What is the most scenic hike in Hocking Hills?

Hocking Hills is a hiker’s dream in southeast Ohio, filled with lush forests, dramatic cliffs, caves, and cascading waterfalls. Each trail reveals unique natural wonders, from fern-draped gorges to towering rock formations. The question what is the most scenic hike in Hocking Hills? often sparks debate among outdoor enthusiasts. In this guide, we’ll explore that question in depth, highlight the area’s stunning trails, and answer other common questions about Hocking Hills hikes. Every paragraph is kept concise and engaging, so you can quickly discover the scenic highlights and practical tips for your adventure.

What is the Most Scenic Hike in Hocking Hills?

Picking the most scenic hike in Hocking Hills is no easy task, as the region boasts several breathtaking trails. However, many hikers crown Conkle’s Hollow Rim Trail as the most scenic hike in Hocking Hills. Conkle’s Hollow is a spectacular gorge and nature preserve featuring sheer cliff walls that rise over 200 feet and panoramic overlooks. The rim trail circles the gorge for about 2.5 miles, offering sweeping views of the forested valley below, especially stunning when fall foliage paints the landscape in reds and golds. As an avid hiker, I found myself awestruck by the scenery – from mossy sandstone outcrops to the surprise waterfall at the trail’s end. The lower Conkle’s Hollow Gorge Trail is an easier, paved path that winds through enormous hemlock trees and ends at a delicate waterfall, but the rim trail’s bird’s-eye views make it truly special. In short, Conkle’s Hollow stands out as a top contender for the most scenic hike, combining serene woodlands with dramatic vistas that showcase the best of Hocking Hills’ beauty.

What is the Best Waterfall in Hocking Hills?

How Hard is the Hike to Old Man’s Cave?

Old Man’s Cave is the most famous trail in Hocking Hills, and the good news is that the hike is moderate in difficulty and accessible for most visitors. The main Old Man’s Cave loop trail is about 1 mile long (roughly an hour hike) through a rocky gorge with several highlights: the Upper Falls, the huge Old Man’s Cave recess (named for a hermit who lived there), and the Lower Falls. The path includes some stone staircases, uneven rock steps, and narrow bridges, but it is well-maintained with railings where necessary. So, how hard is the hike to Old Man’s Cave? For an average hiker, it’s not very hard – expect a bit of up and down and a few steep steps, but no technical climbing or overly long climbs. I’ve seen families with children and even leashed pets manage the trail just fine (just keep a close grip on little ones near cliffs and water). If you take your time, you can handle the trail comfortably while enjoying the scenery. The trail can be rugged in spots (especially after rain, when rocks are slick), but the payoff is huge: you’ll pass under carved-out cliffs, over a natural stone bridge, and beside waterfalls that feel like something out of a fairy tale. In summary, the hike to Old Man’s Cave is of moderate difficulty – engaging enough to be fun, but not so hard that it deters the average nature lover.

What is the Hardest Hike in Hocking Hills?

Hocking Hills’ trails vary in difficulty, and one stands out as the most challenging: Cantwell Cliffs is often considered the hardest hike in Hocking Hills. This trail is more remote (about 17 miles from the park’s main Old Man’s Cave area) and offers a rugged 1 to 2-mile loop with significant elevation changes. Hikers at Cantwell Cliffs will immediately descend through a narrow passage nicknamed “Fat Woman’s Squeeze,” navigating steep, uneven stone stairs into a deep valley. The trail then winds through a gorge filled with gigantic boulders and overhangs, and eventually climbs back up to the rim for clifftop views. Why is it the hardest? Among Hocking Hills’ main trails, Cantwell Cliffs has the most dramatic elevation shifts and some tricky footing. The park rates it as difficult – you’ll encounter multiple staircases (some in need of a little TLC), irregular rock steps, and slippery spots covered in leaves or mud. It requires more stamina and attention compared to popular spots like Ash Cave or Rock House, which are shorter and flatter. While Cantwell Cliffs is the hardest hike in Hocking Hills, it is also immensely rewarding. The remoteness means fewer crowds, and the scenery feels almost untouched – towering cliffs draped in moss, narrow ravines, and serene woods. If you’re an experienced hiker craving a challenge, Cantwell Cliffs will give you a good workout and some of the most picturesque scenes in the park.

