Last fall, I visited Hocking Hills State Park in Ohio, and itβs one of the most breathtaking natural destinations Iβve ever seen. From the moment I arrived, I was mesmerized by the lush forests, dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and serene atmosphere. This place is a true gem for nature lovers of all levels.
The hiking trails are the parkβs highlight, offering something for everyone. The Old Manβs Cave trail was particularly stunning, with its rock formations, bridges, and waterfalls. The trail was well-maintained and had clear signage. Ash Cave was another favorite, with its massive cave and waterfall feeling like stepping into another world. For those seeking more adventure, the trails to Cedar Falls and Conkleβs Hollow were equally impressive, offering gorgeous views and just the right amount of challenge.
The park staff and local community were incredibly welcoming, and I found the visitor center to be a great resource for maps, tips, and recommendations. The area is well-kept, with a strong emphasis on preserving its natural beauty, which I truly appreciated. Hocking Hills, a haven for nature enthusiasts, offers a serene escape from the daily grind. Here are some tips for future visitors:
Hiking Shoes: Invest in sturdy hiking shoes, as some trails can be slippery, especially after rain. Water: Pack plenty of water to stay hydrated during your hike. Weekday Visit: Consider visiting during the week to avoid crowds, especially during peak seasons like fall when the foliage is breathtaking. Local Eateries: Donβt miss the opportunity to explore the local eateries in nearby Logan. The food is surprisingly delicious, offering a delightful blend of comfort food and unique flavors.
Overall, Hocking Hills exceeded all my expectations. Itβs a place where you can reconnect with nature and recharge your batteries. Iβm already planning my return trip, as this place truly holds a special place in my heart and deserves every bit of praise it receives. Highly...
Β Β Β Read moreIt's been awhile! About 4 years ago, the nearly entire Lodge was destroyed by fire!
THE AMBIANCE AND ATMOSPHERE of this near expansive State Park Lodge will give you this TREMENDOUS FEEL of a FAMILY ROOM ADVENTURE.
SERIOUSLY! I'm not buttering you up!
FEEL OF KALAHARI in the Great Room!
Add a delightful sit-up Bar with those round tables for Two. Enjoy a beverage before your Dining Table is ready.
And, what Kalahari does Not have; a State Park Lodge DOES.
For instance, I sat in a cozy chair in a LIVING ROOM SETTING! There are 2 Settings like these that include a fire place all the way up the Vaulted Ceiling!
My view was unobstructed with clear-view windows, I could watch a portion of the elevated DECK. From the deck, i could see the new location of the Outdoor Pool - situated close to the South Room.
From the DECK i could easily see a well-detailed COURTYARD that includes an OVERLOOK to the FOREST FLOOR and HABITAT.
But wait, there's more: In the evening after 7:30p or so, I could hear happy voices coming from the INDOOR POOL and SPACIOUS HOT TUB!
Looking up, a WALKWAY BRIDGE connects the EAST WING and WEST WING
There is a FIRE PIT OUTSIDE - PROPANE But, firewood exists as you walk in - perhaps for the CABINS to the west of the Lodge at a higher elevation and out of sight also.
It is Sooo easy to chat with families sitting near me as they enjoyed first baseball games on tv while having a snack from the ICE CREAM AND SNACK SHOPPE!
I'm Keith Carey
I recommend this Ohio State Park Lodge!
Psalm 34 Romans 10: 9, 10 Psalm 103 and...
Β Β Β Read moreAbsolutely beautiful state park, Hocking is was gorgeous. We visited on July 29, 2024. We were pretty ambitious and hiked from upper falls all the way to ash cave (roughly 12 miles total. Thatβs what a worker at the visitor center told us) also summer time disclaimer. None of the falls are very active. But still work the trek. Iβm adding a lot of pictures and videos of my journey, they will show you what it is like to go from the upper falls all the way down to ash cave. Starting from the visitor center you will walk a paved path to a bridge. Hopping on buckeye trail You will see the upper falls, devils bathtub, whale in the wall, eagle rock, old man cave, turtle rock, sphinx head, and lower falls. You will continue on buckeye trail until you cedar falls trail, you can either hop on yellow trail or stay on buckeye. We chose to hop on yellow and check out cedar falls, while there you can use the bathroom facilities. Hopping back on the buckeye trail you walk a gravel path until you get to a wooded trail. You will eventually see the fire watch tower. Keep on the trail and make it to ash cave. They also have restroom facilities. You do not need to endure a long hike to enjoy all of the places, most of them are readily accessible by car with just a short walk to the...
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