Looking to plan a getaway to Hocking Hills, Ohio? This guide will help you plan your perfect trip! Not sure where to stay, we found the perfect place. Wondering what you should do? We have a list full of the best hikes and activities in the area. Think you’ll go hungry? Think again! We’ve rounded up the best places to grab a bite to eat. So keep reading this guide and start planning your perfect weekend trip to Hocking Hills, Ohio.
Hocking Hills, Ohio, is one of the best places in the Midwest for a weekend getaway with friends, family, or your significant other. We recently took a trip with our 18-month-old and it was the perfect getaway for some easy, yet beautiful hiking and enjoying the peace of nature. It is home to some of the best views and hiking in the Midwest. Not only is it a true Midwest hidden gem, but Hocking Hills State Park is located just a quick 1-hour drive southeast of Columbus and is an easy trip from multiple Midwest cities. Keep reading our guide to Hocking Hills, Ohio and your trip will have planned itself!
Where to Stay in Hocking Hills
Our stay at Idyll Reserve was hosted, however, all views and opinions are our own.
During our trip to Hocking Hills, Ohio, we had the opportunity to stay at Idyll Reserve, an incredible property of 5 secluded, luxury, and eco-friendly cabins. After experiencing two of their five cabins (The Main House and The Cabin), we can truly say Idyll Reserve is the perfect spot to stay when exploring the area for a truly relaxing and comfortable getaway. The property is also conveniently located within a quick drive of many of the best hikes in Hocking Hills.
Despite its close proximity to all the best activities in the area, you might choose to stay on the property with all of the incredible amenities each cabin provides. Need a list? We’ve got you! The Cabins at Idyll Reserve have:
- hot tubs
- patio with stunning views and outdoor dining
- cozy fireplaces
- spa-like bathrooms
- fully stocked kitchens with a Breville for the coffee lovers
- comfy king-sized beds
- and some even have a sauna!
The list goes on! Plus, each cabin is nestled into the woods and creates a feeling of having your own private getaway. We actually welcomed the rain during our stay because it was the perfect excuse to stay in, get cozy, and enjoy the comforts of our Idyll Reserve cabin.
Love a luxury stay? Check out our post on The Best and Most Dreamy Hotels Around the World!
Our Guide to the Best Hikes in Hocking Hills
Hocking Hills State Park and the surrounding area has an extensive list of trails that take you down into deep gorges, across flowing streams, through peaceful forests, and to the edge of cliffs with scenic views. We have included our favorite Hocking Hills, Ohio trails in this guide, however there are plenty more worth checking out. Be sure to check out this trail map before heading out! Most trails are relatively short, but you can connect trails to create even longer routes. It’s also worth noting that many of the trails are one-way which allow for a smoother flow of traffic along the paths.
- Old Man’s Cave – an easy to moderate 1-mile loop that takes you down into the canyon and along the river. You’ll get to walk across unique stone steps, through Old Man’s Cave, and even stop at a waterfall. This hike is very popular and gets busy during the summer, so we’d recommend starting early!
- Cedar Falls – Want a trail you can cool down at? This quick, moderately difficult 1/2-mile loop to Cedar Falls, allows swimming. If you are looking for more of a challenge, you can get to Cedar Falls from Old Man’s Cave with a scenic 5-mile hike.
- Ash Cave – an easy, and accessible 1/2-mile out-and-back trail to the largest recess cave in Ohio (add on another 0.3 if you take the rim trail back, but note this part is not accessible and requires stairs).
- Rock House – a moderately difficult 1-mile loop that leads to the only true cave in Hocking Hills State Park and was one of our favorite hikes. The cave is large with windows that look out into the forest and columns holding up the roof. The cave is nicknamed “Robbers Roost” because of it’s history of hiding robbers, thieves, and murderers.
- Cantwell Cliffs – this is one of the least visited trails because it is a bit of a drive to get to, but is in no way any less beautiful. There are two trails (the rim trail and the gorge trail), both about 1.25 miles long. This hike is perfect for those who love nature! There are views of deep valleys, towering cliffs, and lush forests.
What Other Activities Are In Hocking Hills?
Hocking Hills, Ohio, is known for its incredible scenic hiking, but there are many other fun activities in the area to keep you busy. So if you need a break from hiking, this guide to Hocking Hills, Ohio, will help you find an activity that fits what you are looking for!
- Go shopping in Logan – Logan is the largest town in the area and is full of adorable local shops, eateries, and art. We recommend checking out Homegrown on Main or Hocking Hills Candleworks.
- Zipline through the forest – Check out Hocking Hills Canopy Tours for an exciting outdoor adventure through the treetops! Their ziplines were even voted top in the country by USA Today.
- Canoe or kayak down the river – What better way to cool down after some hiking than to float down a river in a canoe or kayak?
- Go Horseback Riding – Several different ranches and stables in the area offer scenic horseback riding. Most of them have trails and rides that can be tailored to your experience level.
- Take a scenic train ride – Take a family-friendly and historic train ride on this scenic railway. They have several different ride options, one of which may even include a robbery by bandits on horseback!
Where To Eat in Hocking Hills, Ohio
- Coffee Emporium – Coffee Emporium is an adorable coffee shop with delicious breakfast sandwiches, pastries, and coffee. It’s the perfect spot to stop and enjoy a quick bite and caffeinate before hitting the trails.
- Hocking Hills Winery – enjoy a glass or try a flight of their award-winning wines on their patio. They also frequently have live music.
- Brewery 33 – We checked out Brewery 33 for a quick beer and a snack before heading to dinner. The food was just okay, but we really enjoyed their beer! Unfortunately for us, it was raining when we visited. But their patio looked perfect for sitting and enjoying a cold beer on a sunny day.
- 58 West – We stopped here for lunch and absolutely loved it! The food was excellent, and we ended up taking some home for dinner that evening. It is located in historic downtown Logan and serves elevated food, beer, wine, and spirits. They also have a large outdoor patio that is dog-friendly.
- Grab supplies at Grandma Faye’s Grocery – Grandma Faye’s is a staple in the Hocking Hills area and a must-visit when you’re there. We stopped in several times during our trip for groceries and coffee. They also have a restaurant and a gift shop that is worth checking out!
