Activities To Do In Hocking Hills, Ohio
Hocking Hills is a beautiful region of southeastern Ohio known for its stunning scenery, hiking trails, waterfalls, and rock formations. Forbes added it to their Best Places to Travel in the World List and Travel Lens ranked Hocking Hills the fourth most beautiful state park in the USA. It is a prime location to connect with nature and build lifelong memories. Here are some of the most popular things to do in Hocking Hills:
Hiking
- Challenge Yourself at Cantwell Cliffs - This area offers a unique experience, with its challenging trails, breathtaking views, and a sense of solitude rarely found elsewhere in the park. Read more about Cantwell Cliffs. Bonus: It's less than a mile away from Rustic Ridge Lodge.
- Visit Ash Cave - Ash Cave is one of the most popular attractions in Hocking Hills. It is a large cave with a waterfall cascading down its entrance. The cave is open year-round.
- Explore Old Man's Cave - Old Man's Cave is another popular spot in Hocking Hills. It is a large gorge with several waterfalls and rock formations. The cave is also home to a network of hiking trails.
- Hike the Cedar Falls Trail - The Cedar Falls Trail is a moderate 2.6-mile hike that takes you past several waterfalls, including Cedar Falls, which is the tallest waterfall in Hocking Hills. There's also a short half mile trail that takes you to Cedar Falls waterfall. A great option for a quick trip in nature. The Cedar Falls parking lot also has a heated bathroom with running water.
- Visit Rock House - Rock House is a natural rock formation that resembles a house. It is located within Hocking Hills State Park and is on a 1 mile hike loop. Rock House is 4.9 miles/9 minutes from Rustic Ridge Lodge.
- Hike Rockbridge at Rockbridge State Nature Preserve - Rockbridge's natural bridge is over 100 feet long and 10-20 feet wide, and gracefully arches 50 feet across a ravine. It is considered the largest natural bridge in Ohio. It's only 7.9 miles/14 minutes away from Rustic Ridge Lodge
Ziplining
Hocking Hills Canopy Tours
10714 Jackson Street
Rockbridge, Ohio 43149
https://www.hockinghillscanopy...
Just 6 miles (about 12 minutes) away from Rustic Ridge Lodge
"Whether you're a nature-lover or thrill-seeker, Hocking Hills Canopy Tours has the adventure of a lifetime for you! Featuring 2 professionally-guided, award-winning, exhilarating zipline tours; a world-famous SuperZip®; and a one-of-a-kind zipline just for kids (DragonFly)" Ziplining is a great way to see the scenery and get some adrenaline pumping." They also provide offroad Segway tours and The Rockbridge Encounter, a tour of Ohio's largest natural rock bridge.
Rock Climbing
High Rock Adventures
10108 Opossum Hollow Rd
Rockbridge, Ohio 43149
https://www.highrockadventures...
Just ~5 miles away from Rustic Ridge Lodge
From rappelling to rock climbing to rock challenges, High Rock Adventure has it all. They even have eco-tours! Located 5 miles away from Rustic Ridge Lodge at 10108 Opossum Hollow Rd
Rockbridge, Ohio 43149. Give them a call at 740-385-9886 or find them onlinehttps://www.highrockadventures...
Water Sports
Lake Logan State Park
(740) 385-6842
Just ~9 miles away from Rustic Ridge Lodge
Lake Logan is host to a 400 acre lake and has boating, fishing, hunting, picnicking and swimming opportunities. Plus it's only five miles from Rustic Ridge Lodge. The Lake Logan Marina offers canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, pedal boats, and pontoon boats for rent in Spring, Summer, and Fall.
Go canoeing or kayaking on the Hocking River - The Hocking River is a popular spot for whitewater rafting and canoeing. There are several outfitters in the area that offer guided tours.
Hocking Hills Canoe Livery - 12789 State Route 664 S, Logan, OH 43138. Just 10 Miles from Rustic Ridge Lodge, the friendly staff at at Hocking Hills Canoe Livery will hook you up with a kayak or canoe and all the gear necessary to have a fun, safe trip down the Hocking River. Transport is included.
Hocking Hills Adventures - 31251 Chieftain Dr, Logan, OH 43138. Website: hockinghillscanoeing.com
Hocking Hills Adventures is a prominent outfitter, offering various trips ranging from a couple of hours to longer excursions. Their most popular kayaking trip is often the Natural Rockbridge Tour, which is about 7 miles and takes 2-3 hours, allowing paddlers to see the impressive Natural Rockbridge formation. They also offer shorter trips like the 5-mile Crockett's Run tour. Hocking Hills Adventures provides all necessary equipment, including paddles and life jackets, and offers transportation. They also have lodging options and special events like moonlight tours.
