Where to Stay

Love Shack Cabins:  Looking for a romantic experience? Love Shack Cabins is featuring a package that includes two nights in an adult-only cabin, as well as a bottle of wine or champagne, an in-cabin side-by-side couples massage and hot stone treatment  and a $50 gift certificate for a three-course meal at the Grouse Nest Restaurant. Offer ends February 25; call 877-297-4037 to order.

Blue Rose Cabins: Book a stay in Blue Rose Cabins and enjoy a special Valentine’s Day package, available on Valentine’s Day, as well as the weekends before and after the holiday. Your stay will include a hot tub, wine, roses, cookies and side-by-side couples massages. Call 800-426-6149 for reservations.

Tree House in Hocking Hills: Stay in the secluded Tree House in Hocking Hills, complete with all the amenities for a romantic night – or two. Admire the wildlife, the lake and your significant other from the warm hot tub or relaxing front porch. Receive $30 off before February 15; call 740-385-7118 for details.

Where to Dine

Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls: Bring your sweetheart to the Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls for some extra “love-inn”! Chef Anthony be preparing a special 4-course candlelit dinner. Make reservations today for the February 11, 14 and 18 Valentine’s Day dinner events; call 800-653-2557 for details.

Jack’s Steak House: Dine on delicious steak, seafood and pasta delights at Jack’s Steak House. Enjoy casual, yet classy, during your Valentine’s Day stay in Hocking Hills.

Glenlaurel, A Scottish Country Inn: Experience the legendary fine-dining at Glenlaurel with exceptional cuisine and a Scottish flair. Order the seven-course Saturday dinner or a six-course meal all other evenings. Call 1-800-809-7378 for reservations to ensure a table at this beautiful country inn.

What to Do

Sweethearts Hike at Ash Cave: On February 12, enjoy a romantic evening stroll through Ash Cave. Take in the amazing frozen falls in the winter chill. After, enjoy a cozy fire and refreshments.

Valentine Chocolate Choo Choo: Experience an evening of wine and chocolate decadence with the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway. Catered by Rhapsody restaurant at Historic Robbins Crossing, you’ll embark on a train ride with music, wine and chocolate treats. Reserve your spot today for the February 11 event.

Drive and Discover: On February 18, take a scenic drive with your significant other through Hocking Hills. Shop for gifts and treasures of all types. Enjoy artist demos and special discounts at the area’s unique shops.

Have you planned a Hocking Hills Valentine’s Day getaway?  Share stories, photos and memories with us in the comments below or on our Facebook page.

Winter is the perfect time to begin planning a spring or summer wedding. Since Hocking Hills is such a popular wedding destination for couples, it’s always best to make plans as early as possible. Below are some important factors to consider when planning your Hocking Hills wedding.

Ceremony Locations

Ash Cave, located in Hocking Hills State Park, is one of the most popular sites for outdoor ceremonies in Hocking Hills due to its handicap-accessible path, breathtaking scenery and large open area. Other park locations, including Old Man’s Cave and Lake Logan, are also popular. Permits are required for any ceremonies within the park. Call the park office for more details.

The more than 20 churches of all denominations located in Hocking Hills are the perfect setting for a more traditional ceremony. Check with clergy to make ceremony arrangements.

Many of the wedding chapels in Hocking Hills include ceremony and reception locations set in more private, rustic locations. Locations including the Hocking Hills Wedding Chapel and Hocking Hills Woodland Weddings are beautiful choices for an intimate ceremony and reception.

Visit the Ceremony Locations page on our website for more unique ceremony spots.

The rustic, natural backdrop of Hocking Hills is a memorable location for your wedding.

Reception Locations
From the serene lakeside setting of A Georgian Manor to the cozy, intimate Glenlaurel, there are a variety of reception locations for any wedding size and budget. Visit our Wedding Reception and Banquet Sites page for a complete list of locations in Hocking Hills.

Catering and Food Service
Some say that the food is the most important part of any wedding reception. From BBQ dinners and picnic snacks to gourmet catering and plated dinners, Hocking Hills has a variety of catering and food service options for your big day.

