Holiday Wreath Making

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Featuring Roast Turkey with ham, Chestnut Stuffing, Cranberry Sauce and Dutch Apple-Cherry Pie. Served every evening this week.

Holiday Treasure Hunt Finale

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

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

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.

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.

$99 Per Night Autumn Special

Big Maple Log Cabin
Expiration Date: 09/30/10 | Phone: 740-887-3183

Stay any 2 or more weekday nights (Sunday through Thursday), for $99 per night. Enjoy the autumn colors & soak in your private hot tub. This price is good for up to 6 guests with no additional per person charges. Big Maple is a restored 1800s log cabin and we supply all of your paper products, soaps, linens & towels and firewood.

Fall Getaway

JD’s Cabins
Expiration Date: 10/31/09 | Phone: 740-753-3249

Stay at one of our cabins weekdays (Sunday through Wednesday) from now through October and get 3rd night free.
Large Cabin: $113 per weeknight for 2 guests, plus tax, and only $10 per extra guest per night
Small Cabin: $90 per weeknight for 2 guests, plus tax – cabin has a queen bed and a twin bed.

$100 Off Per Night!

Mesa Vista Lodge
Expiration Date: 12/31/09 | Phone: 740-380-9051

During our 2009 Fall/Winter Special, stay any 2 or more weekday nights (Sun-Thurs) and we’ll take $100 off per night! Valid for the months of Sept. through Dec. 2009 on reservations submitted after 9-1-09. Must be mentioned at time of reservation. Not valid with other discounts, coupons, specials, or weekends. All rules/policies apply.

Pre-Season Winter Discount

Good Earth Cabins
Expiration Date: 01/31/10 | Phone: 740-596-0648

November 1 through January 31. Two guests stay two weekday nights (Sunday through Thursday) in any of our one or two bedroom cabins or cottages for $199.
Holidays excluded – Additional guests $15 each per night

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!

Weekday Special

Willis Ridge Cabin
Expiration Date: 10/31/09 | Phone: 937-206-1849

Stay two weekday nights (Mon. thru Thurs.) at $119 per night, and the third night is 25% off.

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 $646 for 2 people, taxes & gratuity additional. Please call for additional rates and reservations.

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.

As consumers seek out ways to save money and still enjoy a memorable vacation or getaway, they’re heading to the hills in greater numbers than ever before, according to the Hocking Hills Tourism Association (HHTA).  Visits to the area’s official traveler information website, www.1800hocking.com, are up a whopping 45.46% for June 2009 over June ’08.

A free attraction, one of the area’s biggest draws is the Hocking Hills State Park, which saw a remarkable 295,000 visitors in June.  That’s up 28.5% from 2008.  And the strongest marker of visitor spending, lodging tax receipts, is up 3.37%, impressive in a down economy that’s negatively impacted spending in nearly all other travel sectors.

“Most Ohioans have always known about the wonderful sights, accommodations, dining and activities that the Hocking Hills offers visitors,” said HHTA President Karen Raymore.  “But now the rest of the world is discovering us, with new visitors searching us out online and coming from all over to experience our canopy tour, waterfalls, cabins and inns, fine dining, spas and unique experiences.  Once they arrive, travelers are delighted to find that just about everything in the Hocking Hills region is either free or amazingly affordable.”

In addition to visitors enjoying FREE access and FREE parking at the spectacular Hocking Hills State Park, HHTA offers FREE Flip Video Cameras for borrowing by travelers staying at area member lodging.  A FREE visitors guide, FREE 1-800-Hocking travel counselors and a web page dedicated to outlining FREE activities in the region: www.1800hocking.com/whattodo/admission_free make it even easier for travelers to enjoy the region’s affordable, yet unique attributes.

From the air, the water, horse-drawn carriage and even by rail, ATV, bicycle or horseback, the dazzling display of color that lures tens of thousands of autumn leaf peepers to Ohio’s Hocking Hills can be experienced in truly novel ways this season.

“The Hocking Hills area offers hundreds of cozy cabins, lovely inns and B&Bs and unique sites, shops and attractions – all set against some of North America’s most spectacular fall foliage,” said Hocking Hills Tourism Association Executive Director Karen Raymore.  “With our unique fall tour offerings and the area’s gorgeous color, our visitors will experience autumn foliage getaways that truly are second to none.”

The all-new Hocking Hills Scenic Air Tours take visitors high above a tapestry of golden yellow, russet brown and fiery red foliage in a Cessna 172 Skyhawk.  This dramatic Aerial Scenery Tour offers postcard-prefect photo and video opportunities.  It’s available at incredibly reasonable rates, starting at just $60 for two people, with an additional guest for just $10. (Kids 2 and under fly free.) Breakfast lunch and dinner nostalgia flights are also offered.

Hocking Hills visitors can also soar above autumn’s beauty on the Hocking Hills Canopy Tour.  Zip line riders hang over colorful woodlands as ten distinctive zips take them over caves, waterfalls, the Hocking River and dramatic gorges awash in autumn hues.

Touch the Earth Adventures guide Mimi Morrison shares her unusual way of looking at the area’s beauty during a Fall Leaf Paddles offered Oct. 11 from 9:30-12:30 a.m. and Oct. 24 from 2-5 p.m.  These unique guided kayak trips let travelers see experience autumn color from far beneath the trees as they gently ply Lake Hope.  Beginners are welcome, as expert kayak instruction and all equipment is provided.

Classic Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides at Lake Hope State Park highlight the season’s beauty every Saturday, Oct.10-31 from 2–5 p.m.  Beginning at the Lake Hope State Park Nature Center, guests enjoy a free 20-minute ride through Hocking Hills.

