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Hocking Hills is a top Ohio destination for outdoor adventures, small town charm and family fun. The area is rife with natural beauty – and there are a multitude of ways to enjoy it. To help fellow travelers discover the best of the region, we have compiled a list of the Greatest Things To Do in Hocking Hills, Ohio!
With rolling mountains and forested lands, the best Hocking Hills activities are outdoors. That said, travelers can also seek out the unique attractions and entertaining experiences to enhance their trip to the area.
Best Time to Visit Hocking Hills, Ohio
Hocking Hills is beautiful any time of year! Determining when to go to Hocking Hills will depend on what you want to do.
Summer tends to have the ideal weather for activities in Hocking Hills and is the time when most attractions are open. Autumn is our favorite time to visit because the fall foliage is amazing.
Winter might not seem like a good time to go, but frozen waterfalls and snow-covered landscapes can be beautiful. In the spring, wildflowers are in bloom and waterfalls are flowing…but trails are often muddy and not all attractions are open yet.
Pro Tip: As you plan your vacation to Hocking Hills, staying organized is key. Our 26-page Travel Planner Printable will help you sort all the details of your trip!
25 Top Things To Do in Hocking Hills, Ohio
Now it’s time to dive into our list of the Best Hocking Hills, Ohio Things To Do. We include all the top attractions that will appeal to a range of visitors.
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Hocking Hills Travel Guide for your trip to Ohio!
#1 Hike in Hocking Hills
Hocking Hills State Park features more than 25 miles of hiking trails that traverse the most stunningly beautiful landscapes in the region.
Trails range from short and easy walks through the woods to difficult hikes that require trekkers to scamper over rocks and up steep inclines.
Some of the best trails are Old Man’s Cave, Rock House and Cantwell Cliffs. Read more in our dedicated article – Hiking Hocking Hills – that details everything you need to know!
#2 Join Ranger-Led Activities at Hocking Hills
Another one of the free and fun things to do at Hocking Hills State Park is to join a ranger for an outdoor activity. Ranger-led programs vary from guided hikes to naturalist chats. Find upcoming Hocking Hills State Park activities on their official park calendar.
#3 Zipline with Hocking Hills Canopy Tours
Ziplining through the forest is one of the most popular activities. The best zipline in Hocking Hills is Canopy Tours. A world-class ziplining adventure, they offer an exhilarating experience on state-of-the-art challenge courses. Book your adventure with Canopy Tours Hocking Hills.
#4 Paddle Down the Hocking River
Canoeing in Hocking Hills, Ohio is a fantastic outdoor adventure. Hocking Hills canoe options range in length – but most trips are half-day excursions.
Kayaking the Hocking is another fun way to get out on the water for a half day of fun! Paddlers can opt for a single or tandem kayak for navigating the river.
For larger groups and families that want to paddle together, rafting is the best option. While the Hocking River does not have whitewater rapids, rafting can still be a blast!
Alternatively, forget paddling and let the river carry you downstream while floating in a tube! Tubing the Hocking River will take longer than paddling, but it can be a lot more relaxing, too.
Hocking Hills Adventures offers numerous river trips for tubing, rafting, kayaking and canoeing – including a unique moonlit tour. Hocking Hills Canoe Livery is another company offering boat rentals and transport.
#5 Rock Climbing at Hocking Hills
Top characteristics of Hocking Hills are the sheer cliff walls and unique rock formations. With these natural wonders, rock climbing has become one of the top Hocking Hills things to do!
While rock climbing within Hocking Hills State Park is off limits, there are 99 acres of land in Hocking Hills State Forest designated for rappelling and climbing. The rock climbing area is near Conckles Hollow State Nature Preserve.
Visitors can also book a tour with High Rock Adventures for rappelling, climbing, rock challenges and eco tours with professional guides.
#6 Saddle Up for Horseback Riding Hocking Hills
Horseback riding is a great way to experience the beauty of the area in a unique way. Several regional ranches provide guided trail tours, all-day cookout adventures and the opportunity to care for the horses.
The Spotted Horse Ranch has a fun Cowboy Cookout Ride, while Happy Trails allows guests to have breakfast with the Horses!
