Hocking Hills State Park
Discover Ohio's enchanting Hocking Hills State Park, a wonderland of gorges, waterfalls, caves, and lush forests perfect for hiking and nature explora...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful hikes
Hocking Hills State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful hikes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Ohio's enchanting Hocking Hills State Park, a wonderland of gorges, waterfalls, caves, and lush forests perfect for hiking and nature exploration.
"Words and photos can’t describe how magical this state park is."
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be uneven with many steps. Good footwear is essential for comfort and safety.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months or longer hikes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Old Man's Cave
Hocking Hills State Park
Iconic gorge with waterfalls, rock formations, and tunnels. A must-see, but expect crowds.
Ash Cave
Hocking Hills State Park
The largest recess cave in Ohio, offering an accessible and awe-inspiring natural amphitheater.
Cantwell Cliffs
Hocking Hills State Park
Dramatic cliffs and narrow passages provide a more challenging and rewarding hiking experience.
Cedar Falls
Hocking Hills State Park
A picturesque waterfall cascading into a serene gorge, perfect for nature lovers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Hocking Hills
Gear Up for Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be uneven with many steps. Good footwear is essential for comfort and safety.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months or longer hikes.
⏰ Arrive Early to Beat Crowds
Popular spots like Old Man's Cave get very busy. Early mornings offer a more tranquil experience.
🗺️ Plan Your Route
The park is extensive. Map out which trails and attractions you want to see to maximize your time.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be uneven with many steps. Good footwear is essential for comfort and safety.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months or longer hikes.
⏰ Arrive Early to Beat Crowds
Popular spots like Old Man's Cave get very busy. Early mornings offer a more tranquil experience.
🗺️ Plan Your Route
The park is extensive. Map out which trails and attractions you want to see to maximize your time.
📸 Capture the Magic
The natural beauty is breathtaking. Don't forget your camera or phone for stunning photos!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the surreal, fairytale-like beauty of Hocking Hills State Park, highlighting its waterfalls, caves, and lush forests. Many appreciate the challenging yet rewarding hikes and the friendly atmosphere. However, the park's immense popularity means significant crowds, especially at Old Man's Cave, can detract from the experience.
"A surreal experience visiting Hocking Hills State Park as a family. On our visit to Ohio we were delighted to discover this beautiful park. Words and photos can’t describe how magical this state park is. If you enjoy being in nature than this is a must see. The park is large and has extensive hiking trails, a visitor centre with washrooms, multiple parking lots and trailheads, waterfalls and staircases as well as caves. Highly recommended 🫶"
J LA
"⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A Slice of Heaven in Ohio!
Hocking Hills in Logan, Ohio, absolutely blew me away! The trails are dreamy—lush, peaceful, and perfectly maintained. Every path felt like stepping into a real-life fairytale. You get a true sense of adventure, with rugged climbs that make you feel like you're scaling mountains (and trust me, your legs will thank you later—such a great workout!).
The natural beauty here is next-level. Waterfalls, caves, towering cliffs, forest canopies—it's got it all. And the cherry on top? The people. Everyone we met was so warm and friendly—it felt like we were part of a little nature-loving community.
If you're looking for peace, challenge, and pure scenic magic, Hocking Hills delivers in every way. I’ll definitely be back!"
Tayler Redinger
"Old Man's Cave is really cool, however, there are peak times when half of Michigan is there 😂 and it's not as fun when you can't go at your own pace and see what you want. There's a great trail outside the cave area if you're up for a hike.
Ash cave is also popular, but I've never encountered as many people there. It also has some great trails around it."
Christina Marie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hocking Hills State Park is about an hour's drive south of Columbus, Ohio. Take US-33 E towards Athens, then follow signs for the park.
Public transport options are very limited. Renting a car is the most convenient way to reach and explore Hocking Hills State Park.
Parking is available at various trailheads, including Old Man's Cave, Ash Cave, and Cantwell Cliffs. Arrive early, as lots can fill up quickly.
Yes, Hocking Hills State Park is beautiful in winter, though some trails may be icy. Check conditions before you go.
