Hocking Hills, Ohio Trip Guide: Best Hikes for Families with Kids
You found it! One of the most incredibly scenic hiking spots in the USA. This area in Ohio is unbelievable beautiful and is full of adventure. Located in South Eastern Ohio, it attracts thousands of visitors each year. Only a 5 hour drive from Michigan, we knew we needed to visit. So what is so appealing?
Cue the music from Lord of the Rings, because it feels like you’ve stepped into the Hobbit with caves, tunnels, waterfalls and moss growing against boulders. I’m so excited for you to explore this beautiful area in Logan, Ohio. It’s one of our favorite spots and I can’t wait to for you to experience it. You’re gonna love it!
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Stairway along Old Man’s Cave Trail
For reference we visited in October and hiked with four children, ages 13 months, 3, 5, 7. We carried my youngest for the majority of the hikes in a hiking backpack. We found it was a very kid-friendly area and my children loved exploring. Each hike has exciting elements, from waterfalls to stone stairways, around each turn. I’m confident they will be so busy exploring, you won’t hear complaining. These hikes will make your family fall in love with hiking!
Here is your guide to the best hikes and things to do for families in Hocking Hills, Ohio! There is a lot to cover so let’s dive in.
Cost It is FREE to visit Ohio State Parks, so this can be an inexpensive trip with tons of outdoor adventures.
Length of Stay I’d recommend at least 2-5 days so you can take your time and really enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
What to Wear/ Bring Layers are important, waterproof footwear, Hiking Backpack Carrier, water and snacks! Check out the essential list of items we keep stocked in our hiking backpack.
WHEN TO VISIT
Spring Waterfalls will be at their peak time in spring, particularly during the rainy months of April and May, plus fewer crowds.
Summer By far the busiest season to visit. This time of year draws large crowds. Although for the most part, trails are shaded so it’s still enjoyable.
Fall An especially beautiful time to visit when all the vibrant jewel tones of fall leaves are visible and weather is cooler. Swimming is not allowed in the falls, plus hiking temperatures are cooler.
Winter Snow creates a whole new experience with stunning winter scenery. During this season you won’t have to fight the crowds. Although we highly advise using yaktraks to assist with traction.
TIPS WHEN VISITING
There is no cell reception in the area. I know it’s hard to live without our phones, so your best bet is to plan ahead by using your car’s GPS, pick up maps at the visitors center, or download a map prior. Do yourself a favor & Download the Hocking Hill App, which will be your best friend on this trip. It has trail lengths, wheelchair accessibility and local restaurant recommendations. Definitely start off by Visiting the Welcome Center when you first arrive to gain tons of helpful information. They also have a scavenger hunt for kids and nearby activity suggestions.
MAP
If you’re a visual person, this map can help you plan your route and get the big picture of the area. Here is an extensive map of the area and online Map.
Avoid Crowds:
Go off season (winter is beautiful, spring provides the peak season for waterfalls)
Go middle of the week on Tues, Wed, or Thurs.
Go late in the evening.
Go early. Depending on the season. What I mean by early is daybreak 6:00am, especially for popular hikes. I know this can be difficult with kids, but then you can skip midday crowds and, dare I say, maybe relax or even take a nap! Try to avoid the peak time (After 10) since that time can make you feel like you’re being herded like cattle.
Dogs are allowed at all trails, except Conkle’s Hollow.
Hit popular hikes early. Group together the popular hikes like the Big 3 (Old Man’s Cave, Cedar Fall, and Ash Cave) since they are all fairly close to each other.
In the afternoon you can hit Rock Bridge and Conkle’s Hollow later, these hikes are less crowded. Then do Rock House and Cantwell Cliffs Gorge Trail if you have enough time and depending on your group’s ability.
TRAILS
There are basically 7 different hiking areas. The trails are relatively short hikes, so bonus you can hit several during the day. The trails are well marked and there are tons of designated signs that say “Stay on Trail. “ Yes, there are steps and cliffs, but we felt safe hiking with our children, who are used to hiking and following the rules. For my 13 month old we carried him in hiking backpack for the majority of the trip. The first 5 hikes listed are the best ones for families with children.
