Logan & Hocking County, Ohio # Your guide to Hocking Hills, Ohio’s natural wonder Hocking Hills in Southeast Ohio is known for sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, recess caves like Old Man’s Cave and Ash Cave, and hemlock forests, perfect for hiking and cabin weekends. This guide covers cabins, top hikes, activities, dining, and the best times to go. Start exploring the sections below to plan your unforgettable Hocking Hills escape! [Choose your hikes](https://hockinghillsescape.com/#hikes) [Find a place to stay](https://hockinghillsescape.com/#stay) Upper Falls below a stone bridge at Old Man’s Cave in Hocking Hills State Park Upper Falls at Old Man’s Cave Photo: [See1,Do1,Teach1](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Old_Man%27s_Cave,_Upper_Falls_(31865229084).jpg) · [CC BY 2.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/) · resized/cropped. ## Where should I stay in Hocking Hills for a weekend getaway? For a weekend getaway in Hocking Hills, visitors typically choose from cabins, lodges, or hotels in the Logan area or near state park trailheads. Cabins are the most popular option, offering privacy and immersion in nature. ### Rustic and log cabins Wood interiors, fireplaces, and quiet wooded lots. ### Modern and A-frame cabins Big windows and updated kitchens. ### Pet-friendly cabins Dogs welcome, often for a small fee. See the [trail rules for dogs](https://hockinghillsescape.com/#faq-dogs). ### Romantic getaway cabins Secluded, built for two, often with a hot tub. Cabins cluster near the Old Man’s Cave Visitor Center and around Logan. Book the park’s rooms and cabins through the [Hocking Hills State Park Lodge website](https://www.hockinghillsparklodge.com/). - Book far in advance for fall weekends (September–October). - Verify amenities like hot tubs or fireplaces before booking. To see current availability, prices, and reviews for Hocking Hills cabins, check [trusted booking sites](https://www.vrbo.com/search?destination=Hocking%20Hills%2C%20Ohio). If you book or shop through an affiliate link, this guide may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. ## What are the best hiking trails in Hocking Hills? The top five hiking trails in Hocking Hills are Old Man’s Cave, Cedar Falls, Ash Cave, Rock House, and the Conkle’s Hollow Rim Trail. They range from easy to strenuous and feature the area’s signature waterfalls, recess caves, and cliffs. A recess cave is a wide, shallow hollow in a cliff face. It forms where a softer middle layer of sandstone wears away faster than the harder rock above it. ### Old Man’s Cave Start: Old Man’s Cave Visitor Center, State Route 664 Distance: 1-mile loop Difficulty: Moderate stone stairs and steep steps Time: 1 to 1.5 hours Upper and Lower Falls, the Devil’s Bathtub, and a cave named for a hermit who lived there. Local tip Weekend parking fills early. Arrive early or come on a weekday. ### Cedar Falls Start: Cedar Falls parking lot Distance: 1 mile Difficulty: Moderate stairs into the gorge Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour The park’s biggest waterfall by volume, in a hemlock-lined gorge. Local tip Go in spring or after rain, when the falls run fullest. ### Ash Cave Start: Ash Cave parking lot, State Route 56 Distance: ¼-mile Gorge Trail, plus a ¼-mile Rim Trail Difficulty: Easy on the flat, wheelchair-accessible Gorge Trail. The Rim Trail is rated Moderate and has stairs. Time: 30 to 45 minutes Ohio’s largest recess cave, with a thin waterfall spilling over its rim. Local tip With a stroller or wheelchair, or to avoid stairs, stay on the Gorge Trail. ### Rock House Start: Rock House parking lot Distance: 1 mile Difficulty: Moderate steep, uneven steps Time: About 1 hour The park’s only true cave: a stone corridor with window-like openings. Local tip Wear shoes with aggressive tread. The stairs get slick when wet. ### Conkle’s Hollow Rim Trail Start: Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve parking lot Distance: 2- to 2.5-mile loop Difficulty: Strenuous climbs to unfenced cliff edges Time: 1.5 to 2 hours Sweeping views down into a deep, narrow gorge. Local tip Not for small children or anyone uneasy with heights. No dogs. The partly paved Gorge Trail below is the easy alternative. The first four trails are in Hocking Hills State Park. Conkle’s Hollow is a separate state nature preserve a short drive away, with its own rules (see [Conkle’s Hollow on the Ohio DNR site](https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/conkles-hollow-state-nature-preserve) ). Stay on marked trails and follow the directional signs where a trail is one-way. See [what to pack for a day hike](https://hockinghillsescape.com/#faq-pack). Always check current trail conditions and any closures on the [Ohio DNR Hocking Hills State Park website](https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/hocking-hills-state-park) before hiking. Visitors beneath the wide sandstone recess and thin waterfall at Ash Cave in Hocking Hills Ash Cave’s wide sandstone recess Photo: [Always Shooting](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ash_cave,_Hocking_Hills_(13899416054)_(2).jpg) · [CC BY 2.