to watch nature in its raw yet enchanting form.
Wondering what makes Hocking Hills different from any other natural park?
Here are the best things to do in Hocking Hills, Ohio:
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Rock House is one of the most intriguing places in Hocking Hill.
Its history dates back a hundred years.
In 1835, Colonel F.F Rempel of Logan built a huge hotel comprising 16 rooms, a ballroom, a stable, and a post office.
It is said to be the only true cave in the park with such a glamorous history.
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The corridors are tunnel-shaped, making it exciting for the visitors to roam around.
The architecture is partly gothic, as evidenced by the windows and gigantic roof.
Many visitors used it as a shelter during their long trips.
One other interesting tale about Rock House is that bootleggers, thieves, and murderers also used it as a hideout.
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Ash Cave is a phenomenal place to spend your time.
It is probably the most charming spot in Hocking Hills State Park.
Through the horseshoe-rim, you’ll find a crystal clear waterfall that will rejuvenate your soul.
You can hike up there easily as the road is well-paved.
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The way is lined with a gorge and small waterfalls, too.
It might take up to 40 minutes to reach the destination.
The road is wheelchair-accessible until the asphalt walkway.
Needless to say, even the trail on the way to Ash Cave is gorgeous, with beautiful flowers, trees, and hemlocks along the route.
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Old Man’s Cave is a prominent spot to visit in Hocking Hills.
It is said that Richard Rowe lived here for a brief period, and it is presumed that he was buried here.
Residents who believed the legend named the spot Old Man’s Cave in his honor.
The place is peaceful and serene.
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The hike is comparatively smooth because of well-maintained tracks.
At times, it is flooded with tourists, but it is usually calm with not many people in the area.
You’ll spot different awe-inspiring rock formations along the way.
Don’t forget to take your camera with you.
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Deriving its name from the region itself, Hocking Hills State Park is a must-visit site.
This place will let you experience tranquility as it’s situated away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Decorated with towering cliffs, splendid waterfalls, and spectacular gorges, the state park appears like heaven.
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A visit here will make you appreciate the environment, and the urge to preserve it will stem in you.
There are various activities you can indulge in here.
You can set up camps and be close to nature.
You can also book a lodge and spend a night here.
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The valley leading to Cedar Falls is steep yet beautiful.
Cedar Falls is voluminous in terms of flowing water.
It is a revitalizing spot as the water streams continuously, and the wind gushes all the time.
The hike is considerably long, but when you reach the spot, you’ll find that it’s worth it.
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The water streams down on the sandstone, splitting it in two ways and making it look huge and accessible.
It is a seasonal waterfall.
The pictures on the internet don’t do justice to its beauty.
You need to see it in real life to absorb its true magnificence.
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It is said that tasting a local wine is an absolute delight, which holds true for Hocking Hills wineries.
They have countless flavors for everyone.
Their wines are smooth and delicious.
Any local winery will be able to provide you with the best wines at pocket-friendly prices.
Try out different flavors as each one is unique in itself.
Indulge in the flavor that appeals most to you.
You can go for a tasting session in the evening after a whole day of sightseeing.
It’ll be a fun and relaxing way to end the day.
Hocking Hill is full of markets, but this particular flea market is the most interesting and colorful.
Operated by the locals, the Hocking Hills Market offers various products and items you can take home.
The atmosphere is cheerful, and everyone is chatting and laughing around.
They have everything from antique crafts to furniture and food items.
The crafts are authentic, locally made, and sold at reasonable prices.
This helps boost the local economy, and the visitors get in touch with the culture.
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One of the best ways to explore Hocking Hills is to enjoy a leisurely canoe or kayak ride.
The river is calm and assuring.
Kayaks can be a little challenging to maneuver, but your guide will help you glide along the river easily for miles.
The tour guides also accompany you on your trip and take you to serene places.
It will be a comfortable and refreshing trip.
Various operators provide horseback tours across Hocking Hills.
Spotted Horse Ranch is one of the most reliable and cost-friendly ranches.
They offer several tour packages to suit different preferences.
Horseback riding is always a pleasure, and exploring the area that way is a different kind of experience.
The tour guides train you on the basics and accompany you while you go on your ride.
Zip lining has been prevalent in Hocking Hills for quite a long time, and it is one of the most adventurous sports to try out here.
It is a canopy tour that gives you an impeccable view of the region as you zip along the trees.
You’ll feel that you are defying gravity while experiencing the daunting activity.
Getting to see such beautiful valleys beneath you will be the experience of a lifetime.
The equipment is safe, and the zip lines are tight and reliable.
It may appear risky and quite scary, but once your ride starts, it will give you immense pleasure.
