For those who travel with a heart for all that can be enjoyed and explored in the great outdoors, there’s no place quite like Hocking Hills, Ohio. While visits to this incredible destination in the summertime bring ample opportunities to enjoy amazing weather and discover caves, waterfalls and beyond, Hocking Hills Winter Hike is the highlight of a visit during the colder months. Thousands of hikers make their way this direction in January to enjoy a snowy hike that keeps participants on their toes and endlessly inspired by the sparkling scenery.
Winter Hike 2020
This annual event is highly anticipated by hikers of all ages and skill levels and draws in nearly 6,000 hikers looking to make the most of the incredible landscape that graces Hocking Hills. Winter Hike is hosted in Hocking Hills State Park and in 2020, hikers will enjoy this incredible moment on January 18th. The route begins at the state park campground and winds through the park with a stop at Old Man’s Cave Upper Falls. The first part of the route is completed in small groups of hikers and is led by a knowledgeable guide. From Old Man’s Cave, groups can disperse and enjoy the rest of the 6-mile hike at an independent pace.
Wayne National Forest | Hocking Hills Winter Hike
Incredible Winter Views
For many hikers, the thrill of Hocking Hills Winter Hike lies in the astounding number of incredible views to be enjoyed along the way. Where the park itself brings the natural wonder, the winter season brings a frigid and sparkling beauty that’s hard to replicate anywhere else. After passing Old Man’s Cave at the Upper Falls, hikers will continue on to Cedar Falls and Rose Lake. It’s here that hikers will encounter the tallest tree in Ohio from the vantage point of a charming stone stairway. Gazing up at this massive 149-foot Hemlock, it’s easy to understand why hikers return for this memorable event year after year. This marks the half-way point of the trail and hikers are encouraged to enjoy a hot bean soup lunch before continuing on to enjoy sights that include a variety of walkways, bridges, and wildlife that await. Hikers are asked to assemble between 9:00 am and 11:00 am on January 18th in order to enjoy pre-hike festivities and refreshments. Hikers are encouraged to purchase a commemorative hiking stick medallion or patch once the trail has been completed to remember this incredible experience.
Things to Do After a Hocking Hills Winter Hike
While a snowy January hike through stunning and scenic Hocking Hills is sure to be an inspiring way to start the new year, winter in this area provides access to plenty more opportunities for fun as well! Making the most of a Hocking Hills stay starts with creating a well-rounded itinerary that takes into account, entertainment, sightseeing and of course, a little flavor too. Here are a few stops you’ll want to add to your must-do list when you’re in town to enjoy participating in the Hocking Hills Winter Hike.
Book a Session at The Perfect Touch Massage & Traveling Spa
There’s nothing quite like a pampered follow-up to a trip on Hocking Hills hiking trails that has your muscles looking for some relief. Guests to Hocking Hills who are interested in a convenient, restorative and welcome massage will want to book a session with the professionals at Perfect Touch while they’re in town. Headquartered at 18905 SR 664 S. in Logan, this company employs a team of professionals that can welcome you at their spa or travel directly to your rental for a more convenient experience. Pick and choose from massage, skincare and specialty treatments that will have you feeling better than ever. For more information on pricing and packages be sure to contact Perfect Touch at 877-869-4631.
Visit the Jack Pine Studio
Indulge your passion for art and creativity by making time for a visit to the Jack Pine Studio during your Hocking Hills Travels. Situated at 21397 State Route 180 in Laurelville, this studio is an opportunity to browse a collection of some of Pine’s most colorful and intricate glass blown art. This local artist has made a name for himself on a global scale, but a stop by his studio in Laurelville is a great way to get an intimate look at what inspires him to create these one of a kind works. The studio regularly hosts instructional classes and demonstrations as well for those that are interested in learning more. The studio is open most days of the week between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm and more information can be found by calling 740-332-2223.
Attractions Nearby
For more information on the many winter activities available to guests in the area, be sure to swing by the Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center. This informative stop is located at 13178 SR 664 S. In Logan and provides guests with information, maps and more. The welcome center also includes the Paul A. Johnson Pencil Sharpener Museum where guests can enjoy browsing a collection of over 3,000 pencil sharpeners at no cost.
Hocking Hills Hiking Trails
When you’re headed to Hocking Hills in January for a one-of-a-kind hike, be sure to let the team at Buffalo Cabins and Lodges book you into a beautiful rental cabin that’s as comfortable as it is luxurious. Contact us today for more information on our portfolio and to begin planning your trip!
Turn your next holiday getaway into one to remember in one of these wonderful seasonal escapes:
Rent one of our fantastic cabin rentals by a pond here and enjoy some extra time by the water!