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/) · resized/cropped. ## What activities can I do in Hocking Hills besides hiking? Beyond hiking, Hocking Hills offers treetop ziplining, guided horseback trail rides, canoeing and kayaking on the Hocking River, and guided rock climbing and rappelling on sandstone cliffs. There are options for a quiet outing or a bigger adventure. Check each operator’s age, fitness, and booking requirements. ### Ziplining [Hocking Hills Canopy Tours](https://www.hockinghillscanopytours.com/) in Rockbridge offers guided courses and a children’s DragonFly course. Best for: Adventure-seekers; DragonFly is for ages 5–12 with a parent or guardian and weight restrictions. Booking: Tours are seasonal. Check available dates and each course’s requirements before reserving. ### Horseback riding For families, [Hocking Hills Horse Rides](https://hockinghillshorserides.com/) in South Bloomingville offers trail rides for ages 10+ and short hand-led rides for younger children. [Blue Moon Acres](https://www.bluemoonacresstable.com/) near Laurelville offers small guided rides for adults and experienced older teens. Best for: Choose for each rider’s age and experience. Blue Moon accepts no riders under 14; riders 14–17 need riding experience, and no-experience riders must be 18+. Booking: Reserve ahead. Hocking Hills Horse Rides requires helmets under 18 and has a 250-pound limit; confirm suitability for younger children. Blue Moon is cash-only and closed Mondays, Tuesdays, winter and its summer break; read its [rider rules](https://www.bluemoonacresstable.com/_prices_discounts__rules). ### Canoeing and kayaking [Hocking Hills Adventures](https://hockinghillscanoeing.com/) in Logan offers river trips with boats and shuttle service. You can also compare its [Natural Rockbridge canoe and kayak trip on GetYourGuide](https://www.getyourguide.com/logan-ohio-l258097/hocking-hills-scenic-river-trip-from-the-natural-rockbridge-t875792/). Best for: Couples and paddlers who choose a trip suited to their experience. River trips are self-guided. Booking: Check river conditions, participant requirements, and available dates before booking. ### Rock climbing and rappelling [High Rock Adventures](https://www.highrockadventures.com/hocking-hills-rock-climbing/) in Rockbridge offers guided tours on private sandstone cliffs with equipment included. Climbing is banned in the state park; the designated public climbing area is in [Hocking State Forest](https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/hocking-state-forest). Best for: Visitors who meet the operator’s physical and participation requirements. Booking: Reserve ahead and check the specific tour’s age, fitness, and weight requirements. To see current schedules, prices, and book these activities, check [trusted adventure providers](https://www.explorehockinghills.com/things-to-do/). If you book or shop through an affiliate link, this guide may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Cedar Falls cascading down sandstone surrounded by green trees in Hocking Hills Cedar Falls in Hocking Hills State Park Photo: [James St. John](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Cedar_Falls_(Hocking_Hills,_Ohio,_USA)_13_(34016227334).jpg) · [CC BY 2.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/) · resized/cropped. ## Where should I eat in Hocking Hills? For food near Hocking Hills, try breakfast at Hocking Hills Diner, barbecue or pizza in Logan, or breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the State Park Lodge. Pick up groceries before driving to your cabin or the trailheads. Reserve lodge dinners ahead and check each restaurant’s current hours. Breakfast: Try [Hocking Hills Diner](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hocking+Hills+Diner/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8847e57d6f5bd641:0x680a46eb27f3b355) on East Front Street in Logan. Check its current listing or call 740-380-9987 before going. Barbecue & pizza: Try [Millstone Southern Smoked BBQ](https://www.themillstonebbq.com/contact) on Grey Street or [Pizza Crossing’s Logan location](https://pizzacrossing.com/) on North Mulberry Street. Lodge dining: [Rock House Restaurant](https://www.hockinghillsparklodge.com/dining/rock-house-restaurant) serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner at Hocking Hills State Park Lodge. Dinner reservations are