Hocking Hills, Ohio, offers its 45th Annual Winter Hike, featuring miles of scenery, and a bean soup and cocoa lunch to follow.
Travelers are discovering a new level of winter events in Ohio’s Hocking Hills region, with unique ways to experience the great outdoors this winter- and in one of the Midwest’s most beautiful natural regions. Various winter events, activities and accommodations are available for visitors this season.
The region’s many spectacular waterfalls often freeze in winter, creating dazzling sculptural formations. Visitors can experience this scenic winter wonderland during the 45th Annual Winter Hike, Saturday, Jan. 16, 2010. This winter hike tradition brings visitors, families and nature lovers together on a six-mile trek past frozen waterfalls, ice-lined caves and snow-sparkled trees. The hike runs from Old Man’s Cave, through Cedar Falls to Ash Cave. Starting at 9 a.m., the exhilarating trek takes three to five hours and features a lunch of bean soup, muffins and cocoa amid the beauty of Cedar Falls. Another winter hike, the Feb. 13 Sweetheart Hike in Ash Cave is a leisurely 1/4 mile hike that also ends with refreshments.
The Hocking Hills’ beauty can also be enjoyed by participating in the region’s extraordinary scenic air tours. Starting at $30 per person for two people, skilled pilot, flight instructor and amateur comedian Harry Sowers gives an incredibly informative and entertaining tour of the region in his Cessna.
“From the air, you can really see the ‘bones’ of this beautiful land during the winter,” Sowers said. “Our flying guests clearly see the caves and the gorges, and viewing them from the air gives visitors a whole new perspective on the unique geological footprint of this area.” Sowers added that travelers are highly encouraged to bring their cameras.
Thrill-seekers will love the year-round adventure of Hocking Hills Nature Trails, a one-of-a-kind ATV park with expert ATV instruction, rental and miles of private trails available all winter long. Guests will experience adventures unlike anything else as they cruise through twisting forested nature trails surrounded by Hocking Hills’ sparkling winter scenery.
Other winter activities for visitors in the Hocking Hills’ parks include ice fishing at Rose Lake and Lake Logan, cross-country skiing and sledding. In addition, tree climbing (offered in temperatures above 40°F) and animal tracking hikes are available. Winter offers the best time to track Hocking Hills’ wildlife, with evidence of deer, fox and beaver. For bird lovers, with the normally abundant fall foliage gone from the trees, winter is an ideal time for bird watching in the Hocking Hills. In addition, dramatic black vultures, red-tailed hawks and great horned owls are more visible in winter months.
For more information about Hocking Hills’ winter events, visit www.1800hocking.com.
Hocking Hills Offers Holiday Light Displays, Winter Ice Skating and Christmas Shopping This Holiday Season
Majestic scenery, delicious dinners and memorable holiday activities make Hocking Hills, Ohio, the perfect place to visit this holiday season. Throughout December, the stunning Hocking Hills region will host the Nelsonville Christmas Parade, a Holiday Trail of Lights at Lake Hope State Park, “mallternative” shopping events and more. Hocking Hills captures the spirit of the season with a long list of holiday activities.
“Nothing is more memorable than stepping away from the hectic holiday season for a lighted stroll into the majestic Ash Cave on Saturday, Dec. 12,” Karen Raymore, executive director of the Hocking Hills Tourism Association said. “Once visitors arrive, they’ll enjoy a cozy fire and refreshments as they listen to carolers’ songs reverberate in the cave. A visit with an old-fashioned Santa and helping decorate a Christmas tree with treats for wildlife make the experience unforgettable.”
Hocking Hills visitors can also enjoy one-of-a-kind shopping with “Christmas on Main Street” in historic downtown Logan. A Holiday Treasure Hunt runs through Wednesday, Dec. 16. Guests who visit six of 21 participating merchants are entered to win one of more than 20 prizes. Logan Town Center offers several other holiday celebrations for visitors this season, including the Hocking County Children’s Chorus, performing “It’s a Wonderful Life,” Dec. 11-13.
The flea market at Hocking Hills Market, in Rockbridge, offers unique gifts, antiques and much more. The market runs every Friday to Sunday this holiday season from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Hocking Market’s many independent shops, a bookstore cafe’ and an old-fashioned silver diner serving fine Italian cuisine, offer a wonderful stop for Hocking Hills visitors.
The Lake Hope State Park’s Holiday Trail of Lights runs nightly from until Dec. 31 and features a hike through the forest, illuminated by more than 100,000 lights. Both the Hocking Hills State Park and Lake Hope State Park have special weekend events to celebrate the season.
North Pole Nelsonville occurs when downtown Nelsonville transforms itself into a winter wonderland, featuring Hocking Valley Scenic Railway’s North Pole Express and Santa Trains, every Saturday and Sunday through Sunday, Dec. 20. Ice skating is every weekend until Sunday, Jan. 3. The last Friday of every month, from 6-10 p.m., “Final Fridays” incorporate fine dining, fine arts and uncommon gifts with fun activities surrounding Santa’s Village.
A delicious way to celebrate the Holidays is with the “Taste of Dickens” at Glenlaurel Inn. Every Sunday and Wednesday in December, Glenlaurel hosts a traditional Dickens five-course dinner with exquisite culinary creations and readings from Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” between courses. Decked out in the finest trimmings and festive, old-time décor, Glenlaurel creates a truly remarkable holiday experience.
Hocking Hills visitors will get in the spirit at the Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls with a holiday cookie-making class Friday, Dec. 11.
For a special holiday meal, a month-long dining celebration at Shaw’s Inn & Restaurant in Lancaster features weekly Christmas dinners throughout December. A Southern Christmas Dinner, until Thursday, Dec.10; a traditional English Dinner, Dec. 11-17; a Williamsburg Christmas Dinner, Dec. 18-23; and a French Holiday Dinner, Dec. 26-30. Reservations are encouraged.
For more information about Hocking Hills’ holiday events, visit www.1800hocking.com.
About Hocking Hills
Located 40 miles southeast of Columbus, Ohio, Hocking Hills offers once-in-a-lifetime experiences that make every day feel like Saturday, with plenty of admission-free activities. The region boasts a wide variety of affordable lodging options, from camping, cabins and cottages to hotels and country inns. In addition to numerous hiking trails, parks and forests, the Hocking Hills area offers unique gift and antique shops, canoeing, horseback riding, golf and more. Complete traveler information on accommodations, festivals and the many sites in the Hocking Hills region is available at www.1800Hocking.com or toll-free at 1-800-Hocking (800-462-5464).
Head towards the Hocking Hills of southeast Ohio, and the Buckeye State’s highways give way to twisting, turning hill-hugging roads. In fact, it’s such fun to drive the ribbons of roads in this region of Ohio that Car & Driver Magazine frequently test drives the newest models on these remote byways.
WINTER WONDERS
Just a few hours from home, the Hocking Hills region transports you far away from the winter doldrums. Winter in the Hocking Hills is a crisp, clean white wonderland. The area is fast becoming one of the nation’s premiere sites for natural scenic beauty, known for plentiful waterfalls, spectacular rock formations and rolling hills, offering visitors truly breathtaking scenes. And when all those waterfalls freeze to dazzling crystal formations, the effect is simply magical.
There are winter horseback rides through the region’s gorgeous terrain. Miles and miles hiking trails through three state parks, state nature preserves and state and national forests, which offer incredible views and wonderful hiking. Hocking Hills State Park, for example, includes seven different areas, each boasts distinctive features that make it worth experiencing, including:
Ash Cave: The largest recess cave, Ash Cave’s path is fully wheelchair accessible, carrying hikers to a misty 90-foot waterfall.
Cantwell Cliffs: A massive overhanging horseshoe-shaped cliff with dramatic, scenic vistas.
Cedar Falls: A succession of beautiful valleys pours into a steep-walled gorge where visitors are amazed by a rushing waterfall, which flows magnificently over 50 feet of cliff face.
Conkle’s Hollow: This deep gorge offers hikers the natural beauty of blackhand sandstone cliffs tower 200 feet over the narrow gorge of a serene, shaded, valley floor. The rim trail is available for more experienced, cautious hikers, offering a thrilling view of Conkle’s Hollow and the surrounding hills.
Lake Logan: One of the finest fishing lakes in Ohio, Lake Logan sports northern pike, bass, bluegill, crappie, catfish and saugeye.
Old Man’s Cave: Named after a Civil War-era hermit, Old Man’s Cave features waterfalls, swirling pools, deep gorges and massive rock formations.
Rock House: The only true cave in the park, this grand tunnel-like corridor is situated midway up a 150-foot cliff.
In winter, these beautiful outdoor treks become a refreshing break from the stale indoors. After the sun sets, stargazing is magnificent here. City lights are far, far away, preventing them from disturbing the glittering nighttime sky.
OHH & AHH
After a brisk woodland hike, visitors can soothe their weary bones in a bubbling hot tub, while stars twinkle overhead and snow sparkles all around. A glass of wine or a soothing massage by the fire in your own log cabin revives, making the city seem a million miles away. A number of local massage therapists offer mobile treatments that are surprisingly affordable, making a visit to the Hocking Hills especially memorable.
Beyond the great outdoors, dozens of unique gift shops, antique shops book stores and other boutiques offer distinctive shopping and hidden treasures. The completely renovated Hocking Market brings together a host of artisans, antique dealers, hand-crafted furniture shops, vendors and even a book store and diner to offer a destination that’s a must see while in the Hocking Hills. A seasonal flea market adds even more unique shopping to the Hocking Market.
The natural vistas and positive energy if the Hocking Hills make this part of Ohio a haven for gifted artists. Travelers reap the rewards as they discover their creations. For visitors who’d like to try their own creations, the talented professional artists of Logan Arts Center in downtown Logan lead classes in jewelry making, pottery, painting and more, letting travelers take home a special souvenir they made themselves.
The nearby Bowen House offers events and exhibitions by local artists. Just down the road, Logan Clay Company has partnered with an area sculptor to create line of beautiful and weather resistant garden art that includes handmade bird baths, paving stones, sculpture and more.
