The best walks and hikes in Hocking State Forest

Hocking State Forest offers a more rustic and secluded hiking experience with a greater emphasis on multi-use trails, making it ideal for those seeking solitude. Hocking Hills State Park contains the most famous attractions like Old Man's Cave and Cedar Falls, which means its trails are generally more developed and can be more crowded.

Yes, dogs are permitted on the trails in Hocking State Forest, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. It's a great place to explore with your canine companion. However, be aware that dogs are not allowed in the dedicated nature preserves, such as Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve.

Yes, hikers are welcome on the nearly 40 miles of bridle trails in Hocking State Forest. These multi-use trails are often wider and less crowded than dedicated hiking paths, offering an excellent opportunity for longer, more peaceful hikes. Always be aware of and yield to horseback riders.

Yes, there are several easier options. For a straightforward and scenic walk, consider the Gorge Overlook Trail from Cedar Falls to Rose Lake Dam. It's a relatively flat 2.5-mile (4 km) path that still provides beautiful views of the gorge.

Winter hiking can be beautiful, but trails can become icy and slick, especially in the gorges and on stone steps. It is highly recommended to wear hiking boots with good traction, and consider using microspikes or trekking poles for added stability. Always check the weather forecast before you go.

Hikes range from short, accessible loops to much longer treks. You can find short walks under 2 miles, like the Devil's Bathtub – Old Man's Cave loop from Laurelville, which takes about 35 minutes. There are also moderate hikes of 3-6 miles that can take a few hours, providing a good half-day adventure.

Hocking State Forest is a great destination for backpackers. A section of the long-distance Buckeye Trail passes through the forest, and dispersed camping is permitted with certain restrictions. This allows for a more rugged, self-sufficient overnight experience away from developed campgrounds.

While the most famous waterfalls are in the adjacent state park, the streams carving through Hocking State Forest create numerous beautiful, seasonal waterfalls. They are most impressive in the spring or after a recent rainfall. Exploring the various gorges and hollows will often reward you with these scenic cascades.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Reviewers frequently praise the dramatic landscape of sandstone cliffs and deep gorges, the extensive trail network, and the feeling of solitude compared to more crowded parks. The rugged beauty and diverse woodlands are consistent highlights.

The region is defined by its Blackhand Sandstone geology. Key features to look for are the towering cliffs, narrow gorges, and large recessed rock shelters. A great place to experience this geology is the trail to Whispering Cave, which showcases a massive rock shelter. Another popular spot is Rock House, a unique cave-like tunnel that you can walk through.

Yes, the forest's rugged terrain is suitable for several other activities. There is a designated 99-acre area for rock climbing and rappelling. The extensive bridle trail system makes it a popular destination for horseback riding, and hunting is permitted in-season throughout most of the forest.