The Hocking Hills region is natural bliss with plush forests, unrefined hills, cascading waterfalls, and captivating geological formations. Millions of visitors come here every year to explore the breathtaking beauty and participate in many outdoor adventures such as hiking, camping, fishing, boating, and ziplining. “Every adventure requires a first step.” The advice from Alice in Wonderland holds true, where will you go and what will you choose?
Here are some of the popular parks and nature preserves in the Hocking Hills area that you might want to check out:
BOCH HOLLOW, LOGAN OH
Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve: Located about 30 minutes, by car, to the north of Hocking Hills State Park. If you enjoy exploring gems that are a little off the beaten path this could be a good day adventure for you. Boch Hollow has a quieter vibe with less tourist noise. You’ll find 7 miles of trails in Boch Hollow. The park is 607 acres, it was once private property but now public thanks to a lovely donation of the land. If you decide to check out the trails, try reserving a permit for Robinson Falls aka Corkscrew Falls at least two weeks before you go. (click link for details https://ohiodnr.gov/buy-and-apply/special-use-permits/nature-preserve-access )
This will give you the best of Boch Hollow and a permit only waterfall where you’re almost guaranteed to be the only visitor.
CANTWELL CLIFFS
Cantwell Cliffs: Located about 15 minutes from our cabins you will find two trails at Cantwell Cliffs. The gorge and the rim routes are both known to be rugged and difficult.This stunning nature preserve is known for its towering cliffs featuring 150-foot-high cliffs, deep gorges, and rugged terrain. It offers several hiking trails that take visitors through the heart of the preserve, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Cantwell Cliffs was largely carved when Buck Run creek eroded the area, creating one of the deepest gorges in Ohio. The views will be worth it but follow the advice of the warning signs.
ROCKBRIDGE
Rock bridge State Nature Preserve:182 acres makes this nature preserve one of Ohio's most unique geological formations. The Rock bridge natural arch or bridge known as Rockbridge is more than 100 feet long and 10 to 20 feet wide, and arches 50 feet across a ravine. It is considered the largest natural bridge in the state. It has a diverse ecosystem of forests, wetlands,and several blissful hiking trails. Hiking is easy to moderate depending on the trail you decide to take. This beauty is roughly 20 minutes from the cabins.
ASH CAVE
Ash Cave: This is the can't miss attraction in Hocking Hills State Park. This is a massive cave-like
shelter that is over 700 feet long and 100 feet deep. Level of hike is easy and access is wheelchair accessible, making it a great option for families with young children or those with mobility issues. The walk back to the waterfall is beautiful and follows a paved pathway with tall cliffs and a small stream. Fun fact about how this place was named ,when settlers first came across this cave in the 1800's they found a pile of ashes nearly 100 feet wide and three feet deep within the cave, and thus named it Ash Cave. Hopefully when you visit you don't find the same. A beautiful 20 minute drive from the cabins.
These are just some of the many parks and nature preserves in the Hocking Hills area. Explore the Hocking Hills and Ohio Parks website to learn more about the area's natural beauty. Locate many things to do and scheduled events. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or simply looking for a weekend of solitude, the Hocking Hills area has something for everyone! Exploration is a journey toward helping make life fulfilling and meaningful. Another positive is enjoying nature free of charge - it is in everyone's budget! Make a note to add this to your experiences and places you must visit during your stay with us.
By Jessica Fox
Sites to See in Hocking Hills Ohio - Boch Hollow, Ash Cave, Rockbridge Preserve & Cantwell Cliffs Hikes in Hocking Hills Hocking Hills Cabins What to do in Hocking Hills Hocking County Eco-luxe vacations, carpenter's cabin, Twelve34 House, glocabin
Comments