Not just artistic creations are made in downtown Logan. The nation’s last surviving washboard factory continues churn out the old-fashioned laundry devices, though many of its customers today are crafters and musicians. Tours are offered to visitors. Or just stop by the Columbus Washboard Factory for a picture in front of the world’s largest washboard, which hangs just outside the company’s front door.
The options for accommodations in the Hocking Hills are as incredible as the scenery. Whether travelers prefer a large modern hotel with an indoor pool, a warm country inn with a renowned chef and gourmet cuisine, a charming bed and breakfast or a serene log cabin tucked away in a woodland setting, the Hocking Hills offers more than 100 different places to stay. Some accommodations are designed for romantic escapes. Others are large and comfortable, the perfect place for families or groups of friends. Some others even welcome dogs.
EXTRAORDINARY ESCAPES
Many of the region’s countless inns, hotels and cabin and bed and breakfast outfits offer special weekend rates and packages. Some offer additional discounts in winter, especially for mid-week stays. They may include breakfast, or special indulgences to make your stay extra memorable.
IF YOU GO
To plan their Hocking Hills winter escape and order a free Winter Savings Pass and Visitor Guide, travelers can call 1-800-HOCKING or visit www.1800hocking.com. Reservations and complete visitor information are available online.
For the Holiday season you can now Give a recipe and Get a recipe on our Facebook page! Please share your own Holiday recipes and stories that make the dish special. Then try a new recipe from a fellow Hocking Hills fan. We kicked things off with our own family favorites – Mom’s Cashew Christmas Candy and Smokey Links & Pineapple. You can find our recipes in the Notes section of our Facebook page. Here’s the recipe for Mom’s Christmas Candy to give you a taste of what you’ll find.
2 12oz packages of Nestlé’s Butterscotch Morsels
1 12 oz package of Nestlé’s Semi Sweet Morsels
12 oz whole cashews
1 large bag of chow mein noodles
In a double boiler melt the Morsels until creamy. Stir in cashews. Stir in chow mein noodles a cup at a time, mixing thoroughly. Continue adding chow mein noodles until nuts and noodles are completely covered with morsel mixture. Place spoonfuls of the mixture in 2” clusters on to wax paper covered baking sheets. Let cool in fridge. Tips: don’t overdo it with the chow mein noodles. Don’t try the milk chocolate morsels and use only Nestle – I’ve tried other brands and it just doesn’t turn out right.
There’s no excuse for lack of holiday spirit in the Hocking Hills. From parades to cookie baking classes, it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas.
This is a great time to support your community by shopping local. Our gift shops and galleries are loaded with treasures you’ll never find in a shopping mall. Enter Logan Town Center’s Holiday Treasure Hunt and maybe get a little something for yourself.
Head to downtown Logan on Saturday, November 28th for the Santa Parade and the kick off of the Holiday Treasure Hunt. Just visit 6 participating merchants (no purchase is necessary) and you can enter to win one of more than 20 prizes awarded on December 18th.
In fact, there’s a holiday celebration every weekend in downtown Logan. Don’t miss the Festival of Trees opening reception on December 5th at The Bowen House. The kids can make an ornament at the Bowen House on December 5th from 10 to noon then hang the ornament on the Christmas tree next to Santa’s house in Worthington Park.
From 3 to 9 on December 5th stop by the open house at Flowers by Darlene and enjoy all the seasonal décor and refreshments. On Sunday, December 6th the Scenic Hills Senior Chorus will be giving a concert at 2:30. At 5:30 head to Worthington Park for the Celebration of Lights sponsored by the Hocking Valley Community Hospital Auxilary.
The following weekend, December 11th to 13th, don’t miss the Hocking County Children’s Chorus performance of “It’s a Wonderful Life”. All performances will be at the ” Prokos” Building, Corner of Main and Spring Street. Performances are at 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and at 3 p.m. on Sunday afternoon.
Come on down to Worthington Park on Friday, December 18th for the Holiday Treasure Hunt finale. There will be entertainment, luminaries and prizes! The last day to enter the Holiday Treasure Hunt is December 16th. Entry forms are available at participating merchants and businesses in downtown Logan.
Wow – and that’s just Logan. Nelsonville will become “North Pole Nelsonville” from November 27th to January 3rd. There’s ice skating every weekend. The Nelsonville Christmas Parade is December 5th at 11am.
What would Christmas be without the story of Scrooge? Catch a performance of ABC Players’ presentation of “A Christmas Carol” at Stuart’s Opera House from December 4th to 6th. Hop on the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway for the Santa Train or the North Pole Express, running every weekend through December 20th.
Take a hike at Lake Hope State Park in December and you’ll be treated to over 100,000 lights. The Holiday Trail of Lights is every evening of December from 6 to 10. There will be additional special events on the weekends. Begin your hike at the Nature Center.
On December 12th join the Hocking Hills State Park Naturalist for Christmas in Ash Cave. Celebrate the season with a candle-lit stroll to Ash Cave, refreshments, a bonfire, carolers, Santa and a tree decorated for wildlife.
