A decade has passed since I last visited the Hocking Hills region of southeast Ohio, where you can explore caves, lush and quiet trails, cascading waterfalls and glacier-hewn cliffs. The roads offer magnificent rides that curve through old-growth forests and time-worn rock faces. And, since my last visit, local explorers and companies are offering zipline courses, guided hikes, and rappelling/rock climbing to enrich the experience.
Hocking Hills Canopy Tours has created an awesome ten zipline course–an off-the-beaten-path (literally!) way to experience Hocking Hills. After traversing swaying rope-and-wooden bridges to reach platforms suspended in the canopy, the guides attach you to a cable line to glide through the treetops. The scenery is breathtaking and the sense of “flying” is wondrous. Our guides, Joey Hebdo and Allie Nixon, were experienced and lighthearted. Joey, a six-year instructor, says “the adventure-seekers’ excitement is refreshing and inspiring. Their sense of anticipation is awesome.”
Don’t miss the Super Zip!, launching from an 85-foot-high tower. The line, billed as a quarter mile “higher, longer, faster,” sends you flying Superman-like (head-first with arms outstretched) above Hocking River, through trees and over the edge of a rock cliff. Hocking Hills Canopy Tours, 10714 Jackson St., Rockbridge. 740-385-9477.
hockinghillscanopytours.com
The Hocking Hills trails, including those at Old Man’s Cave Park (St. Rt. 664), are as magnificent as ever. Best is the six-mile Grandma Gatewood Trail that connects Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave and Cedar Falls to get that away-from-it-all feeling. This sycamore, oak and maple-shaded trail weaves through sandstone caves, up and down stone staircases, and over stone and wooden bridges, opening into sunlit coves with waterfalls and rock cliffs. Check out the history/nature center at the Old Man’s Cave’s trailhead to learn about the geology and history of the area.
Conkles Hollow, one of the deepest gorges in Ohio (off St. Rt. 374 at Big Pine Rd.), offers rugged trails as well as a paved trail for wheelchair use or those who need to walk on a flat surface.
Hocking Hills Adventure Trek offers great exploration hikes led by naturalists. Our guide, Jennifer Gillen, took us on a three-hour discovery hike across streams, rocks and hillsides while pointing out native plants, wildlife and rock formations. Adventure Treks also offers rappelling and rock climbing for both beginners and those looking to hone their skills. For the most challenging engagement with nature go for the Amazing Grace 80- foot rappel or the 110-foot Big Spring waterfall rappel. Hocking Hills Adventure Trek, 25851 Big Pine Rd. Rockbridge. 740-777-2579. hockinghillsadventuretrek.com
Visit hockinghills.com for info and maps on places to stay and activities. Logan is an easy 3 to 3 1/2 hour drive from Toledo. Best eats are the Pizza Crossing, 58 N. Mulberry St., and Los Amigos, 104 Hocking Mall. Visit the Antique and Flea Market on St Rt. 33 Rockbridge.
