Winter transforms Hocking Hills into something most visitors never see. The crowds vanish. The waterfalls freeze into crystalline sculptures. Snow blankets the hemlock gorges. And for one Saturday in January, thousands of hikers descend on the park for one of the most beloved outdoor traditions in the Midwest.
Frozen Waterfalls
After sustained freezing temperatures, the waterfalls and seeps throughout Hocking Hills freeze into dramatic ice formations — columns, curtains, and massive icicle clusters that transform familiar trails into alien landscapes. Ash Cave and Cedar Falls produce the most impressive frozen displays. The seasonal waterfall at Ash Cave freezes into a towering ice column beneath the 700-foot-wide cave, while Cedar Falls' 50-foot cascade becomes a wall of blue-white ice.
The freeze is weather-dependent. You need several consecutive days below freezing for the best ice formations. Check recent temperatures before making the trip — a mid-winter warm spell can melt everything in a day. When conditions are right, the frozen falls are among the most photographed scenes in Ohio.
Winter trail safety: Trails can be extremely slippery. Ice forms on stone stairways, boardwalks, and narrow paths along cliff edges. Microspikes or crampons are strongly recommended. Hiking poles provide essential stability. Dress in layers, bring hand warmers, and tell someone your plan before heading out. The park is open dawn to dusk year-round, but winter days are short.
The Annual Winter Hike
The Hocking Hills Winter Hike is a tradition that started in 1965 when park naturalist Norv Hall led about 60 hikers through Old Man's Cave in January. It has since grown into one of Ohio's signature outdoor events, drawing over 5,000 participants in peak years.
The hike is a 6-mile trek from Old Man's Cave to Cedar Falls to Ash Cave, held on the third Saturday of January. The 2026 event — the 60th annual — was held on January 17, with continuous starts from 9 AM to 11 AM. (The hike started in 1965, but two years were cancelled: the Blizzard of 1978 and COVID.)
At the halfway point at Cedar Falls, the local Kiwanis Club serves hot bean soup and cornbread (donations appreciated). At the Ash Cave finish, the Lions Club provides hot chocolate and doughnuts. Return transportation to parking lots is available from both Cedar Falls and Ash Cave.
This is not an easy hike. The 6-mile route involves steep hills, stone stairways that can be icy, narrow trails, and significant elevation change. The trails are rugged in winter and not suitable for people who are out of shape or have mobility issues. For those who want to participate without the full commitment, walking the short Ash Cave trail and meeting hikers at the finish is a popular alternative.
Participants receive a limited-edition Winter Hike Series decal while supplies last. Overflow parking is typically available at Hocking Hills Elementary School with shuttle service to the trailheads.
Winter Hiking Beyond the Event
The park is open year-round, and winter weekdays offer the most solitude you'll ever find on these trails. Ash Cave is the safest winter hike — the paved trail is manageable even with some ice, and the cave provides shelter from wind and snow. Old Man's Cave and Cedar Falls are stunning in winter but require careful footing on their staircases.
Cantwell Cliffs and Rock House are the most challenging in winter — their steep stairs and narrow passages accumulate ice, and the remote location means help is farther away if something goes wrong. Attempt these only with proper gear and experience.
Off-Season Advantages
Winter is the quietest season in Hocking Hills. Cabin rates drop significantly. Availability that's impossible to find in October opens up. The region's wineries, breweries, and restaurants remain open and are far less crowded. Many cabin companies offer winter specials and discounts.
With the leaves down, winter reveals the underlying geology of the region — the cliff faces, rock formations, and gorge walls that are partially hidden behind foliage the rest of the year. Photographers prize winter for the clarity it brings to the landscape and the dramatic contrast of ice against dark sandstone.
The John Glenn Astronomy Park's clearest skies often come in winter, when cold, dry air produces the best stargazing conditions. Programs run on clear Friday and Saturday nights year-round.
Winter packing list: Microspikes or crampons, hiking poles, waterproof boots with ankle support, layered clothing (moisture-wicking base, insulating mid-layer, waterproof shell), hand warmers, headlamp (short days), thermos of hot drink, and a charged phone with offline maps downloaded.
Cozy Winter Rentals
Hot tub under the snow, fireplace blazing, frozen waterfalls a short drive away — find your winter cabin.
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