The Little Details
Flowers, photography, ceremony officiants and marriage licenses – there’s so much to remember when planning your wedding! Use our Wedding Guide to help plan the wedding of your dreams and remember the most important part of any wedding: celebrating your special day surrounded by loved ones.

A Winter Wedding
If you’re looking to tie the knot sooner rather than later, the Winter Bride Wedding and Honeymoon Special Package from Hocking Hills Cabins offers a one-night stay in a “Honeymooner Cabin,” an intimate ceremony with a minister in your cabin, bridal bouquet and boutonniere, heart-shaped cake, 12 photos and one meal prepared in your cabin by a traveling chef – all for $499. Special offer expires Jan. 31, 2012.

Do you have any special memories of weddings in Hocking Hills? We’d love to hear your stories and any special tips or advice in the comments below or on our Facebook page!

The tranquility of Hocking Hills during the winter makes it the perfect time to enjoy the area’s beautiful scenery without the hustle and bustle of summer. Check out our list of winter specials and deals in Hocking Hills and plan a getaway of your own!

Visitors looking for a peaceful winter getaway head to Hocking Hills.

Winter Deals

Winter Horseback Riding Special
Trail riding is the perfect way to experience the beauty of Hocking Hills during the winter season. From January 18-25 at Equestrian Ridge Farm, take a horseback ride with your partner, friend or family and one person will ride for free! All rides are reserved, so call early to book your appointment. Offer expires 1/26/12.

Winter Weeknight Special
Escape to a cozy log cabin this winter at Cabins With A View. Set on 18 private acres, luxury amenities include a private hot tub and recreation room with a pool table and dart board. At the end of the day, curl up with a DVD and mug of hot cocoa in front of the gas fireplace. During the winter, stay two weeknights and get the third free! Call 419-351-3916 to make reservations. Offer expires 3/10/12.

Book Winter and Save Summer
Start planning your summer vacation early with Cabins by the Caves and receive a $50 gas card with your lodge reservation. The brand new luxury lodges are located on secluded lots just minutes from popular spots like Old Man’s Cave, Conkle’s Hollow and Rock House. Minimum 3-night stay. Call 877-322-2283 to make reservations. Offer expires 2/29/12.

Check our Specials page for even more ways to save on your winter Hocking Hills getaway.

Winter Lodging Packages

Come Fly the Sky Trails of Hocking Hills Package
See Hocking Hills from a truly unique perspective: the sky! Join a veteran pilot for an air tour of the area, including geological formations only able to be seen from an airplane. This package includes a two-night cabin stay in one of Hocking Hills Cabins’ cozy getaways, a 30-minute plane ride with Hocking Hills Scenic Air Tours and a brown bag lunch from the Spotted Owl Café for $450. Call 800-385-4161 to make reservations. Offer expires 1/31/12.

Hocking Hills Hikers’ Package
Enjoy the great outdoors and pamper yourself afterwards with this package from Hocking Hills Cabins. For $306, this package includes a private weekday cabin rental (complete with fireplace and hot tub), hiking sticks, map and souvenir backpack, picnic lunch and in-cabin royal foot treatment from Blue Valley Massage and Traveling Spa for two adults. Call 800-385-4161 to make reservations. Offer expires 2/29/12.

Relax, Recharge and Reconnect Package
Take some time to slow down and enjoy a relaxing getaway with your special someone, courtesy of Love Shack Cabins. This package includes a two-night stay in one of two romantic, adult-only cabins, bottle of wine or champagne, a side-by-side couples massage and hot stone treatment in your cabin and a $50 gift certificate for a three-course meal at the Grouse Nest Restaurant. Call 877-297-4037 for weekday and weekend pricing information, and to make reservations. Offer expires 2/25/12.

Check out our Lodging Packages page to discover more money-saving getaway packages.

Is anyone planning a winter getaway to Hocking Hills? Tell us about it in the comments or share it on our Facebook page.

According to EverydayHealth.com, staying active in the winter to fend off extra weight from holiday eating and prevent aches and pains that can occur from sedentary behavior. Regular winter activity can also help boost the immune system.