The service providers take utmost care of your safety and are devoted to offering you the best.
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Hocking Hills offers everything from heart-pumping adventurous activities to relaxing and captivating activities like stargazing.
When visiting, fulfill your stargazing fantasies at the John Glenn Astronomy Park.
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Upon looking up at the clear night sky, it will appear magical with stars twinkling.
The park will equip you with a telescope, and you can observe the stars and galaxies in the surrounding area.
Go there after sunset and lose yourselves in the enchanting atmosphere.
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Hocking Valley Scenic Railway is run by non-profit volunteers in Ohio.
A ride along this historic railway will familiarize tourists with Hocking Hills’ scenic views.
The train ride starts at Nelsonville, Ohio, and is almost two hours long.
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Your ride will be comfortable, as the trains are spacious and modern.
You can book tickets either online or buy them at the station.
It’s an enjoyable ride for kids as there are many fascinating spots on the road.
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Hocking Hills is full of cliffs, gorges, and caves, but the Cantwell Cliffs stand apart from the rest.
The hike to get there is pretty challenging due to steep pathways.
This place is proclaimed the most picturesque in Hocking Hills.
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Various elements like logs, big rocks, and narrow paths make the hike daunting.
It might be challenging to reach your final destination, but the hike is worth taking.
The entrance is splendid and acts as a majestic welcome to the tourists.
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Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve is located in the outer region of Hocking Hills.
You shouldn’t miss visiting here, as this spot offers some of the best views in the area.
The rim and gorge here are exquisite.
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You can quickly locate the place with the help of a map.
The water is clear, and you can dip your toes in if you feel like it.
The hike is long and tiresome—but what matters is the result, which is heavenly.
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If you want to spend a little time indoors, you can join a workshops to make your stay more productive and insightful.
One of the top workshops tourists opt for is Rabbit and Rocket’s arts and crafts class.
They teach cross stitch, embroidery, quilting, crochet, and knitting.
Tourists choose their workshops as they are easy to learn and very engaging.
If this does not suit your choices, you can try out any other workshops as there are many opportunities available.
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Doesn’t the name alone compel you to stop by?
Despite the ominous seeming moniker, the actual location is breathtaking.
A visit to the Devil’s Bathtub is a worthwhile investment of time.
You can see the stream bed via its distinctive waterfalls on each side.
Essentially, the tub is a bowl-shaped basin made of weak Blackhand sandstone that is disintegrating due to the water.
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This tub is situated in the Hocking Hills State Park and is accessible through the Old Man’s Cave hiking path.
In fact, going on the hunt for it is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Hocking Hills.
Swimming in Devil’s Bathtub is not permitted, even though it seems like an excellent spot to cool off.
It’s almost hard to escape the tub since it’s so deep.
High Rock Adventures is located in Rockbridge, Ohio.
Go rock climbing with High Rock Adventures if you’re searching for something to do in Hocking Hills, Ohio.
Climb, plunge, and zip from cliffs ranging from 35 to 100 feet high in satiating your adrenaline desire.
Do you like taking on new challenges?
If yes, then join your group for the Rock Challenge.
Preparation is critical if you want to tackle anything from crawls and squeezes to bouldering problems and ascents and descents without using a harness or rappelling equipment.
It also offers eco-tours that take visitors on wildflower hikes, plant walks, and local history lessons.
Professionally-guided floating tube fishing trips are offered by Ohio Belly Boat Fishing on lakes that are sometimes compared to fishing in Canada.
Try Ohio Belly Boat Fishing if you’re searching for something to do this weekend (and a chance to catch some fish).
Two pontoons are available and come with features like a 6-inch thick cushion seat, an adjustable buoyancy seat back, gear compartments, and cup holders, making the belly boats a unique fishing tool.
Cast your fishing lines and hope for a Bluegill, Large Mouth Bass, or Crappie.
Take advantage of the cup holders by bringing some food and drink.
If the weather isn’t cooperating, you may want to take a scenic drive.
From your vehicle, the view is breathtaking, and in the autumn, the colors are gorgeous.
In the Hocking Hills in southeast Ohio, the Hocking Hills Scenic Byway leads visitors deep into the region’s history.
The Hocking Hills State Park’s six non-contiguous sites, the state’s natural crown jewels, may be found along the Byway’s route.
Even though it is just 26.4 miles long, the Byway is worth the trip.
On your driving trip, you may see Cantwell Cliffs, Ash Cave, Cedar Falls, Rock House, and Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve.
Hocking Hills is a haven for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts.
But regardless of your interests, you will enjoy a visit to this area.
Save our list of the best things to do in Hocking Hills for a getaway to remember!
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