Whispering Cave Trail: A New Scenic Challenge

One of the newest additions to Hocking Hills’ trail system is the Whispering Cave Trail, and it has quickly become a favorite for its blend of adventure and scenery. This roughly 4.5 to 5-mile loop (sometimes called the Hemlock Bridge Trail) is moderately challenging, making it a perfect outing for those seeking a longer hike. The Whispering Cave Trail begins near the Old Man’s Cave visitor center and takes you across a fun swinging suspension bridge over a ravine. As you hike, you’ll encounter towering hemlock trees and cliff edges that offer glimpses into the gorge below. The trail’s crown jewel is the namesake Whispering Cave, the second-largest cave in the Hocking Hills region – a massive recess cavern with a high domed ceiling. From the mouth of this cave, you get to see a 105-foot seasonal waterfall spilling from the rim above, creating a misty veil on the cave floor (it’s especially impressive after rainfall). The ambiance inside is magical: whispers echo off the sandstone walls, giving the cave its name. Outside the cave, the loop trail continues along ridges with gorgeous views of rock formations and dense forest. Whispering Cave Trail is not just scenic – it’s also award-winning. In fact, it was voted the best hiking trail in the United States in a 2024 USA Today readers’ choice poll, beating out trails in famous national parks. That national recognition speaks to how special this hike is. Do note that the length and some steep sections make it a bit more strenuous than Old Man’s Cave or Ash Cave, so allow a few hours and bring water and good shoes. If you’re up for the journey, the Whispering Cave Trail offers a comprehensive Hocking Hills experience: caves, waterfalls, bridges, and solitude on one memorable route.

Other Scenic Trails Worth Exploring in Hocking Hills

While we’ve highlighted the most famous spots, there are other scenic trails in Hocking Hills that you shouldn’t overlook. Two in particular showcase unique features of the region and are well worth exploring on your trip.

Rock House

Rock House is a one-of-a-kind hike because it leads you to the only true cave (tunnel) in Hocking Hills. The trail itself is short (about 0.5 miles one-way, or a 1-mile loop) but moderately steep, descending through the woods into a ravine. Along the way, you’ll notice huge sandstone boulders and cliffs flanking the path. At the end of the trail lies the Rock House cave – a tunnel-like corridor carved into a cliff face, complete with gothic-looking “windows” naturally formed in the rock. Inside the cave, it’s cool and dim, and you can walk through from one end to the other, peering out the openings at the green valley and forest canopy below. It feels like exploring an ancient hideout. This trail is scenic in a very unique way – instead of wide vistas, it offers an intimate encounter with geological wonder. The sunlight streaming through the rock windows and the echoes inside the cave make it a photographer’s delight. Just use caution on the stone steps and within the cave, as it can be slippery. Rock House is an essential stop for those who want a short hike with big payoff and a dash of adventure.

Ash Cave

Ash Cave is another must-see, especially if you appreciate dramatic geology. It features the largest recessed cave in Ohio – a massive rock shelter measuring 700 feet end-to-end, with a high arching ceiling. Getting to Ash Cave is quite easy: the lower trail is a flat, quarter-mile paved path that is wheelchair and stroller accessible, leading directly into the huge cave amphitheater. As you walk in, the sheer scale of the walls will leave you speechless. Over the lip of the cave’s rim flows a slender waterfall (most robust in spring). You can stand in the sandy floor of the cave and gaze up at this waterfall as it tumbles 90 feet, often creating a gentle splash and a cooling mist. It’s a tranquil, almost reverent atmosphere – sounds echo off the curving rock walls and birds nest on the ledges. For those wanting a bit more exercise, Ash Cave also offers an upper rim trail about half a mile long, which climbs stone steps to circle above the cave. The rim trail is more rugged and gives you a different perspective looking down into the cavern. Whether you stick to the easy gorge path or tackle the rim, Ash Cave provides a stunning setting that showcases why Hocking Hills is so special. It’s an especially great choice for visitors of all abilities who want to experience a breathtaking natural landmark with minimal effort.