For a hands-on holiday try a wreath making class at the Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls on December 1st. Try new Holiday Cookies recipes at the Inn’s most popular cooking class December 3rd, 9th and 11th.
Leave the work to the experts and enjoy holiday themed dinners at Glenlaurel and Shaw’s. Gourmet dinners with a special holiday theme are featured on several nights in December.
Consider sharing the wealth with a contribution to our local food pantries and don’t miss the wonderful seasonal musical performances at area churches.
Happy holidays and may the New Year bring everyone happiness, health and prosperity.
Cost: $55 / person
Time: 11:00am – 2:00pm
- Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls
- 21190 SR 374, Logan, OH 43138 Hocking County
- Click to view map
- Cost: $55 / person
- Registration/Reservations required.
- 800-653-2557
- Visit the Web Site
By far the most popular and longest running coooking class! This hands-on class, led by Joan Heitman, our breakfast cook, is offered on December 3, 9 and 11. Innkeeper Ellen and Joan carefully select five different recipes for you to make and eat. Class includes instruction, recipes, lunch and taking home a box of cookies.
Baking Class at Inn at Cedar Falls
Holiday Wreath Making
Cost: $49
Time: 10:00am – 2:00pm
- The Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls
- 21190 St. Rt. 374, Logan, OH 43138, Hocking County
- Click to view map
- Cost: $49
- Registration/Reservations required.
- 800-653-2557
- Visit the Web Site
Join Bobbi Gill & Kellie Hutchison, Inn gardeners and nature enthusiasts, in creating a natural 20-24″ wreath out of fresh cut evergreens and dried botanicals. If you want, bring along a special accent to personalize your creation. Price includes lunch and all supplies.
Holiday Trail of Lights 2009 at Lake Hope State Park
Cost: Free
Time: 6:00pm – 10:00pm
- Lake Hope State Park Nature Center
- 27331 St. Rt. 278, McArthur, OH 45651, Vinton County
- Click to view map
- Cost: Free
- 740-596-3030
- Visit the Web Site
Hike through the forest to view our 100,000+ light display, including animated scenes, decorated trees and landscape lighting. Extra activities on weekends. Start at the Nature Center.
A Taste of Dickens…at Glenlaurel Inn
Cost: $49
Time: 7:00pm
- Glenlaurel Inn
- 14940 Mt. Olive Rd., Rockbridge, OH 43149, Hocking County
- Click to view map
- Cost: $49
- Registration/Reservations required.
- 740-385-4070
- Visit the Web Site
A Dickens Dinner makes Christmas magical! Glenlaurel’s estate looks like a Christmas card come to life. Partake in a delicious meal with friends, family or co-workers. Each Sunday and Wednesday in December, join us for our traditional and festive Dickens Dinner. Between courses, there will be readings from the classic Charles Dickens story “A Christmas Carol.”
The five-course dinner is a tribute to the traditional dining choices of Victorian England & Scotland. Dinner is $49 per person, plus tax & gratuity, and in the spirit of Christmas, you’ll receive 50% off the price of lodging in conjunction with the Dickens Dinner! No other discounts apply. Please join us for an evening you won’t soon forget.
For reservations, please contact Guest Services at our number below, daily from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. It’s a great way to get into the spirit of the season and makes a great early holiday gift for those who challenge your shopping ingenuity!
Holiday Cookies
Cost: $55 / person
Time: 11:00am – 2:00pm
- Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls
- 21190 SR 374, Logan, OH 43138 Hocking County
- Click to view map
- Cost: $55 / person
- Registration/Reservations required.
- 800-653-2557
- Visit the Web Site
By far the most popular and longest running coooking class! This hands-on class, led by Joan Heitman, our breakfast cook, is offered on December 3, 9 and 11. Innkeeper Ellen and Joan carefully select five different recipes for you to make and eat. Class includes instruction, recipes, lunch and taking home a box of cookies.
Southern Christmas Dinner
Cost: $27 per person
Time: 5:00pm – 9:00pm
- Shaw’s Inn & Restaurant
- 123 N. Broad St., Lancaster, OH 43130 Fairfield County
- Click to view map
- Cost: $27 per person
- 740-654-1842
- Visit the Web Site
Come join us any evening this week for Roast Duck with Bourbon Red Eye Gravy, Cornbread Stuffing and Mississippi Mud Pie.
Holiday Treasure Hunt in Logan
Cost: Free
Time: Kick-Off activities from noon to 4 p.m. on Nov. 28
- Worthington Park & downtown Logan businesses
- Corner of Main & Market Streets, Logan, OH 43138 Hocking County
- Click to view map
- Cost: Free
- 740-603-1926
- Visit the Web Site
More than 20 downtown businesses are offering $600+ in prizes to visitors who gather stamps from five different businesses (no purchase necessary) between Nov. 28 and Dec. 16. On Kick-Off day – Saturday, Nov. 28 – treasure hunters can pick up entry forms at the Logan Town Center tent in Worthington Park from noon to 4 p.m. While at the park, kids can enjoy visiting with Elmo, hearing the story of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” and riding the Washboard Festival Train.
