Hocking Hills State Park

While Hocking Hills State Park is often thought of as a summer destination lauded for its hiking trails, canoeing, stargazing and other activities, the 2,356-acre park reveals a different kind of beauty as the leaves change colors and the first frost arrives. 

Located about an hour’s drive from Columbus, the rugged terrain dotted with caves, ledges and waterfalls has become a favorite destination for Ohioans. Hocking Hills State Park consists of seven different areas: Ash Cave, Cedar Falls, Old Man’s Cave, Whispering Cave, Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve, Cantwell Cliffs and Rock House. The first piece of land the state acquired for preservation was Old Man’s Cave, which was purchased in 1924.

All park areas are open during the winter, and those willing to brave the chill are treated with spectacular ice formations, including frozen waterfalls and ice pillars, across various areas of the park. Visitors should be wary of weather conditions and wear the proper attire to hike in the winter months when trails can become iced over. 

Other popular areas to see under a veneer of snow include Ash Cave, one of the largest recess caves in Ohio; Cedar Falls, the largest waterfall in the state park; and Whispering Cave, a newer trail that is accessible from the lodge and visitor center. The park also offers ways for visitors to experience fall color during naturalist-led events, such as the Fall Colors Hike (Oct. 11 this year) along the Grandma Gatewood Trail.

Those looking to stay close to all the park has to offer can book a room at the Hocking Hills Lodge and Conference Center. Built in 2019, it offers 81 guest rooms, an on-site restaurant, a terrace overlooking the woods and an outdoor hot tub with heated flooring. Visitor Center: 19988 St. Rte. 664, Logan, Ohio 43138, 740/385-6842, ohiodnr.gov