(Other notable mentions include the Grandma Gatewood Trail, a 6-mile trek that connects Old Man’s Cave, Cedar Falls, and Ash Cave for those who want to see all the main sites in one go. This longer journey follows part of the Buckeye Trail and is the route of the annual Winter Hike each January, offering a chance to experience multiple scenic spots in one extended adventure.)

Hocking Hills Getaways: Lodging for Hikers

After a full day of hiking through gorges and taking in waterfall views, you’ll likely want a comfortable place to unwind. Fortunately, there are plenty of cozy Hocking Hills getaways available for overnight stays. Many visitors choose cabin rentals or lodges nestled in the woods, so they can remain close to nature even after the day’s hike is done. If you’re looking for convenient and private accommodations, consider Hocking Hills rentals like the cabins at Notestone Reserve. These cabins and cottages provide modern comforts (think hot tubs, fire pits, and kitchens) while keeping you within a short drive of the major trailheads. For example, at Notestone Reserve you can choose from several charming cabins tucked away on a scenic reserve, making it an ideal base for exploring the parks. There are also unique places to stay in Hocking Hills like geodomes, treehouses, and B&Bs in the area, catering to all preferences from rustic to luxurious. Staying overnight in Hocking Hills lets you experience the trails in different lights – you might catch an early morning hike with mist rising off the falls, or relax on a deck at dusk listening to forest sounds. Plus, being nearby means you can hit the popular trails early before the crowds, or split your visit over multiple days to fully enjoy each site. In short, a Hocking Hills getaway is more than just a hike – it’s the complete experience of adventure by day and relaxation by night in one of Ohio’s most beautiful regions.

Tips for Hiking the Scenic Trails of Hocking Hills

To make the most of your visit and keep your hikes enjoyable, here are some handy tips and tricks. A little preparation goes a long way toward a safe and memorable Hocking Hills hiking experience:

• Plan for Peak Scenery: If you love waterfalls gushing and wildflowers blooming, spring is ideal for Hocking Hills hikes (just be prepared for mud on the trails). For vibrant foliage, aim for mid to late October when fall colors typically peak – the forests turn brilliant shades of orange, red, and gold. Winter hikes can be stunning too, with frozen waterfalls and quiet trails, but dress warmly and watch for icy patches.
• Avoid the Crowds: Hocking Hills is popular, especially on weekends and holidays. To enjoy the most scenic hike in Hocking Hills without the heavy foot traffic, try hitting the trails early in the morning or on a weekday. I’ve found that an 8 AM start often means having places like Old Man’s Cave almost to myself, transforming the hike into a much more serene experience.
• Wear the Right Gear: The terrain here can be rocky and slick, so sturdy hiking shoes or boots with good traction are a must (leave the flip-flops in the car!). Bring a small backpack with essentials like water, snacks, a map, and a basic first aid kit. Trekking poles are optional, but they can help with balance on uneven steps at trails like Cantwell Cliffs or the Whispering Cave loop.
• Stay on Marked Trails: It can be tempting to stray for a better view or a photo, but the cliffs and gorges have real dangers (plus the ecosystems are fragile). Stick to the designated paths and observe posted safety signs – they’re there to protect you and the park. Also, many trails in the park are one-way loops (a system put in place to manage crowd flow), so follow the arrows or signs indicating trail direction to ensure a smooth hike.
• Respect Nature and Others: Carry out any trash you bring in (there are trash cans at trailheads). If you’re hiking with a dog, keep them leashed and pick up after them to keep the trails clean. Hocking Hills is known for its tranquility – you can help preserve that by speaking softly in echo-prone caves and letting faster hikers pass when safe. A little courtesy keeps the trails pleasant for everyone.

By following these tips, you’ll enhance your experience and help maintain the beauty of Hocking Hills for future visitors. Now you’re well-equipped to discover what is the most scenic hike in Hocking Hills and so much more. Happy hiking!