Imagine a vacation where many of the magical experiences come without a price tag … and priceless moments are around every corner.
The Hocking Hills is best known for miles and miles of scenic hiking trails through the Hocking Hills State Park and Hocking State Forest, where the hiking is free. But there’s so much more.
Take a horseback ride to an authentic cowboy cookout. Rock climbing and rappelling will get your adrenaline pumping. Get a bird’s eye view on a zipline canopy tour. Canoe or kayak the historic Hocking River.
Visit a moonshine distillery in historic downtown Logan. The family recipe goes back to the one used to make moonshine during prohibition. As the story goes, Al Capone sent his bootleggers all the way from Chicago to bring the superior quality hooch back to the Windy City’s speakeasies.
Celebrate nature, flowers and art at the Annual Lilyfest July 8 – 10. The Bishop Educational Gardens are the site of stunning gardens, a juried fine art show, live music and guided hikes. There is an authentic Viking Camp, food and beverages. Admission is free. Donations are appreciated.
Historic downtown Logan will be the site of the first Big Foot Festival. Logan is the largest city in the Hocking Hills, and on August 5 & 6, downtown will be filled with Sasquatch enthusiasts, speakers and vendors. There will be plenty of good fun with live music, a Squatch Walk, Squatch & Find and Howling Contest. Be sure to allow some time to look for Big Foot in the Hills.
The Annual Nelsonville Music Festival is set in the beautiful rolling hills of the region. This intimate festival offers live music from a variety of genres on multiple stages, from national, regional, and local acts. Catch live music on multiple stages September 2 – 4.
The breathtaking beauty of the region inspires a vibrant community of artists and craftsmen. The Annual Fall show of the Hocking Hills Artists and Craftsmen Association is on September 24 & 25. This juried fine arts and craft show features works by local artists, free admission, free parking and handicap accessibility. Food will be available for sale. This is the perfect opportunity to find one-of-a-kind gifts and to shop locally.
Get in touch with your inner artist at the Jack Pine Glass Pumpkin Festival from September 23 to 25. Watch the process as artists create the famous Jack Pine Glass Pumpkins. Pumpkins and other glass creations will be available for sale.
Take a step back in time at the Laurelville Fireman’s Old Time Festival from September 28 to October 1. The volunteer fire department derives the “Old Time” theme from the fact that the festival is held on the streets, the same as it was during the first festival in 1923. There are homemade pies and cakes sold by local churches and nightly fish fry by the fire department. Each evening there is free entertainment from a stage set up on Main St.
As summer gives way to fall, the Hocking Hills become a kaleidoscope of autumn colors. Select from a wide assortment of accommodations. From luxury lodges to tiny houses, the “cabins” will cradle you in all the comforts of home but are surrounded by the wonders of nature. Pick a treehouse, tipi, or yurt for a truly unique experience.
Pamper yourself at a spa, salt cave, or sauna pod. Enjoy classic comfort food at one of the locally-owned eateries. Try a flight of wine, beer or even coffee. Bring your appetite for adventure. You’ll leave fully satisfied. Begin your adventure at ExploreHockingHills.com or call 800-462-5464.