Dogs are allowed on leash in most areas of Hocking Hills State Park, but not in buildings or on certain trails. Always check specific park regulations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Hocking Hills State Park does not charge an entrance fee for general access to its hiking trails and natural attractions.
The park is generally open from dawn to dusk year-round. Specific facilities like the visitor center may have set hours.
No advance ticket booking is required for general park entry. However, popular lodging and activities like ziplining may require reservations.
While there aren't always formal guided tours, park rangers may offer programs. Check the park's official website for any scheduled events.
Ash Cave is the most accessible, with a paved trail. The Hocking Hills Lodge also offers a shuttle to popular trails. +1
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The most popular spots include Old Man's Cave, Ash Cave, Cantwell Cliffs, Cedar Falls, and Rock House. +1
The Old Man's Cave trail loop can take about 1-2 hours, depending on your pace and how much you stop to admire the scenery.
Yes, Hocking Hills is known for its beautiful waterfalls, especially at Old Man's Cave and Cedar Falls. Some are seasonal.
You might spot deer, various bird species, and other small woodland creatures. Always observe wildlife from a distance.
Absolutely! The dramatic cliffs, caves, waterfalls, and lush forests make it a photographer's paradise.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Hocking Hills Lodge offers onsite dining. For other options, you'll find restaurants in nearby towns like Logan.
Yes, picnic areas are available throughout the park. Packing your own lunch is a great way to enjoy the scenery.
Yes, the region has several breweries and wineries. BrewDog in Columbus is a popular stop if you're coming from that direction.
Casual eateries and family-friendly restaurants can be found in Logan and surrounding areas. The Hocking Hills Lodge also has options.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and beverages to enjoy during their visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Old Man's Cave, Ash Cave, Cedar Falls, and Cantwell Cliffs offer stunning photographic opportunities with their unique geological formations and waterfalls.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise and before sunset) provides the most beautiful light. Midday can be harsh, but the shaded gorges offer opportunities.
Drone usage is generally restricted in Ohio State Parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Check the official park regulations for the most current policy.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the grand scale of the caves and gorges. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or long exposures of waterfalls.
Yes, photographing the waterfalls is a highlight. Be mindful of slippery surfaces and always prioritize safety.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Hocking Hills Lodge offers family-friendly amenities and even a shuttle service to key trailheads, simplifying logistics. While some trails are more challenging, many offer stunning views without extreme difficulty. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and consider shorter loops to keep younger children engaged. The natural beauty and sense of adventure will captivate kids of all ages.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
Exploring the less-trafficked trails or visiting during the week can offer a more intimate experience. The park's natural beauty is perfect for reflection, photography, or simply enjoying each other's company amidst stunning scenery.
🏞️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
For those seeking a deeper immersion, consider exploring the Old Growth Forest trail or venturing to the more remote Rockbridge State Park. Packing a lunch and spending a full day exploring different sections of the park is highly recommended to fully appreciate its natural splendor.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Iconic Hikes
Ash Cave is another must-visit, notable for being the largest recess cave in Ohio. Its accessibility makes it a great option for families and those with mobility concerns, with a paved path leading to the impressive overhang.
For a more rugged adventure, Cantwell Cliffs offers dramatic rock formations and narrow passages, providing a more challenging but rewarding experience. Cedar Falls presents a serene setting with a beautiful waterfall cascading into a tranquil pool, perfect for a peaceful moment in nature.
Beyond the Trails: Activities and Stays
Many accommodations are designed to blend with the natural surroundings, offering amenities like hot tubs and stunning views. Some rentals are even dog-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry companions along for the adventure.
For those looking for a unique experience, consider exploring the area's off-road adventures with Polaris RZRs or enjoying local craft beverages at nearby breweries.
Planning Your Hocking Hills Itinerary
Consider grouping attractions by proximity to minimize travel time. For example, Old Man's Cave, Cedar Falls, and Ash Cave are relatively close to each other.
Don't forget to pack essentials like comfortable shoes, water, and snacks. For those seeking a more relaxed pace, the Hocking Hills Lodge offers a shuttle service to some of the most popular trailheads, enhancing convenience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit