The return of maple syrup season means it’s time to embrace one of Ohio’s sweetest traditions! This March, four Ohio state parks will host maple syrup festivals, inviting visitors to experience the age-old craft of sugaring while enjoying a variety of outdoor activities and delicious maple treats.
January 2, 2025, press release from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources: LOGAN, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) invites you to experience the breathtaking beauty of Hocking Hills State Park during the 59th Annual Hocking Hills Winter Hike. Scheduled for Saturday, January 18, 2025, this cherished tradition offers an unforgettable six-mile journey through one of Ohio’s most scenic winter landscapes. “Hiking through the Hocking Hills in winter is like stepping into a storybook,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “We are thrilled to welcome visitors to this beloved event that celebrates the magic of the season and the wonders of Ohio’s great outdoors.”
December 2, 2024, Press Release from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources: LOGAN, Ohio – Experience the magic of the season like never before as the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) presents Christmas at Ash Cave, a festive event hosted by Hocking Hills State Park on Saturday, December 14, from 5-7 p.m. Gather family and friends and meet at the Ash Cave parking lot, where a fun holiday tradition awaits. “This event is a perfect blend of holiday cheer and the incredible natural beauty of Ash Cave,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “It’s a magical way for families and friends to create lasting memories together while exploring one of Ohio’s most cherished outdoor spaces.” As you stroll along the candlelit quarter-mile trail, let the glow guide you to Ohio’s largest recessed cave, a natural marvel steeped in history and beauty. The horseshoe-shaped Ash Cave, with its soaring 100-foot rim and 700-foot-wide span, provides the perfect backdrop for this holiday celebration.
September 13, 2024, Press Release from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources: LOGAN, Ohio - This fall, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) invites nature enthusiasts and history lovers alike to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the state’s purchase of the iconic Old Man’s Cave at Hocking Hills State Park. On Saturday, October 12, visitors are invited to gather at the Old Man’s Cave Visitor Center at 9 a.m. for welcoming remarks followed by a challenging 4.5-mile guided hike along USA Today’s No. 1 hike in America, “Whispering Cave.” This scenic adventure takes hikers through vibrant fall colors along the Grandma Gatewood Buckeye Trail to the stunning Whispering Cave and back.
The State of Ohio closed Hocking Hills State Park Friday night because of coronavirus concerns. The Department of Natural Resources Director says the park’s narrow trails makes 6-foot social distancing for visitors practically impossible. The closure also means that visitors cannot visit Old Man's Cave and other attractions in the park as well. State officials have encouraged people to use parks to get outside and get some exercise, so long as they can maintain social distancing. Earlier this week, Governor DeWine temporarily closed all state campgrounds to help reduce the spread of COVID-19, as camping season was set to ramp up.
