When I travel to a new place, I enjoy finding the lesser-known hidden treasures. As a result, one of my favorite locations in Southeast Ohio is Hocking Hills. Last year, after settling on a weekend break, my husband and I went to this amazing location.
Here you will have the opportunity to enjoy the chance to observe local wildlife, flora, and a wealth of historical information about Ohio. As there are a tonne of fun indoor and outdoor attractions, these are the best things to do in Hocking Hills, Ohio.
How To Get At Hocking Hills Ohio
The Ohio Hocking Hills, which are in the Appalachian Mountain foothills, provide natural areas for hiking, caving exploration, viewing geological formations, and ziplining or rappelling over treetops.
There are lots of roads into and out of Hocking Hills, providing visitors with all the fun they could possibly want in one location. Speaking from my personal experience, last year, I chose the road that leads to the Hocking Hills Visitors Centre in Laurelville by following these directions to Hocking Hills, Ohio.
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Top 10 Things To Do In Hocking Hills- A Guide To Your Road Trip
Though Hocking Hills is best renowned for its breathtaking walks, the whole family will be entertained by a plethora of additional outdoor and indoor activities. We love this place so much, and I am eagerly waiting for you to visit. Here are a few of the top activities in Hocking Hills to enjoy.
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Pencil Sharpener Museum
When you go to Hocking Hills, I always advise starting here. In total, over 3,400 pencil sharpeners are stored in this little shed in Logan. Pencil Sharpner Museum is conveniently situated just a short distance from the Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Centre.
When it comes to maximizing your visit time, the staff is an excellent resource. It’s the ideal place to stop and stretch your legs while traveling through the Hocking Hills for a little spell. Originally a quirky personal collection, it is now accessible to the general public.
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Unwind On The Beach
Despite the fact that Hocking Hills State Park prohibits swimming, there are plenty of options for you to choose from if you love the water. The gorgeous sandy beaches of neighboring Lake Hope State Park and Lake Logan State Park are perfect for playing and splashing.
The best part is that such Ohio State Parks offer a wide range of hikes, boating, and other activities. In the tranquil surroundings of the park, visitors can go swimming, kayaking, fishing, and other activities.
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Examine Waterfalls In Old Man Cave
Old Man’s Cave, a collection of waterfalls and tumbling waterways in Hocking Hills State Park, is one of the most popular and well-known waterfalls in the Hocking Hills. If you want to have fun and unwind, this serene and calming location is perfect for you. Magnificent natural scenery featuring high cliffs and rich flora surrounds the waterfalls.
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Enjoy At The Rock House
A very remarkable monument in the Hocking Hills, the Rock House is easily accessible due to the short hiking track that leads up to the cave. It is just worth a visit. This enormous roof of the tunnel-like cave is supported by stone columns, giving it a stone house-like appearance.
Situated just north of Hocking Hills State Park and west of Logan, this sandstone cave formation boasts a 200-foot (61-meter) passageway with a ceiling that reaches up to 25 feet (8 meters).
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Hocking Valley Scenic Railway
For every kind of experience you might be looking for when traveling, the Scenic Railway of Hocking Valley has a range of tours to choose from. Take an interactive robbery game ride, board a steam train, ride along the Hocking River Valley, and take in the breathtaking autumn scenery, or simply dine in style while traveling.
Generally speaking, there’s nothing quite like taking in the Hocking Hills landscape from a train. Prior to your visit, you may visit the website to see what trains and discounts are available.
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Hocking Hills Winery
The menu at Hocking Hills Winery includes options for food and beverages. They also provide flight or wine sampling choices. The award-winning wines of Hocking Hills Winery are owned and run by a family! In the center of the Hocking Hills, the winery hopes to serve as a gathering spot. They have a menu with options for food and beverages.
Bottles of wine are available at the place or online so you may bring a little piece of Hocking Hills home with you. There is no need to make reservations; just stop by for a wine sampling or table.
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Trekking To Cedar Falls
Situated within the Hocking Hills State Park, Cedar Falls, the well-liked waterfall lies roughly midway between Ash Cave and Old Man’s Cave, two of the park’s most prominent features.
A half-mile (800 m) hiking path leads to the falls, which are an integral Hocking Hills destination that will delight tourists of all ages. The falls are roughly two hours drive from Dayton, one hour’s drive from Columbus south, and minutes from Uptown Athens.
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Hocking Hills Canoe Livery
Full-service livery, the Hocking Hills Canoe Livery offers rentals of canoes, rafts, and kayaks for a range of trip durations. Paddle the same streams that early settlers and Native Americans used to travel through in the region of Hocking Hills.
Moonlight tours and excellent beginner’s trips are examples of special outings. Group bookings are accepted, and a picnic pavilion is ideal for gatherings of all sizes. To learn more information, you can go to their website.
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Oldman Cave Waterfall
Hocking Hills is a great spot to visit whether you’re searching for a calm, serene environment or an exciting, beautiful adventure. There are many stunning waterfalls in the area, including Ash Cave, Cedar Falls, and Old Man’s Cave.
My favorite Old Man’s Cave is one of the most popular and beautiful waterfalls in the Hocking Hills. Magnificent natural scenery featuring high cliffs and rich flora surrounds the waterfalls.
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Treehouses In Hocking Hills
I visited this Tree House after visiting all the places at Hocking Hills. Whether you’re planning a girl’s weekend, a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or simply some time away from the stresses of daily life, this place offers it all.
The tree house is proof that skilled engineers and architects created each treehouse with consideration for the local trees and topography, all the while preserving the magical quality.
Bottom Line
From exploring the quirky Pencil Sharpener Museum to basking in the tranquility of Lake Hope State Park’s sandy beaches, each moment adds a new layer to your Hocking Hills adventure. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, enjoying scenic railway tours, or finding solace in treetop retreats, this guide to the best things to do in Hocking Hills is a haven of diverse experiences. So, plan your trip to Ohio today!
FAQs
What’s the ideal duration for a Hocking Hills visit?
For a fulfilling experience, 1 day is okay but you can plan 2 to 3 days at Hocking Hills to explore its diverse attractions, from waterfalls to hiking trails.
Is a trip to Hocking Hills worthwhile?
Absolutely, Hocking Hills is worth every moment! With its stunning natural beauty, diverse activities, and serene ambiance, it promises a memorable and rejuvenating getaway.
Is there an entrance fee for Hocking Hills?
Yes, visiting Hocking Hills is free. There are no entrance fees for walking the trails or parking. Additionally, naturalist-led hikes, programs, and special events are all complimentary.
What does Hocking Hills offer?
Hocking Hills is a treasure trove of natural wonders, offering waterfalls, towering hemlocks, caves, and scenic beauty, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
