Prepare to be absolutely enchanted in one of the most unforgettable and magical winter settings. You’ve probably heard of Hocking Hills, and maybe you’ve even had a chance to visit, but have you ever experienced it like this? Join the 53rd Annual Winter Hike to experience winter scenery with thousands of other Hocking Hills enthusiasts.

This event takes place every year on the third Saturday in January. This year the Winter Hike will occur on January 20th, 2018.
Chris Palmer/Flickr
The starting point is the Visitor Center Parking Lot at Old Man's Cave. It's located at 19852 State Route 664 S, Logan, OH 43138. If you take route 33 from central Columbus, the drive will take about an hour. Participation and parking are free!
The Annual Winter Hike is six miles long.
Mike King/Flickr
Hikers must be at the starting point between 9:00 am to 11:00 am to participate, and are allowed to start in groups. If it sounds confusing, don't worry - park rangers will tell you what to do! When you get to the end, shuttle buses will bring you back to the parking lot.
The hike will take you through the most popular and beautiful parts of Hocking Hills.
dave ungar/Flickr
You will begin in the beautiful Old Man's Cave, make your way through Cedar Falls, and end at Ash Cave. You will see incredible frozen waterfalls, giant icicles, gorges, and cliffs.

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Hot refreshments are provided at the halfway point at Cedar Falls.
Mike King/Flickr
Refreshments are free, however donations to the park are appreciated. Refreshments often include a bowl of hot soup and a cup of yummy hot chocolate.
The first Winter Hike was led by Norv Hall, a park naturalist, and had 60 participants.
Chris Palmer/Flickr
Since then, it's become one of Ohio's favorite winter attractions. Over 5,400 hikers participated in 2010, and the numbers have only grown. Even on the coldest and most treacherous days, nature enthusiasts come out for the Winter Hike; in fact, the only time the hike was cancelled was during the Blizzard of 1978, and even so, 70 hikers still showed up at the starting point!
Be sure to dress appropriately!
Dan Castleberry/Flickr
Winter at Hocking Hills is stunning, but it can come with very cold temperatures. Make sure you wear layers, bring gloves, a scarf, and a hat. Winter boots are highly recommended - tennis shoes will not keep your toes warm for six miles if there is snow on the ground!

Ready to go? Grab your hat, gloves, and friends, and have a blast! Don’t forget to snap a few photos along the way and share them with us on the Only In Columbus Facebook page or on Instagram (@onlyincolumbus)!

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