Who knew one of the nation's top trails was right in our backyard? Whispering Cave at Hocking Hills was recently named the best hiking trail for a scenic and casual day hike by USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice. If you're looking to explore the hiking trails and water adventures that are nationally recognized, Hocking Hills is a great destination for both experienced adventurers + new nature seekers.

Before you start packing your bags, here’s everything you need to know about the area + our insider recommendations.

Drive time: ~1.25 hours
Avg. annual visitors: 5+ million
Avg. high in summertime: 83º

🥾Things to do

From rock climbing to mountain biking to ATV rentals, there are plenty of outdoor activities to try at the nature park.

Explore Hocking Hills Region Parks

Hike for miles on trails like Old Man’s Cave, Cedar Falls, and Rock House + enjoy scenic views with waterfalls, massive rocks, and greenery. Pro tip: Be sure to explore Whispering Cave.

Get out on the water

Float in a tube along Hocking River, rent a canoe or pontoon boat, or plan a day to go fishing on Lake Logan, one of the top fishing lakes in Ohio.

Go ziplining

Feeling adventurous? Glide through nature and choose from ziplining experiences like Hocking Hills Canopy Tour + Valley Zipline Tours.

Shade Winery has a large outdoor patio with peaceful views | Photo via @shadewinery

🍽️ Fuel up after hiking

If you're like us, the food is just as important as the fun. Make sure your bellies are full by enjoying one of the many restaurants or bars nearby.

Hungry Buffalo, 12762 Grey St.

There’s a little bit for everyone here, like wings, steaks, burgers, and salads + you can reserve a spot to axe throw at the restaurant.

Shade Winery, 401 Gilkey Ridge Rd.

Enjoy vineyard views while you sample wine by the glass + snack on a charcuterie board or entrees like salmon and flatbreads.

Brewery 33, 12684 College Prospect Dr.

Sip on homemade, locally brewed beer and try rotating food trucks that come through every week. The brewery also has live music, outdoor games, a children’s playground, and a dog park.

The Hocking Hoot is one of the newest rentals at Hocking Hills | Photo via Airbnb

🏕️Cozy cabins

Browse cabins, hotels, and camping grounds directly from the state park, or check out the following recommendations we have:

The Hocking Hoot

This brand-new cabin is located five minutes from Rock House and is made of two 40-ft shipping containers on five acres of scenic land. It sleeps six and is equipped with a grill, arcade games, a fire pit, and hot tub. Bonus: One of Senior City Editor Hanna's best friends built this cabin.

The Treehouse

Elevate your experience by sleeping 20 ft high in the trees on Goosecreek Road. Enjoy private hiking trails on-premise, yard games, and a hot tub. This cozy cabin sleeps four + fills up quickly, so you’ll want to book in advance.

Double Pine Lodge

If you’re traveling with a group, this cabin sleeps 16 and is only a half mile from Old Man’s Cave. The interior features woodwork, cathedral ceilings, and hardwood floors + the outdoor space has seating areas, a porch swing, hot tub, grill, and fire pit.