After Nov. 28, Treasure Hunt entry forms can be picked up at participating businesses. Winners will be randomly drawn at the Holiday Treasure Hunt Finale on Friday, Dec. 18, at Worthington Park.
English Christmas Dinner
Cost: $31 per person
Time: 5:00pm – 9:00pm
- Shaw’s Inn & Restaurant
- 123 N. Broad St., Lancaster, OH 43130 Fairfield County
- Click to view map
- Cost: $31 per person
- 740-654-1842
- Visit the Web Site
Enjoy a traditional English Christmas Dinner at Shaw’s. Beef Wellington, Brussel Sprouts with maple and bacon, and English Plum Pudding. Available any evening this week.
Williamsburg Christmas Dinner
Cost: $28 per person
Time: 5:00pm – 9:00pm
- Shaw’s Inn & Restaurant
- 123 N. Broad St. Lancaster, OH 43130 Fairfield County
- Click to view map
- Cost: $28 per person
- 740-654-1842
- Visit the Web Site
Featuring Roast Turkey with ham, Chestnut Stuffing, Cranberry Sauce and Dutch Apple-Cherry Pie. Served every evening this week.
Holiday Treasure Hunt Finale
Cost: Free
Time: Brass ensemble music starts at 6:30 p.m.
- Worthington Park Gazebo
- Corner of Main & Market Streets, Logan, OH 43138 Hocking County
- Click to view map
- Cost: Free
- 740-603-1926
- Visit the Web Site
During the Holiday Treasure Hunt Finale, 21 prize winners will be randomly drawn from the valid entries deposited at participating businesses through Dec. 16. Holiday music by a brass ensemble will start at 6:30 p.m. Luminaries will light the streets and kids can ride the Washboard Festival Train.
The winner of the downtown Holiday Window Decorating Contest will be announced – selected by “people’s Choice” voting.
French Christmas Dinner
Cost: $32 per person
Time: 5:00pm – 9:00pm
- Shaw’s Inn & Restaurant
- 123 N. Broad St., Lancaster, OH 43130 Fairfield County
- Click to view map
- Cost: $32 per person
- 740-654-1842
- Visit the Web Site
Enjoy French cuisine any evening this week, featuring Rack of Lamb, Golden Mashed Potatoes and Milk Chocolate Mocha Creme Brulee.
From cascading waterfalls, to wide, open meadows and deep forests, southeast Ohio’s Hocking Hills region offers a profusion of places for the viewing Mother Nature’s fall show. A breathtaking mix of greens, yellows, browns, reds and oranges blend into a colorful tapestry of color, born of linden, maple, oak and other trees. The region’s rolling hills, soaring rock faces and remote hollows provide superb viewing of these impressive autumn displays.
Regular visitors to southeast Ohio know where to find the most special spots tucked away in these Appalachian foothills. But for first-timers, a visit at the Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center is a worthwhile stop. Dozens of seasoned locals volunteer their time to guide visitors to the best locales. Rack upon rack of brochures and maps help guests find accommodations, parks and activities, along with plenty of picnic spots.
Before you pack up the picnic basket, pile in the car and head for the hills, a call to 1-800-HOCKING and a visit to www.1800hocking.com are travel planning tools. Both offer directions to and descriptions of some of the Ohio’s most beautiful places.
SIX SPECTACULAR SPOTS
State and national forests, Clear Creek Metro Park and Hocking Hills State Park are just a few of the terrific places in the Hocking Hills. Hocking Hills State Park includes six distinct areas: Ash Cave, Cantwell Cliffs, Cedar Falls, Lake Logan, Old Man’s Cave and Rock House.
From soaring cliffs to rushing waterfalls, each offers its own idyllic setting for breaking bread. They’re open during daylight hours and feature parking, picnic tables and shelters, latrines and trash receptacles. But true adventurers pack their provisions to go and hike the trails, which are a quarter mile to 2.5 miles in length.
PARK PROTOCOL
Park regulations require that you leave these natural sanctuaries just as you found them. Both park rangers and lovers of the area ask picnickers to take their trash away for proper disposal.
After the half-mile hike into Cedar Falls, wanderers find themselves before a waterfall that rages in the spring and flows freely into fall. A large, smooth rock floor and a manmade stone wall offer natural seating and an easy place to eat.
The rugged rim trail at Conkles Hollow features scenic geologic formations and rare plants. The height and narrowness of the gorge and countless hemlocks screen the sunlight, offering a shaded valley for cool picnics during the dog days of summer. For cautious hikers, the rim trail offers thrilling views of the Hollow and the surrounding hills.
Ash Cave, Ohio’s largest recess cave, spans 700 feet in a sandstone horseshoe. A misty waterfall plunges 90 feet down to an easy, scenic trail that’s wheelchair accessible.
Rockbridge gracefully arches 50 feet, spanning a beautiful ravine. Considered to be the largest natural bridge in the state, Rockbridge is accessible by hiking trail. Or come by canoe, for a unique view.
