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*Last updated 9/4/2023
Hocking hills State Park
We have been to Hocking Hills State Park at least a half dozen times. It is only a couple hours from Cincinnati and Columbus and it has some great hiking trails. Most of the main trails are short (less than an hour). However, if you are interested in longer hikes, there are connectors between the areas for extended hiking. Below, I’ve ranked my favorite trails. However, all the hikes in Hocking Hills are great.
1. Old Man’s Cave
Old Man’s Cave is the most recognizable trail and the most crowded. If you go during the day during the weekend, the parking lot is likely to be full, so plan to get there early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
Old Man’s Cave has a few different trails that include bridges, tunnels and staircases that kids are sure to enjoy.
2. Rock House
Rock House is the most unique trail in Hocking Hills. Be aware that trail is a little steeper than some of the others. The trail is a loop that takes you back to the parking lot. Also, when you reach the rock house, there is a little climbing to get inside. However, it is a lot of fun to wonder around inside the carved out rock “house”, which is the only true cave in Hocking Hills (all of the others are recess caves).
3. ash Cave
Ash Cave is another loop trail. The main path is paved so it is a good option for older or very young hikers. When you reach the recess outcropping there is a large hollowed out rock face that has a waterfall if there has been any recent rainfall.
4. Cedar Falls
Cedar Falls is a very picturesque waterfall. The hike is a loop. I like to take the trail clockwise, so that you hike the sloped path on the way out and the steeper, shorter path on the way back. At the bottom, you are rewarded with a pool of water with some trickling waterfalls.
5. Conkle’s Hollow
Conkle’s Hollow is a fun out-and-back trail. It follows the path of a creek so there are some good opportunities to see some wildlife. It is a pretty hike back through the valley area.
Whispering cave and Cantwell cliffs
I haven’t done these last two trails yet, but once I do I will be sure to update the list!
Nelsonville train rides
There are a number of train tour options. However, we were there during autumn, so we took the Nelsonville train and did the Fall Foliage tour.
Athens Bike Trail
Athens is home to Ohio University and has a wonderful bike trail, the 22 mile Hockhocking Adena Bikeway, that runs right through the city. Also, there are a few local microbreweries and a German beer tent along the route.
