Hocking Hills State Park in southeastern Ohio is a premier destination for hikers, offering a diverse landscape of towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests. With a variety of trails suitable for all skill levels, visitors can explore unique geological formations and experience the rich biodiversity of the region.

Trail Highlights

The park features several notable hiking areas, each offering distinct natural attractions:

• Old Man’s Cave: A 1-mile moderate trail that takes hikers through a scenic gorge featuring the Upper and Lower Falls, Devil’s Bathtub, and unique rock formations like the Sphinx Head.

• Ash Cave: An accessible 0.25-mile trail leading to the largest recess cave east of the Mississippi, known for its impressive horseshoe-shaped rim and seasonal waterfall.

• Cedar Falls: A 1-mile moderate trail leading to the park's most voluminous waterfall, plunging 50 feet amidst a serene forest setting.

• Rock House: A 1-mile moderate trail that leads to the park's only true cave, a tunnel-like corridor with natural windows and gothic-like arches.

• Cantwell Cliffs: A 2-mile challenging trail offering hikers a remote experience with steep climbs and narrow passages through high sandstone cliffs.

• Conkle’s Hollow Nature Preserve: Features two trails: a 0.75-mile easy, wheelchair-accessible Lower Gorge Trail and a 2-mile challenging Upper Rim Trail, both offering views of sheer cliffs rising nearly 200 feet.

• Whispering Cave/Hemlock Bridge Trail: A 4.5-mile difficult trail that includes a swinging bridge and leads to the impressive 105-foot Whispering Cave.

Additionally, the Grandma Gatewood Trail connects Old Man’s Cave, Cedar Falls, and Ash Cave, forming part of the Buckeye Trail and two national trail systems.

Flora & Fauna

Hocking Hills' diverse ecosystems support a rich array of plant and animal life:

• Flora: The park's cool gorges and moist coves are home to hemlock, beech, maple, and oak trees, along with ferns, wildflowers, and rare plants like Canadian yew and bigleaf magnolia.

• Fauna: Visitors may encounter white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, barred owls, ruffed grouse, and, on rare occasions, bobcats and black bears.

Camping & Lodging

Accommodations in and around Hocking Hills cater to a range of preferences:

• Hocking Hills State Park Campground: Offers 199 campsites with options for full hook-up, electric, and non-electric sites, as well as Sherman Cabins for a more comfortable stay.

• Hocking Hills State Park Lodge: Features 81 guestrooms and 40 cabins, including pet-friendly and ADA-accessible options, providing rustic charm with modern amenities.

• Local Lodging: The surrounding area boasts a variety of accommodations, from cozy cabins and bed & breakfasts to inns and hotels, many equipped with amenities like hot tubs and fireplaces.

Tips for Hikers

• Trail Etiquette: Stay on designated trails to protect the fragile ecosystems and prevent erosion.

• Seasonal Highlights: Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers lush greenery, fall showcases vibrant foliage, and winter reveals stunning ice formations.

• Wildlife Watching: Early morning or late evening hikes increase the chances of spotting wildlife.

• Preparation: Wear appropriate footwear, carry sufficient water, and check weather conditions before setting out.

Hocking Hills State Park offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, making it a must-visit destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Additional Resources:

• Explore Hocking Hills – Official Tourism Website
• Hocking Hills State Park – Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR)
• Hocking Hills State Park Lodge
• Hocking Hills Cabins and Lodging
• Hocking Hills Trails Map (PDF)