Things to Do in Hocking Hills
Canoe Liveries: Hocking Hills Canoe Livery:
- Hocking Hills Canoe Livery: This livery, offering canoe, kayak and raft rentals is great for exploring the scenic Hocking River, and is likely the closest option to Hocking Hills Jellystone Park. Hocking Hills Canoe Livery is situated right off the main highway (OH-664) near Logan, Ohio.
- Hocking Hills Adventures: Offering scenic trips taking you past the Natural Rockbridge (a unique geological formation) with canoe, kayak, tube, or even raft rentals for your river adventure.
Hocking Hills Caves & Waterfalls
- Ash Cave: Enormous natural cavern with a waterfall surrounded by woodlands with hiking trails.
- Cantwell Cliffs: The remote location of these cliffs discourages visitors, but those who make the trek, are not disappointed. This area has been claimed as the most picturesque in Hocking County.
- Cedar Falls: The trail to these falls is located in a remote, primitive chasm, with hemlock, steep rock walls and waterfalls. It is spectacularly beautiful!
- Conkle’s Hollow Nature Preserve: This is considered to be the deepest gorge in Ohio, only 100 feet wide in place. The cliffs above the gorge are 200 feet tall.
- Old Man’s Cave: The most popular of all! At the Upper Falls, Grandma Gatewood Trail begins, a six mile hike connecting Old Man’s Cave to Cedar Falls to Ash Cave. This trail has been designated as part of Ohio’s Buckeye Trail, and part of two national trail systems – North Country Scenic Trail and America’s Discovery Trail.
- Rock House: This is the only true cave in the park. It is situated midway up a 150′ cliff of sandstone.
Other Activities & Fun Near Hocking Hills Jellystone Park™
- Historic Washboard Factory: The Columbus Washboard Company has been manufacturing handmade washboards since 1895 and continues to offer a range of vintage laundry items and Appalachian gifts.
- Hockhocking Adena Bikeway: Known as The Bike Path or as The Athens County Bike Path, is a 22-mile long bicycle path in Athens County, Ohio.
- Hocking Valley Scenic Railway: Family friendly, non-profit, tourist railroad just 12 miles north of Hocking Hills Jellystone Park.
- If you’re interested in horseback riding, you’re in luck! There are several horseback riding facilties near Hocking Hills Jellystone Park. Here are few:
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- Hocking Hills Horse Rides: Offering guided trail rides through the scenic Hocking Hills.
- Uncle Buck’s Riding Stable and Dance Barn: Offering horseback riding lessons, trail rides, and even has a dance barn and restaurant!
- Equestrian Ridge Farm: This is a full-service equestrian facility that provides boarding, lessons, and trail rides.
Ohio University (Athens):
Ohio University is about so much more than academics; a vibrant hub brimming with unique experiences. Here are just some of those experiences:
Art And Culture:
- Immerse yourself in world-class art at the Kennedy Museum of Art.
History & Exploration:
- Delve into Ohio University’s rich past at the Manasseh Cutler House
Museum. - Embark on a self-guided walking tour and discover the architectural gems across campus.
- Unearth hidden treasures at the Ohio University Archives and Special Collections.
Outdoor Escapes:
- Lace up your shoes and explore the natural beauty of The Ridges, a 700-acre nature preserve right on campus.
- Take a break at the tranquil Schoonover Gardens, a haven for native
plants and wildlife.
Sporting Events:
- Catch a Bobcat sporting event and cheer on Ohio University’s athletic
teams.
This is just a starting point. Ohio University offers so much more – lectures, workshops, guest speakers, and a calendar brimming with events. Get ready to discover a world of learning, exploration, and community that extends far beyond the classroom walls.
- Ohio’s Windy 9 – Ohio’s Windy 9 is a motorcycling destination comprised of 9 routes that begin and end in Athens, Ohio.
- Stuarts Opera House (Nelsonville) – an Opera House located in a registered historic building, listed on the National Register (Dec 29, 1978) and live music performance theatre that was built in 1879, and continues to be used today.
- Tecumseh! Outdoor Drama – Witness the epic life story of the legendary Shawnee leader as he struggles to defend his sacred homelands in the Ohio country during the late 1700’s.
- Hocking Hills Canopy Tours Zipline – Outdoor adventure company for nature lovers with zipline & segway tours alongside other thrill options.
Unique Specialty Shops -
The Hocking Hills area offers a plethora of unique specialty shops alongside the natural beauty of the region. Here are a few off-the-beaten-path shops to add to your itinerary:
- Earthly Goods at PC Rose General Store: Nestled in a historic gas station built in 1920, Earthly Goods offers a curated selection of eco-friendly gifts and keepsakes. Find handcrafted, vintage, and upcycled treasures alongside local Ohio-made goods like candles, soaps, and jewelry.
- The Ridges Bookstore: Tucked away inside The Ridges, a stunning nature preserve, this bookstore specializes in natural history books and gifts. Perfect for picking up a field guide or a unique souvenir that reflects the beauty of the Hocking Hills.
- Wildcat Hollow Lavender: Immerse yourself in the fragrant world of lavender at this farm and shop. Explore their selection of lavender-infused products like soaps, lotions, and culinary delights. You can even visit their lavender fields during peak bloom (typically July) for a truly unforgettable experience.
- Mud Liberty Pottery Studio & Gallery: Watch the artistry of pottery making unfold at Mud Liberty. Browse their gallery and take home a beautiful, handcrafted piece or participate in a pottery throwing class and create your own masterpiece.
These are just a taste of the many unique specialty shops waiting to be discovered in the Hocking Hills area of Ohio. With a little exploration, you’re sure to find treasures that capture the essence of the region and add a touch of whimsy to your trip.
- Wayne National Forest – The Wayne National Forest is located in southeast Ohio. It is the only national forest in Ohio.