The Hocking Hills Road Tour is a captivating journey through the heart of Ohio’s natural beauty. This 26.4-mile scenic byway connects six stunning Hocking Hills State Park sites, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the region’s breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and diverse outdoor activities.
Overview of the Hocking Hills Road Tour
The Hocking Hills Scenic Byway begins at the intersection of Route 374 and U.S. 33 in Rockbridge and winds its way through the Hocking State Forest and Hocking Hills State Park. Along the way, travelers are treated to a visual feast of towering rock formations, cascading waterfalls, and lush, verdant forests.
Scenic Roads and Attractions
Wildcat Hollow Road
This paved back road offers a scenic journey through farms and large rock formations. Drivers should exercise caution as the road is narrow in some sections.
Big Pine Road
Paved and dotted with large rock formations, Big Pine Road also provides access to the hiking trails of Conkle’s Hollow.
State Route 56
Winding through the heart of the Hocking Hills, State Route 56 passes by the stunning Ash Cave State Park and features sharp curves around the region’s iconic rock formations.
Rockbridge State Nature Preserve
Home to the largest natural bridge in Ohio, the Rockbridge State Nature Preserve offers 2.8 miles of trails for exploring waterfalls, rock formations, and other natural wonders.
Cantwell Cliffs
This scenic destination features a two-mile loop trail and a high cliff with a picturesque waterfall.
Rock House
Carved by glaciers, the Rock House is a massive cave with seven openings and a 200-foot-long black sandstone corridor.
Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve
A rugged and steep rocky gorge, Conkle’s Hollow offers a half-mile walk and numerous waterfalls.
Hemlock Bridge Trail
This trail leads to the secluded Whispering Cave, which features a trickling waterfall.
Old Man’s Cave
Carved by Salt Creek and melting glaciers, the Old Man’s Cave is divided into five sections and is a must-see attraction.
Cedar Falls
Surrounded by hemlocks and rock formations, Cedar Falls boasts a 50-foot waterfall.
Ash Cave
Offering a narrow gorge, wildflowers, and a small runoff waterfall that drops 90 feet into a pool, Ash Cave is a stunning natural wonder.
Tips and Essentials
- GPS coordinates are provided throughout the byway to help navigate the route.
- The Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center offers maps, directions, and suggestions for the drive.
- Accommodations range from cabins and lodges to inns, yurts, treehouses, and campgrounds, providing a variety of unique experiences.
- Outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, rappelling, and horseback riding are available along the byway.
Seasonal Beauty
- Winter: The cliff and cave walls are covered in ice beards, and waterfalls are frozen in suspended animation.
- Spring and Summer: Vibrant wildflowers and lush greenery abound.
- Fall: The landscape is washed in a stunning array of autumn colors.
References
- Hocking Hills Scenic Byway Driving Tour
- Hocking Hills Road Tour
- Drive the Hocking Hills Scenic Byway
- Four Best Hocking Hills Roads You Must Drive
- The Ultimate Road Trip Along the Hocking Hills Scenic Byway
The Hocking Hills Road Tour is a must-experience journey for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and outdoor adventures of Ohio. With its scenic roads, diverse attractions, and stunning seasonal landscapes, this byway offers a truly unforgettable experience for mountains touring enthusiasts.