Lake Logan is one of the finest fishing lakes in Ohio, sporting northern pike, bass, bluegill and crappie. Its scenic picnic area offers swimming and secluded walking paths.
The only true cave in the park, Rock House, is particularly unique. This grand tunnel-like corridor climbs the face of a 150-foot cliff. A picturesque picnic area marks the opening to the scenic trail that leads to the cave.
The massive overhang of Cantwell Cliffs plummets 150 feet into a gorge where a rock shelter, recess cave and large slump rocks offer an area spot. But don’t stuff your pack too full. One particularly narrow point on the trail, "Fat Woman’s Squeeze," is an unexpected challenge.
Old Man’s Cave’s waterfalls, swirling pools, deep gorges and massive rock formations offer a wonderful backdrop for viewing fall foliage. Picturesque sites include the Devil’s Bathtub, Old Man’s Cave, Sphinx Head, Upper Falls, Lower Falls and Broken Rock Falls.
WHERE TO EAT & STAY
If by chance, you forgot your picnic basket, several local eateries are prepared to save the day. Whether you want simple sandwiches or fancy formal fare, both the Inn at Cedar Falls and the Grouse Nest Restaurant have gourmet chefs on hand to pack a picnic for any size group. Or spend the night and stay for a lovely fall dinner. There’s no better treat after a good day’s hike. The Glenlaurel, a Scottish Inn, also offers incredible cuisine in a unique setting.
Beyond the public parks and forests, the Hocking Hills are peppered with unique places to spend the night, including an old train caboose, authentic Native American tipis, a Mongolian hut and secluded woodland cottages. Most of these country inns, B&Bs and cabins are situated on acres of woods and offer miles and miles of hidden trials. Many cabin owners and innkeepers will share their most secret spots with out-of-town guests.
But regardless of any leaf peeper’s vision for the ultimate autumn experience, there’s one item no one should forget to pack for this fall trip: the camera. You’ll need that to preserve the magnificent memories and beautiful images of your visit in the Hocking Hills.
Holiday Event Facility Special
Old Bear’s Den Retreat Center
Expiration Date: 12/31/09 | Phone: 740-380-2039
Receive 20% off our facility rental fee for your special events through Dec. 31, with additional discounts to all active military as a way to say thanks.
With room for 10 – 35 guests in a natural wooded setting, the Old Bear’s Den Retreat Center is the perfect place to gather for your holiday event, family reunion, retreat, wedding or reception.
We can help with catering in or you can bring your own Holiday treats. Located just 5 miles from Old Man’s Cave and just off St. Rt. 664 S. Call Eric for more info or to set your date!
Holiday Photography Special
Photography by Hoffman
Expiration Date: 12/31/09 | Phone: 740-380-2039
Photography by Hoffman – $99.00 Special on Holiday Personal Photographer Sessions Nov. through Dec. You receive 12 or 24 different poses, the first set of 4×6 prints in an album with a CD so you can make your own reprints or enlargements, and a copyright release. Photographer will come to your cabin or meet you for outdoor photos at the park. For more info or to set an appointment call Eric.
3rd Night – Half Off!
Deer Mountain Retreat
Expiration Date: 02/09/10 | Phone: 740-331-4840
Choose any of our 22 cabins or lodges – any day of the week – and get half off your 3rd night! This special is for November -February, excluding holidays.
Thanksgiving Special: 30 People for 3 Days
Deer Mountain Retreat
Expiration Date: 11/24/09 | Phone: 740-331-4840
We have 5 great 2-year-old cabins side by side, plus a banquet hall. Guest can pick 3 days around Thanksgiving holiday. All cabins sleep 6 and have 2 bedrooms + 1 bath, pullout sofa, grill, full kitchen, deck over wooded ravine, Direct TV, fireplace, fire ring, 740 acres for games, close to hiking caves and waterfalls. Banquet hall has projector for big screen viewing via net/tv. Tables will be set up for Thanksgiving feast! Cost is $2,410 for everything – tax included.
Bring Your Own Linens Discount
Great Escape Cabins
Expiration Date: 02/28/10 | Phone: 740-380-2606
Great Escape Cabins will discount your winter and early spring stay by 5% when you bring the bed sheets and bath towels! Holidays excluded.
Treat yourself to a relaxing stay before or just after the winter holidays and we’ll provide the backdrop.
Free Thanksgiving Dinner
Hocking Hills Cabins
Expiration Date: 11/30/09 | Phone: 800-385-4161
Stay 3 nights over the holiday and receive a free Thanksgiving dinner. You won’t have to do a thing; your dinner will be waiting for you in your cabin when you arrive. You will receive a complete holiday turkey dinner, fully cooked and ready to enjoy. You might even get him to do the dishes! Dinner includes a Butterball turkey, stuffing, gravy, mashed potatoes, cranberry celebration, dinner rolls and your choice of a pumpkin or apple pie. Ask for special when reserving. Discount will not be given at any other time. Restrictions apply.
