Things to do in Hocking Hills

Discover our 12 favorite things to do in Hocking Hills! Just southeast of Columbus, Ohio, Hocking Hills is a beautiful region in the foothills of the Appalachian mountains.

About Hocking Hills

Just southeast of Columbus, Ohio, Hocking Hills is a beautiful region in the foothills of the Appalachian mountains. The region is an entire county full of gorgeous state parks to hike and explore.

Hocking Hills is my favorite place to commune with nature, and I want to share some of my favorite family-friendly places to visit while I’m there. In my opinion, it’s one of the most beautiful places in Ohio.

The hiking in Hocking Hills is amazing, and within the Hocking Hills State Park, there are over 30 miles of marked trails to explore. There is something for everyone here, from casual walkers to athletic hikers.

Map of Things to Do in Hocking Hills

Hocking Hills Hiking

Ash Cave

Ash Cave is a paved trail that is wheelchair and stroller-friendly, and dogs on a leash are welcome. This trail includes pretty waterfalls, huge, towering hemlock trees, and a recessed cave to explore. Open all year round, the trail is beautiful no matter what season it is.

Cedar Falls

Cedar Falls trail is a “wild and secluded, but spectacularly beautiful” place. It may be one of the most enjoyable hikes there. The 40-minute trail is popular with winter hikers and boasts large, moss-covered rock formations and one of the largest waterfalls in the park.

Old Man’s Cave

Old Man’s Cave is a 1-mile rugged hike through the middle of the gorge. It includes tunnels, bridges, and more amazing waterfalls and rock formations. The Devil’s Bathtub leads down to Old Man’s Cave.

Conkle’s Hollow

Conkle’s Hollow is yet another beautiful hiking spot, and this one has two options. For an easier hike, take the lower trail which is suitable for children, while the upper trail is at the top of some tall cliffs and is a more dangerous adventure. *Pets are not allowed in this area of the park as it is a Nature Preserve.

Cantwell Cliffs

Cantwell Cliffs is a moderately difficult hike with deep valleys and cliffs, as well as some tight squeezes. It’s worth it to see the gorgeous views though.

Rockhouse

Rockhouse is situated halfway up a 150-foot cliff. This cave is said to have been a hideout for criminals in years past and it’s amazing to imagine people living in this place. This trail is fairly difficult, and children must be carefully supervised near the cliffs.

The Hemlock Bridge Trail

The Hemlock Bridge Trail is the newest trail in the park system in Hocking Hills. This trail gets its name from a swinging bridge, and visitors won’t be disappointed with the views along the trail.

• Check out our article about the 7 Major Hiking Areas of Hocking Hills!

Things to Do in Hocking Hills

Hocking Hills Welcome Center

There are three welcome centers in Hocking Hills, this particular one is a must-visit location before you start your day! You will find information about current events, brochures, local activities, and maps.

• Address: 13178 St. Rt. 664 S, Logan, Ohio 43138
• Phone: 740-385-9706 | Website | Facebook | Instagram
• Check out our article about Hocking Hills Welcome Center!

AHA! Hands-On Adventure Museum

If you have kids under 8 years old, the AHA! Hands-on Adventure Museum is a must-visit. This play museum is a wonderful educational opportunity that everyone will enjoy.

• Address: 1708 River Valley Circle South, Lancaster, Ohio 43130
• Phone: 740-653-1010 | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Adventure Golf at Rempel’s Grove

Who doesn’t love a round of playful mini-golf? Hocking Hills has just the place for you to get in a round of mini-golf and show off your golfing skills.

• Address: 12793 State Route 664 S, Logan, Ohio 43138
• Phone: 740-385-0400 | Website | Facebook | Instagram
• Check out our article about Adventure Golf at Rempel’s Grove!

Hocking Hills KOA

The Hocking Hills KOA will let you pan for gems or gold. This part of the KOA is open to the public, you just pay for your mining kit! Price points vary based on what you’d like to find while you’re mining.

• Address: 29150 Pattor Rd, Logan, Ohio 43138
• Phone: 740-385-4295 | Website

Hocking Hills Horse Rides

Hocking Hills Horse Rides offers one or two-hour standard rides, and three, four, or six-hour destination rides. They also have ‘Proposal Rides’ for a unique way to propose to that someone special in your life! They usually have between 9 and 11 working horses. If you turn up early for your morning ride or want to stay late for your afternoon ride, you can groom, tack, and feed your horse.

• Address: 23764 Big Pine Road, South Bloomingville, Ohio 43152
• Phone: 740-603-0193 | Website | Facebook | Instagram
• Check out our article about Hocking Hills Horse Rides!

Let’s Visit Hocking Hills!

I can’t rave enough about the things to do in Hocking Hills. From state forests to all the varying lakes, you and your family are certain to have an amazing time exploring it all. The next time you plan a family visit in Ohio, Hocking Hills needs to be on your radar.

You’re certain to see towering cliffs, waterfalls, and deep lakes that seem to go on for miles. Don’t forget about all the caves as well!

One thing is for certain, there are more items and fun things to do in Hocking Hills than meets the eye. Check out our article Ultimate Guide to Hocking Hills! Plan your family-friendly vacation today!

Have you been to Hocking Hills? What is your favorite thing to do in the region? Leave a comment below and share your experience!

If you would like to take a step back in time and check out some fine bourbon, visit Hocking Hills Moonshine! We have a lot of information about this region, so if you want to discover more, check out our Hocking Hills category.