Old Man’s Cave (1 Mile)
Upper Falls at Old Man’s Cave at Hocking Hills, Ohio
Folks … this here is the main attraction! So many fabulous photo ops and by far my kids favorite hike. Due to its popularity it can get crowded so head out early. This trail has so many unique spots and interesting views including Devil’s Bathtub, Upper Falls, tunnel stairs and Old Man’s Cave. Moderately challenging with lots of steps.
TIP Stop at the new Visitor’s Center, which is located near the hike. It is air conditioned with modern restrooms and interactive exhibits and maps.
The trail for Old Man’s Cave begins near the Upper Falls and leads over stone bridges and through tunnels. After reaching Old Man’s Cave you can either loop back or continue to the Lower Falls.
*Broken Rock Falls Spur: Just a short detour on a small off shoot trail. Located close to the Lower Falls, this 0.1 mile trail give you a unique view of a waterfall that appears to split the rock in two!
Ash Cave (0.3 miles)
Waterfall at Ash Cave
One of the shortest and easiest hikes, but a spectacular must see spot. It holds that wow factor! This handicap accessible and stroller friendly hike is perfect for everyone. The trail leads you to a stunning massive horseshoe shaped rock formation that has a thin waterfall flowing over, creating a small pool at the bottom. There is quite a bit of sand which is a great spot to allow littles ones to play. During rainy weather it is especially awe inspiring. *Dog friendly hike.
Cedar Falls (0.9 Miles)
A shorter hike that culminates at a waterfall. The water collects at the base to form a small pool. The hike is less than a mile, with some challenging steps. Not stroller friendly, so it’s best to strap your little ones in a carrier. The falls have a shallow pool area, which is a great spot for a snack break while they splash and explore around the base of the falls. Rocks can be become slippery so use caution. *Dog friendly trail.
Snack break at Cedar Falls
Rock House (0.5 miles)
Rock House
This spot contains the only real cave at Hocking Hills and is considered a moderate hike. You will be hiking close to the edge on the vast majority of the path. The rock house caverns makes for some beautiful photo opportunities, so get your camera ready! (30-45 min)
Conkle’s Hollow
There are two options to hike, if you have children I’d recommend taking the gorge trail.
Conkle’s Hollow Gorge Trail (2 Mile) This easy trail, out and back, is actually located in a State Nature Preserve so there are no pets allowed. It’s a bit longer drive than the other hikes, which means it is less busy and seems to draw fewer crowds. For families with children, this is a great trail to take in the gorge. It starts out as a paved trail, and then winds alongside a stream and between large boulders with great spots to explore. If you go past the end of the handicap trail there is a beautiful waterfall to enjoy!
The Conkle’s Hollow Rim Trail (2.5 Miles) The upper section will allow you to hike at the top of cliffs along the rim which has gorgeous scenic views and overlooks. There are steep drop off cliffs so definitely skip this one for younger children.
Additional Trails
(Best for older children and experienced hikers that can tolerate longer distances)
Rockbridge (2.5 Miles)
A nature preserve, which is less busy than other hikes. The trail includes the largest natural bridge in Ohio, well over 100 feet. This beautiful arch and stunning rock formations creates a lovely hike.
Cantwell Cliffs (1.8 Miles)
One of the most difficult and strenuous trails, but quite an adventure with beautiful scenery. The trail leads you to towering sandstone cliffs. The narrow section is nicknamed the “fat woman’s squeeze”. Once through you have an option to follow the rim trail (1.1 miles) that leads above the gorge or descend down the gorge trail to the base of the cliff. There are restrooms and a small parking area.
Whispering Cave (5 Mile Loop)
A five-mile loop trail which includes a swinging bridge and a scenic waterfall. Be prepared since you will need to complete the whole loop when you start the trail.
