Overview
Hocking Hills State Park in Ohio is a nature lover’s paradise, offering a diverse array of outdoor activities, stunning landscapes, and local attractions that make it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway. This comprehensive itinerary will guide you through the best trails to hike, must-visit attractions, and local dining options to make the most of your Hocking Hills adventure.
Day 1: Immerse Yourself in the Gorge
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Old Man’s Cave: Start your journey at the iconic Old Man’s Cave, one of the most popular attractions in Hocking Hills. Hike the one-way Gorge Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the cave, waterfalls, and surrounding cliffs.
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Wineries and Breweries: After your hike, explore the local wine and craft beer scene. Visit family-owned wineries like Hocking Hills Winery and Le Petit Chevalier for a fun afternoon of wine tasting. Alternatively, discover the region’s thriving craft beer scene at local breweries.
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Dinner: End your day with a delightful dining experience at The Feed, a restaurant known for its creative menu and unique atmosphere.
Day 2: Discover Dramatic Landscapes
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Cantwell Cliffs and Rock House: Begin your day by hiking the Cantwell Cliffs trail, which features towering sandstone cliffs and a narrow gorge. Then, visit the park’s only true cave, Rock House, and marvel at its unique rock formations.
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Conkle’s Hollow Nature Preserve: Explore the Conkle’s Hollow Nature Preserve, where you can hike the gorge trail or the rim trail, both offering breathtaking views of the preserve.
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Ziplining: For an adrenaline-filled afternoon, book a ziplining tour and soar through the Hocking Hills’ scenic landscapes.
Accommodations
Hocking Hills offers a variety of accommodation options to suit your preferences:
- Cabins: Rent a private cabin or a state-owned cabin in the state park for a comfortable and cozy stay.
- Camping: Camp in the state park or nearby private campgrounds for a more rustic experience.
Tips and Essentials
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Hocking Hills is from April to October, with weekdays being less crowded.
- What to Pack:
- Rain jacket
- Proper hiking boots or shoes
- Sunscreen
- Water bottle
- Navigation: Pick up a park map from the visitor’s center to avoid getting lost while exploring the trails.
References
- Fork and Wander. (2023). Best Things To Do On A Two-Day Hocking Hills Itinerary. Retrieved from https://forkandwander.com/post/best-things-to-do-on-a-two-day-hocking-hills-itinerary/
- The Outdoor Gems. (2023). Hocking Hills Ohio, A three day Itinerary. Retrieved from https://www.theoutdoorgems.com/blog/hocking-hills-ohio-a-three-day-itinerary
- Clear Falls. (n.d.). Hocking Hills 3-Day Travel Guide: Where to Go, Stay, and Eat. Retrieved from https://clearfalls.com/hocking-hills/hocking-hills-3-day-travel-guide-where-to-go-stay-and-eat/
- Well Planned Adventures. (2020). Two Day Hiking Guide for Hocking Hills State Park. Retrieved from https://www.wellplannedadventures.com/blog/2-day-hiking-guide-for-hocking-hills