With beautiful scenery and ample space to enjoy outdoor activities, Hocking Hills is the perfect place to get active this winter. While some winter visitors seek cozy cabins and relaxing hot tubs, many travelers are discovering a new level of outdoor adventure in Hocking Hills during the cold months.

Hikers, walkers and outdoor adventurers of all ages will enjoy the 47th Annual Hocking Hills Winter Hike from 9-11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 21, 2012. Hikers will start at Old Man’s Cave and make the 6-mile trek to Ash Cave, where they’ll get to experience the unique beauty of Hocking Hills amidst a stunning winter landscape. A shuttle bus returns hikers to Old Man’s Cave. Refreshments will be provided and although the hike is free, donations are encouraged.

Thrill-seekers will love the year-round adventure of Ohio ATV World, a one-of-a-kind ATV park with expert instruction, rentals 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.

More ways you can stay active in Hocking Hills during the winter include:

• Ice fishing at Rose Lake in Hocking Hills State Park and Lake Logan State Park (with valid Ohio Fishing License)
• Sledding
• Wildlife tracking and bird watching

Before you venture outside to enjoy Hocking Hills in the winter, remember to dress warmly and safely. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources has put together a list of tips for winter fun, including reminders to dress in layers, wear waterproof boots and keep your head, neck and hands covered.

What are your favorite winter activities in Hocking Hills? We want to know! Leave a comment below or on our Facebook page.

Hiking Fans

In addition to exploring the variety of trails throughout Hocking Hills State Park open year-round, weather permitting, hiking fans can take advantage of the annual Winter Hike on January 21. Starting at 9 a.m., guests can enjoy the 6-mile trek from Old Man’s Cave to Ash Cave, stopping for refreshments at Cedar Falls.

On February 11 at 5 p.m., stop by Ash Cave for the Sweethearts Hike. Take a romantic stroll during dusk and enjoy a post-hike cozy fire and refreshments.

Aspiring Photographers

Photographers will find fun and education in the season’s photography workshops. The Arrival of Winter hands-on workshop will be held on January 28 at 9 a.m. and the Frozen Waterfalls Photography Workshop will be held February 18 at 9 a.m. The sessions, held in the Hocking Hills State Park, provide usable knowledge in nature photography. Lunches are also included.

Families of All Ages

Parent can bring their children to Hocking Hills and enjoy the Holiday Trail of Lights at Lake Hope State park. This exhibition of 100,000+ lights are on display through December 30. On January 7, families are invited to the Wild Weekend Discovery Series at Wayne National Park Headquarters.  Designed for kids preschool to 5^th grade, this education program’s theme for January is Tracks and Scat.

Wine Aficionados

Wine aficionados can gather for an evening at the Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls for the Winter Wine TasteInn on February 24 at 6 p.m.  Inn Owner Terry Lingo, Chef Anthony and a wine expert will be on hand to answer questions. The event will feature food and Obscure Wines of the World.

Cooking Enthusiasts

Cooking enthusiasts will enjoy the variety of cooking classes offered throughout the year. The Big Cheese  hands-on cooking class, held on January 14 at Shaw’s Restaurant & Inn (740-654-1842) at 10:30 a.m. offers guests a chance to learn how to make homemade fresh cheese, including fromage blanc, mascarpone, yogurt cheese and mozzarella. The class concludes with a homemade lunch paired with wine.

For more events, check out the Hocking Hills calendar.

Celebrating winter in Hocking Hills: Christmas in Ash Cave

December 30: Guided Hike to Cedar Falls

Planning on spending a long weekend with us? Join us the Friday before New Year’s at 2 p.m. for an afternoon stroll. Meet the Hocking Hill State Park Naturalist to explore Cedar Falls and discover the unique natural and cultural history of this area of the park.

December 31: Guided Hike to Broken Rock Falls

Start the New Year off on the right foot with a free guided hike of Broken Rock Falls. Meet the Naturalist at 9 a.m. at the Naturalists’ Cabin behind the Old Man’s Cave Visitor Center and join us for a hike through Old Man’s Cave to the little visited Broken Rock Falls. Call 740-385-6841 for additional information.

