Coming to Hocking Hills for the first time? Get the Hocking Hills Visitors Guide.
Plus, three things to do in Hocking Hills during your first visit.
While there is a dizzying array of things to see and do in the Hocking Hills, one simple trick can help you find exactly what you’re looking for on your first trip: Download the Hocking Hills Visitor's Guide.
This handy publication, available both in print and online, can not only help you find the stories behind the sights, but it will also introduce you to some of the people who make the region such an amazing place to visit.
While we’re more than happy to mail you a copy, the Hocking Hills Welcome Center is also a great place to grab your print copy. While you’re there, chat with our helpful volunteers and knowledgeable staff — a great way to hear insider tips. Or, if you’re trying to decide between hikes or other activities, sometimes having a local perspective can help pare down your options.
Here’s a good place to start if you’re looking for things to do in Hocking Hills.
Three activities every Hocking Hills first-timer should experience.
You don’t have to cram every Hocking Hills activity into one weekend. We know people who visit so often they get the Visitor’s Guide once a quarter and use it as a scavenger hunt, seeing how many of the features they can check off when they visit. But here are three of the most popular to get you started. 
Photo by @eric_vlahos via Instagram
1. Explore the Hills by foot: Take a hike!
The options for hiking in Hocking Hills are endless, and you really can’t go wrong no matter which hike you pick. Old Man’s Cave is the most popular and iconic, while Cantwell Cliffs, Cedar Falls, Rockbridge, Rock House, Conkle’s Hollow and Ash Cave are also incredibly popular (and breathtaking) destinations.
Photo by @rachel_arnett2008 via Instagram
2. Catch some serious endorphins: Take a zipline or canopy tour.
Did you know Hocking Hills is actually the canopy tour capital of the Midwest? More than 60 ziplines offer a bird's eye view of astonishing landscapes. These are so much fun, but you’ll probably work up quite an appetite from all the adrenaline!
Photo by @momoyoshizaki via Instagram
3. Taste the Hills: Eat up, then take a winery, distillery or brewery tour.
You might be surprised by all the Hills has to offer your palate: Get authentically local with the Hills’ roots by sampling some Appalachian and Amish cooking; kick back in a funky diner or greasy spoon; or indulge in some exquisite gourmet dining at a luxurious country inn. No matter your preferences, you’re sure to find something mouth-wateringly delicious among the innumerable dining options in Hocking Hills.
The Hocking Hills is also home to many wineries, distilleries and breweries, including Athens’ Jackie O’s, the best Midwest brewery you’ve probably never heard of, and the beautiful farmhouse brewery Rockmill near Lancaster.
Interested in reading more first-timers guides?
Brush up on local myths and lore, and get to know Hocking Hills’ caves and waterfalls.
Looking for more outdoor activities in Hocking Hills? Use these suggestions to start compiling your Hocking Hills Bucket List. You might also consider our five suggestions for first-timers.
And, finally, here’s some help finding lodging in the Hocking Hills on a budget.
Ready to book your Hocking Hills cabin?
Get started narrowing your search with our Availability Search tool. Or get in touch with one of our travel counselors for help picking the right cabin, cottage or campground. Simply call 740-385-9706 or 1-800-Hocking (462-5464) during business hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.