#7 Bike at Hocking Hills
Bicyclists can hop on one of the dedicated trails to discover the region on two wheels. In Hocking Hills State Park, there are two looping mountain biking trails. Both are two miles and classified as intermediate. Find more info at MTB Project.
Regionally, mountain bikers will also find trails at Lake Hope State Park, Tar Hollow State Park and in Athens on the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway.
#8 Go Fishing at Hocking Hills
Anglers can cast a line in the Hocking River or at Lake Logan State Park, Rose Lake or Lake Hope State Park.
A license is required to fish in Hocking Hills rivers and lakes. You can get one online at the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Those without their own gear can book a fishing trip in Hocking Hills with Ohio Belly Boat Fishing.
#9 Gaze Up at the Sky at the John Glenn Astronomy Park
While there are many places to sit back and enjoy the night sky, the John Glenn Astronomy Park offers informational programs and telescopes for viewing.
The Astronomy Park is void of light pollution, making it possible to see stars, constellations and planets on clear nights. During the daytime, visitors can look at the sun through telescopes with special filters.
#10 Drive the Hocking Hills Scenic Byway
The Hocking Hills Scenic Byway – formally State Route 374 – is a fabulous drive that passes by the area’s top attractions and historic sights.
The 21-mile road extends south from Route 33 to Ohio State Route 56. It traverses some of the most gorgeous landscapes in the region. Find more details and information on this printable PDF.
#11 Seek Out Haunted Hocking Hills
Fans of paranormal activity and creepy ghost stories can delve into the spookier side of the area by seeking out haunted places.
Haunted Hocking Hills explains the folklore, legends and ghosts of the region. Families with children can opt for the kids’ version of the book that is a little less scary and includes activities, too.
#12 Shopping in Hocking Hills
One of the fabulous things about the Hocking Hills region is that there are an array of incredible local products, handmade goods and treasured antiques.
Go shopping at the locally owned stores on Main Street in Logan or antiquing at Hocking Hills Market in Rockbridge. Both destinations feature a treasure trove of interesting finds.
For a classic country store experience, stop by Grandma Faye’s. It’s a great place for souvenirs, sandwiches, fudge and camping supplies.
#13 Get a Spa Treatment at Cedar Falls
If your trip to Hocking Hills is for a little rest and relaxation, then consider getting a rejuvenating spa treatment at the Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls.
The boutique spa, which is situated amongst splendid nature, offers luxurious treatments. Get a Pawpaw Facial (a local seasonal fruit) or the Couples’ Massage!
#14 Visit Museums in Hocking Hills
For stuff to do in Hocking Hills that is both interesting and educational, go to one of the area museums.
Pencil Sharpener Museum
A personal collection of more than 3,400 pencil sharpeners, the tiny Pencil Sharpener Museum in Logan is quirky, nostalgic and fun!
Ohio Glass Museum
Visiting the Glass Museum is one of the cool things to do in the Hocking Hills area. In addition to the glassworks exhibits, visitors can watch a glassblower create works of art on site.
Columbus Washboard Factory
Manufacturing quality washboards since 1895, the Columbus Washboard Company operates in a historic brick building. They offer factory tours showcasing the tools used to make the washboards.
Hocking Hills Historical Society and Museum Complex
Open on weekends from spring until autumn, the Hocking Hills Historical Society is comprised of a complex of buildings dedicated to sharing local history.
#15 Pan for Gold at the Hocking Hills Gem Mine
Part of the Hocking Hills KOA Campground, the Gem Mine and Gold Rush can provide hours of fun.
Grab a bucket and search for gemstones, arrowheads and even shark teeth – or take it up a notch and try the Gold Panning Experience. Gem mining in Hocking Hills is available daily from April until September.
#16 Spend an Afternoon at the Petting Zoo
The petting zoo at Fox’s High Rock Farm is one of the kid-favorite Hocking Hills family activities.
Visitors can play with the pigs, pet the goats and help feed the farm animals. There is a small fee for the petting zoo and feedings, but a fun activity to include on a budget trip.
