Hocking Hills Photographer's Paradise Itinerary
Cedar Falls
Hocking Hills Photographer's Paradise Itinerary
Welcome to Hocking Hills, Ohio! This itinerary is crafted specifically for photographers who want to capture the stunning beauty of our region. Get ready to explore and photograph some of the most picturesque spots in the Midwest.
Ash Cave
Day 1: Capturing Iconic Landscapes
Morning: Old Man’s Cave
-Best Time to Visit: Early morning is good for soft light and fewer crowds.
-Highlights: Upper Falls, Lower Falls, and the Devil’s Bathtub.
-Tips: Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views and a tripod for long exposure shots of the waterfalls.
Midday: Cedar Falls
-Best Time to Visit: Late morning when the sunlight filters through the trees.
-Highlights: The cascading waterfall is set against a backdrop of lush greenery.
-Tips: Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance the vibrant colors.
Afternoon: Ash Cave
-Best Time to Visit: Early afternoon is the best time to get the best natural light inside the cave.
-Highlights: The massive recess cave and the waterfall that flows over its edge.
-Tips: Experiment with different angles to capture the scale and majesty of the cave.
Evening: Conkle’s Hollow
-Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon to evening for the golden hour.
-Highlights: Steep cliffs, dense forest, and the serene gorge.
-Tips: Capture the contrast between light and shadow during the golden hour.
Cantwell Cliffs
Day 2: Exploring Hidden Gems
Morning: Rock House
-Best Time to Visit: Early morning for the best lighting inside the cave.
- **Highlights:** The only true cave in Hocking Hills with natural “windows” carved into the rock.
- Tips:Use natural light from the cave openings to illuminate your shots.
Midday: Cantwell Cliffs
-Best Time to Visit: Midday when sunlight penetrates the forest canopy.
-Highlights: The rugged cliffs and deep valleys.
-Tips: A telephoto lens can help capture the depth and layers of the cliffs.
Afternoon: Whispering Cave
-Best Time to Visit: Early afternoon for optimal lighting.
-Highlights: The newly accessible cave and its beautiful waterfall.
- Tips: Take advantage of the natural light filtering through the forest for stunning compositions.
Evening: Lake Logan
-Best Time to Visit: Sunset for spectacular reflections on the water.
-Highlights: The tranquil lake and its mirrored surface.
-Tips: Bring a tripod for long exposure shots to capture the changing light.
Photo by Andrew Downey at the John Glenn Astronomy Park
Day 3: Immersing in Nature’s Splendor
Morning: Chapel Cave
-Best Time to Visit: Early morning for soft, diffused light.
-Highlights: The unique cave with a tree growing through its floor.
-Tips: Focus on the interplay of natural elements within the cave.
Midday: Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve
-Best Time to Visit: Midday for consistent lighting.
-Highlights: The seasonal waterfalls and diverse plant life.
-Tips: Use a macro lens for close-ups of the flora and fauna.
Afternoon: Butterfly Ridge
-Best Time to Visit: Early afternoon when butterflies are most active.
-Highlights: The butterfly gardens and meadows.
-Tips: A telephoto lens is ideal for capturing butterflies and other wildlife.
Evening: John Glenn Astronomy Park
-Best Time to Visit: Sunset to nighttime for astrophotography.
-Highlights: The clear, dark skies are perfect for capturing the Milky Way and star trails.
-Tips: Bring a sturdy tripod and remote shutter release for long exposures. You will need a free parking pass on Fridays and Saturdays from March to November.
Additional Tips for Photographers:
-Pack Light: Bring essential lenses (wide-angle, telephoto, and macro), a sturdy tripod, extra batteries, and memory cards.
-Weather Preparedness: Dress in layers and bring weather-appropriate gear to stay comfortable throughout your shoots.
-Respect Nature: Follow Love Hocking Hills principles and be mindful of the natural environment.
We hope this itinerary helps you capture the breathtaking beauty of Hocking Hills.
