Sledding in Hocking Hills: What to Know Before You Go
Less than an hour from Columbus, Ohio, the Hocking Hills is home to the spectacular Lake Logan, Lake Hope, and the ancient rock gorges of Hocking Hills State Park. Add in some snowfall; your getaway becomes an outdoor adventure packed with memorable winter activities for the entire family.
This guide covers everything you need for the best sledding experience, from top locations and packing essentials to maximizing your winter getaway in Hocking Hills.
About Sledding in Hocking Hills
Photo Credit: FamVeld
A stunning winter has once again settled here in Hocking Hills, and with that comes prime conditions for sledding! In the summer, the rolling hills, creeks, and falls make for majestic hikes. But when the region turns into a winter wonderland offering just the right pitch for a fun day on the toboggan. So dress up warm, bring a thermos of hot chocolate, and let the winter fun begin.
Where to Sled in Hocking Hills
Photo Credit: Richard345
Lake Hope State Park
The best sledding hills around Hocking Hills can be found in the nearby Lake Hope State Park. Age-old mounds, tight ridges, and steep gorges lead to a gorgeous lake that often freezes over in the heart of winter. Ice fishing, anyone?
Hiking trails snake through dense forests that lead to open spaces and some delightful hills. Now, you can let the fun begin. With an idyllic backdrop, enjoy a fun-packed sledding experience.
Of course, when the kids get tired of that, it’s time for a snowman-building competition!
Hocking Hills State Park
Although it’s a summertime gem, Hocking Hills State Park goes to another level in the winter. Creeks and waterfalls freeze over, and visitors defy the winter blues with a spectacular trek from Old Man’s Cave to Ash Cave.
With a must-do 6-mile winter hike across bridges, rivers, and bluffs out of the way, enjoy some thrilling sledding. With every rush down the hill, you’ll enjoy stunning views of a sandstone deposit that is millions of years old.
If you feel like more of a workout, break out the cross-country skis and venture down the park’s serene snow trails. Be sure to stop by the 50-foot Cedar Falls.
When to Go Sledding in Hocking Hills
The best time of year to go sledding in Hocking Hills is in January. Not only can you experience the winter hike to Ash Cave, but visitors will also enjoy one of the heaviest months of snowfall. This is complemented by average highs of 38 degrees Fahrenheit and lows of 19 degrees, which helps maintain the snowpack.
December is another great time to visit Hocking Hills. The state parks are less crowded and local towns like Logan and Gibisonville come to life with Christmas festivities. Snowfall is, however, less consistent.
February sees more snow than any other month in Hocking Hills. Average highs increase into the low 40s,, making outdoor days more manageable.
What to Pack for Sledding in Hocking Hills
Photo Credit: william matos alves
With some destinations in mind, it’s now time to pack for your next sledding adventure. The best day on the hill requires some careful planning, as a missing glove or jacket can bring the fun to an early conclusion.
Here are our musts for your Hocking Hills sled day:
- Wool Thermal Base Layers (Top & Bottom)
- Fleece Insulation
- Water-resistant Ski Jacket (extra points for waterproof!)
- Insulated Waterproof or Snow Pants
- Warm Socks
- Gloves or Mittens (we prefer the latter)
- Neck Gaitor for extra warmth
Optional:
- Hiking Boots (help keep the feet dry between the trailhead and the hill)
The last item is one of my favorites, as it helps stop the cold from creeping underneath your jacket. You can also quickly place the gaitor over your mouth and nose for even more support.
Last but not least, bring along plenty of snacks and a thermos too. Being well-fed and hydrated helps keep the body warm, leaving more time for fun activities in the snow.
Where to Warm Up After Sledding
Photo Credit: Jim Mirus
Hocking Hills Winery
Before returning to your vacation cabin, make your way to Hocking Hills Winery. The family-operated vineyard remains open as the snow tumbles down. With live music, delicious appetizers, and great tipple, the winery is a cozy place to warm up for the whole crew.
Olde Dutch
Run out of hot chocolate and snacks on the sledding hills? Warm up the hands and the soul with a trip to Olde Dutch. Get ready for heartwarming and enriching Amsih-inspired cuisine in a cozy cabin layout that will have the young ones quickly forgetting about the cold out by Lake Hope.
More Hocking Hills Things to Do
Photo Credit: Kevin Kopf
Try Ice Fishing
Step back out into the cold and make your way to Lake Logan. Covering an expanse of 400 acres, the lake often has a thick layer of ice in the heart of winter. With the chalet hot tub waiting as a reward, try your hand at this unique way of fishing with the chance to catch bluegill, bass, and northern pike.
Other popular ice-fishing spots include Lake Hope, Tar Hollow, and the memorable Old Man’s Cave.
Go Winter Star Gazing
Photo Credit: arthurgphotography
After a wonderful day out in wintry Hocking Hills, take a moment to look up at the sky. Secluded from light pollution, your luxury lodge comes with a complimentary star blanket at night. Gaze up at the twinkling stars as you reflect on the day and plan the adventures to come.
Want to take it a step further? Head to the John Glenn Astronomy Park, which is found inside the Hocking Hills State Park. Here, you can explore the night sky through an enormous telescope, allowing you to spot constellations and planets millions of lightyears away.
Embark on a Scenic Drive
Coursing through the hills of Southeast Ohio, Hocking Hills America’s Byway is your route to exploring this gorgeous region. With the car in drive, venture across a half-dozen contiguous sites that boast some of the state’s top natural gems.
Although a hit in all seasons, there's something brilliant about the backdrop of snow, frozen lakes, and twinkling lights during the winter months. The state route takes you to most of the outdoor destinations listed above, in addition to Conkle’s Hollow and the historic Village of Mound Crossing.
Where to Stay For a Sledding Adventure in Hocking Hills
With winter turning on a show in Hocking Hills, why not make the new year the time to visit Southeast Ohio? Local state parks provide a mesmerizing scene for sledding and snow tubing. But as you’ve discovered, there’s so much more to Hocking Hills.
Public lands remain uncrowded through winter, providing wonderful access to hikers and cross-country skiers. You can fish and skate on frozen lakes while cozy wineries and local restaurants await to toast to a wonderful day.
So what’s next? Aside from packing for sledding, enjoy amazing access to the best of Hocking Hills with a winter vacation with Hocking Lodging Company.