Restaurants
Millstone BBQ - 12790 Grey St, Logan, OH 43138
Millstone BBQ is a highly-rated Southern-smoked barbecue restaurant located in the heart of the Hocking Hills region. They specialize in meats like brisket, pulled pork, and ribs, all smoked on-site for 15 to 17 hours, resulting in a distinct "smoke ring" and tender, flavorful results. Beyond the barbecue, they offer a diverse menu with popular sides like sweet potato fries, baked beans, and unique items such as mini cornbread muffins and ghost pepper cheese curds. The atmosphere at Millstone BBQ is described as welcoming and fun, with both covered and uncovered patio seating, often accommodating for pets with water and treats. They also offer gluten-free and vegetarian options. Millstone BBQ is committed to quality, with generous portion sizes and friendly service, making it a popular spot for families and groups. They are open seven days a week, with varying hours, and accept reservations. You can find more information on their website:
Hungry Buffalo - 12762 Grey St, Logan, OH 43138
Hungry Buffalo offers a diverse menu of American and international dishes, with a particular focus on lean and flavorful buffalo meat in dishes like buffalo burgers, chili, and steak. Beyond buffalo, their menu includes a range of options from juicy burgers and hearty sandwiches to fresh salads and pasta, as well as unique appetizers like fried green tomatoes, pickle chips, and "Buffalo's Best" sampler. They also feature "Wings 'N Waffles" and a selection of hand-cut steaks. The atmosphere at Hungry Buffalo is described as vibrant, visually appealing, and inviting, making it suitable for casual dining or social gatherings. Patrons often praise the friendly and attentive service, as well as the affordability of the menu combined with generous portion sizes. They also offer craft beers, wines, and handcrafted cocktails.
Bury the Axe Hatchet Bar - 12762 Grey St, Logan, OH 43138
Bury the Axe Hatchet Bar is an indoor axe-throwing facility located next to the Hungry Buffalo restaurant. It offers a unique and fun experience for individuals and groups. Sessions are typically one or two hours, and participants must be at least 18 years old to throw, or 16 with a parent present. Closed-toed shoes are required for safety. The facility emphasizes safety, with all customers receiving a safety briefing and training session before entering the lanes. Reservations are preferred, especially for groups, and daytime hours are available for parties of six or more by advance appointment. Bury the Axe is open Monday through Thursday from 4 PM to 9 PM, Friday from 4 PM to 10 PM, and Saturday and Sunday from 11 AM to 10 PM and 11 AM to 9 PM, respectively, with last games starting an hour before closing.
The Olde Dutch Restaurant and Banquet Haus - 12791 State Route 664 S, Logan, OH 43138
The Olde Dutch Restaurant is a popular spot in Logan, Ohio, offering homestyle, comfort food in a family-friendly setting. Known for its generous buffet, you'll find a variety of hot bar items, a large salad bar, and a soup station. Their fried chicken and homemade chicken and noodles are frequently praised. Beyond the buffet, they also have a menu with broasted chicken dinners, sandwiches, and more. The buffet includes a slice of pie or hand-dipped ice cream for dessert. Located at the historic Rempel's Grove, it's a convenient stop for both locals and visitors to the Hocking Hills.
Pizza
There are some excellent local pizza places in Logan, just about 15 minutes away. Unfortunately, no one delivers out at the cabin. Not sure why since it's so close, but you can order for take out and go grab it or make it a fun outing. You won't regret it. Another option would be to order in advance and pick it up after hiking or whatever you are doing out and about.
Pizza Crossing - Address: 58 N Mulberry St, Logan, OH 43138 - 740-385-8558
A popular local choice in downtown Logan, Pizza Crossing offers a range of pizzas, subs, salads, and pasta dishes in a casual setting. They have a large dining room and often serve draft beer. Call if you want to order for pickup. They're a little pricey and busy on weekends. They won't deliver to the cabin but they'll meet you almost half way if you want to go that route at Chieftain Elementary or the park and go on 33.
Steve's Pizza (Adelphi) - Address: 11850 Walnut Street, Adelphi - 740-332-4308
Steve's Pizza in Adelphi offers a similar range of classic pizzas and Italian-American favorites. It's a convenient option for those in the Adelphi area looking for quality pizza and other casual dining options. It's about 20 minutes away.
Captain Ron's Pirate Pizza - 16757 Ohio 664, Logan, OH 43138 - 740-385-2221
Located near Old Man's Cave, Captain Ron's Pirate Pizza offers customizable pizzas with a focus on quality and generous toppings. It's a unique and fun spot after a day of exploring the Hocking Hills.
Pizza Hut - 12876 OH-664 Suite B-7, Logan, OH 43138 - (740) 380-0030
Located in the shopping center with Walmart, Pizza Hut is a large chain option in the area.