required. Picnic supplies: Stock up at [Walmart’s Logan Supercenter](https://www.walmart.com/store/3282-logan-oh) on State Route 664 South for sandwich fixings, fruit, and water. Local tip: Pack lunch on hiking days. The main trailheads have picnic areas with reservable shelters. Check the operator’s payment options before your visit. For specific menus, hours, and reservations, check individual restaurant websites or apps like [OpenTable](https://www.opentable.com/). ## When is the best time to visit Hocking Hills, and what should I know before going? The best time to visit Hocking Hills depends on your preferences: spring offers wildflowers and peak waterfalls, summer provides lush greenery and water play, fall features world-class colors (peak typically mid-to-late October), and winter showcases frozen waterfalls and ice formations for solitude. Essential tips apply year-round to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. ### Spring Mar–May Wildflowers bloom and waterfalls peak after rain. Expect muddy trails. ### Summer Jun–Aug Lush greenery and cool gorges. Prepare for humidity and bugs. ### Fall Sep–Nov World-class fall colors, typically peaking mid-to-late October. Book cabins early for weekends. ### Winter Dec–Feb Frozen waterfalls and ice formations. Check for trail closures. ### Before you go Parking: Free at every state park trailhead, with no entrance fee. Lots fill early on busy weekends. Pets: Leashed dogs (6-foot leash maximum) are welcome on state park trails, but not at Conkle’s Hollow. Pack: Water, snacks, [sturdy shoes](https://www.rei.com/c/hiking-footwear), layers, and a [rain jacket](https://www.rei.com/c/rain-jackets). Cell service: Often spotty. Download offline maps and share your plan with someone. Getting around: A car or prearranged transport is the simplest way to reach rural cabins and separate trailheads. [Uber advertises ride requests in Logan](https://www.uber.com/global/en/r/cities/logan-oh-us/), but that does not guarantee a driver at your cabin or a return ride. Do not assume Lyft covers a rural cabin; check your exact pickup in the app. Check both legs before relying on a ride app. Local transport: [Logan Public Transit](https://hapcap.org/transportation/logan-public-transit/) serves visitors throughout Hocking County on weekdays; call 740-385-6999 at least 24 hours ahead for regular fares and confirm your pickup. Its seasonal weekend trail shuttle follows fixed routes rather than picking up at cabins; check the current schedule. If you book or shop through an affiliate link, this guide may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Sandstone cliffs and wooded valley seen from above at Conkle’s Hollow in late autumn Cliffs and the wooded valley at Conkle’s Hollow Photo: [Chris M Morris](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Conkle%27s_Hollow_(5221342857).jpg) · [CC BY 2.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/) · resized/cropped. ## How can I plan a perfect weekend in Hocking Hills? Two sample itineraries below show how to combine hiking, activities, dining, and relaxation for a memorable Hocking Hills weekend. ### A First-Timer’s Adventure Weekend - Friday eveningArrive, settle into your [cabin](https://www.vrbo.com/search?destination=Hocking%20Hills%2C%20Ohio), and grab a casual dinner in Logan. - Saturday morningZipline with [Hocking Hills Canopy Tours](https://www.hockinghillscanopytours.com/). Morning tours beat the afternoon heat and crowds. - Saturday afternoonHike Old Man’s Cave, then drive a few minutes each to Cedar Falls and Ash Cave. Allow 3 to 4 hours, drives included. - Saturday eveningCabin cookout, or barbecue in Logan. - Sunday morningChoose a suitable river trip with [Hocking Hills Adventures](https://hockinghillscanoeing.com/), if conditions and dates allow. Leave time for the shuttle and paddling. - Sunday afternoonHead home. ### A Slow, Romantic Getaway - Friday eveningCheck into a secluded [cabin with a hot tub](https://www.vrbo.com/search?destination=Hocking%20Hills%2C%20Ohio) and order pizza in. - Saturday morningWalk Rock House early. Its stone corridor is quietest before 10 AM. - Saturday afternoonStroll the easy Ash Cave Gorge Trail, then take the winding scenic drive along State Route 374. - Saturday eveningReserve dinner at [Rock House Restaurant](https://www.hockinghillsparklodge.com/dining/rock-house-restaurant), or cook by your cabin fireplace. - Sunday morningPick a river trip suited to your paddling experience, if conditions allow, or enjoy a slow cabin breakfast. - Sunday afternoonDepart. Adjust based on your interests, fitness level, and season—this is just a starting point! ## Hocking Hills FAQ ### Are dogs allowed on Hocking Hills trails? Yes, on most of them. Leashed dogs are welcome on Hocking Hills State