7 unmissable outdoor adventures in Ohio’s Hocking Hills

In the foothills of the ancient Appalachians lies a region of sprawling wilds: Ohio’s Hocking Hills. The area spans 10,000 acres of forests, deep caves, waterfalls and parks, including the expansive Hocking Hills State Park. Across all four seasons, adventure lovers and nature seekers are drawn to this Midwestern region — perfect for wildflower treks come springtime, mountain biking and paddling come summer, riotously colourful foliage come autumn and idyllic, snowy landscapes come winter. With world-class pursuits on its doorstep, here are seven action-packed ways to make the most of Ohio's Hocking Hills.

1. Explore the ancient caves

Ohio is home to more than 400 natural caves and caverns. Sitting deep in a winding gorge surrounded by craggy cliffs, plunging waterfalls and an old naturalist’s cabin is Old Man’s Cave, a centrepiece of Hocking Hills, found along a 1.5-mile trail. To get there, visitors will journey down a well-maintained path with several stone staircases, boardwalks and bridges. The route passes landmarks that include Upper Falls, Lower Falls and the Devil’s Bathtub, a swirling pool carved into the sandstone. Ash Cave, the largest recess cave in Ohio, is even easier to reach: a 0.5-mile trail, fully accessible trail winds through the hemlock forest, where a towering waterfall spills over the sandstone overhang — and onto any visitors standing behind the cascade. Those keen to explore the mysterious side of Hocking Hills should embark on the 5.9-mile loop trail from Cedar Falls through Old Man’s Cave to Whispering Cave, which is said to have unusual acoustics, with faint voices heard in the empty cavities.

2. Hike world-class trails

For a trek among the best scenery in Hocking Hills, visitors should head to the cliffs of Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve, a narrow, steep-sided gorge lush with mosses, ferns and wildflowers. It’s especially worth visiting in autumn, when the vibrant colours come alive. Visitors can choose between two trails: the 0.75-mile Lower Trail, a flat, wheelchair-accessible path leading into the heart of the hollow, or the two-mile Upper Trail, a more strenuous hike with sweeping views at its highest point. It’s also worth checking out Rockbridge State Nature Preserve, famous for its massive sandstone arch; Cedar Falls, which culminates in a 50ft-high waterfall; Cantwell Cliffs, with narrow, stair-lined passageways; and Rock House, a tunnel-like corridor and old criminal hide-out.

3. Climb and abseil down cliff walls

For thrill-seekers, outfitters such as High Rock Adventures offer rock climbing and abseiling experiences that get visitors hands-on with Hocking Hills’ rugged side. Groups can climb the Hills’ signature Black Hand sandstone cliff and take on descends ranging from 35ft to 70ft plus. Abseiling is suitable for all ages, and climbing tours can be geared towards both beginners and more experienced climbers. What’s more, tours often take place on private property, allowing travellers into the region’s more inaccessible locations.

4. Paddle serene waters

The Hocking River winds gently through the region, providing a quiet setting for kayaking, canoeing and tubing. Travellers can rent a vessel of choice from a local vendor such as Hocking Hills Adventures or opt for a guided immersion tour with outfitters such as Touch the Earth Adventures. For anglers, Lake Logan is the place to go with a rod and reel — visitors should just make sure they have a fishing pass. After dark, take to the water on a torchlit tour to catch glimpses of wild deer and heron.

5. Embark on a guided nature tour

To help visitors explore the ancient landscapes of the Hocking Hills, guided nature tours are available, including plant tours, forest bathing and geology treks. Birding has become especially popular, too, thanks to the area’s varied birdlife. More than 430 bird species have been officially recorded here by the state of Ohio, with 180 of them breeding in the region every year. Avid birdwatchers should keep a pair of binoculars close by should the chance arise to see some rarely spotted species, such as the ruby-throated hummingbird, or larger predators like bald eagles and hawks.

6. Zip through the trees

Hocking Hills Canopy Tours has 31 zip-lines and offers six different tours that whiz over the verdant terrain, offering canopy-level views of the lush forests. Options range from family-friendly excursions to lines stretching more than 1,300ft across the Hocking River, as well as nighttime tours under the stars. Guided off-road Segway tours are also available, taking adventurers along the scenic Hocking River through old-growth forests and caves.

7. Stay cosy under the cosmos

Hocking Hills’ dark skies and lack of light pollution make it an excellent destination for stargazing. Its topography provides both high and low viewing points, meaning myriad angles from which to observe the sky. On clear Friday and Saturday nights between March and November, John Glenn Astronomy Park runs stargazing programmes, during which a guide uses a laser pointer and high-powered telescopes to give guests incredible closeup views of the moon, stars and planets. Alternatively, turn your stargazing into an all-night activity by pitching a tent in a nearby campsite. There are also plenty of cabins and cottages that can accommodate families and those looking for a more comfortable stay, as well as yurts, geodesic domes and treehouses.