Expand Your Experience
Pairing a book with a trip can often heighten the experience. This children’s picture book, When Grandma Gateway Took a Hike by Michelle Houts, describes the incredible feat of Grandma Gatewood’s journey. At the age of 67, she was the first women’s hiker to complete the Appalachian Trail. Emma Gatewood was originally from Ohio and led hikers through her favorite sections of Hocking Hills . Today you can hike her favorite trail and walk in her footsteps by following the Grandma Gatewood Trail, from Old Man’s Cave to Ash Cave.
Where to Stay in Hocking Hills
High Rock Hideaways cabins are cozy getaways
There is a wide selection of lodgings nearby from cabins, campgrounds, and hotels. Here are the best vacation rental properties that VRBO offers that are only minutes away, options from cozy cabins to larger lodges that can accommodate groups.
We booked High Rock Hideaways. This amazing cabin rental was tucked away in the woods. Situated on 200 acres of private land and only 10 minutes from the hiking areas, we loved the seclusion and convenience. During the fall after a long day of hiking, having a warm cabin with a relaxing hot tub to come back to is pretty much perfection. It had a pond with kayaks we could utilize, plus, there were hiking trails all throughout the property. We spent a whole day exploring right on site and bonus it was secluded.
Lake Hope Lodge Campground A wonderful campground that includes a lodge restaurant on site. They serve the delicious BBQ Brisket, craft beer and amazing blueberry pie! During the summer at the campground you can experience hand-feeding hummingbirds at Lake Hope State Park.
Cedar Falls Inn : A lovely retreat, offering accommodations, delicious dining option and even relaxing spa amenities.
Kindred Spirits Delicious food in a lovely dining experience offering gourmet meals.
Exploring the trails by our cabin rental
The Hocking Hill State Park This beautiful state park is only a short 5-10 minute drive to all the hiking spots. They include full hookups and have a swimming pool.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
Hocking Hills is best known for its amazing hikes and scenery, but there is a plethora of ways to explore the area.
Canoe down the Hocking River, horse back ride through the forest, or fly above the trees on a zipline tour. Some unique local activities include glass blowing, feeding hummingbirds or going through the haunted Moonville Tunnel. Check out this post on the Best Things to Do in Hocking Hills that will give you tons of ideas of outdoor adventures, indoor activities, and restaurants to check out with your family.
Hocking Hills Canopy Tours Get a birds eye view of the area as you traverse through the treetops on a zipline. Such a fun experience. (Ages 5+) They even have a zipline designed for kids from ages 5-12 called the DragonFly.
Pencil Sharpener Museum Located near Walmart and the visitors center, this tiny little museum is a quirky spot to check out with thousands of pencil sharpeners.
Uncle Buck’s Saloon Experience the beauty of the area while horseback riding. These guided trips will lead you through the scenic state forest. Choose between multiple trips of various lengths (1hr -3.5 hrs trips) They also have a dance barn and restaurant.
Ohio Caverns If you’re coming from the North, a fabulous stop to break up the drive is Ohio Caverns. Guided tours are open all year round. Be amazed as they lead you down into the largest caverns in Ohio. $20 adults/$10 children.
Great Wolf Lodge in Sandusky Ohio. If you’re coming from Michigan, a great option to surprise your kids is to stay the night at Great Wolf Lodge’s waterpark. Our kids loved this surprise stop to break up the drive.
Ohio Caverns
FAQ’s
Is swimming allowed in the waterfalls: No, swimming is not allowed. If you want to swim, there are designated beaches at Lake Logan and Lake Hope State Park.
Is there admission cost for Hocking Hills: No, all of the state parks in Ohio are free
Is Hocking Hills safe for children: Yes, there are multiple hikes that are great for children, even some that are wheelchair accessible and stroller friendly.
CLOSING THOUGHTS
Well that’s a wrap on Hocking Hills! It’s full of adventures for every type of explorer. Whether you’re spending a couple days or a week, you’ll easily fill your time with these incredible hikes, views and activities. Follow Discovering Anew for more Midwest travel and camping recommendations.