Park trails, including Old Man’s Cave, Cedar Falls, Ash Cave, Rock House, and Cantwell Cliffs. Leashes must be six feet or shorter, and you must pick up after your dog. Dogs are not allowed in state nature preserves, including Conkle’s Hollow. ### Do I need reservations for Hocking Hills state parks? No. Hiking trails and trailhead parking are free and need no reservation. Trails open a half hour before sunrise and close a half hour after sunset. You do need a reservation for a park campsite, and you can reserve picnic shelters through ReserveOhio. The State Park Lodge and its cabins book through Great Ohio Lodges. ### What should I pack for a day hike in Hocking Hills? Wear sturdy shoes with good tread, because sandstone steps get slick. Pack water, snacks or lunch, a rain jacket, and a warm layer, since the gorges stay cooler than the parking lots. Download offline maps before you go, carry a small first-aid kit, and bring a bag to pack out your trash. ### Are there guided tours available in Hocking Hills? Yes. Local operators offer guided zipline tours, horseback rides, and rock climbing and rappelling. Canoe and kayak river trips can be self-guided, with boats and shuttle service provided. Check the operator’s trip details rather than assuming a guide comes along. Ask at the Old Man’s Cave Visitor Center about scheduled ranger-led hikes. ### Is cell service reliable in Hocking Hills? No. Coverage is spotty to nonexistent in many gorges and on back roads, even near popular trailheads. Download offline maps and your cabin’s directions before you arrive, screenshot your reservations, and tell someone your hiking plan. Many cabins have Wi-Fi, but confirm before booking if you need it. ### What are the easiest hikes for beginners or families with young children? Ash Cave’s quarter-mile Gorge Trail is the easiest: flat, wheelchair accessible, and ending at Ohio’s largest recess cave. The Conkle’s Hollow Gorge Trail is partly paved and about one mile round trip, but no dogs. Old Man’s Cave and Cedar Falls are short but have many stairs. Skip the Conkle’s Hollow Rim Trail with little kids. ### Where can I see the best fall colors in Hocking Hills? Fall color usually peaks in mid-to-late October. For big views, hike the Conkle’s Hollow Rim Trail or Cantwell Cliffs, where you look out over the treetops. For an easy option, drive State Route 374 between the trailheads. Go on a weekday or arrive early, because popular parking lots fill quickly during peak weekends. Disclaimer: Information based on publicly available sources and local knowledge. Verify hours, fees, availability, and trail conditions directly with providers before traveling. This site may earn a commission from affiliate links at no extra cost to you. Sources and update notes Business listings and transport information checked on 12 October 2026 against published operator and official sources. Availability can change; follow the linked source before traveling. - [Ohio DNR: Hocking Hills trails and reservations](https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/hocking-hills-state-park) - [Ohio DNR: Conkle’s Hollow rules and trails](https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/conkles-hollow-state-nature-preserve) - [Ohio DNR: designated forest climbing area](https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/hocking-state-forest) - [Hocking Hills Canopy Tours: seasonal operation](https://www.hockinghillscanopytours.com/contact/) - [Blue Moon Acres: appointments and rider rules](https://www.bluemoonacresstable.com/_prices_discounts__rules) - [Hocking Hills Horse Rides: younger riders and booking rules](https://hockinghillshorserides.com/) - [Hocking Hills Adventures: river trips](https://hockinghillscanoeing.com/) - [High Rock Adventures: guided climbing](https://www.highrockadventures.com/hocking-hills-rock-climbing/) - [Hocking Hills State Park Lodge and Rock House Restaurant](https://www.hockinghillsparklodge.com/dining/rock-house-restaurant) - [Millstone BBQ: location and hours](https://www.themillstonebbq.com/contact) - [Pizza Crossing: Logan location](https://pizzacrossing.com/) - [Hocking Hills Diner: current Google business listing](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hocking+Hills+Diner/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8847e57d6f5bd641:0x680a46eb27f3b355) - [Walmart: Logan store](https://www.walmart.com/store/3282-logan-oh) - [Logan Public Transit: advance-booked and seasonal services](https://hapcap.org/transportation/logan-public-transit/) - [Uber: Logan request coverage](https://www.uber.com/global/en/r/cities/logan-oh-us/) - [Lyft: official city directory](https://www.lyft.com/rider/cities) © 2026 Hocking Hills Escape. Not affiliated with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.