#17 Play Putt Putt at Rempel’s Grove
Another one of the fun things to do around Hocking Hills for families, playing Putt Putt Golf at Rempel’s Grove is great for kids and adults, alike!
Somewhat challenging, the putt putt golf course in Hocking Hills is 18-holes and features a waterfall, cave and flowers. Additionally, there is an on-site ice cream shop and small petting zoo.
#18 Sip and Swirl at the Hocking Hills Winery
Sipping and swirling locally produced wine is one of the fun things to do at Hocking Hills, OH. The family-run winery has created a casual space that is ideal for gathering, tasting and enjoying.
Whether sampling the wine, buying a bottle or savoring a slushie, visitors are invited to get comfortable while listening to live music and reveling in the atmosphere. Guests can nosh on charcuterie boards, order from nearby local restaurants or bring their own food. Get more details!
#19 Hop Aboard the Hocking Scenic Train
The Hocking Valley Scenic Railway in Nelsonville is one of the cool things to do nearby. The railroad was built in the mid-1800s to connect the region to Columbus.
Today, visitors can hop aboard the historic trains for a scenic 2-hour ride. In addition to the regularly scheduled trips, they offer special holiday events and on-board dinner rides, too. Find out more!
#20 Walk through the Moonville Tunnel
Located in the Zaleski State Forest, Moonville Tunnel is one of the intriguing attractions near Hocking Hills. The tunnel, which is said to be haunted, was built in the mid-1800s to accommodate a railroad line.
Because trains no longer traverse the route, the tracks have been transformed into a walking path. The multiuse Moonville Tunnel Rail Trail extends 16 miles in total, but many just walk a 1-mile out-and-back section.
#21 Spend Time at Lake Hope State Park
Lake Hope is more rustic (and tends to be less crowded) than Hocking Hills. The park is situated on land once used for mining and industry – and some remnants of the past remain (like the historic Hope Blast Furnace).
Water activities on Lake Hope are a big summertime draw, but hiking and biking trails, fishing, hunting and camping are other top reasons to check out the park.
#22 Take in Panoramic Views from Jacob’s Ladder
Within the Christmas Rocks State Nature Preserve is a fabulous rock formation – called Jacob’s Ladder. The 4.5-mile looping hike is a moderate trek, but worth it for the views.
The park is also popular with birdwatchers and plant lovers – as there are a few unique and endangered species within it’s boundaries.
#23 Explore the Campus at Ohio University in Athens
Tucked away in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in Athens, Ohio University boasts the most beautiful college campus in all of Ohio. I should know, as an alumni!
Marked with historic red brick buildings and cobblestone streets, the gorgeous campus is centered on the idyllic College Green.
Top attractions in Athens include walking around campus, The Ridges and Kennedy Art Museum and Uptown. Here you can watch a movie at the historic Athena Cinema, eat a meal at Casa Nueva or have a fresh craft beer at Jackie O’s!
#24 Step Back in Time in Chillicothe, Ohio
Another one of the things to do near Hocking Hills is to visit the historic city of Chillicothe. The first capital of the State of Ohio, Chillicothe is shrouded in history.
The top reasons to visit Chillicothe are the Adena Mansion, the Native American earthworks and the antique shops in downtown. Read our article on all the Best Things To Do in Chillicothe!
#25 Partake in the Events in Hocking Hills
There are community activities in Hocking Hills throughout the year – and visitors can plan their trip around the fun events! We are highlighting just a few of the top Hocking Hills events that you might want to attend.
Maple Tapping Festival
Learn about maple tapping…and then taste the sweet product. The festival takes place in March…and there are always plenty of pancakes!
Hippie Fest Hocking Hills
The groovy Hippie Fest is an annual event in Hocking Hills that takes place over a weekend in the summertime. In addition to local vendors and artists, the festival includes live music and a car show (where there are certain to be vintage VWs!).
Indian Run Hocking Hills
The Hocking Hills Indian Run is one of the top activities in the autumn. Participants can sign up for different lengths and the course takes runners on trails through Hocking Hills State Park.
Christmas in Ash Cave
In December, stroll to Ash Cave by candlelight and then enjoy carolers and merriment by a bonfire. Guests can help decorate trees and kids can visit with Santa!
