Step into a nature wonderland at Hocking Hills! Explore deep gorges, beautiful waterfalls, and unique rock formations spanning more than 13,000 acres of lush forests. You’ll have the opportunity to take in native wildlife, plants and a rich history of Ohio’s past. We’ve collected a great list of things to do in Hocking Hills. Whether you are an avid hiker or new time explorer, there are options for everyone.
Hocking Valley Scenic Railway
There’s nothing quite like experiencing the scenery of Hocking Hills by train. You can ride through the Hocking River Valley to see the stunning fall foliage, take part in an interactive, robbery game ride, hop aboard a steam train or enjoy an elegant dinner as you chug along. The Hocking Valley Scenic Railway offers a variety of tours for whatever experience you may be searching for during your trip.
There are no restrooms aboard the trains, so be sure to plan accordingly. You can check the website for what trains and specials are being offered before your visit. You can book on the website and also view additional nearby attractions.
Hocking Valley Scenic Railway
33 W Canal St, Nelsonville, OH 45764
Website
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Hocking Hills State Park
If you want to get the full Hocking Hills experience, you won’t want to miss out on Hocking Hills State Park. No matter the season, the ever changing wonder of the natural environment will leave you with plenty to see! From deep gorges, breathtaking waterfalls, lush forests and walking trails connecting you to each adventure, you can plan an exciting exploration.
One popular stop is Cedar Falls. The ½ mile trail leads you to a stunning waterfall over bridges and past rock formations. Ash Cave and Old Man’s Cave are two unique caves that are popular destinations in the park. Ash Cave is a large cavern with a waterfall and Old Man’s Cave is the most popular spot in Hocking Hills State Park. It is separated into the following areas: “Upper Falls, Upper Gorge, Middle Falls, Lower Falls and Lower Gorge.” The Grandma Gatewood Trail is a six mile trail connecting Cedar Falls, Ash Cave and Old Man’s Cave. Another stunning, yet more remote spot is Cantwell Cliffs. The cliffs are known for their deep valleys and hiking trails.
There are options for everyone at Hocking Hills State Park. Be sure to check out the trail maps ahead of time to gauge the difficulty level of the hikes and plan out your course for the day. Also, look for the amenities near your destination.
Hocking Hills State Park
Logan, OH 43138
Website
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Hocking Hills Treehouses
Did you ever have a childhood dream to spend the night in a treehouse? You can make those dreams come true, in style, at Hocking Hills Treehouses. Sleep in the treetops, underneath the stars, but with modern amenities at your fingertips.
With different size treehouses, you can choose one to fit your group’s needs. The treehouses give you a true, rustic feel of living amongst the forest. However, they include indoor bathrooms, well-equipped kitchens and comfortable accommodations, giving you the best of both worlds.
Visit the website for details and photos on each of the treehouses available. You can book your stay online. Pricing and additional information is also listed on the website.
Hocking Hills Treehouses
22784 Purcell Rd, South Bloomingville, OH 43152
Find Out More & Book Now
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Hocking Hills Winery
Family owned and operated Hocking Hills Winery boasts award winning wines! The winery aims to be a gathering place in the heart of Hocking Hills. Stop in for a wine tasting or table, no reservations required.
Hocking Hills Winery offers a menu of food and drink options. They also have wine tasting or flight options as well. You can bring home a taste of Hocking Hills with bottles of wine for purchase at the winery or online. Check out the website for additional details.
Hocking Hills Winery
30402 Freeman Rd, Logan, OH 43138
Website
Paul A. Johnson Pencil Sharpener Museum
When you stop by the Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center, you won’t want to miss out on the Paul A. Johnson Pencil Sharpener Museum.
This unique stop has received national recognition and is said to be the largest pencil sharpener collection in America. The museum began as Reverend Paul Johnson began collecting pencil sharpeners more than 20 years ago. Today, the museum holds more than 3,400 pencil sharpeners.
Paul A. Johnson Pencil Sharpener Museum
13178 OH-664, Logan, OH 43138
Website
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Lake Hope State Park
Lake Hope State Park encompasses nearly 3,000 acres of Zaleski State Forest in the valley of Big Sandy Run. It is known for its “deep gorges and narrow ridges.” The park is located around a lake and is home to Laurel Lodge.
Located in Lake Logan State Park, Lake Logan is a 400-acre lake amongst the Appalachian foothills of Hocking Hills. Swim, boat, fish, hunt or hike during your visit. The Lake Logan Marina offers options for boat rentals. Also, don’t miss out on the 527-foot public swimming beach! Hikers will enjoy 1.25 miles of the Buckeye Trail, which passes through the park.
Boating, swimming, hiking, fishing, camping and biking are just some of the features the park offers. You can also stop in the nature center, located near the campground. A unique part of the park features dining in the Lake Hope Dining Lodge. With food made from scratch with Ohio-featured products, you will have a dining experience to remember.
Lake Hope State Park
27331 OH-278, McArthur, OH 45651
Website
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High Rock Adventures
Whether you’re looking for an exhilarating adventure or a way to connect with nature, High Rock Adventures offers a tour for you. The private property tours include rappelling, rock climbing, ecotours, rock challenges and nature therapy. High Rock Adventures also has a rock gift shop. You can purchase rocks, crystals and other gifts native to the area.
Be sure to check out the events and workshops offered during your visit. Also, take a look at their policies and waivers. You can take a deeper look into their experience offerings to book the one that’s right for you.