December 31: Hocking Valley Scenic Railway New Year’s Train Ride

Celebrate the New Year with a train ride, fireworks and more. Families may choose to ride in a car with soda and pizza, and adults can ride in a car serving wine and cheese. The train stops for a fireworks display at midnight before returning to the depot. The train leaves at 10:30 p.m. Advance reservations required; visit the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway’s website for more details.

December 31: New Year’s Eve Dinner at Glenlaurel, a Scottish Country Inn
In Scotland, New Year’s Eve is a grand celebration known as Hogmanay. Visitors attending Glenlaurel’s annual black tie event can experience a traditional Scottish feast. The night includes Haggis, a bagpiper’s call to dinner, poetry reading throughout a seven-course dinner, a bonfire and more. For additional details and reservation info, visit Glenlaurel’s website.

December 31: New Year’s Eve at the Brass Ring

Ring in the New Year with a special dinner at the Brass Ring Restaurant featuring Chef Moe’s culinary creations and legendary desserts. For additional information visit the Brass Ring’s website.

December 31: New Year’s Eve Dinner at the Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls

If you’re planning an overnight stay at the Inn & Spa, you’ll be welcomed by a bottle of Champagne and chocolate-dipped strawberries waiting for you in your room. Enjoy a multi-course New Year’s Eve dinner, prepared by Chef Anthony. The meal includes a baked brie wedge with caramelized apples, poached lobster tail, filet mignon, pomegranate tiramisu and more. For more information, visit the Inn & Spa’s website.

Photo credit: irishphiladelphia

Taste of Dickens – A Traditional Christmas Dinner at Glenlaurel:
December 11, 14, 18 and 21 

Participate in this festive six-course dinner, a tribute to the traditional dining choices of Victorian England and Scotland. Between courses, there will be readings from Charles Dickens’
A Christmas Carol. Call 740-385-4070 for reservations.

Holiday Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides at Lake Hope State Park: December 17

Stop by the Nature Center at Lake Hope State Park and experience a free horse-drawn wagon ride. Rides are about 20 minutes long.

Holiday Trail of Lights at Lake Hope State Park: Open All December

Start at the Nature Center and hike through the forest at Lake Hope State Park with your family and view the 100,000+ lights on display, including animated scenes, decorated trees and landscape lighting. On December 16 and 17, bring your children to the Nature Center from
6 to 8 p.m. for a visit with Santa.

Hocking Valley Scenic Railway Santa Train: Saturdays and Sundays through December 18

Take your whole family on a train ride with Santa Claus. Santa and his helper board at the depot and provide entertainment for the entire train ride. Santa and his elf will visit with each child individually. Call 740-753-9531 (weekends only) for more info.

North Pole Nelsonville: Open All December

Stop by historic Nelsonville, Ohio, which has been transformed into the North Pole for the holiday season. Attractions include ice skating, unique shopping, Santa’s village and more.

North Pole Train: Saturdays in December before Christmas

Take a ride to the North Pole! Embark the heated, decorated train in your pajamas and robes and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies aboard. Souvenir bells are provided for each child. After the ride, follow the conductor across the street to North Pole Nelsonville.

Festival of Trees at the Bowen House: Tuesdays – Saturdays through December 22

Visit the historic Bowen House in Logan to check out the display of beautifully decorated Christmas trees. This year’s theme is Candy Land. The unique decorations may even provide inspiration for your own holiday home decor.

Enter our Facebook contest: Now through December 20

We’re gifting one lucky fan a two-night Hocking Hills vacation package. To enter to win, like us on Facebook and click the Sweepstakes link on the left side of our page. You’ll be directed to a form where you can enter to win. The relaxing getaway includes a two-night stay, dinner for two and an in-cabin couples massage.

Escape to Hocking Hills, Ohio

I had never heard of Hocking Hills, Ohio until I received a few tweets from @MyHockingHills.

