Best Dog-Friendly Trails in Hocking Hills

When hiking in Hocking Hills through miles of beautiful trails, rock formations and waterfalls, you won’t want to leave your four-legged friends behind! Hocking Hills State Park is extremely dog-friendly. Four-legged friends are invited to adventure all over with their human companions, so long as they are well behaved and on a leash. The only area off-limits is Conkle’s Hollow Nature Preserve. Read on to discover some of the best dog-friendly trails in Hocking Hills!

Ash Cave

Ash Cave is the largest recess cave in the entire state of Ohio! This massive rock formation measures 700 feet long and 100 feet deep. In the spring, it features a waterfall as the snow melts. This dog-friendly trail is paved from the parking lot to the cave itself, so it’s easy for humans and canines of all skill levels. This easy trail is about an hour round-trip and a breathtaking view.

Cedar Falls

Another one of our favorite trails in Cedar Falls! This trail winds through beautiful hemlocks and ancient rock walls. You and your pup can enjoy the view whilst listening to water running through streams beside you. Once you reach your destination, you’ll be captivated by the 50-foot waterfall!  While there are some stairs and low-grade inclines, the trail is relatively easy to get to the gorgeous waterfall and it’s one of the best dog-friendly hiking trails in the Hocking Hills.

Cantwell Cliffs

Cantwell Cliffs is considered to be one of the most beautiful spots in Hocking Hills! You and your four-legged friends will be surrounded by greenery, breathtaking trees, and pockets of wildflowers. Once you arrive at the cliffs, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the erosion caused by the Buck Run River and far-reaching views of the sloping forest canopy. Explore the narrow rock walkways, a rock shelter, and fascinating reddish-brown stone as you and your dog explore the best of Hocking.

Old Man’s Cave

Old Man’s Cave is another dog-friendly area of the Hocking Hills. This destination within Hocking Hills State Park features beautiful rock formations carved by the natural ware of Salt Creek and melting glaciers. Old Man’s Cave has five distinct areas, each marked by its own natural beauty. These include Upper Falls, Upper Gorge, Middle Falls, Lower Falls, and Lower Gorge. You can access this trail that leads to Old Man’s Cave directly from the Welcome Center. This trail has helpful man-made bridges and steps along the way, so it’s suitable for hikers and dogs of all skill levels.  If you’re only going to visit one trail in Hocking Hills, take your dog to Old Man’s Cave.

Please remember that dogs are to be kept on-leash in the park at all times and explorers must remain on the marked trails. Don’t forget an extra water bottle and bowl for your trail pup.  There’s no more beautiful view for eager hikers than Hocking!