Hocking Hills, Ohio

Cedar Falls trail

Old Man’s Cave

John Glenn Astronomy Park

Rock House Trail

Note

• Spring offers the strongest waterfalls, but fall brings changing leaves and fewer crowds.

• Our sister visited in May and said the trails were single-file busy. In October, some we had them nearly to ourselves.

• You’ll need late checkout on Day 2.

Day 1: Arrival & Classic Hikes

Lake Hope Campground

• Check in and set up camp.

• A cozy spot with its own short trails, if you have extra time.

• About 25 minutes from the first hike. Typical for Hocking Hills lodging.

Ash Cave

• The largest recess cave in Ohio.

• Short ½-mile hike with a seasonal waterfall in spring — still worth visiting any time of year.

Cedar Falls Trail

• Features a beautiful gorge and seasonal waterfalls.

• Moderate hike and a nice follow-up to Ash Cave.

Lunch Break

• Millstone Southern Smoked BBQ for great food but a bit of a drive.

• To save time, consider packing a picnic instead and eating near the trails.

Old Man’s Cave Trail

• The area’s most iconic hike, about 2 miles of waterfalls, rock tunnels, and scenic overlooks.

Evening: Stargazing at John Glenn Astronomy Park

• Reservations required, book ahead or you’ll miss out.

• Learn from astronomers and view galaxies, and other outer space stuff through telescopes.

• Bring chairs, blankets, and snacks

Return to Lake Hope Campground

• Rest up for another day of exploring.

Day 2: Hidden Gems & Final Trails

Morning Pack-Up

• Break down most of camp early so you can leave easily in the evening.

Rock House Trail

• Slightly out of the way, but don’t skip it.

• A 1-mile loop with the only cave in Hocking Hills you can walk inside. It’s full of natural windows and rock chambers.

Whispering Cave via Hemlock Bridge Trail

• You don’t need to hike the full loop, far enough to reach the massive open-air cave.

Conkle’s Hollow

• A 2.5-mile cliffside loop with incredible panoramic views.

Cantwell Cliffs

• A 1.8-mile trail with tight rock passages and dramatic ledges.

Picnic Lunch at Lake Logan

• Relax by the lake and refuel before your final hike.

Rockbridge State Nature Preserve

• About a 2-mile round trip to Ohio’s largest natural rock bridge, which was one of my personal favorites.

Evening

• Pick up your camper and head home after a full day of trails and views.

Conkles Hollow