Bundle Up for the 60th Annual Hocking Hills Winter Hike – January 17, 2026
The beloved tradition returns! The 60th Annual Hocking Hills Winter Hike is set for Saturday, January 17, 2026, inviting thousands of outdoor enthusiasts to experience the stunning winter beauty of one of Ohio’s most iconic state parks.
This cherished event, which began in 1965 with just 60 participants, has grown into a highlight of the season, drawing record crowds (over 5,400 in peak years) to trek through snow-dusted trails, past towering hemlocks, and alongside potentially frozen waterfalls.
The six-mile hike features a rolling start between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. from the Hocking Hills State Park Visitor Center (19852 State Route 664 South, Logan, OH). The trail winds from Upper Falls at Old Man’s Cave, through the gorge, to Cedar Falls, and finally to the majestic Ash Cave.
Midway at Cedar Falls, the Logan Kiwanis Club serves complimentary bean soup and cornbread (donations appreciated to support local programs). At the finish in Ash Cave, the Lions Club greets hikers with hot chocolate and doughnuts—a perfect reward after the chilly adventure.
Shuttle buses provide return transportation from both Cedar Falls and Ash Cave back to the starting point.
This year’s hike is extra special as part of the America 250 celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. “Each winter, Hocking Hills transforms into one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the state,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “Marking 60 years of this hike and celebrating America 250 makes this year especially meaningful.”
Tips for Participants:
- Dress in layers and wear sturdy, waterproof footwear—trails can be icy, rocky, and hilly.
- Carpool if possible; parking is limited at the visitor center. Overflow parking is available at Hocking Hills Elementary School.
- Dogs are not recommended due to trail conditions.
- The event is free, with commemorative items available for purchase.
The beloved tradition returns! The 60th Annual Hocking Hills Winter Hike is set for Saturday, January 17, 2026, inviting thousands of outdoor enthusiasts to experience the stunning winter beauty of one of Ohio’s most iconic state parks.
This cherished event, which began in 1965 with just 60 participants, has grown into a highlight of the season, drawing record crowds (over 5,400 in peak years) to trek through snow-dusted trails, past towering hemlocks, and alongside potentially frozen waterfalls.
The six-mile hike features a rolling start between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. from the Hocking Hills State Park Visitor Center (19852 State Route 664 South, Logan, OH). The trail winds from Upper Falls at Old Man’s Cave, through the gorge, to Cedar Falls, and finally to the majestic Ash Cave.
Midway at Cedar Falls, the Logan Kiwanis Club serves complimentary bean soup and cornbread (donations appreciated to support local programs). At the finish in Ash Cave, the Lions Club greets hikers with hot chocolate and doughnuts—a perfect reward after the chilly adventure.
Shuttle buses provide return transportation from both Cedar Falls and Ash Cave back to the starting point.
This year’s hike is extra special as part of the America 250 celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. “Each winter, Hocking Hills transforms into one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the state,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “Marking 60 years of this hike and celebrating America 250 makes this year especially meaningful.”
Tips for Participants:
- Dress in layers and wear sturdy, waterproof footwear—trails can be icy, rocky, and hilly.
- Carpool if possible; parking is limited at the visitor center. Overflow parking is available at Hocking Hills Elementary School.
- Dogs are not recommended due to trail conditions.
- The event is free, with commemorative items available for purchase.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or joining for the first time, the Hocking Hills Winter Hike offers breathtaking frozen scenery, community spirit, and a memorable way to embrace Ohio’s winter wonderland. Mark your calendar for January 17, 2026—hope to see you on the trail!
For more details, visit the official Hocking Hills site or follow updates on social media.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or joining for the first time, the Hocking Hills Winter Hike offers breathtaking frozen scenery, community spirit, and a memorable way to embrace Ohio’s winter wonderland. Mark your calendar for January 17, 2026—hope to see you on the trail!
For more details, visit the official Hocking Hills site or follow updates on social media.
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