Thanksgiving Family Vacation Package
Hocking Hills Cabins
Expiration Date: 11/30/09 | Phone: 800-385-4161
- This package includes a 3-night stay for a family of four over the holiday, a delicious Thanksgiving dinner, and a family photo package to remember this special holiday getaway for years to come.
- Your dinner, fully cooked & ready to enjoy, will be waiting for you in your cabin when you arrive: a Butterball turkey, stuffing, gravy, mashed potatoes, cranberry celebration, dinner rolls and your choice of a pumpkin or apple pie.
- “Your Personal Photographer” will spend an hour or so with you, photographing you near a cascading waterfall, on a stone bridge or in your cabin by the fireplace. You will receive 24-4×6 prints in a proof album and a CD of all the shots for reprints and enlargements.
The package rate of $800 includes all taxes and is non refundable, but transferable.
$999 Winter Vacation Special
Good Earth Cabins
Expiration Date: 02/28/10 | Phone: 740-596-0648
Stay 5 nights (Sunday-Thursday) at our All Seasons Lodge or Beagle Hill Lodge before the end of February 2010 for only $999.
Offer good for up to 14 guests. Excludes holidays.
Nov / Dec. Midweek Discount
Nature’s Pointe Cabins
Expiration Date: 12/27/09 | Phone: 800-456-3083
Stay with us 2 or more midweek nights (Sun. – Thurs.) in November or December 2009 and we’ll take an additional 10% off your rental rates. Valid with winter discount rates. New reservations only. Holidays and the week of Dec. 27th excluded.
November Massage Savings
Blue Valley Massage & Traveling Spa
Expiration Date: 12/01/09 | Phone: 888-747-3223
brrrrr…It’s cold outside! This is the perfect time of year to try our soothing Hot Stone massage! Warm river rocks and essential oils are used to massage your aches and melt your stress away. $20 off our usual fee!
Thanksgiving: Stay 3 Nights, 4th Free
At Boulders Edge
Expiration Date: 11/30/09 | Phone: 740-385-0707
Spend this Thanksgiving cuddled up with the one you love in a beautiful log cabin in the heart of Hocking Hills! Stay 3 nights and get the 4th for free. Our cabins are spacious, clean and secluded. They include a large hot tub, fireplace, telescope, pillow top mattress, big screen TV with Direct TV and Showtime plus much, much more!
- must mention this ad at the time of booking
- not to be combined with any other discounts
November & December Special
Lake Logan Country Cottages
Expiration Date: 12/18/09 | Phone: 740-503-1879
Sunday thru Thursday (based on 2 people): 2-night stay for $200 – waterfront on Lake Logan; 2-night stay for $185 at all others. We are pet friendly. Hot tub, fire ring by lake. Does not include holidays.
Thanksgiving Holiday Special
Hocking Hills Cabins
Expiration Date: 11/30/09 | Phone: 800-385-4161
Stay 3 nights and get the 4th night FREE. Ask for special when reserving. Discount will not be given at any other time. Restrictions apply.
Fantastic Fall Sale – Up to $100 Off
At Boulders Edge
Expiration Date: 11/30/09 | Phone: 740-385-0707
We’re making it easy for you to enjoy a getaway during this glorious season, with up to $100 in savings on November weekday reservations. Reserve any 2 weekdays – save $50, 3 weekdays – save $75, and save a whopping $100 on any 4 weekday stay. All of our log cabins are 800 sq. ft., secluded, clean and fully equipped with hot tub fireplace, telescopes and much, much more. Call today!
- excludes all holidays
- must mention this ad at time of booking
- cannot be combined with any other discount
- rates based on 2 person occupancy
Winter Wonderland
Frontier Log Cabins
Expiration Date: 01/31/10 | Phone: 888-332-6747
Escape to a Log Cabin nestled in an enchanting pine forest. Stay any weekend during November, December or January and add a 3rd night for $59.
Reservations for 2 persons only. Offer not valid on holiday weekends, and restrictions apply.
Glenlaurel Golf Special
Glenlaurel, A Scottish Country Inn
Expiration Date: 11/30/09 | Phone: 800-809-7378
Glenlaurel has formed a partnership with Lancaster Country Club which enables our guests to golf at this beautiful, private club.
- Enjoy our Golfers’ Delight Special:
- Golf package at The Lancaster Country Club (18 holes for two, including cart)
- 2-night stay in a deluxe romantic cottage or croft, or cozy room or suite
- Gourmet breakfast for two each morning.
- Six- or seven-course dinner for two, by candlelight, each evening
- Happy half-hour with cheese/crackers each night before dinner
Prices start at $786 for 2 people, taxes & gratuity additional. Please call for additional rates and reservations.
Save $200 per Night
Mesa Vista Lodge
Expiration Date: 04/30/10 | Phone: 740-380-9051
Winter/Spring Special: Stay any 2 or more weekday nights (Sun-Thurs) and save $200 off per night! Valid during November-April 2010 only on reservations submitted after 10-1-09. Must be mentioned at time of reservation. Not valid with other discounts, coupons, specials, or weekends/Holidays. All rules/policies apply.
