Hopefully you took BuzzFeed’s advice and added a visit to Hocking Hills, Ohio, to your 2014 bucket list. With the deep freeze caused by winter storm Hercules coming to an end, you can finally start to think about planning your trip. So, you may be wondering, when is the best time to visit Hocking Hills? Southeast Ohio has something to offer in every season. Here is what you will experience in winter, spring, summer, and fall.
Winter in Hocking Hills
Although Hocking Hills is a nature lover’s paradise at all times of year, winter is ideal for outdoor sports enthusiasts. Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice skating, even ice fishing—you can find facilities for these activities and more at Hocking Hills State Park. The less adventurous can discover frozen waterfalls and nature’s own ice sculptures on a winter hike to Ash Cave, Old Man’s Cave, or another of the region’s unique rock formations. At the end of the day, curl up with a cup of hot cocoa and enjoy watching the snow fall outside your window.
Spring in Hocking Hills
In spring, southeast Ohio is all about the wildflowers. From late March to early June, visitors can find blooms of Columbine, Fire Pink, Pink and Yellow Lady Slippers, Virginia Bluebells, and more in open landscapes and hiding in the forest. Spring is also a time when love is in the air, and it is the perfect opportunity to sweep your loved one off her (or his) feet with a surprise couple’s weekend at a romantic cabin—private hot tub, Egyptian cotton sheets, and a custom shower built for two included.
Summer in Hocking Hills
Summer means only one thing: family vacation! With its state and national parks, activities ranging from canoeing adventures to antiquing, and some of the country’s top ziplines, Hocking Hills is a destination that the whole family can agree on. Even beach lovers will be happy sunning themselves on the shores of Lake Logan. Best of all, with our great rates on rental cabins, this is one family vacation getaway that won’t break the bank.
Fall in Hocking Hills
As if the landscape weren’t stunning enough already, in fall the hills are awash with color as the leaves change from green to brilliant reds, yellows, and oranges. The peak time to see the fall foliage is around mid-October. You can view the colors by taking a hike through one of the state park facilities or a driving tour through the region. HockingHills.com has maps and directions for four popular fall foliage driving tours.
So, when is the best time to visit Hocking Hills? Well, it’s whenever you want to spend some time in Ohio’s best natural playground, or when you just need a few days to relax with the family or a loved one. But why listen to us? Whether it is for overnight, a weekend, or a week-long vacation, Hocking Hills is a spectacular place to visit any time of year—so instead of picking just one, why not visit in all seasons so you can decide for yourself.