Hocking Valley Scenic Railway shows off the area’s foliage with a historic train ride at 1:30 p.m., every Thursday and Friday, Oct. 1-30.  On Oct. 2, visitors can enjoy wine and cheese during the 6:30 p.m. Fall Wine Train, which supports the revered local performing arts venue, Stuart’s Opera House.

Oct. 17 offers two free organized scenic fall foliage hikes.  The legendary annual Grandma Gatewood Fall Color Hike takes visitors on the six-mile Grandma Gatewood trail, from Old Man’s Cave to Cedar Falls and back, starting at 1 p.m.  The three-mile Lake Hope Fall Hike begins at 10 a.m. with a cup of sassafras tea and ends with bean soup and cornbread at Lake Hope Furnace.

Also on Oct. 17, travelers can learn from a pro how to capture the region’s gorgeous fall color scenes during The Old Bear’s Den Photography Center hands-on workshop. Offering practical, useable knowledge in nature photography, the four-hour workshop is held within Hocking Hills State Park areas.  A multi-media program, handouts and lunch are provided.

Hocking Hills Nature Trails offers ATV rental, instruction and ATV trails for riding and experiencing the fall color.  In addition, the company offers bicycle rental so that visitors can ride the Hockhocking Adena bike path.

Some half dozen outfitters also make it possible for Hocking Hills visitors to check out the fall foliage on horseback — or even by mule.  Scenic trail and arena rides are offered for as little as one hour to as long as a full day. Some multiple day trips are also available.

Haunted caves and forests, full-moon canoe trip, kids “Boo” and adult ghost trains and more await Hocking Hills visitors this Halloween season

Hocking Hills hosts a haunting good time for visitors to the region this Halloween.  A wicked forest, Ash Cave ghost hunts, plus haunted and kids boo trains and more, making this Halloween season an unforgettable time for travelers to head to this spectacular region of southeast Ohio.  Complete event and activity information, prices and locations are found at www.1800Hocking.com.

Visitors who love creepy tales will relish a ride on the Haunted Hocking Ghost Express train, featuring hair-raising tales of some 13 local ghosts as the train passes their haunts.  From the famed Moonville Tunnel brakeman, to the weeping West State angel and a long-dead inmate whose imprint remains on insane asylum floor, these stories and sites leave riders shivering. Guests also receive a printed ghost guide.  The Haunted Hocking Ghost Express is offered Sept.12 and Oct. 10 and 17.  It departs the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway Depot in Nelsonville at 8 pm., and lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

While the Ghost Express may be too intense for children, the Boo Train is designed just for younger visitors.  Hitting the rails Oct. 24 at 6:30 p.m., the Boo Train features trick or treat, Halloween music, costumes, games and more family fun.

Travelers can spend Halloween eve under a full moon at the Halloween on the Hocking Full Moon Canoe Trip Saturday, Oct. 31, starting at 5:30 p.m.  Guests are encouraged to dress for the costume contest and then paddle down the Hocking River under a full moon and a star-filled sky. A campfire, refreshments and music await guests after the trip. Cost is just $25/person and reservations are required.

October 30-31, visitors can join with the Haunted Hocking “HIT” team as they search for the unexplained spirits in Ash Cave. Guests can decorate pumpkins and registered campers and cabin guests enjoy a hayride, a family fun spooky movie, campsite judging and trick or treat. Regular cabin/camping fees apply.  Additional Ash Cave Haunted Hocking ghost hunts are being scheduled and will be listed at www.hauntedhocking.com.

Shrill shrieks and screams are just part of the experience that awaits visitors to Hocking Hills Wicked Forest.  Not for the faint-of-heart, brave travelers are shuttled deep into one of the region’s lush, dark forests for a haunted hike every Friday and Saturday night, Sept. 25-Oct. 31 from dark until Midnight or beyond.

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 www.1800Hocking.com or toll-free at 1-800-Hocking (800-462-5464).

The Hocking Hills Tourism Association announced the launch of its contest that will give the winner a full weekend retreat for two in the Hocking Hills. Participants can enter the viral contest via the Hocking Hills Tourism Association Facebook page – where they share the worst gift they’ve ever received.

Karen Raymore, CDME, executive director, at the Hocking Hills Tourism Association explains, “Imagine this: Maybe it was an anniversary. You were expecting something special – a romantic dinner, perhaps, or maybe a trip to the jewelry store for a custom designed piece. But, alas, you found yourself sitting in a booth at a dumpy chain restaurant, opening a hand-wrapped box containing a sweater that was knitted especially for you by your mother-in-law. Moment, day, week and potentially relationship – ruined. Hocking Hills Visitors Bureau has decided that all the terrible gifts out there are worth something after all and we want to know the worst of the worst.”

The unique contest sends participants to the Hocking Hills Tourism Association Facebook page to submit their worst gift story. Participants follow these steps to enter the contest:

• Post your story of the “Worst Gift Ever” on the contest page.
• All stories posted on Facebook will be kept on page.
• People will decide to “Like” the stories they think demonstrate the worst gift ever.
• Hocking Hills will make a final decision on the winner, based largely on the people’s choice.

The winner of Hocking Hill’s contest will receive two nights in a luxury cabin at Deer Mountain Retreat, The Grouse Nest Traveling Chef will come to the cabin to prepare a gourmet dinner one night, dinner for two at the Millstone one night, tickets for two on the Hocking Hills Canopy Tour Zipline Adventure, tickets for two on the Hocking Hills Nature Trails ATV Adventure, in-cabin couples massage, and a welcome basket in the cabin with goodies and souvenirs.

To learn more about the Hocking Hills Tourism Association, or to submit your worst gift ever, visit us on Facebook.