High Rock Adventures
10108 Opossum Hollow Rd, Rockbridge, OH 43149
Website
Ravenwood Castle
Come stay in a medieval castle nestled in the woods of Hocking Hills! Get ready for a truly unique experience with accommodations fit for a royal family. Whether you are organizing a special event, such as a wedding, bringing a large group for a weekend of fun or planning a romantic getaway, Ravenwood Castle has you covered.
The castle offers gaming packages to encourage your group to come play games. They also host gaming conventions. Ravenwood provides truly special room options, including cabin and stand alone cottages. The castle also has a variety of dining options onsite for your stay.
Be sure to check out the room options and you can book right online. Take a look at their special events, such as their murder mystery season and planning your own special event at the castle.
Ravenwood Castle
65666 Bethel Rd, New Plymouth, OH 45654
Find Out More & Book Now
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Hocking Hills Canoe Livery
Are you ready to take to the water in Hocking Hills? Hocking Hills Canoe Livery helps you set up canoe, kayak, tubing or rafting experiences for you. You can rent boats to explore on your own or participate in their Hocking River tour with a guide. Tours include a life vest and paddles for those participating. Transportation to the river via shuttle is also included.
Want to make a trip out of it? They also have cabin rentals for your visit. You can experience the great outdoors with the comfort of an indoor bed. Guests bring their own bedding or sleeping bags with them. You can book rentals right on the website. Be sure to check out their rules as well as their cancellation policy.
Take a look at their boating options and rates. You can reserve right on the website. Also, check out the river rules and what to bring before your trip.
Hocking Hills Canoe Livery
12789 OH-664, Logan, OH 43138
Website
John Glenn Astronomy Park
View the night sky in one of the few places in the country without much light pollution. For a truly breathtaking view of the stars, John Glenn Astronomy Park offers several ways to take in the galaxies. The park provides a 28-inch telescope for sky viewing, or feel free to bring your own gear and set up on their property. They also recommend viewing the sky with the naked eye!
It is free to visit the park. Plan ahead of time by viewing their predicted weather forecast. You can also look at their nightly shows and special events.
John Glenn Astronomy Park
20531 OH-664 Scenic, Logan, OH 43138
Website
Hocking Hills Market
The large marketplace that has more than 100 indoor and outdoor vendors. You’ll find antiques, crafts, and local artisans selling Ohio made items. In additional to the shopping guest can also enjoy a delicious snack or meal at one of the restaurants. There is even a miniature golf course located at the market.
The market is open year-round on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Some of the permanent shops are open on other days and times as well.
Hocking Hills Market
26758 US-33 Rockbridge, OH 43149
Website
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Moonville Rail Trail
Moonville Rail Trail is currently an eight mile trail, with plans to extend to 16 miles. This unique trail follows the former Marietta and Cincinnati Railroad. You can ride horses, hike or bike the paved path. One of the special features of this hiking trail is passing under the Moonville Tunnel.
Take a look at the website for additional details on the trail path.
Moonville Rail Trail
Biddyville Rd. and SR 356 (Mineral) and Mill St. just east of SR 278 (Zaleski)
https://www.traillink.com/trail/moonville-rail-trail/
Spotted Horse Ranch
A fun and unique way to take in the beauty of Hocking Hills is by horseback! Spotted Horse Ranch offers guided horseback rides and camping options. The ranch provides different lengths and levels of riding, as well as group rides. You can participate in their events such as their Cowboy Cookout Ride. Another fun feature of the ranch is the camping options. You can camp with or without horses and in different accommodations for your desired experience.
Spotted Horse Ranch also has a party hall, which can be rented for special events. Take a look at the website for riding rates and camping options. Also, be sure to look at their rules for riding and safety precautions.
Spotted Horse Ranch
17325 Deffenbaugh Rd #9633, Laurelville, OH 43135
Website
Hocking Hills Canopy Tours
Ready for a thrill amongst the treetops? Hocking Hills Canopy Tours offers ziplining, canopy and discovery tours, and an extreme zipline tour. Fly through the sky taking in the natural beauty of hocking hills from the forest floor to the rock cliffs. They also offer a night tour so you can experience zip lining into the blackness underneath the stars.
The Rockbridge Encounter is a 1.5 mile guided drive and hike, starring the 100-foot Rockbridge, the largest natural rock bridge in Ohio. They also offer guided Segway tours to explore the area. There are different types of tours depending on your experience level.
Take a look at the website for more details on each adventure option.
Hocking Hills Canopy Tours
10714 Jackson St, Rockbridge, OH 43149
Website
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Hocking Hills Tiny Houses
Relax amongst the wilderness of Hocking Hills in one of the areas very own, tiny houses! You can stay in your own tiny home with the luxuries of its amenities, while still away from the hustle and bustle of it all. Hocking Hills Tiny Houses currently has six beautifully designed tiny homes to choose from. Each property offers unique features and nearby attractions. Some of the homes even allow pets.
Take a look at the properties for additional photos, amenities and descriptions online. You can book via the website.
Hocking Hills Tiny Houses
Website
More Fun Things to do in Ohio
- Things to do in Columbus – 25+ ideas for all ages
- Waterfalls in Ohio – Including easy to get to and the best off the beaten path
- Things to Do in Ohio – The ultimate list of fun places to go and things to do
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