Wineries
Hocking Hills Winery
Address: 30402 Freeman Rd, Logan, OH 43138
A family-owned and operated winery, Hocking Hills Winery is a popular destination in the heart of the Hocking Hills. They produce a variety of wines using both local grapes and those sourced from around the country. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, glasses, or bottles on their outdoor patio or by the fire. They often feature live music on weekends and offer appetizer trays.
RXR (Revolution Rockbridge Winery)
>Address: 26557 Miller Rd, Rockbridge, OH 43149
rxrwinery.com
They are a new Craft Winery producing unique and traditional wines on site! Over 25 varieties for tasting which include traditional Dry Reds/Whites, Blush and craft wines such as Bourbon Barrel Aged, Cotton Candy, Peanut Butter Jelly, Fruit wines and more. They have wine tasting and live music on weekends.
Valley View Hills Winery
Address: 29176 Klump Rd, Sugar Grove, OH 43155
This newer addition to the Hocking Hills wine scene offers a serene escape with stunning views. Valley View Hills Winery features a curated collection of wines, from velvety reds to crisp whites, some crafted from Napa Valley juices. Their team of knowledgeable enthusiasts guides visitors through personalized tastings. They also offer on-site lodging in their deluxe cabins.
Le Petit Chevalier Vineyards & Farm Winery
Address: 26328 Locust Grove Rd, Creola, OH 45622
This small, family-owned vineyard focuses on handcrafted wines made from grapes grown on-site, offering a true "farm-to-glass" experience. Le Petit Chevalier provides a rustic and relaxing setting to enjoy hand-poured wine flights with stunning vineyard views. They have a tasting room and occasionally host food trucks on Saturdays, with charcuterie boards and paninis available on other weekdays. Dogs are welcome in outdoor seating areas.
Rockside Winery & Vineyards
Address: 2363 Lancaster Newark Rd NE, Lancaster, OH 43130
Rockside Winery & Vineyards specializes in estate-grown Ohio wines, providing a genuine farm-to-table experience. They have four and a half acres of vines surrounding the winery and tasting room. Visitors can relax with wine flights, glasses, or bottles in their charming vineyard setting, which often hosts live music, food trucks, and special events.
Coffee Shops
Oasis Coffee Shop Near the Market
26850 US-33, Rockbridge, OH 43149
Have some coffee, breakfast or lunch while you shop the antique and flea markets! Oasis serves great coffee and even have coffee flights. There's also baked goods and sandwiches, this coffee shop also has a miniature golf course!
Shopping
Hocking Hills Market - 26758-26790 US-33, Rockbridge.
Located just off US 33 in Rockbridge, this open area marketplace with hundreds of vendors is only 5 miles from Rustic Ridge Lodge. It's a smorgasbord of shops consisting of flea market style stores to outlets to places to dine like Chelle's Diner. Start your shopping journey or take a pit stop for a cup of joe at Oasis Cafe. There's also a mini golf course! Open Friday-Sunday. Permanent shops like Holiday's Country Oak Amish Furniture, Hocking Hills Disc Golf, and The Boot Shop Outlet set their own hours and are most definitely open throughout the week.
Planning Your Hocking Hills Vacation
These are just a few of the many things to do in Hocking Hills. With its stunning scenery and endless outdoor activities, Hocking Hills is a great place to visit any time of year. Check out the official site for all things Hocking Hills at www.ExploreHockingHills.com
Here are some additional tips for planning your trip to Hocking Hills:
- Hocking Hills is truly a four seasons area to visit with breathtaking views year round.
- Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for hiking and other outdoor activities.
- Bring and apply liberally tick and bug spray as well as sun block in summer months.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited food options in the park.
- Allow plenty of time to explore the different attractions.
- Book your accommodations early, especially if you are visiting during peak season. Book your 4 bedroom plus 4 twin loft cabin that can accommodate up to 12 (8 adults and 4 children) at www.rusticridgelodgeoh.com
Where To Stay In the Hocking Hills
Unwind in Luxury at Rustic Ridge Lodge
After conquering the trails or enjoying other things to do in the hills, you'll be ready for some serious relaxation.
Centrally located between hiking trails and shopping, Rustic Ridge Lodge has 4 private bedrooms with an open loft with 4 beds that's perfect for a kids bunk room (total 8 beds). Our cabin blends authentic timber charm with elevated amenities designed to help you recover from a day on the trails and offers tons of fun things for the kids to do like corn hole, ping pong, and foosball out on the decks or playing air hockey or going head to head at the old school arcade. We've got kids entertainment covered.
You can sink into the soothing jets of our premium hot tub, share stories of your day's adventure around the crackling outdoor fire pit, or brew a fresh cup of premium coffee to enjoy on the expansive deck.
Skip the third-party platform platform fees on Airbnb and Vrbo. Secure your premium, direct-booked Hocking Hills cabin rental today and experience the region like a true local.
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