Top Tips for Your Trip to Hocking Hills
Now that you know all of the best things to do in and around Hocking Hills, let’s chat about the details – such as where to stay, what to eat and things to pack.
Where To Stay in Hocking Hills
There are so many fantastic things to do at Hocking Hills that we recommend staying a few days! Visitors have ample choices for lodging, so we are highlighting a few of the top picks.
Camping at Hocking Hills
Those with a tent can choose from several area campgrounds – including both state sites and privately owned land.
The Altenbrauch Farm, which is both primitive and peaceful, gets great reviews from campers. Check availability!
Cabin Rentals Hocking Hills
Staying in one of the cabins in Hocking Hills, Ohio is a superb way to experience the region. Visitors will find that they fill up quickly in the summer and autumn, so it is best to book ahead.
Pine Creek Horseman’s Camp are luxury cabins that are equipped with modern conveniences and hot tubs. Check rates!
Treehouses in Hocking Hills
Travelers seeking unique accommodations in Hocking Hills can opt to stay in a luxury treehouse! While not a budget option, staying in the treetops can be an amazing experience. Check these out!
Hocking Hills Hotels
Visitors who want to stay in a hotel in Hocking Hills have a few options, as well. There are several located in Logan, Ohio on Route 33. Check for availability.
That said, there is a boutique hotel in Hocking Hills State Park, The Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls. This property offers both cozy cottages and comfortable yurts. Additionally, they have an on-site restaurant and spa. Check for availability!
Best Places To Eat in Hocking Hills, OH
On your trip to Hocking Hills you will surely need some sustenance – and there are some fine restaurants where you can get your fill.
Dining in Hocking Hills State Park
There are only a few restaurants in Hocking Hills State Park where you can grab a bite to eat between hikes or after you hit the trails.
Grandma Faye’s Grocery
A charming grocery, Grandma Faye’s is a great place to stop for deli sandwiches. You can also pick up necessities for cooking over a campfire (or on a charcoal grill).
Kindred Spirits
A meal here is an experience in fine dining in Hocking Hills. The restaurant is part of the Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls and they excel at serving exceptional fare in a quaint ambiance. Reservations are recommended!
Eating at Restaurants in Logan, Ohio
Visitors will find many more Hocking Hills dining options in Logan – and we are highlighting a few of the top picks.
Millstone Southern Smoked BBQ
Featuring deliciously smoked meats that are slow cooked for 15+ hours, Milestone is a favorite local spot for spot-on barbecue.
Olde Dutch
Specializing in homestyle fare served a la carte and at the all-you-can-eat buffet – just be sure to save room for pie!
Hungry Buffalo
Guests can order classic American eats – like a bison burger, cheese curds and fried pickles – and then throw axes after the meal.
Pizza Crossing
Hailed by many as The Best Pizza in Hocking, they offer a full menu that also includes pasta, salad and subs.
58 West
The food can be hit or miss, but 58 West is a good spot for shareable appetizers. Plus, they pour wines by Hocking Hills Winery and local craft brews by Hocking Hills Brewing Company.
What You Will Need for Your Trip to Hocking Hills
We have just one final tip for your trip: What to pack. You can check out all our packing hacks, but for now, grab your FREE Checklist and let’s go to Ohio!
Comfortable Trail Shoes
Hiking through the lush forests and pristine nature ranks as one of the greatest activities in the region. When you hit the trails, you need proper footwear.
I am comfortable hiking in these trainers – they are my favorite travel shoes! Kris likes to wear Merrell Trail Glove shoes for all hikes.
Travel Camera
Hocking Hills is stunningly beautiful! Rather than trying to capture the beauty of it with your phone, upgrade to a real camera. We use a budget travel camera – the Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens for all our trips.
Day Pack
Don’t forget to take a day bag on your Hocking Hills trip! We use a lightweight backpack to carry our essentials. We find a backpack is most comfortable for hiking and easy to tote around. Read our review of the Best Day Pack for Travelers.
Things To Do Hocking Hills Attractions Map
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Map of Hocking Hills below.
Start planning your trip in the USA! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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