Hocking Hills, Ohio, nestled in the Appalachian foothills, is a natural wonderland where waterfalls cascade over sandstone cliffs, caves carve through ancient rock, and forests hum with life. This lesser-known gem, just an hour from Columbus, offers a 24-hour escape for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking serenity. Here’s how to immerse yourself in its rugged beauty. Why Hocking Hills? Hocking Hills’ dramatic landscapes, from waterfalls to caves, paired with cozy cabins and farm-fresh dining, make it a Midwest treasure. Its accessibility and natural beauty ensure a rejuvenating 24-hour escape for adventurers and relaxation seekers alike.

24 Hours and 1 Night in Hocking Hills, Ohio: The Nature’s Playground Itinerary

Friday Evening: Arrival & Adventure

6:00 PM - Check into a Cabin or Lodge

Arrive at the Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls, where cozy cabins and lodges nestle among towering pines. The rustic interiors, with their stone fireplaces and wooden beams, blend comfort with the wildness of the surrounding Hocking Hills State Park. Unpack to the sound of chirping crickets and the scent of cedar, setting the stage for a nature-filled getaway.

7:00 PM - Hike to Cedar Falls

Embark on a short, 0.5-mile hike to Cedar Falls, one of the park’s most iconic spots. The trail, illuminated by soft evening light, winds through hemlock groves to a 50-foot waterfall, its mist rising from moss-covered rocks. The air is cool and earthy, with the gentle roar of water creating a magical ambiance as the sun dips below the horizon.

8:00 PM - Dinner at The Inn & Spa

Dine at the Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls, where farm-to-table cuisine shines in a rustic dining room. The trout almondine, crusted with toasted nuts and served with roasted root vegetables, is a local favorite, while the bison burger offers hearty comfort. The glow of lanterns and the scent of fresh herbs elevate the meal, paired with a glass of Ohio merlot.

Saturday Morning: Hiking & History

7:00 AM - Hike to Old Man’s Cave

Start your day with a 1-mile hike to Old Man’s Cave, a dramatic gorge carved by Queer Creek. The trail weaves through hemlock forests and past waterfalls, their spray mingling with the scent of damp earth. Stone bridges and rock shelters, sculpted by millennia, create a prehistoric feel, with morning light filtering through the canopy.

9:00 AM - Visit Ash Cave

Continue to Ash Cave, a massive rock shelter stretching 700 feet wide and 100 feet high. The easy 0.5-mile trail leads through a quiet valley, where the cave’s sandy floor and dripping stalactites evoke a natural cathedral. On still mornings, the silence is broken only by the trickle of water, offering a moment of awe.

10:30 AM - Hocking Hills Welcome Center

Stop by the Hocking Hills Welcome Center in Logan to delve into the region’s geology and history. Interactive exhibits explain how glaciers shaped the landscape, while maps guide your next adventure. Browse the gift shop for handcrafted pottery or local honey, the air filled with the scent of cedar souvenirs.

11:30 AM - Brunch at The Bakery in Logan

Head to The Bakery in nearby Logan, a charming spot where the aroma of fresh-baked bread and coffee fills the air. The cinnamon rolls, warm and dripping with icing, are a local legend, while the breakfast quiche, packed with farm-fresh eggs and spinach, offers savory balance. The cozy tables and friendly chatter create a welcoming vibe.

Saturday Afternoon: Relaxation & Recreation

1:00 PM - Canoe or Kayak on the Hocking River

Rent a canoe or kayak from Hocking Hills Canoe Livery and float down the Hocking River. The gentle current carries you past wooded banks and limestone outcrops, with turtles sunning on logs and herons wading in the shallows. The rhythmic paddle and the scent of river water make for a relaxing afternoon.

3:00 PM - Visit the Rock House

Explore the Rock House, a cave-like formation resembling a natural castle. The 0.5-mile trail leads to a sandstone corridor with window-like openings, offering views of the forest below. The cool, damp air and the echo of your footsteps create an adventurous atmosphere, perfect for a quick exploration.

4:30 PM - Snack at Hocking Hills State Park Lodge

Pause at the Hocking Hills State Park Lodge, where the patio overlooks rolling hills. Grab a coffee and a homemade granola bar, savoring the view of oak and maple forests. The lodge’s rustic charm, with its stone fireplace and wooden beams, invites you to linger as the afternoon fades.

Saturday Evening: Dinner & Downtime

6:00 PM - Relax at Your Lodging

Return to your cabin or lodge to unwind. Many accommodations, like those at the Inn & Spa, offer hot tubs or fire pits, where the crackle of burning wood and the scent of pine create a cozy retreat. Sip a warm drink as the forest hums with evening sounds.

7:00 PM - Dinner at The Pines Restaurant

Dine at The Pines Restaurant at the Inn & Spa, where the upscale menu features seared scallops with lemon beurre blanc or a tender filet mignon with roasted garlic mash. The dining room’s warm lighting and forest views elevate the experience, paired with a glass of Ohio cabernet sauvignon.

9:00 PM - Spa or Hot Tub

End your evening with a spa treatment or a soak in the hot tub, if available at your lodging. The Inn & Spa’s massage offerings, using local lavender oils, melt away the day’s exertions, leaving you refreshed under the starry Hocking Hills sky.