Hocking Hills isn’t a town, but a county and a region of Southeast Ohio known among outdoorsy types as a great place to “get away from it all.” Specifically, visitors here will be getting away from:

• Traffic
• Internet
• Cell reception
• Chain restaurants
• Light pollution
• Honking horns and other noise pollution
• TV
• Starbucks

What do you get in exchange? Peace and quiet and natural beauty, of course.

Without a TV or the Internet, the modern family might fear getting bored. Fortunately, there are plenty of activities in the area – all of which are about a 20 minute drive from each other. Our family got to:

Ride horses at The Spotted Horse Ranch:

Take a scenic air tour:

Go kayaking on Lake Hope in Lake Hope State Park:

And that was just one day!

We missed out on hiking through Old Man’s Cave and Ash Cave, checking out the pencil sharpener and washboard museums, and fishing at Lake Logan State Park. Our family of four could easily spend at least a week getting back in touch with nature and never get restless.

Unfortunately, our email couldn’t wait that long.

Photos: Britt Reints

About the Guest Blogger:

Britt Reints is touring America in an RV for a year with her family. She writes about her trip and happiness – defining it, finding it, and hanging on to it – at www.InPursuitofHappiness.net.

We’re giving one lucky fan a two-night Hocking Hills vacation package. How can you win? Simply like us on Facebook and then click the Sweepstakes link on the left side of our page. You’ll be directed to a form where you can enter to win.

The relaxing getaway includes a two-night stay, dinner for two and an in-cabin couples massage. We’re accepting entries until midnight December 20, so don’t forget to enter soon – you could be the winner of a fabulous holiday gift for yourself!

Photo credit: jdhancock

Don’t worry – take a deep breath – and relax! We’ve done half the work for you. As stores and malls fill with products and customers this holiday season, the Hocking Hills region has created a number of travel packages and specials for shoppers looking to get away from the crowds to reconnect with family and friends. Sharing travel opportunities with loved ones is a unique gift alternative that allows recipients to unwrap a more relaxing, rejuvenating experience that will be remembered for years to come. Ohio’s Hocking Hills offers a variety of travel opportunities sure to fit the recipients on any gift giver’s list this holiday season.

Highlights of some of these Hocking Hills travel packages and specials include:

For the Outdoor Lover

Hocking Hills Hikers Package: Created with accommodations at Hocking Hills Cabins, outdoor adventurers will appreciate this one-night package that includes walking sticks, a local trail map, a complimentary brown bag lunch and  souvenir backpack. After an exhilarating hike, guests will enjoy a Royal Foot Treatment from Blue Valley Massage & Traveling Spa and dinner at The Spotted Owl Cafe. Package price begins at $306 for two adults.

For the Pampered Traveler

Relax, Recharge, & Reconnect Package: What better way to pamper a loved one than with the Relax, Recharge & Reconnect package at Love Shack Cabins? The package features a two-night stay; complimentary bottle of wine or champagne; and an in-cabin, side-by-side couples massage and hot stone treatment. Guests will also enjoy a 3-course gourmet meal at Grouse Nest Restaurant. Packages start at $550 per couple.

Get Snowed In: Delight in the beauty of a Hocking Hills winter with a two-day weeknight special at Cabins by the Caves. Upon arrival, guests will be treated to a dozen roses and Anthony Thomas truffles to set a pampered mood. This package also includes complimentary breakfast and an opportunity to really rejuvenate with a late checkout. Packages start at $325 and can be upgraded to accommodations in a luxury lodge.

Fantastic Holiday Savings

Holiday Special: Now through December 28, Big Pine Retreat is taking 10 percent off any two-night stay or 20 percent off any stay of three or more nights. Tucked away on 40 acres of private property, the cabins at Big Pine Retreat can accommodate groups of up to 10. Nightly rates begin at $145 prior to discounting and guests should mention “Holiday Special” when making reservations.

End of Year Weekday Special: Perfect for the entire family, Four Seasons Hideaways offers accommodations for up to 14 guests. Through the end of 2011, Four Seasons Hideaways is offering a free third night with every two nights booked on trips between Sunday and Thursday. Rates start at $399 per night.

Making Holiday Memories in Hocking Hills