Hocking Hills State Park Scenic Drive is a 26.4-mile route that winds through the heart of Ohio’s natural beauty, offering visitors a chance to experience the stunning landscapes and geological formations that have made this region a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. From towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls to serene forests and ancient rock formations, this scenic drive is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Buckeye State.
Key Attractions Along the Hocking Hills State Park Scenic Drive
Cantwell Cliffs
Nestled within the Hocking Hills State Park, Cantwell Cliffs is known for its steep, dramatic cliffs that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore the area’s hiking trails and take in the stunning scenery.
Rock House
One of the most unique features along the Hocking Hills State Park Scenic Drive is the Rock House, a massive rock formation with a natural rock house carved into its interior. Visitors can explore the interior of the rock house and marvel at the intricate geological features.
Conkle’s Hollow
Conkle’s Hollow is a nature preserve within the Hocking Hills State Park that features hiking trails and stunning rock formations. The preserve is home to a variety of plant and animal life, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.
Old Man’s Cave
The most visited site within the Hocking Hills State Park, Old Man’s Cave is a magnificent gorge carved by a creek through Blackhand Sandstone. Visitors can explore the cave and its surrounding trails, taking in the stunning scenery and learning about the area’s rich history.
Cedar Falls
Cedar Falls is a picturesque park within the Hocking Hills State Park, featuring a beautiful waterfall that cascades over a series of rock formations. Visitors can hike to the base of the falls and take in the serene natural beauty of the area.
Ash Cave
Ash Cave is another popular destination along the Hocking Hills State Park Scenic Drive, offering handicap-accessible trails and a large recess cave that is a stunning example of the region’s geological wonders.
Other Points of Interest
In addition to the key attractions within the Hocking Hills State Park, the scenic drive also passes by several other points of interest, including:
- Hocking State Forest Headquarters: Originally the Hocking County Honor Camp in the 1930s, where prisoners helped with forest maintenance and planted trees.
- Village of Mound Crossing: Features a mound built by the Hopewell Indians, offering a glimpse into the area’s rich cultural history.
- Historic Sites: The Byway passes by historically significant sights, including evidence of the ancient Adena culture and the presence of Indian tribes like the Wyandot, Delaware, and Shawnee.
Tips and Essentials
- Duration: The Hocking Hills State Park Scenic Drive typically takes around 2-3 hours to complete, depending on the number of stops and activities.
- Trail Laws: Hocking Hills State Park is the only state park in Ohio with trail laws that prohibit going off-trail for safety and environmental reasons.
- Accessibility: Ash Cave and Conkle’s Hollow have handicap-accessible trails, making them more accessible for visitors with mobility challenges.
- Accommodations: The Hocking Hills region offers a range of unique accommodations, including cabins, lodges, inns, yurts, treehouses, and campgrounds, allowing visitors to extend their stay and fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area.
References
- Explore Hocking Hills. (n.d.). America’s Byway – Explore Hocking Hills. Retrieved from https://www.explorehockinghills.com/things-to-do/hocking-hills-america-s-byway/
- Ohio Department of Transportation. (n.d.). Hocking Hills Scenic Byway. Retrieved from https://www.transportation.ohio.gov/traveling/ohio-byways/hocking-hills
- Explore Hocking Hills. (n.d.). [PDF] Hocking Hills Scenic Byway Driving Tour Byway Map. Retrieved from https://www.explorehockinghills.com/media/4c0pncos/scenic-byway-driving-tour-updated.pdf
- Hocking Hills. (n.d.). The Four Best Hocking Hills Roads You Must Drive. Retrieved from https://www.hockinghills.com/blog/four-best-hocking-hills-roads-you-must-drive.html
- Ohio Magazine. (n.d.). Drive the Hocking Hills Scenic Byway. Retrieved from https://www.ohiomagazine.com/travel/hocking-hills/article/drive-the-hocking-hills-scenic-byway