Hocking Hills, Ohio
A spread-out park region in southeastern Ohio known for sandstone gorges, recess caves, waterfalls, forest trails and secluded cabin stays, anchored by Old Man's Cave, Cedar Falls and Ash Cave.
Why Go
Hocking Hills is not one single attraction but a collection of natural areas shaped by erosion of the region's Blackhand Sandstone. Old Man's Cave offers the best-known gorge experience, with rock overhangs, stone bridges and several waterfalls. Cedar Falls carries the greatest volume of water among the region's falls, while Ash Cave is Ohio's largest recess cave. The difficult, roughly six-mile Grandma Gatewood Trail connects Old Man's Cave, Cedar Falls and Ash Cave for experienced hikers planning a longer point-to-point outing. Rock House, Cantwell Cliffs and nearby Conkle's Hollow provide additional scenery for visitors willing to drive between trail areas.
Don't Miss
Old Man's Cave
Good to Know
- Suggested trip length: 2–3 nights
- Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall
- Walkability: Hocking Hills is a driving destination rather than a walkable town. Separate roads and parking areas serve the major trail systems. Individual hikes range from shorter approaches to difficult routes with stone steps, elevation changes, uneven surfaces and slippery sections near waterfalls.
- Parking: The major natural areas have separate parking lots. Old Man's Cave and other popular trailheads can become crowded on weekends and during fall color season, so early arrival is the safest plan.
Worth Knowing
Waterfall flow varies with rainfall and may be much lighter during dry periods. Swimming and wading are not permitted in park streams or waterfall pools. Trails can become slippery after rain and icy in winter, and the full Grandma Gatewood Trail is a difficult hike rather than a casual walk.