Mid Week Special
Hem Loch Ridge Cabin
Expiration Date: 12/21/09 | Phone: 614-206-1175
Stay with us a minimum of 2 nights Sunday-Thursday and receive a 25% discount off our regular rates. Friday and Saturday night stays are charged at regular rates.
Winter Weekend Special
Hocking Hills Cabins
Expiration Date: 01/31/10 | Phone: 800-385-4161
Stay any weekend during December or January and get Thursday or Sunday FREE! Offer not valid on holiday weekends, and restrictions apply.
December Breakfast
Buffalo Falls Lodge
Expiration Date: 12/31/09 | Phone: 740-808-3714
Book any days in December 2009 and receive complimentary breakfast (casserole, muffins, juice) for your whole group for one morning!
Glenlaurel Military Special
Glenlaurel, A Scottish Country Inn
Expiration Date: 12/29/09 | Phone: 800-809-7378
We want to say “thank you” in our own way to our service personnel. U.S. Military Discount of 15% off lodging for those currently serving or who have served in the last 12 months.
Here’s a list of great experiences with the perfect price: FREE
- Hike to Old Man’s Cave (1 mile)
- Hike to Cedar Falls (1/2 mile)
- Hike to Ash Cave Gorge (1/4 mile; wheelchair accessible)
- Hike the Ash Cave Rim (1/2 mile)
- Hike to Conkle’s Hollow (1 mile; wheelchair accessible)
- Hike the Conkle’s Hollow Rim (2-1/2 miles)
- Hike to Rock House (1/2 mile)
- Hike to Cantwell Cliffs (1 mile)
- Hike to the Natural Rock Bridge and Waterfall in the Rockbridge State Nature Preserve (3 1/2 miles round trip)
- Challenge yourself with a hike on Grandma Gatewood’s Trail from Old Man’s Cave to Ash Cave (6 miles)
- View seasonal waterfalls along most of the hiking trails
- Visit the Butterfly Habitat at Old Man’s Cave Visitor Center
- Take in a Saturday night movie at the Hocking Hills State Park Campground Outdoor Theater (summer only)
- Take in a Saturday night movie at the Lake Hope Nature Center Ourdoor Amphitheater (summer only)
- Spend the day at the beach at Lake Logan State Park
- Drop a line – fishing line into Lake Logan (bring your own license and equipment)
- Ride the Hock-Hocking Adena Bike Trail from Nelsonville to Athens
- Hand feed hummingbirds at Lake Hope State Park
- Welcome our winged residents at the International Migratory Bird Weekend, the second weekend of May
- Sharpen your archery skills at the Hocking Hills State Park Archery Range (you will need your own bow and arrows)
- Tour the only washboard factory in the US; these washboards are everywhere, including with our military overseas
- Dance at the Washboard Music Festival – the 3rd weekend of every June
- Immerse yourself in nature, art and music at Lilyfest, held the second weekend of July
- Visit The Bowen House Center for Art & Education in historic downtown Logan
- Visit the Hocking County Historical Society Museum in historic downtown Logan
- Take a self guided historic walking tour of Logan
- Get a blast from the past at Etta’s Lunchbox Museum & Cafe
- See the largest collection of pencil sharpeners in the world at the Pencil Sharpener Museum but you have to call ahead; 740-753-4634
- Stroll around the Nelsonville Historic Art Square
- Celebrate the month at Final Fridays, held the last Friday of every month in Nelsonville’s Historic Art Square
- Check out the antique train cars in Nelsonville
- Visit the Military Museum in Nelsonville
- Take a self-guided driving tour of Fairfield County’s 18 covered bridges
- Browse the Decorative Art Center in historic downtown Lancaster
- Enjoy all the free attractions at Lancaster Fest (July 23rd to August 1st, 2009)
- Visit the Dairy Art Barn in Athens
- Stroll around the campus of Ohio University and visit the Kennedy Museum of Art in Athens
- Tour the Little Cities of Black Diamonds and discover the region’s mining heritage; visit www.littlecitiesofblackdiamonds.org for a more info and a touring map
The Hocking Hills State Park offers Naturalist Programs year round; weekends during winter and early spring, weekdays and weekends during the summer and fall. Check out our Calendar of Events for what’s happening; http://www.1800hocking.com/calendar
Here’s just a sample of the FREE Naturalist Programs at Hocking Hills State Park:
- Historic Lantern Tours of Ash Cave at night
- Star gazing events
- Haunted Hocking: Spirits of Rose Lake
- Stream Stompin’
- Survival Ohio Style
- Hocking’s Birds of Prey
- Furs, Feathers, Feet & Fangs
- Weekly 5-Star Hike Series
- Maple Sugaring in the Hills
- Owl Prowl
- Scalawags & Renegades
- Winter Ice Hike
- Rose Lake Excursions
- Printing with Nature
- Grandma Gatewood’s Fall Colors Tour
- Christmas in Ash Cave
- Ash Cave Sweethearts Hike
- Jeweled Dragons
- Ridgetops & Hollers
- Family Nature Adventures
