The best walks and hikes in Hocking County

Yes, many trails in the Hocking Hills region are dog-friendly, provided your dog is kept on a leash. However, dogs are not permitted on the trails at Conkle's Hollow State Nature Preserve. For a great walk with your canine companion, consider the Gorge Overlook Trail from Cedar Falls to Rose Lake Dam, which offers scenic views.

The region is famous for its waterfalls. Cedar Falls is one of the most impressive, and Old Man's Cave features a series of cascades. For a hike that takes you to a spectacular seasonal waterfall, check out the trail to Whispering Cave & Hemlock Bridge, which leads to the second-largest recess cave in the area.

Absolutely. Hocking County offers many trails suitable for families and hikers of all ages. The trail at Ash Cave is particularly popular as it's short and leads to the state's largest recess cave. Another excellent option is the Cantwell Cliffs loop, a relatively short walk that explores a unique landscape of narrow passages and rock shelters.

The best option for accessibility is the Gorge Trail at Conkle's Hollow State Nature Preserve, which is paved and level, offering beautiful views from the gorge floor. The trail to Ash Cave is also paved and considered wheelchair-accessible, making it another great choice for enjoying the region's impressive natural features.

For those seeking a strenuous, long-distance challenge, the Cemetery Ridge Trail to Good Prairie Trail loop is one of the most difficult in the area. This 12.8-mile (20.6 km) route involves significant elevation gain and is best suited for experienced hikers.

The Old Man's Cave area is a highlight reel of the Hocking Hills landscape. The trails here wind through a deep gorge, passing by the Upper and Lower Falls, the Devil's Bathtub, and Sphinx Head rock formation. The Old Man's Cave loop is a popular way to see these features in a relatively short hike.

You can explore over 50 different hiking routes in Hocking County on komoot. These range from short, easy walks to all-day adventures, with 22 trails rated as easy, 26 as moderate, and 2 as difficult, ensuring there's a path for every skill level.

The region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning geological formations, including the deep gorges, recess caves, and numerous waterfalls. The well-maintained trails that offer dramatic scenery are a consistent highlight in reviews.

Hocking County is a year-round destination. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers lush green canopies, and autumn is famous for its spectacular fall foliage. Winter provides a unique experience, with frozen waterfalls and dramatic ice formations, though you should be prepared for slippery trail conditions.

Yes, for hikers looking to spend more time on the trail, there are several longer routes. A great option is the Hocking Hills State Park Highlights from Ash Cave to Old Man's Cave. This 11.2-mile (18 km) trail connects several of the park's main attractions in one comprehensive hike.

Many trails offer rewarding views with minimal effort. The lower gorge trail at Conkle's Hollow State Nature Preserve provides stunning upward views of the sheer cliff faces. The trail to Rock House, the only true cave in the park, is another great option that lets you look out through natural 'windows' onto the valley below.

Most trails are well-maintained but can be rugged, with stone steps, narrow ledges, and uneven surfaces. Trails in the gorges can be damp and slippery, especially after rain or in the winter. It's always a good idea to wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip. The main trails are one-way to help with foot traffic and safety.